Do Promotional Products Increase The Likelihood of Consumers Doing Business With You?

​
Promotional products are not just about brand awareness. They directly influence whether someone chooses to do business with you.
According to the 2023 Ad Impressions Study by the Advertising Specialty Institute, promotional products have a measurable impact on consumer behavior.1 The study found that a significant percentage of consumers are more likely to do business with the advertiser who gave them a promotional product.
That means your branded item is not just a giveaway. It is a decision influencer.

The Promotional Products That Drive the Most Action

Not all promotional products perform the same. Some categories are far more effective at influencing purchasing decisions. See the top 5 promotional products that are kept and used.2
The research shows the top performers:

• Outerwear and fleece: 41 percent
• Performance wear: 41 percent
• Power banks: 40 percent
• T-shirts: 37 percent
• Umbrellas: 36 percent

These products all have one thing in common. They are useful and used repeatedly. The more often an item is used, the more your brand is seen, and the more likely a customer is to remember you when it matters.

Everyday Items Still Deliver Strong Results

Beyond the top tier, several everyday items continue to perform well:

• USB drives: 31 percent
• Writing instruments: 30 percent
• Drinkware: 30 percent
• Polo shirts: 29 percent

These items may seem simple, but they fit naturally into daily routines. That consistent use creates ongoing exposure, which builds familiarity and trust over time.

Secondary Items Still Influence Decisions

Even lower-ranked items still show meaningful impact:

• Bags: 26 percent
• Health products: 26 percent
• Calendars: 25 percent
• Desk accessories: 24 percent
• Headwear: 20 percent

While the percentages are lower, these products still contribute to brand recall and purchasing decisions. When used strategically, they can support broader marketing efforts.

What This Means for Your Promotional Strategy

The data makes one thing clear. Promotional products influence behavior.
But the biggest driver is not price or novelty. It is usefulness.3
Products that are worn, carried, or used daily consistently outperform items that are only used once. When your brand becomes part of someone’s routine, it builds trust and familiarity.
That is what leads to action.

The Takeaway

If you want promotional products that actually move the needle, focus on items people will use again and again. Don't neglect gender-based promotional items if you want your recipients to keep them.4
Apparel, tech accessories, and practical everyday items continue to deliver the strongest results because they keep your brand visible over time.
Promotional products are not just impressions. They are reminders. And when someone is ready to make a decision, the brand they remember is often the one they choose.
Choosing the right promotional product is not just about what looks good. It is about what gets used.

References:

1. "Ad Impressions Study Infographics." Advertising Specialty Institute.

2. "Top 5 Promotional Products People Actually Keep and Use." Perfect Imprints.

3. "The 5-Second Impact: Why Promotional Products Win or Lose Almost Instantly." Perfect Imprints.

4. "Promotional Gifts for Women: What the Data Actually Says." Perfect Imprints.