For decades, when it came to branded merch or "swag" as some call it, it meant picking from the same catalog of products in maybe a slightly newer version or different color and adding a logo to it. For the recipients, it leads to an overwhelming amount of useless clutter. For the environment, it fills up landfills. And for the company, its provides no return on investment.

Finally, it seems companies are starting to wake up. Rather than taking the cookie cutter route, brands are investing more into the quality of merch they are creating, moving away from cheap swap because if we're being honest, everyone is tired of the water bottle, tote bag, or stress ball.

What's driving the change in my opinion? Generation Z. Lets dive in.

As with all generations, culture, taste, and expectations change. For members of Gen-Z like myself, which has become the dominant consumer group, we value experiences, connections, and a feeling of X.
We spare no expense when it comes to buying products and supporting brands that invoke these feelings. And, with social media, we love to show off any notable moment of our lives.

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can say confidently that we do not want the same old promotional products. We value experiences, connections, and X.




Branded merch is no longer being seen as just a freebie or giveaway but a marketing tactic to build brand awareness and cultural relevance.


Branded merch is no longer being seen as just a freebie or giveaway but a marketing tactic to build brand awareness and cultural relevance.