In 2024, the promotional products industry witnessed a blend of long-term favorites and emerging trends, as revealed by recent data from ASI Research (The Advertising Specialty Institute®). Classic items such as pens, tumblers, water bottles, lanyards, and tote bags maintained their top positions in searches by distributors and clients throughout the year, further proving their lasting appeal. Notably, “pens” continued to lead as the most-searched term, a testament to their unwavering popularity and testament of time. While technology continues to advance, the classic pen remains a necessity.
Other influences created increases in searches last year. Each quarter, searches for seasonal items created predictable upticks; for instance, the third and fourth quarters experienced increased searches for cold-weather and holiday-themed products like blankets and coffee mugs, aligning with the gifting season we see year over year. As the industry moves into Q1 of 2025, distributors are anticipating a resurgence in searches for warm-weather products, reflecting preparations for upcoming spring and summer campaigns. Beach towels, golf accessories, yoga mats, and sunglasses are expected to gain traction.
Emerging cultural phenomena and social media significantly influence search behaviors. The rise of pickleball, a sport gaining widespread popularity, led to a 28% increase in related product searches. Additionally, the “ducking” trend—where Jeep owners place rubber ducks on fellow Jeeps as a friendly gesture—contributed to a 34% rise in searches for rubber ducks.
- The Owala 24-oz. Freesip bottle became a sought-after item, topping the list of fastest-growing search terms for much of 2024, replacing the ‘Stanley’ surge from 2023. The leakproof feature of the Freesip was a difference-maker, and the lower price tag seemed to tip the scales in its favor.
- Searches for fanny packs and PopSockets decreased by 32% and 29%, respectively, indicating shifting consumer preferences. Not to say these items are considered out of style, but they experienced a noticeable decline in search popularity last year.
Current events also created search trends in 2024. The election created a 70% uptick in “yard signs” and the total solar eclipse triggered a 4,686% year-over-year increase in searches for “eclipse glasses.”
According to Nate Kucsma, Senior Executive Director of research at ASI. “‘Pickleball’ and ‘solar eclipse glasses’ were two breakout terms in Q1 [of 2024]. Pickleball will likely continue. The solar eclipse glasses, however, show the importance of planning ahead because by the time it became big, it may have been too late to order.” MOSAIC’s team can help you plan ahead of the upcoming events and trends.
Security is an emerging promo category for 2025.
For 2025, keeping in mind the current landscape and buyer’s interests, our MOSAIC Promo specialists have also forecasted personal safety and security products in technology as an emerging 2025 category for promotional products. Stay connected, with your information and technology safe, on-the-go with RFID protection products, personal chargers, multi-use cords, and much more. Contact us today to get more information on these products.