WHAT ARE PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS?

Custom promotional giveaways are branded items with a company’s logo, name, or message that are given away to customers, employees, or potential clients as a marketing strategy. The aim is to increase brand awareness and build goodwill. Common examples include custom logo apparel, writing instruments, custom logo drinkware, and corporate tech gifts. They work by providing utility and creating a memorable, tangible brand experience. Check out our amazing range of custom promotional products here.

WHAT ARE THE BEST PROMOTIONAL ITEMS TO GIVE AWAY?

The best promotional items are the ones that people actually use and remember. These are products that combine practicality, quality, and style. Drinkware, premium tech accessories, writing instruments, and smart travel gear remain among the most requested options because they fit seamlessly into everyday routines. Hydro Flask® 32 oz. Wide Mouth w/ Flex Straw Cap Special Select One of our best sellers is the Hydro Flask® 32 oz. Wide Mouth w/ Flex Straw Cap Special Select, available at 60 unit minimum @ $57.95 EA. This piece offers lasting utility, a premium feel, and strong brand visibility. Everything a memorable promotional item should deliver. For more options, check out our list of 20 Best Custom Promotional Products.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS FOR CLIENTS?

Choosing the right promotional giveaways with logo starts with defining your goal. Are you aiming to retain clients, re-engage old ones, celebrate milestones, or show appreciation? Once the purpose is clear, align your choices with your brand values and your client’s lifestyle. You can use our proven “Gift Scoring Framework” to evaluate every option objectively and ensure your promotional gifts reflect your brand at its best. You will find it in the article on How to Choose Promotional Gifts for Clients.

WHERE TO BUY PROMOTIONAL GIVEAWAYS WITH LOGO?

Finding the right partner goes far beyond comparing catalogs or pricing. You need a vendor that understands your brand, manages projects seamlessly, and delivers quality merchandise that accurately represents your company’s image. ELITE PROMO INC (EPI) is recognized as one of the best promotional giveaway companies in the U.S., trusted by leading organizations nationwide. What sets us apart is our combination of retail-grade products, premium brand partnerships (including YETI, Carhartt, Native Union, and more), and white-glove project management. To find more trusted names in the industry, check out our full article on the Top 10 Promotional Products Companies.

HOW TO GET MERCHANDISE FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

To get merchandise for your business, start by identifying your target audience and defining your brand identity. Then, design products that truly resonate with your customers or employees. You can produce merchandise through print-on-demand services for a low-risk option or work directly with manufacturers and wholesalers for larger, more customized bulk projects. Partnering with a specialized promotional agency, like ours, ensures professional guidance, quality control, and flawless execution from design to delivery. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our guide on 25 company-branded swags that spark joy and build brand loyalty.

WHAT ARE SOME LOW-COST PROMOTIONAL GIVEAWAYS?

Low-cost promotional giveaways include practical, everyday items that offer strong brand visibility without stretching your budget. Popular options include pens, tote bags, keychains, and notepads. Some of our best-selling low-cost options include: Golf Buddy Tee and Ball Marker Set (300 unit minimum @ $2.95 EA) The SoBe retractable ballpoint pen (200 unit minimum @ $5.95 EA) 15 oz. Atlas ceramic mug (120 unit minimum @ $9.95 EA) Each offers excellent brand exposure while maintaining affordability.

HOW DO I START MY PROMOTIONAL GIVEAWAY PROJECT WITH EPI?

Simply select your preferred promo product and quantities, then connect with our Branding Experts™ at 650.513.1037. We typically respond within 30 minutes. We’ll guide you through the design approval, logo placement, and production timelines to ensure a hassle-free procurement process. If you want to see the product quality before production begins, you can request speculative samples here.

HOW MUCH DO COMPANIES SPEND ON HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR EMPLOYEES?

Holiday gifting budgets usually vary depending on company size and culture. Most organizations allocate between $25 and $100 per employee for small to mid-sized teams and $75 to $500 or more for larger corporations.

WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR SELECTING HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR EMPLOYEES?

While HR teams are usually experts in such selections because of their years of experience. They usually know what works and what does not work for the company and its employees. However, here are some proven guidelines you could follow: Know your audience: Consider job roles, work location (remote/hybrid/in-office), cultural diversity, and individual preferences. Personalization counts: Custom branding (company logo, employee name), or tailoring to employee interests can make a gift feel more meaningful. Think utility + delight: Choose something employees will use (so it doesn’t sit unused) but still feel delighted to receive. Ensure equity and consistency: Make sure the budget and effort are consistent across recipients to avoid perceptions of favoritism. Plan early and keep logistics in mind: Inventory and shipping delays increase during the holidays. Early planning helps prevent a last-minute scramble. Respect inclusivity: Consider dietary restrictions, cultural sensitivities, remote vs. on-site realities, and make options available for different needs.

WHO IS THE BEST CORPORATE GIFTS SUPPLIER FOR CUSTOMIZING HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR EMPLOYEES?

When it comes to impactful corporate gifting, especially for company-branded holiday employee gifts, ELITE PROMO INC. stands out. With our experience, a wide range of budgeting tiers, customization options (branding, packaging, personalization), and end-to-end fulfilment support, we make it easy for companies of all sizes to send thoughtful gifts on time and on brand.

IF I START MY PROJECT NOW, CAN I STILL RECEIVE MY GIFTS BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS?

If you start your project late, you might not receive the gifts before the holidays. Hence, it is best to procure the holiday gifts as early as possible. Production and shipping schedules fill up quickly during peak months, especially for premium co-branded items that require customization. To secure your spot in our project queue, start your project today by calling our Branding Expert™ at 650.513.1037.

WHERE CAN I FIND MORE IDEAS FOR CORPORATE GIFTS FOR EMPLOYEES?

If you are planning your holiday gifting strategy and need more inspiration, visit our guide on corporate gifts for employees. It highlights trending products, creative personalization ideas, and expert recommendations curated by our Branding Expert™.

HOW DO I PROCURE HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR EMPLOYEES FROM EPI?

Getting started is really easy. Simply select your preferred products, colors, and quantities, then contact us by calling 650.513.1037. One of our Branding Experts™ will typically respond within 30 minutes to guide you through every detail. The EPI advantage means seamless, hassle-free procurement of co-branded products that arrive on time, look incredible, and make you look (and feel) like a hero.

HOW CAN COMPANIES SET A CLIENT GIFT BUDGET THAT FEELS APPROPRIATE?

The most effective way to set a client gift budget is by using a tiered approach based on relationship value, industry norms, and compliance requirements. Companies should focus on thoughtfulness and quality rather than price alone. High-value clients can receive premium gifts in the $250–$500+ range, mid-tier clients in the $100–$250 range, and newer clients in the $50–$100 range. Researching industry norms helps ensure your budget aligns with professional expectations, while adhering to company and tax policies avoids compliance issues. Above all, choose a budget that fits your company’s financial health and reflects care through quality and personalization. If you want more gift ideas, explore the full holiday source book for wondrous options at your disposal.

HOW CAN BUSINESSES MEASURE THE ROI OF CORPORATE HOLIDAY GIFTING PROGRAMS?

Businesses can measure the ROI and relationship impact of corporate holiday gifting through both quantitative and qualitative methods. Financial metrics such as revenue, conversion rates, and client retention indicate tangible returns. Relationship metrics like engagement levels, Net Promoter Score (NPS), and social media mentions reflect brand sentiment and connection strength. Collecting feedback from clients and internal account managers adds qualitative depth, helping companies understand how gifts affect satisfaction, loyalty, and long-term partnership value.

HOW CAN SMALL BUSINESSES REPLICATE A PREMIUM GIFTING EXPERIENCE ON A LIMITED BUDGET?

Smaller businesses can deliver a premium gifting experience by focusing on personalization, presentation, and practicality. Planning ahead helps secure early-bird and bulk procurement discounts, which lower costs without compromising quality. Setting clear budget tiers ensures high-impact gifts for key clients while keeping spending in check. Choosing useful items such as notebooks, tumblers, or tech accessories provides lasting value and brand recall. Combining occasions like holidays and company milestones further maximizes impact while maintaining efficiency.

WHAT ARE THE BEST CORPORATE GIFTS FOR CLIENTS?

The best corporate gifts for clients come from a place of genuine thoughtfulness. Consider the Ember® smart travel mug for executives who love tech convenience, the TUMI® corporate collection duffel bag for frequent travelers, or the Bang & Olufsen® speaker for design-minded professionals. These thoughtful choices transform a simple gesture of appreciation into something they'll remember and treasure. Explore more curated ideas in our complete guide on Corporate Gifts for Clients.

WHICH ARE THE TOP CORPORATE GIFTING COMPANIES KNOWN FOR PREMIUM CLIENT GIFTS?

Two standout names in the corporate gifting space are EPI and SwagUp. We are recognized for our premium, retail-grade co-branded merchandise and white-glove service. Learn more about industry leaders in our complete guide on Top Corporate Gifting Companies.

HOW DOES CUSTOM INK PRODUCT PRICING COMPARE TO COMPETITORS?

Custom Ink is known for transparent, all-inclusive pricing. The quoted price typically covers the product, customization (screen printing or embroidery), and standard fees. Base pricing for apparel ranges from $10 to $20 per unit, with discounts available for larger bulk orders. While pricing is competitive, procurement teams with premium brand requirements may find that the product catalog leans more toward budget and mid-tier items.

DOES CUSTOM INK OFFER DESIGN ASSISTANCE OR PROOFING BEYOND BASIC LOGO PLACEMENT?

Yes. The Custom Ink Design Lab provides templates, artwork upload capabilities, and customization tools. Digital previews are also provided. However, Automatic proofs are not always guaranteed. Complex projects may require additional approvals. Some reviews suggest this lack of consistency creates risks for brand-sensitive projects. To avoid such surprises, ensure that you confirm proofing processes and approval timelines directly with their representatives.

HOW DOES CUSTOM INK HANDLE DEFECTIVE OR INCORRECT ORDERS AFTER DELIVERY?

Custom Ink backs its projects with a 15-day return window and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, promising refunds or reprints if the product does not meet expectations. This policy offers reassurance, and many customers report smooth resolutions. However, many customer reviews also highlight that the process can sometimes involve multiple customer service reps, requiring repeated explanations. While issues do get resolved, the added handoffs can extend timelines. This is worth considering for deadline-sensitive projects.

HOW MUCH DOES CUSTOM INK COST?

The cost depends on the product type, color of ink, quantity, and any personalization. Pricing is all-inclusive (design review, setup, shipping) for US orders. No subscription or setup fees apply. Volume discounts apply for larger orders. Typical wholesale t-shirt pricing is higher compared to some promotional product competitors, with approximately $18 per custom tee in a bulk of 25 units.

HOW TO CANCEL A CUSTOM INK ORDER?

If a Group Order Form is still open, cancellation can be done online by clicking “Cancel Order” on the Settings tab. For orders already finalized, customers must call Custom Ink support at 855-374-4687 immediately to try to cancel.

HOW TO DELETE CUSTOM INK ACCOUNT?

No specific official public instructions are found for deleting an account. Typically, contacting Custom Ink customer support would be required to request account deletion.

WHAT IS EPI’S PRICING AND BULK DISCOUNT STRUCTURE?

We clearly mention minimum order quantities and pricing for each co-branded product on the product detail pages. For example, here is a product from our Patagonia custom logo adventure gear page. Patagonia® Men's Houdini® Jacket. Pricing varies by product category and logo treatment, with generous bulk discounts available for larger projects. For custom pricing, connect with our Branding Experts at 650.513.1037.

WHAT ARE EPI’S RETURN AND REFUND POLICIES?

Every promotional product we ship is thoroughly inspected before packaging for fulfillment. Returns or claims of defects are uncommon throughout the year. However, in the event of a return, you may return most new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Our team covers return shipping costs if the return is due to the vendor’s error. Refunds are typically processed within four weeks after the return package is shipped, which includes transit time, processing by EPI, and bank processing time.

HOW DO I PROCURE FROM EPI?

Send us your project details and logo files, and one of our Branding Experts™ will immediately get in touch with you and handle the rest. Call 650.513.1037 or request samples to procure your company-branded promotional items.

WHAT PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS ARE MOST EFFECTIVE?

The most effective promotional products are practical and frequently used items like pens, tote bags, T-shirts, and drinkware because they are often kept for extended periods. Popular and effective categories also include tech gadgets like wireless chargers and office supplies such as notebooks. Ultimately, the best custom promotional product depends on your target audience and the kind of impact you want to create.

HOW TO GET MERCHANDISE FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

To get merchandise for your business, start by defining your brand and audience. Ask questions like what you stand for and who you’re trying to reach. Then, choose products that align with your brand identity and your recipients’ daily use. Once your selection is clear, partner with a trusted provider like EPI, who can expertly customize and procure your products in bulk.

WHO BUYS PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS?

Businesses and organizations across nearly every industry invest in promotional products as part of their branding initiatives. Common buyers include companies in business services, healthcare, finance, education, and non-profit sectors. These organizations typically purchase customized items to share with customers, clients, employees, and event attendees.

CAN POOR-QUALITY PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS HURT BRAND IMAGE?

Absolutely. Poor-quality custom promotional products can backfire and leave a lasting negative impression. Quality directly influences how people perceive your company, and a cheap or poorly made product can erode trust and credibility faster than you think. That’s why it’s crucial to collaborate with a trusted partner like EPI. We’ve built a stellar record of delivering only premium, retail-grade promotional products that reflect your brand at its best.

HOW DOES DESIGN CUSTOMIZATION IMPACT THE EMOTIONAL VALUE OF PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS?

Design customization plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional impact of promotional products. Thoughtful use of color, logo placement, and packaging helps evoke positive feelings. When you connect with our Branding Experts™, they’ll guide you through every detail.

HOW DO HYBRID WORK TRENDS AFFECT THE MOST RELEVANT PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS?

Trends in hybrid and remote work have redefined what makes a promotional item valuable. Instead of traditional, office-centric giveaways, recipients now appreciate practical, versatile products that fit their flexible lifestyles.

ARE THERE ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN BRANDED GIFTING?

Yes. Ethical considerations play a vital role in branded gifting. Companies should always account for inclusivity, accessibility, and recipient preferences when selecting promotional products. A poorly planned or tone-deaf gift can alienate recipients, create unintended bias, or even harm a company’s reputation.

CAN EPI SUPPORT LARGE PROMO PRODUCTS PROJECTS?

Absolutely. Whether you need bulk custom promotional products for employees, executives, or clients, we have the logistical expertise and supplier network to deliver without breaking a sweat. Larger projects also benefit from exclusive volume-based discounts. When you connect with us, we discuss custom pricing based on your project.

HOW DOES EPI HANDLE WARRANTY OR REPLACEMENT ISSUES FOR FAULTY TECH PRODUCTS?

Most tech products come with the manufacturer’s warranty. However, if a defect occurs, we coordinate repairs or replacements directly with the relevant supplier. And because we vet every vendor carefully, such issues are rare.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECEIVE PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS?

Turn-around times depend on product and quantity, but we always provide clear timelines upfront. Most promo projects take 10–15 business days, with rush options available for urgent deadlines.

HOW DO I PROCURE THE BEST CUSTOM PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS FROM EPI?

Send us your project details and logo files, and one of our Branding Experts™ will immediately get in touch with you and handle the rest. Call 650.513.1037 or request samples to procure your promotional items.

THE OFFICIAL BLOG OF EPI – INSIGHTS ON THE BEST CO-BRANDED GEAR!

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