Top Trending Branded Swag Items for 2025

The world of branded merchandise is ever evolving. And while 2024 followed started off looking a lot like 2023, by year’s end, we saw new interesting new trends that will continue into 2025. But, while we’ll be diving into some products that are sure to spread smiles, the biggest winners this upcoming year aren’t specific products all, but rather choice and personalization. We’re seeing a large shift from one-size-fits-all gifts that deliver a general message of appreciation, to offering custom choices to each individual recipient. Known fact: you’re much more likely to love and use a gift that’s in your favorite color and style.

You can get ahead of the crowd by making the extra effort to understand more about your audience and meaningfully representing your brand’s alignment with the audience’s individual lifestyles and values. This research and data collection is something that Bergman is ready to help you with.

Today’s buyers are no longer requesting lower-value give-a-ways or gifts destined for a local thrift shop. Instead, they’re purchasing customized, durable, sustainable and practical products that will stick around with the end user.

This strategy of relationship-building marketing isn’t new, but this trend of such early and preemptive investment in these leads is disrupting the DTC and B2B marketing space. This philosophy treats every interaction as part of a conversation that shapes the brand’s image. This careful conversation allows you to learn more about your audience and lets them feel seen, heard and appreciated. Unsure where to begin? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back.

1. Eco-Friendly Products

Sustainability was perhaps the biggest request last year and will continue to lead the promotional merch conversation in 2025. Items that are reusable, made from recycled or organic materials, and bamboo-based products are reflections of a business’ commitment to reducing their environmental footprint. We expect to see this trend expand to include creative product packaging that is reusable, recyclable or compostable.

2. Custom Apparel with Unique Designs

Ever a staple in our industry, branded apparel in 2025 is moving away from classic styles and toward unique, bold, artistic designs. Embroidered jackets, stylish caps, and sustainable activewear are all gaining traction, especially when paired with a greater ability to personalize these items to match the end-users’ tastes.

3. Personalized Drinkware

Over the past five years, branded drinkware has become a staple of corporate swag. In 2025, we’ll see a demand for thermoses, travel mugs and water bottles with custom engraving, colors, names, and logos to make these products stand out. These practical items, when personalized, allow for a deeper connection with recipients.

4. Smart Home Devices and Tech Gadgets

Tech products have been popular in the swag world for some time, but the quality of these items didn’t always match their price tag. Fortunately for you, as technology has advanced, the price of high-quality tech gifts has really come down, leading to wider variety and less prohibitive costs. Products like wireless chargers, speakers, and wearables provide value to your audience and demonstrate readiness for innovations that are changing the marketplace.

5. Wellness and Self-Care Kits

Previously niche physical-fitness and mental-wellness themed swag is beginning to gain popularity among a wider audience. Consider items like branded yoga mats and resistance bands, aromatherapy and skincare kits. Even experiential gifts like massages and haircuts are becoming popular at fairs and workplaces, all promoting well-being and creating positive associations with your brand.

6. Outdoor Adventure Gear

Time spent outdoors is on the rise and personalized outdoor swag will associate your brand with an adventurous, active lifestyle. Portable chairs, hammocks, multi-tools and other camping equipment are a big hit with people who love to explore nature.

7. Interactive Experience Kits

In 2025, swag is evolving from static items to experiences. If connecting to your brand is the goal, then participation is key. Companies increasingly offer branded DIY kits of custom crafts, puzzles, recipes, and hobbies to engage recipients in fun and memorable ways.

As we move into 2025, branded merchandise has become a meaningful opportunity to create and deepen connections with your audience. Choosing products that align with trends in sustainability, technology, and personalization will stand out and increase the value of your brand. Let us help, we’re the experts.

Let’s start the year off right!