All these new enrollees mean new ways to connect and foster school pride. The right promo, like school-related gear and on-trend apparel, helps students feel connected and proud to rep their campus wherever they go. Schools can also turn to promo like bold signage and banners to welcome students back to campus or energize fans at athletic events. With so much learning happening online today, promotional products are more important than ever. They create real, tangible bonds, uniting students, staff and alumni regardless of where they are. Win Over Students With Promo Most undergraduate students today are younger than 24, but don’t let their age fool you. The college crowd has major buying power, and they’re using it. Gen Z shapes nearly half (45%) of global consumer spending, and 73% recommend brands they love to friends and families. Promo can be your ticket in with this group. Give branded water bottles during move-in week or T-shirts they’ll want to wear long after graduation. When you build relationships now, you could gain loyal fans for life. College Merch Is Booming Students want to wear their school spirit, and they’re willing to pay for it. Last year, U.S. consumers spent more than $5 billion on college-branded gear. Schools have a big opportunity to give people what they want, whether they’re looking for T-shirts and backpacks or hats and hoodies. Give out branded merch at campus events or sell logoed apparel in campus bookstores. Either way, students will wear it loud, proud and often. The Changing Demographics Of Today’s College Students Modern college campuses are evolving, and so are the students who fill their classrooms. This year, 1 in 5 of these students is Hispanic or Latino, up 483% since the 1970s undergraduate enrollment topped 19.5 million nationwide. Nearly 1 in 5 of these students is Hispanic or Latino, a group that’s grown 483% since the 1970s. Enrollment among women has also surged, with female college students outnumbering men by the millions. Connecting with today’s students starts with understanding them. Colleges can turn to promo like logoed notebooks for class and water bottles that go with students throughout their day. Items that truly appeal to the college crowd have a greater chance of getting used regularly and becoming part of their everyday experience. Use Promo To Build Public Trust The grades are in, and they’re not particularly great. Fewer than half of Americans (43%) are satisfied with K-12 education quality. They’re concerned about various issues, from school safety to teacher shortages. With items like eye-catching banners, bold yard signs and reusable totes, schools can showcase what’s working and why it matters. In a time when perception can shape policy, clear and visible branding isn’t just smart but essential. Support Teachers With Thoughtful Promo Teaching can be tough, and the stats prove it. Nearly 4 million educators work in public and private schools around the United States, but only 16% would recommend the profession to others. Most teachers say they find their job stressful (77%) or overwhelming (68%). This can leave schools facing teacher burnout and high turnover. One solution to ease the strain? Branded merchandise that celebrates teachers for their hard work. Gifts like custom wellness kits or branded beach towels for weekend relaxation can boost morale and show teachers just how much they’re appreciated. 20% enrollment boost since 2020 5.9% increase in students ages 25 to 29 Gen Z shapes nearly half (45%) of global Consumer spending 5 Billion spent last year on college-branded gear PPAI • JULY 2025 • 49 | Must Read
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