Sustainable Branded Merchandise: A Growing Trend

Ah, the branded gift. It’s a smooth business move that’s been turning heads for decades. From swag bags to branded merchandise, a freebie makes someone's day. Plus, it’s a win for brand visibility and connecting with your audience. 

Yet the feeling towards branded merch is changing. Handing out any old promo item no longer cuts it (cruddy plastic pens, we’re looking at you!) Today is about meaningful branded gifts that connect with consumers while tapping into their values. Top of the list? Sustainability. 

This article explores the growing trend of sustainable branded merchandise and why eco-conscious corporate gifts are a necessary move for your business.

The rise of sustainability in branded business gifts

No longer a trendy nice-to-have, sustainability has become a central part of our private and professional lives. With global issues and awareness at an all-time high, consumers seek eco-friendly products and ethical brands more than ever. 

Traditional branded merchandise has often been made with materials and production methods that are harmful to the planet. Who hasn’t bagged a plastic water bottle, cheap keychain, or USB drive from a well-meaning brand over the years? The trouble is, these items are made of non-degradable plastics, have a short lifespan, and usually end up in landfill. What’s more, consumers have seen them hundreds of times. 

Sustainability in branded gifts has become a hot topic for businesses and for good reason. 

Let’s look at a few of the benefits:

Commitment to corporate social responsibility goals

Sustainable branded merchandise shows your business means business when it comes to your CSR goals. This builds trust with your audience and speaks volumes for brand integrity and your vision for positive change. 

Becoming a brand leader 

By taking the lead in sustainable practices, your brand stays relevant and stands out in a crowded marketplace. Your commitment to business that benefits the planet not only builds goodwill with your audience but employees and stakeholders too. Who doesn’t want to fly the flag for a forward-thinking business with the hottest sustainable merch? 

Connecting with value-driven audiences

Today’s consumers are drawn to brands that are authentic and stand for something. Investing in sustainable branded gifts means doing better for the planet. It also means building meaningful connections, trust, and loyalty with an active and savvy consumer base. 

How to choose the right sustainable branded merchandise for your business 

Picking the best eco-conscious branded gifts is about finding the right fit for your brand, audience, and business goals. 

Be sure to look for: 

Materials:

Seek out merch made from reusable or eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled plastics, or bamboo. 

Certifications:

Look for trusted labels like Fair Trade or GOTS to be sure your branded gifts are ethically and sustainably made. 

Transparency:

Collaborate with ethical suppliers who are upfront about their sourcing, manufacturing, and labour practices. 

Make it true to your brand

Choose branded merchandise that fits with your identity and lands with your audience. For instance, if you’re a wellness brand, reusable water bottles or eco-friendly yoga mats are a perfect match.  

Ask your people!  

Try out some sustainable branded merch to see what resonates with your teams and customers. Ask for feedback to help guide your future company branded gifts. 

How needi makes branded gifting a breeze

Needi’s branded merchandise service is helping hundreds of companies connect with audiences in meaningful ways. We handle the process from start to finish, from finding the best sustainable branded gifts to taking care of logistics and shipping.

What’s more, all gifts are sourced from small independent businesses in the UK and we’re proud to support some of the most innovative and sustainable branded gifts out there.

A few bestsellers:

Branded tote bag: The perfect way to showcase your brand while giving your audience something they’ll use and remember you for! 

Recycled notebook: Help your people stay organised and productive, all while making a sustainable impact. A perfect reflection of your brand’s values.

Wireless wheat charger: A practical gift with a sustainable twist! Crafted from natural wheat fibers - everyone’s next desktop essential. 

Eco-friendly cup: So long, single-use cups! This reusable gem is practical and stylish and a lasting reminder of your brand. 

Final thoughts: Sustainable swag is here to stay!  

There’s no doubt about it, sustainable branded merchandise is the future of promotional gifting. A sustainable branded gift shows your business cares - about the environment, your brand integrity, and your people. And that’s the kind of message that sticks. 

Leading with purpose and authenticity not only ensures your brand stays relevant but also turns your corporate merchandise into symbols of positive change. 

At needi, we believe gifting should be easy, meaningful, and a force for good. That’s why we connect you to thoughtful gifts that support small businesses, spark joy, and leave a lasting impression, without leaving a mark on the planet.

Ready to discover the best sustainable branded gifts for your business?  

🎁 💫 Chat to a gifting expert today