Consumer Study | Must Read Strategic Recommendations In response to the digital shift, the following strategies are recommended for suppliers and distributors: • Augmented and Virtual Reality: With 45% of end buyers showing a preference for digital enhancements, integrating augmented or virtual reality for product previews can transform the user experience. This allows customers to see and interact with products in a virtual environment, thereby enhancing their purchasing confidence and engagement. • Incorporating Smart Technology: As digital integration becomes the norm, embedding smart technology into promotional products can better cater to the functional needs of consumers. Items like fitness trackers or smart drinkware could appeal to the 56.2% of consumers who find promotional products more effective than other advertising methods. • Advanced Data Analytics: Leveraging data analytics can tailor marketing to consumer preferences, which is essential when almost 70% of end buyers consider a distributor’s digital presence significant. Effective use of analytics can help predict trends, optimize Given that up to 83% of consumers regard sustainability as an important factor in their purchasing decisions, there is a clear mandate for using environmentally friendly materials. Shutterstock AI / Shutterstock.com PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 69
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