The Dunstan Group

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A Personal Touch in the Age of Social Distancing

With conferences, classes, and even championships being cancelled, businesses and nonprofits of all sizes are wondering how they’ll make connections, educate, and entertain during these unique circumstances. We believe branded merchandise can provide some relief. We’re not suggesting we’ll set the economy straight or “flatten the curve,” but if you’re struggling with how to pivot in this current environment, consider this:

Branded Merchandise is Personal

Take branded merchandise beyond “swag” and see it for what it can be: a gift, an award, or an item to make the recipient’s day or job easier or more enjoyable. Branded merchandise has the potential to touch all five senses. That’s pretty personal, even in this age of “social distancing.” Not many forms of communication — much less marketing — can say that.

Branded Merchandise is Useful

Investing in products your audience will use makes branded merchandise even more appealing. It’s not “trinkets and trash” if your branded merchandise is thoughtfully selected with your audience or end user in mind. Think about it: branded merchandise has YOUR logo on it. Why would you invest in anything but a useful product?

Branded Merchandise Tells a Story

More importantly, branded merchandise tells YOUR story. And when chosen properly, it can tell that story over and over again. Branded merchandise creates positive brand association, increased customer loyalty, and brand recognition. When telling your brand story, consider branded merchandise the noun of the very first sentence.

Branded Merchandise Makes a Lasting Impression

Think about that simple, reusable bag from that popular athletic apparel store. You know the one. Not only does it carry your most recent purchase from the retail store, it doubles as a lunch bag or grocery tote, it keeps your running shoes separated in your gym bag, etc. That’s a whole lot of usefulness and a whole lot of impressions in between.

Making Time

“The times, they are a changing,” sang Bob Dylan, and it’s also a timely reminder to Spring Ahead for Daylight Saving Time! Twice a year, we reset our watches and enjoy our extra hour of daylight either as we head to work, or out to play afterwards. Either way, we want to know just the right time go places, and these stylish time pieces and accessories can help. Best of all, they can all be customized to create a long-lasting reminder of your brand!

Classic Bulova

Round silver dial with Arabic numerals and a silver tone case show you love of classic style and timeless durability at any hour. Stainless steel bracelet withstands spring rains and so does the watch, with water resistance to 30 meters.

Epoch Style

Elevate your Apple Watch to ascendant levels of fashion and functionality with our Epoch watchband, crafted from raw, top-grain cowhide and reinforced with hand-sewn waxed thread. Gold or gunmetal hardware and nine leather tones match your design and style, with your school, club, business name, or logo ingrained. Made in the USA.

Color your iHome

Make your brand glow with this timely, color-changing Bluetooth Alarm Clock from iHome. The dual-alarm clock and speaker system has Qi wireless fast charging, USB charging, and speakerphone in 7 color-changing modes that stream music wirelessly and let you take hands-free calls.

Block Out Time for This

Light up your days with this simple, yet elegant, Blue Cube Alarm Clock in attractive bamboo veneer that blends beautifully with natural décor. Large, understated surfaces make great backgrounds for your company imprint while keeping you on time during extra daylight hours.

Extra Steps

Those longer sunny days make us ready to get outdoors for a run or ride to better health. This Health Measuring Bracelet Pedometer keeps track of those miles and smiles with step, calorie, distance, time, and multiple wellness measures. You can tell your friends all about your progress with call, text, webchat, and apps. Bring on Spring!

 

Rainy Day Coverage

Like the saying goes, if there’s one thing predictable about Spring weather it’s that it will be practically unpredictable. If it’s anything like this week, there’s plenty of wet weather before we hit the heat of summer. The Dunstan Group can have you and your crew covered for the rainy days ahead. Here are some of our seasonal favorites for Spring! 

Inverted Umbrellas 

Every time we see these we wonder; why didn’t we think of that? Like any old umbrella, this inverted umbrella has you covered. But once you’re in the house, the office, or the car, it folds its “wet side” away to keep floors and car seats dry, too. Genius! 

Rain Poncho Ball 

We’ve all been caught in the rain without the proper gear. Make it easy for your clients, friends, and team members to be prepared for Spring storms — and keep your brand close at hand. The Rain Poncho Ball includes, of course, a waterproof poncho enclosed in a colorful, brandable, ball! Included clip makes it easy to attach to bags and backpacks. 

Wet/Dry Bag

Take it with you AND keep it dry no matter the forecast or conditions. This water-resistant day bag is great for travel, trips to the gym or the beach, and anywhere else you want to keep your wet and dry gear separated. A big main compartment is paired with a mesh zipper compartment for the ultimate ease of use. Includes a removable carry strap, too! 

Silicone Waterproof Shoe Covers

Waterproof, packable, and perfect in a pinch — or any other time you need your feet protected from the wet weather. We love the grippy sole, and the BIG space for branding, too. One size fits most adults; made of stretchable, easy-to-wear silicone. 

The North Face DryVent Jacket 

An impenetrable barrier between you and the elements. The North Face DryVent rain jacket is a waterproof, breathable, technical jacket that lets you explore the trails — or anywhere else — without getting soaked. Plus, the100% windproof fabric blocks the gusts, while pit zips and an adjustable hood customize ventilation. Men’s and women’s sizes and colors, too! 

About that Coronavirus…

The ripple effects from the uncertainty in China have raised lots of questions. Along with the human story, there are worries and precautions surrounding the coronavirus affecting lead times and delivery for industries around the world. Supply, manufacturing, and delivery chains have all been impacted, raising more concerns about long term effects. Our industry trade association hosted a webinar to answer some of those questions. We thought some of that information from PPAI may help frame the global nature of this story and its impact on people, products, and services.

Top Experts Discuss The Coronavirus And Its Potential Impact During Recent PPAI Webinar

The coronavirus is shaping up to have a significant impact on businesses around the world and the global economy. Since it was first reported in early January, the virus has sickened more than 40,000 people in 25 countries and killed over 1,000, but the outbreak’s impact is also being sharply felt along global supply chains that run through China.

The virus was first detected during one of the highest travel seasons in the country. China’s Lunar New Year, a holiday celebrated throughout the country and during which many people travel home to visit family and friends in cities and towns far from where they work, began on January 25 and was extended by the country’s central government to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Initially set to end January 30, it was extended to February 3, however 24 of China’s 31 provinces urged businesses not reopen until February 10.

The extended holiday saw factories and their operations shuttered—carmakers in China, for example, are cutting production by 15 percent in the quarter—shoppers are staying home and numerous international airlines are curtailing, if not cancelling, flights to the country. American Airlines is not expected to resume flights to China and Hong Kong until April at the earliest, says a report in USA Today. And with China’s factories shut down, global supply chains are finding parts in short supply, cutting production beyond China’s borders. Hyundai in South Korea has already temporarily closed plants, and Fiat Chrysler is working to prevent similar disruptions at its European factories.

On Friday, PPAI hosted a webinar, “The Coronavirus: A Conversation With Leading Global Experts,” to help industry professionals learn more about the outbreak and its effects. Facilitated by Jonathan Isaacson, CEO of supplier Gemline, the webinar featured the expertise of top specialists: Dr. Joseph Eisenberg, chair of epidemiology, University of Michigan; Dr. Mary Gallagher, director, Center for Chinese Studies, University of Michigan; and Peter Martin, vice chairman, FocusPoint International Crisis Management.

Eisenberg began by explaining that coronaviruses are, in general, fairly common. They cause the common cold, for instance. What makes the current outbreak so different is that it was transmitted from animals to humans. Eisenberg said, “It’s spreading the way it’s spreading because it’s novel. It’s a new virus and people don’t have prior immunity. Even with influenza, which emerges as a different strain each year, people have some level of immunity.”

With so many products coming into the U.S. from China, one major concern voiced during the webinar is the potential risk of the coronavirus being transmitted on products and packaging being imported from China. Eisenberg explained that flu viruses can survive on surfaces for a couple of hours. Products coming into the U.S. by air are generally in transit for three days. Those traveling by sea may be in transit for 14 days or more. Eisenberg said, “Survival time on a porous surface, like sheets, is going to be different than a surface like steel. It’s a pretty wide range. For the coronavirus, we’re probably talking hours, but we don’t know for sure. It’s probably safe to say it’s closer to influenza. Without knowing the specifics of the virus, it is unlikely that the coronavirus can survive on surfaces for products’ shipping durations. A standard surface cleaning would make it even less likely. Three to 14 days is a pretty long period of time for a respiratory virus to actually survive.”

In the webinar, Isaacson asked Eisenberg if we’re seeing the right response to the coronavirus from a public health perspective. Eisenberg said, “In respect to risk in the U.S., yes, the risk is incredibly low—especially when you compare it to the flu, which kills of tens of thousands of people every year in the U.S. Thinking of that relative risk, there should be little concern about the risk of getting coronavirus in the U.S.”

The outbreak and responses by the Chinese government and governments around the world raise questions for businesses operating in China. The Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, one of the largest events in the world for the global promotional products industry, is still on schedule to run April 27-30. Asked about the impact of the virus on gatherings such as this, Gallagher said, “The Chinese government is debating postponing two annual meetings that occur in March, meetings of the legislature and a consultative conference. There’s a lot of political sensitivity around them. It would indicate the unprecedented level of the crisis. I’d leave a lot of room for flexibility.”

On the webinar, Martin talked about the crisis management aspect of the virus on business. “There’s a lot of uncertainty around getting supplies in and product out, and what the reaction of countries doing the importing in and out are going to do,” he said. “Regarding shipping to and from China, there are issues with traffic volume and employee comfort level. Fedex, for example, is allowing pilots to volunteer as to whether or not they fly into China.”

Martin added, “At this point, there’s a lot of pivoting and indecision. If there was a decision right now, I wouldn’t trust it being honored more than for a few days’ time. The financial impact on China and the businesses relying on it will be significant, and we don’t really understand what that’s going to look like yet. There remains a lot of uncertainty about how this will play out in the next couple of weeks and it is too early to tell.”

Advertising During the Super Bowl? Yeah, We’re Not Either 

If you don’t have the cash to plunk down $5.6 million for an ad during the Super Bowl, you’re not alone. According to folks who keep tabs on such things, the price of the average Super Bowl ad has doubled in just the last ten years. At a price point like that, it’s nowhere near what an “average” company could afford. Sure, there are 100 million people watching, but that’s a pretty steep entry fee. 

The good news is, you don’t have to spend — or even have — that kind of capital to make an impression on the audience that matters most to you. We took the liberty of doing the math comparing brand recall and consumer impressions between a Super Bowl TV ad, and that of branded merchandise. 

Market research company Evaluate Criteria surveyed TV viewers just an hour after last years game and here’s what they found: of the 69% who watched Super Bowl LIII, 50% recalled the Pepsi ad, 49% remembered the Bud Light, and 49% recalled the Budweiser ad. Doritos at 48%, M&M’s at 37%, and Stella Artois at 35% rounded out the top six, with Avocados from Mexico at 33%, Burger King at 30%, Amazon at 30%, and Turbo Tax at 29% not far behind. A closer study revealed more of the story: 

  • Roughly 35% of the American TV audience, or about 100 million viewers, watch at least 6 minutes of the Super Bowl.
  • 10% of consumers remember the average Super Bowl ad and know the brand being advertised.
  • 33% of consumers can remember seeing a typical Super Bowl commercial in the first place.
  • 80% of Super Bowl commercials fail to change consumer opinions/intentions regarding a brand.

Here’s how branded merchandise stacks up: 

  • 89% of consumers received a promotional product in the last six months. (Yes, that includes YOUR customers.) 
  • 88% of those who did, say they remember the brand or advertiser 
  • 79% researched that brand 
  • 83% say they are likely to do business with that brand

There’s plenty of cache in having your brand broadcast in front of the single, largest one-day television audience. But if you’re trying to make an impression that lasts, can generate real marketing results, and even a “thank you” from a client, the numbers make the case that branded merchandise is the clear winner. 

Oh, and in the off chance you do have Super Bowl TV ad kind of money, here’s some more quick math: With your $5.6 million, we can create about 1.12 million t-shirts. The average tee garners about 196 impressions. At $5 per shirt, that would net over 1,337,280,000 impressions! Holy wow! 

What’s New for 2020 

We promised there’d be plenty of new product ideas to talk about once the new year got underway. Even with thousands and thousands of products in line, we’re always looking for something that can surprise and delight your clients, team members, or award winners. Here’s some of the new product for 2020 that we’re excited about here at The Dunstan Group: 

Smart Bottle

How’s this for a “smart” bottle? This 18 ounce stainless steel bottle has a unique touch display lid that lets you know the temperature and comfort range of the liquid you’re carrying. Copper-coated double-wall insulated to keep your drink hot or cold for up to 24 hours. Includes an easily replaced battery that lasts up to 3 years. 

Blue Light Glasses 

With special blue light blocking lenses, these Blue Light Glasses help reduce the strain and damage on your eyes caused by blue light produced through screens. These unisex frames are completely customizable, so you can create the perfect pair of glasses your clients or team will want to use at work of home all day long!

Bluetooth Speaker & Wireless Charger

Here’s a wireless speaker that really punches above its weight class. This one provides up to six (6) hours of total playtime, and features the convenience of wireless mobile charging. With real wood accents, this Bluetooth speaker and Qi charging pad combo fits perfectly into any room or office. 

2-in-1 Wireless Charging Mousepad

This new mousepad does double duty as a convenient, friction-free mousepad, and a wireless charging pad. Charge your phone, ear buds, or other compatible devices — and keep them close at hand, too. Pumping 5W of charging power, your devices will be fully juiced in no time. And of course, there’s plenty of room for branding! 

Bamboo Food Storage Box

When it’s time to bring your snack to work or to store your leftovers, no more plastic wrap! Keep your sandwich, salad and fruit in this eco friendly storage box with the lid made from 100% bamboo and the base, 60% bamboo fibers. Freezer safe and the container is dishwasher safe, and it comes packaged for eco-conscience gift-giving in a natural colored corrugated tuck-in box. Choose from a selection of colored silicone bands to compliment your logo and choose from laser engraved branding on the bamboo lid or silk-screening on the container.

 

Sustainability Sells 

Yes, you CAN mix your branded merchandising and marketing goals with products that get BIG results, and produce less impact on the planet. The bottom line is that sustainability sells. More and more consumers want products and services that are environmentally friendly. Give them what they want! Here are some of our favorites here at The Dunstan Group. 

The Re-Tee 

Born from scraps and worn with pride. We’ve got a brand-new option for you in 2020 with these tees made from 100% recycled fibers. The Re-Tee eliminates the water-intensive dying process and the need to produce raw materials. It’s made of 60% reclaimed cotton fibers and 40% reclaimed polyester fibers. The end result is a good-looking, great-fitting tee that’s easy on the planet, too. 

Moisture Wicking Long-Sleeve Tee

New and improved, and even more “green” no matter what color you choose. The new Extreme Performance Long Sleeve Tee features a 4-way stretch fabric that’s all-day, any activity comfortable. It’s UPF 50+ for fun-in-the-sun protection, PLUS the polyester and spandex fiber is made of recycled plastic bottles. 

Wheat Straw Keychain Kit 

In our hot product predictions for 2020, we told you how straws would be one of this year’s “it” categories for branded merchandise. Here’s one that’s really amazing. This 3-piece straw kit and carrying tube are made from up to 30% recycled wheat straw fibers. It’s completely brand-able, and comes with a cleaning brush, too! 

See: What’s Hot for 2020 

Waterproof Solar Charger 

This device charger just went next level. Not only is it a convenient, waterproof, go-anywhere charger… its also solar powered. This one features a flashlight and two (2) fast-charging ports. We love the style and durability, as well as the BIG imprint area for your brand or logo. too. 

Recycled Pen

The classics never go out of style. These Recycled Click Action Pens are made with recycled paper and minimal plastic components. They include a colored clip that can pair with your existing branding. The large imprint areas can be printed with your custom text and logo. Great for around the office, at home, as trade show give-aways, and more!

What’s Hot for 2020

New year, same question: what’s going to be “the” promotional product this year? Just like retail, tech, or any other industry, there’s always something new in the world of branded merchandise and apparel. We’ve been to the trade shows, we’ve talked to the reps, we’ve scoured the catalogs… here are just some of the trends The Dunstan Group believes will be hot for 2020! 

Leather: The look and feel of leather is undeniably a classic. This year, expect to see it everywhere, from bags to notebooks, binders, coasters, and journals, to trim and decoration for caps and other apparel. Leather’s timeless good looks and legendary durability seem to improve with age. As the saying goes, quality is always in style. 

Read: Classic. Contemporary. Leather.

Straws: Reusable straws aren’t just some standard accessory for VSCO girls or celebrities. Reusable straws can be had in stainless steel or silicone, and come in a variety of brand-able (and reusable) packaging. As more and more restaurants shun the single-use plastic variety, we predict personal, reusable straws will soon become as ubiquitous as water bottles. The reusable ones, of course! 

Drinkware: About those reusable water bottles… We’re certain drinkware will stay among the most popular branded merchandise items in 2020. And for good reason. For starters, industry surveys show most all of us (78%) own a piece of promotional drinkware. The average lifespan of a promotional drinkware piece is about 12 months. The better the piece, the longer it stays in rotation. That’s a whole lot of eyes on your brand or logo! 

Blue: As in the color. The 2020 Pantone Color of the Year is “Classic Blue.” Bold, familiar, and traditional, expect to see Classic Blue popping up in decorating and style trends, as well as in options for branded merchandise and apparel. We’re fans of Classic Blue for its ability to make a statement as well its capacity to complement so many other colors. 

Personal Privacy Products: Even as new laws hit the books that may make it easier for us to find out who’s collecting our data online, a little personal responsibility can go a long way. Blocking webcam and microphone access is one easy way to add an additional level of security to electronic devices you use every day. Our webcam cover combo pack is compatible with phones, tablets, desktop monitors, and laptops.