Giveaways don’t have to be throwaways
For many years marketers have been enjoying the visibility, longevity and ROI benefits of promotional giveaways, but as we become more aware of sustainability does this have to mean the end of giveaways? We don’t think so, like everything there’s a balance to be struck but giveaway doesn’t have to mean throwaway. In this blog we’re looking at how to have the best of both worlds and giving you our tips for keeping your promo channel sustainable.
#1 Avoid single-use
Really consider the long term usefulness of any giveaway items. A great example of this is one of the easiest go-to’s for promotional items, the humble branded pen. Statistics are suggesting that a whopping 1.6 million single-use biros are thrown away each year in the US alone so we recommend a bit more creativity. Try replacing single-use pens with pencils or refillable pens, and you’ll not only be saving our waterways and oceans but also will likely keep your message visible for longer. A win-win for our planet and marketing ROI.
Brandable wooden pencil with biodegradable tip containing poppy seeds.
#2 Make it useful
Another easy go-to giveaway option is the branded mug and yes, just like pens, it can be argued that mugs have their use, but how many realistically end up at the back of a cupboard unused or thrown away? A bit of creativity helps increase the usability, which in turn increases visibility and ROI. Following COVID items like door openers that help you stay handsfree and reduce the need to touch surfaces are excellent items to consider as employees start to think of returning to offices. Other useful and sustainable items include the good old cotton tote bag, and one of our favourites, the branded beeswax wrap.
Antimicrobial Hygiene Hook Keyring made from 100% recycled plastic, designed to prevent the need to touch high traffic areas when you are out of the house.
#3 Avoid non-reusable
Of course, it’s not just what we do with the item or how long we keep it, it’s also important to think about how we dispose of it. As everyone knows by now, it’s important that we all stop using single-use plastic, but the good news is this doesn’t mean the end of traditional favourites like the balloon. We have worked hard to source planet friendly alternatives to everyday items like non-plastic balloons, whilst also working hard with manufacturers to review packaging as this is often where the waste comes from.
#4 Buy local
And finally, you’ll have heard about food miles by now so when it comes to sourcing giveaways the same principle applies. Did you know a whopping 90% of what we consume in the UK has been imported, whether that’s the final item or the components? Promotional giveaways have traditionally been sourced from mass market producers, often based in China. This has made sense for high volumes, lowest possible prices and marketing ROI, but it hasn’t helped reduce carbon footprint impact. The good news is there are UK producers and we work hard to find them. UK manufacturers are also often able to be more responsive due to less time being spent in shipping, so another win for the planet and marketers.
If you’re looking to reduce your impact on the planet whilst increase your marketing visibility and ROI, talk to us about how we can help.
This wraps up the first part of our sustainability series. If you’d like to find out when the next series goes live get in touch.
