PPB November 2019

Just introduced in September, the Koozie Bottle/Can Kooler with D-ring and Clip is a multi-purpose cooler that holds cans as well as 16- to 18-ounce bottles. Perfect for the on-the-go hiker, outdoorsman and athlete, this cooler is made of Koozie brand wetsuit-like material that keeps cans and bottles chilled while on the move. Special features include convenient clips that can slide and hold the bottle on a belt as well as a D-ring, so it can be attached to a carabiner. BIC Graphic NA / PPAI 114187, S13 / www.bicgraphic.com What To KnowBefore Buying Drinkware There are a lot of promotional drinkware products out there. How do you know which product is the best pick for your client? PPB spoke with Kim Reinecker, MAS, regional manager southwest at Grand Island, New York-based supplier Starline USA, Inc., for tips to keep in mind when advising your client about drinkware. Insulation Emphasis Vacuum-insulated drinkware is always a good choice, particularly now. “The popularity of vacuum- insulated drinkware in the retail marketplace has skyrocketed, thanks to the marketing efforts of several large retail brands,” Reinecker says. (For more information on vacuum insulation, see the sidebar Tumbler Insulation 101 on page 53) Vacuum-insulated water bottles and tumblers are also not as pricey as they once were. “Years ago, the manufacturing of vacuum-insulated tumblers was very expensive due to a large rejection rate,” Reinecker says. “However, new manufacturing technology has reduced that issue, making a once cost-prohibitive item more reasonably priced.” Powder Perfect Something else to consider is whether the drinkware you buy has a powder-coated finish—a rough matte finish that doesn’t sweat as much and is less likely to slip out of your hands. “The new trend is powder-coated finishes on vacuum-insulated drinkware,” Reinecker says. “They are rich- looking and very durable. Look for vacuum-insulated drinkware that has a high hot and cold retention rate and a copper lining.” Keep A Lid On It Also inspect the drinkware product’s lid, as it plays an important role in the quality of the drinkware’s temperature retention. “An open-holed lid will not retain hot and cold for as long as a closed lid will,” Reinecker says. Logo To Go Finally, consider the decoration options that are available for that drinkware item to showcase your client’s brand, logo and message. “There will always be a family member who will covet the best tumbler that gets brought home,” Reinecker says. “Make sure your client was the one who gifted that tumbler.” Toast the success of your next campaign with this 14-ounce Stainless Steel Twisting Tumbler With Lid . This stylish tumbler features a polypropylene insert and twisted exterior that will separate your brand from the bunch. It keeps liquids hot or cold for an extended period, making it a diverse cup that keeps your brand in recipients’ hands. Pictured with optional holiday packaging. Jornik / PPAI 111065, S6 / www.jornik.com | NOVEMBER 2019 | 51 GROW