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5 Ways to Make Your Summer Marketing Outshine the Competition

Spring is fully here! And that means summer break, vacations, and the distractions (and competition) that come with them are on the way. We see it as prime time for brands, businesses and nonprofits to connect with audiences in fresh, fun, and memorable ways. Whether your goal is to boost awareness, deepen engagement, or spread some seasonal good vibes, here are five easy, breezy strategies to outshine the competition.

An Unforgettable (and Easy) Get-Together
Take advantage of the weather with some easy get-togethers that’ll get your audience involved with your brand in an easy way. There’s no need to overthink it. You don’t have to produce a Coachella-style festival to get your clients interested or connected. Consider a pop-up happy hour on your office balcony for a list of favorite clients, popsicles or a round of beers after run club, or even renting an ice cream or food truck. 

Volunteer
Is there a nonprofit or community cause your business supports? Odds are they’d welcome a helping hand any time of year. Or maybe there’s a nearby creek or public park that could stand a little TLC? There’s probably a weekend charity run that could use a group to hand out water. We could go on, but you get the idea. Outfit your volunteer squad in matching tees and caps or headwear to let them know they’re part of a team that cares.

Be a GREAT Neighbor
When’s the last time you connected with the business or company next door or down the street? Is there an opportunity to collaborate or simply create some goodwill? A reference, recommendation, or even your next client could be the result of sending a “welcome to the neighborhood,” or other introduction gift to the business next door. When we say we can put your name on practically anything, we mean it! 

Seasonal Gift With Purchase
Who doesn’t love a freebie, a little something extra, or a gift with purchase? It’s a proven sales driver, and most customers who receive them say they’ll likely do business with that company again. Practicality and utility win the day in this category. This time of year, think picnic blankets and beach towels, coolers, and other “active” items! 

Meet Them on Their Terms (and Turf!)
Is your audience or customer base headed for the ballfield, festival, or concert series this season? Depending on the size of the event, a vendor booth or tent may be a surprisingly affordable opportunity to meet your clients and friends in a fun and casual atmosphere where everyone can have a good time! Don’t forget your koozies, totes, stickers, and other event-ready gear! 

The Dunstan Group Welcomes Tori Chipchase as New Account Manager

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHARLOTTE, NC — The Dunstan Group is pleased to announce the addition of Tori Chipchase as Account Manager. Tori brings a lifelong connection to the promotional products industry and a strong track record in sales, account management, and client relations. Her experience includes driving growth and supporting clients at Hub Promotional Group and Pinnacle Promotions, where she was recognized for her creativity, problem-solving, and dedication to client success.

Tori’s passion for delivering outstanding service and innovative solutions aligns perfectly with The Dunstan Group’s commitment to making brands shine. “I’m excited to join a team that values doing the right thing and building strong relationships,” said Tori. “Helping clients bring their brands to life is what motivates me every day.”

A graduate of James Madison University, Tori has an industry reputation for creativity, resourcefulness, and the ability to make things happen even under the tightest deadlines. Tori will be based in Wilmington, North Carolina.

About The Dunstan Group

Headquartered here in Charlotte, NC The Dunstan Group is a leading provider of customized apparel and promotional merchandise. Our reputation for inventive and thoughtful design, quality product and on-time delivery have allowed us to grow, and continue to exceed our customers’ expectations. https://dunstangroup.com

Spring’s Most Popular Promotional Product Categories

We’re just a month into the new season, but we’re always interested in what’s hot and now. And not just at the donut shop. If endless choices and thousands of options have you wondering where to start, we’ve got you covered. Here are the most popular promotional product categories so far this spring!

Bags 

Custom bags, especially reusable ones, are a standout promotional product thanks to their blend of practicality and high visibility. Every time a customer carries your branded bag—whether at the grocery store, gym, or work, or vacation—they effortlessly expand your brand’s reach. Bags also align with sustainability trends without even trying, since they’re used over and over again. Their long-term utility sets your logo and message on repeat, making bags a cost-effective way to boost both brand awareness and customer loyalty in any season.

Shop bags: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Bags 

Shirts

Branded apparel – especially shirts – are always on this list. A high-quality t-shirt is one of the most effective promotional items because they turn customers and employees into mobile billboards for your brand. Every time someone wears your shirt, your logo is displayed to a wider audience. And isn’t that the point? Shirts are practical, fun, appreciated, and offer endless design possibilities to reflect your brand’s personality. Think about the t-shirts at the top of your stack. The best ones get worn over and over again!  

Shop shirts and apparel: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Apparel 

Pens

Promotional pens are a classic favorite for loads of good reasons! They’re affordable, useful, and keep your brand top-of-mind every day. Your customers and clients and team members use them everywhere —at work, home, or on the go—with your logo attached. Their cost-effectiveness allows for wide distribution at events, trade shows, leave-behind tokens, or other campaigns. High-quality pens foster goodwill and trust. And let’s be honest: even in this digital age, a great pen is still a keeper! 

Shop pens: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Office&SubCategories=Writing+Instruments 

Tumblers and Drinkware 

Branded tumblers are fan favorites for their practicality and everyday use. Whether it’s for coffee at the office, water at the gym, or beverages by the pool; quality tumblers and drinkware keep your brand in hand and in sight throughout the day. Their durability and perceived value make them a premium giveaway or gift, encouraging folks to use them over and over. That translates into ongoing brand exposure for your company, business, or nonprofit. Can’t go wrong with that! 

Shop drinkware: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Drinkware

Caps and Hats

Custom caps are a versatile and stylish promotional item that appeals to a just about everyone. Worn outdoors, at events, or as part of a casual outfit; caps provide prominent placement for your logo and message. Their fashion appeal and functionality pretty much guarantee they’ll get worn, turning recipients into brand ambassadors wherever they go. Caps are also great for team-building and fostering a sense of unity, making them a perennial smart choice.

Shop hats and caps: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Apparel&SubCategories=Headwear 

 

Each of these top promotional product categories offers a unique blend of visibility, practicality, and lasting impact. Plus, they’re all excellent choices for building brand awareness and customer loyalty throughout spring and into the summer! 

Summit Funding: Rewarding Peak Performers

There’s an old saying about work-life balance that serves up a warning about, “all work and no play.” It’s important to work hard in your chosen profession, and equally as important to play hard and reward yourself and your team!

The folks at Summit Funding know how to do it right. Their team is always on the job; working tirelessly to provide a fresh, effective path to purchasing, financing and reaching their clients’ homeownership goals. To thank them for their passionate efforts, Summit Funding developed the Peak Performers Program; an incentivized, all-inclusive trip to Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cabo awarded to their top sales performers and loan officers. To up the ante for this year’s cream of the crop, Summit Funding partnered with The Dunstan Group to develop a thank-you loot box filled with all kinds of goodies and Summit-branded swag.

Makayla Foss is the Event & Marketing Coordinator at Summit Funding, and takes a great deal of pride in providing an engaging, relaxing experience for her coworkers. We caught up with Foss to chat about the program, and her experience with The Dunstan Group.

DG: Tell us a little bit about the Peak Performers project!

Makayla Foss: We have our top producers attend this trip as a thank you message to them and their spouses. We get to take them somewhere that most of them have never been before, and really say thank you for all the hard work that they put into Summit, their branches and everything they do for us. It’s our turn to give back to them and it’s a great opportunity for our team to get that creative outreach too. It’s fun to branch away from our corporate branding for an event like this and really spice it up; make them feel special.

DG: What was the initial reaction to the Peak Performers Loot Box?

Makayla Foss: I had the pleasure of working with Gigi Mains. She’s been my girl for everything Summit-wise so far, and she was just awesome. It was so fun to work with her on all the back-and-forth getting the visuals on that gift box– that’s definitely the most ‘wow’ factor item we’ve been able to give to our attendees. Having that show up on their doorstep was really something special, and something we haven’t done in the past.

DG: How were you and The Dunstan Group involved in the development of the Peak Performers Loot Box?

Makalya Foss: Everything that was developed by me, Kaylee Still and Trey Rigdon. Trey, he’s got a great eye for those types of visuals and Kaylee was able to just help make sure the event came to life. Our team has been so blessed to be able to work [The Dunstan Group], because they have taken our vision for our branding so easily and taken it to the next level.

DG: How would you rate your experience working with The Dunstan Group on this project?

Makayla Foss: Oh, five stars, for sure, it was absolutely great! We’re so excited to see what they can come up with in the future. We know the more we work with them, the more they’re going to be able to align with our brand goals. This project has sparked us opening a whole project in terms of potentially opening a marketplace at The Dunstan Group, which gives us the availability for our loan officers to dropship all kinds of swag all the time. This was just a great experience to kick off a long-term relationship. We are so grateful for everything they’ve done so far and we look forward to what we do together in the future.

What’s HOT for Spring and Summer 2025

 

Spring is HERE, and summer won’t be far behind. If you’re wondering how to get your brand to stand out in the upcoming seasons, The Dunstan Group has you covered. This year, we’re seeing a shift towards more thoughtful, innovative, and personalized products that not only represent your brand but also resonate with your audience’s values, lifestyle, and the seasons. 

Tech-Integrated Swag

As our work world and home lives becomes increasingly connected, so does our branded merchandise. Smart, tech-integrated products are some of the most-used by consumer. Wireless charging docks, portable smart speakers, and Bluetooth trackers with your brand’s logo are sought-after items they’ll use every day.

Elevated Athleisure

The line between performance wear and everyday fashion continues to blur. Expect to see high-quality, stylish athleisure items that seamlessly transition from the gym to the office, and everywhere in between. The Dunstan Group has access to the brands they love that can be customized with your brand and logo. 

Subtle Branding


Less is more in 2025. Tone-on-tone embroidery and discreet logo placements offer a sophisticated take on branded apparel. Your branded items are more than just products – they’re an extension of your brand’s narrative. This year, we’ll see merchandise that highlights a company’s mission, values, or other initiatives, creating a deeper connection with consumers.

Sustainability Takes Center Stage


Consumers are driving a significant shift towards sustainable branded merchandise. Consumer want products made from organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and other environmentally friendly materials—and products that emphasize everyday utility. Brands that prioritize ethical manufacturing practices will stand out, appealing to customers who want their purchases to align with their values.

Activity, Health and Wellness Focus


Everyone wants to get away, get healthy, and enjoy the outdoors this time of year. Branded items that promote a healthy lifestyle will always be in high demand. Think: water bottles, fitness trackers, golf, beach, or wellness-themed gift sets. Consumers will connect your brand with the active and aspirational lifestyle they want! 

At The Dunstan Group, we’re committed to keeping you on trend, and creating branded merchandise and apparel that not only looks great but also resonates with your audience’s values and preferences. Let’s work together to make your brand shine in the spring and summer of 2025!

Walking a Mile with Sarah-Kate Pease from Safe Alliance

Walking a Mile with Sarah-Kate Pease from Safe Alliance

If you’re new to this, “Walk a Mile” is a one-of-a-kind event that brings the community together to celebrate hope and healing around a very difficult subject: domestic violence. Participants are encouraged to express themselves creatively – costumes, heels, signs, you name it – as they walk a one-mile course. It’s a powerful demonstration of support for Safe Alliance’s mission: to provide hope and healing to individuals impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault.

We spoke with Sarah-Kate Pease of Safe Alliance, who shared her excitement about the 2025 event: “It’s my favorite one that we do just because of the vibes… We’re able to bring all different types of people out in the morning. Guys are in heels. Kids are running dogs in costume… it’s just a lot of fun.”

Photo Credit: Corine Olarte

“Walk a Mile” is one of Safe Alliance’s two major fundraising events. Their Breakfast of Hope, held in October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, is a more serious event focused on sharing stories and raising awareness. “Walk a Mile” offers a more lighthearted and family-oriented way to support their mission.

This year, “Walk a Mile” is stepping up and into a new venue: Truist Field, home of the Charlotte Knights. Pease told us that means they’ll have parking and more space for participants, while still keeping that community spirit.

Photo Credit: Corine Olarte

The Dunstan Group: Proud to Partner

At The Dunstan Group, we believe in supporting organizations that make a real difference. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to partner with Safe Alliance for their annual “Walk a Mile” event. The Dunstan Group is committed to supporting Safe Alliance and will be providing T-shirts for “Walk a Mile” participants.

“They are such a huge partner,” Pease noted. “They really helped us out to make tickets stay affordable if they included the T-shirt, and so that we could maximize the amount we raise and support survivors in this community.”

“Our connection with Safe Alliance goes back for years,” added Scott Dunstan, president and founder of The Dunstan Group. “This partnership has helped them make a difference in many people’s lives throughout the area.”

Photo Credit: Corine Olarte

Safe Alliance “Walk a Mile” Event Details:

Date: May 17th

Location: Truist Field, Charlotte

Registration:  Visit the Safe Alliance website to register, create a team, and learn more: https://www.safealliance.org

The Dunstan Group Wins Gold for Innovative Client Program

The Dunstan Group Wins Gold for Innovative Client Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELASE:

February 17, 2025

The Dunstan Group, a Charlotte-based promotional products and apparel company, has been honored with a prestigious Gold Pyramid Award from the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) for its work on a local market launch for a local live music venue.

The award-winning campaign was developed for Goldie’s Charlotte, a South End Charlotte event space featuring multiple patios and three unique ,in-house food brands. The Dunstan Group’s creative and collaborative approach to branding and merchandise selection was an essential part of Goldie’s introduction to the Charlotte marketplace.

“We’re thrilled to receive this honor from PPAI,” said Scott Dunstan, founder of The Dunstan Group. “Our team went to work to create a cohesive brand experience for Goldie’s… and this award is a testament to the power of promotional products in storytelling and brand building.”

The award-wining program included comprehensive branding across staff and kitchen wear, cups, utensils, and merchandise – including  caps, tees, hoodies, and even drumsticks. The Dunstan Group collaborated with Plaid Penguin Design Group to apply original designs to products and apparel, and integrated branding elements throughout the venue, thanks to Parks House Design.

The program’s success extended beyond just the aesthetics. Tyler Hager, co-founder of Goldie’s Charlotte, said the reception has been “unbelievable,” with sales exceeding projections. The venue has experienced heavy volume on weekends and has garnered significant positive press.

“The Dunstan Group’s expertise in promotional products has been instrumental in creating a brand that feels like it’s been around for over a decade,” Hager added. “Their ability to translate our ideas into tangible, desirable merchandise has significantly contributed to our success.”

This Gold Pyramid Award emphasized The Dunstan Group’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the promotional products industry. It also highlights the company’s ability to create comprehensive branding solutions that resonate with both clients and their target audiences.

5 Reasons to Love Promotional Products for Your Marketing Strategy

Promotional products, branded merchandise, and apparel are more than just giveaways—they’re real and effective tools that can take your marketing efforts next level. Naturally, here at The Dunstan Group, we’re big believers in the power of promotional products. Here are five reasons why businesses love using these items to build their brands:

1. Unmatched Brand Visibility

You’ve probably heard this one before: Promotional products act as walking advertisements for your company. Here’s how… Whether it’s a branded t-shirt, mug, hat, or tote bag, etc.; these items keep your logo and message in front of customers daily. Studies show that 85% of recipients remember the advertiser who gave them a promotional product, ensuring your brand stays top-of-mind for months or even years.

2. Long-Lasting Advertising Impact

Unlike digital ads or print campaigns that disappear quickly, promotional products have a long life cycle. Most people keep these items for an average of eight months, and many pass them along to others when they’re done using them. This extended exposure increases your reach without any additional costs.

3. Cost-Effective Marketing

Promotional products offer one of the best returns on investment in marketing. Once produced, they continue to advertise your brand without ongoing expenses. Compared to traditional advertising methods, branded merchandise delivers consistent impressions at a fraction of the cost.

4. Builds Customer Loyalty and Trust

Giving customers something tangible creates a positive association with your brand. In fact, 52% of people who receive promotional items end up doing business with the company that provided them. These items foster goodwill and encourage repeat business, making them ideal for building long-term relationships.

5. Encourages Word-of-Mouth Marketing

When customers use your branded products in public—whether it’s a water bottle at the gym, a tote bag at the grocery store, or a t-shirt word around town —they become organic brand ambassadors. This kind of exposure not only boosts awareness but sparks conversations about your brand and business.

Bottom line, promotional products, branded merchandise and apparel, are smart marketing investments. More than just swag, they’re strategic tools that drive visibility, loyalty, and ROI. Whether you’re outfitting employees with branded apparel, giving away custom merchandise at events, or gifting clients and friends; these items make a lasting impression that ads simply can’t match.