Boosting Circularity: Recycling Apparel and More

The promotional products industry, widely recognized for its use of branded merchandise, is poised for a shift towards increased sustainability and circularity.

With a growing emphasis on environmental consciousness among businesses and consumers, there is a rising demand for eco-friendly practices. Enhancing circularity within this industry not only supports global sustainability goals but also provides companies with opportunities for innovation and differentiation.

Understanding Circularity

Circularity involves designing products and systems to minimize waste, keep materials in use, and regenerate natural systems. Unlike the traditional linear economy of "take, make, dispose," a circular economy focuses on "reduce, reuse, recycle." For the promotional products industry, this entails creating or sourcing durable, reusable, and recyclable products, as well as developing systems to recover and repurpose end-of-life items.

Strategies to Increase Circularity in Promotional Products

1. Eco-friendly Materials

The initial step is to guide customers towards sustainable and recyclable materials. Encourage them to choose organic cotton, recycled polyester, bamboo, and other eco-friendly materials for apparel. For non-wearable items, suggest options made from recycled plastics, biodegradable materials, and sustainably sourced wood.

2. Durability and Reusability

Promote high-quality products designed for longevity and multiple uses. Advise customers to select durable items that withstand wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, multi-functional products offer added value, encouraging consumers to retain them longer, thereby extending the promotional impact.

3. Take-back Programs

Implementing take-back programs motivates consumers to return old promotional items. Suppliers can then refurbish, recycle, or upcycle these products. Enhancing participation through incentives, such as discounts on future purchases, can boost the effectiveness of these programs.

4. Upcycling and Repurposing

Upcycling involves transforming old products into new ones with minimal processing. For instance, old banners can be converted into tote bags, and unused apparel can be redesigned into new fashion items or accessories. This approach is particularly useful for misprints or single-use promotional items like event signage.

Recyclable Promotional Items

Here are examples of recyclable promotional items and how they can be repurposed:

• Apparel: Recycled fibers can be woven or knitted into new fabrics for t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel items.

• Bags and Accessories: Upcycled fabrics from banners, tents, or old clothing can be transformed into tote bags, pouches, and other accessories.

• Office Supplies: Recycled plastics can be molded into pens, notebooks, and other office supplies.

Promoting Circularity Through Education and Awareness

Educating customers about the benefits of circular products is crucial. Emphasize the sustainability and ethical aspects of recycled promotional products to enhance their appeal. Transparent communication about the sourcing, manufacturing process, and environmental impact of these products builds trust and encourages more sustainable choices.

As environmental priorities continue to grow among consumers and businesses, companies offering eco-conscious promotional items are likely to gain a competitive edge.

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Athleisure: The Cool Promo Trend That's Taking Over

In recent years, the lines between athletic wear and everyday clothing have blurred, giving rise to the booming trend of athleisure.

This fashion revolution, characterized by its blend of comfort, functionality, and style, has taken the world by storm. From the gym to the office and everywhere in between, athletic wear and athleisure are not just wardrobe staples but also powerful promotional tools for businesses. Here’s why athletic wear and athleisure promotional products are the new hit thing.

The Rise of Athleisure

Athleisure, a term that combines “athletic wear” and “leisure,” represents a lifestyle shift toward health, fitness, and overall well-being. This trend started gaining momentum in the early 2010s and has since become a global phenomenon. Brands like Lululemon, Nike, and Adidas have been at the forefront, offering stylish and versatile clothing that seamlessly transitions from workout sessions to casual outings.

The appeal of athleisure lies in its ability to provide comfort without sacrificing style. High-performance fabrics, sleek designs, and a focus on functionality have made these clothes a favorite among people of all ages. The versatility of athleisure means that consumers are willing to invest in pieces that can serve multiple purposes, further driving the trend’s popularity.

Why Do Athleisure Promotional Products Work?

• High Usage: Athleisure items are worn frequently, both in and out of the gym. This high usage translates to greater visibility for brands that choose to invest in athleisure promotional products. Whether it’s a branded hoodie, leggings, or a stylish gym bag, these items get noticed in various settings, amplifying brand exposure.

• Wellness Association: By aligning with the health and wellness trend, brands can create a positive image in the minds of consumers. Athleisure products convey a message of an active, balanced lifestyle, which many people aspire to. This association can enhance brand perception and foster customer loyalty.

• Practical and Valued: Unlike traditional promotional items that may end up forgotten in a drawer, athleisure products are practical and valuable. High-quality clothing and accessories are appreciated and used regularly, ensuring that the brand’s message is continually reinforced.

• Customization Opportunities for Teams/Events: Athleisure items offer ample opportunities for customization. Your clients can add their logos, colors, and unique designs to create products that reflect their identity. This personalization strengthens brand recognition and makes the items more appealing to consumers.
  

Key Considerations When Searching for Athleisure Products:

• Diverse Size Range – People come in all shapes and sizes. Ensure that your selection includes a broad size range to accommodate everyone, expanding your client’s brand appeal beyond a limited demographic.

• Inclusivity – Prioritize products that offer inclusive features. Consider options like Velcro shoes or additional zippers, which can enhance accessibility for individuals with different abilities.

• Variety in Colors and Styles – Athleisure brands often provide a spectrum of colors, textiles, and styles suited to various activities. Whether your clients are lounging at home or gearing up for a game of pickleball, offering a diverse range of styles and functionalities can enhance their product lineup.

Jump on the athleisure trend and see how these stylish, functional, and popular items can transform your promotional strategy. Elevate your brand with gear that people will love to wear, showcasing your logo from the gym to the streets and everywhere in between.

Game On: 8 Promotional Product Games We Love!

Are you hosting a company picnic or a game night? Or maybe you are looking to stock your bar or restaurant with something that not only brings people together but also provides some fun?

We’re talking about classic game promos like checkers, cornhole, darts, and more! Here are some of our favorite promotional product games and ways you can use them for a win with your clients and employees!

1. Giant 4-in-a-Row Connect Game

This giant four-in-a-row connect game is perfect for branding in food halls with outdoor spaces, university campuses, afterschool centers, parks, and even cafes or coffee shops.

2. Mini Basketball Set

For the coworker always trying to score a free throw with a wad of paper and a trash can, this mini basketball set is a great promo. Perfect for office break rooms, body shop waiting rooms, or bars during happy hour for added brand recognition.

3. Direct Print Dart Cabinet Set

Need we say more for bars? From gastropubs to breweries and event spaces, a classic dartboard with your logo will never go out of style.

4. Fun On-the-Go Games: Checkers

An excellent promo for rental car companies, regional airlines, or travel agencies. This checkers set is perfect for long road trips, with every piece stored in the bag, which also doubles as the board.

5. Wood Pickleball Set

Pickleball is the latest trend! This pickleball set is perfect for apartment leasing offices, rec centers, country clubs, and retirement communities, making lasting impressions with every game.

6. Wooden Triangle Jump Peg Game

This portable peg game is a great branded gift for travel-related businesses, bookstores, coffee shops, cafes, and even cigar lounges.

7. Finger Board with Full Wrap Printing Options

Remember fingerboards from the early 2000s? These are perfect for skate shops, coffee shops, comic book stores, tattoo parlors, toy stores, bike shops, rec centers, afterschool centers, and more. They’re fun and offer great brand visibility.

8. Regulation Cornhole Set

Who doesn’t love cornhole? With a branded board and bean bags, it’s ideal for any outdoor event, from company picnics to charity BBQs and tailgates. This game is a guaranteed winner.

Contact us at Kick Us Swag for all your branded product needs.