Are you trying to find out the type of gift people will appreciate and attach emotional value to? It's more challenging than you’d think. Few will develop emotional connections and attach value to merch — although they’ll surely keep the swag that they find useful and nice. There are two key aspects to consider when deciding which merch to give away: 

1. Something functional or that they didn’t know they needed. 
2. Authentic merch, possibly by packaging it to reflect your company culture.

Avoid spending money on items your team won’t use. Forget about the tacky logo t-shirts that probably will end up in goodwill. People tend to already have a favourite water bottle or mug — these also need to be forgotten. Does the company prioritise sustainability? Does it prioritise local businesses? Take the company’s stances into account when selecting merchandise ideas.

Another great thing to consider when giving away merch is how you present it. This can create an emotional touchstone for the recipient. 

Unique merch ideas to create a brand top-of-mind

1. Lens cleaner 

Let's be honest, nearly everyone in the tech industry uses glasses. Whether they’re equipped with blur light protection or not, a lens cleaner will surely be practical. Many people keep a lens cleaner on their desks, making it likely that others will notice the printed logo on the bottle and perhaps ask about it.

Opting for cheap utilitarian stuff that doesn't need to compete with higher quality or more sentimental alternatives is the key to selecting the optimal merch. The difference between a cheap lens cleaner and a high-end photography lens cleaner is marginal, and most people don't have a sentimental lens cleaner. The cost/benefit ratio is a good value in bulk, where the benefit is repeated exposure to people. All in all, an excellent merch option. 

2. Gel ice pack 

When was the last time you bought one? It's like gel ice packs magically exist in your parent’s freezer. Few people would know where to find them except on Amazon. A great merch idea: something useful that you wouldn’t buy otherwise. People will always be grateful when they need it. They will remember your company.

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3. Car phone-holder

This one is always useful. Customers will look at their phones while driving and see your logo! Car phone holders are things that tend to break easily, so it’s always useful to have an extra one. 

4. USB/universal charger 

There’s never enough chargers! They break and get lost. It’s always helpful to have one in your car or your bag. Something that customers will use every other day and also lend to others.

5. Sewing repair kit 

Something small to carry in your bag, you never know when you’ll need to sew a button back on or fix a hole in your jumper. 

6. Coaster 

These are beneficial every time someone comes over — a useful item that can be cheap to produce if necessary. A good design will certainly bring memories of your beloved brand as the drinker.

7. Webcam cover 

Everyone in the tech world uses computers, and this gadget is a practical replacement for the piece of paper held by tape that is hiding your camera. With this cover, your customers will never accidentally show their pyjamas during an early Zoom meeting, and will always see your logo when using the screen. Perfect! 

8. Hand sanitiser 

Pretty similar to lens cleaner, this one is a cheap and useful product. Almost everyone has hand sanitiser in their bag, especially after COVID.

9. Cool/Funny stickers

Think about those you’d put on your computer or Thermos. Pro tip: avoid making them too brandy. Bonus points if they’re funny. 

10. Socks 

Have you thrown or gifted any socks? I don’t think so. They could be funny and a great conversation starter. 

11. Portable battery 

Another thing you would rather not buy but need. A ‘life-saviour’ with your logo in it! Portable batteries always come in handy when leaving home.

12. Silicone phone wallet

Small, cheap and practical + certified exposure to people. 

13. Octopus charger 

Although a bit expensive, this one will undoubtedly be kept by customers. It’s practical to have in your bag and your office. 

14. A good notebook and pen

Yes, this is a basic one — but you can’t deny a pen. Almost everyone keeps them. The same goes for notebooks. A classic that gets the job done. 

15. Customised Tide go-to pen 

No one will expect it and it will be really useful! 

16. Luggage tag 

Small, yet practical, this item is something almost no one buys but uses once they have it. It’s just an awesome flex to include addresses from all around Europe, too.

17. Metal straws 

Perfect for companies that value sustainability… and for everyone. Bonus points if they come with a portable kit. 

18. Stress ball 

Although one may think they don’t need it, once they have it in their hands they will not be able to resist. Another item customers probably won't buy but will keep on their desks if necessary.

Time to choose the perfect merch 

Once you’re on the hunt for the perfect merch, you should focus on things employees will use year-round in public settings. Giveaways are a great way to engage potential customers and boost the brands' visibility. Check out World Congress, the world-leading event for developers, if you’d like to make connections and have your brand remembered. Giving away the right merch — one that’s authentic and practical — will make your company stand out from the rest.