PPAI Magazine October 2025

connected to a brand. This emotional tie can strengthen brand loyalty and increase the likelihood of repeat purchases. Adding personalization can increase that emotional connection, as nearly half of respondents (48%) said that a personalized item (e.g., with your name, initials or role) is more memorable. Furthermore, 48% said that receiving a short, personal message or note would make the promo product more meaningful. “Personalization turns a product into a message,” Bhat says. “When it feels personal, it sticks.” One respondent mentioned a nice journal they received, saying “What stood out was that it came with a handwritten welcome note and a QR code linking to job opportunities. That small touch FIG. 2 FIG. 3 What makes a promotional product look and feel "premium" to you? How Important is the visual design of a promotional product in your decision to keep it? High-quality materials or finish Clean modern design Sleek packaging or presentation Subtle or tasteful branding Useful features or innovation Heavier weight or solid construction Eco-friendly feel of labeling Other 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% Extremely Important - It has to look good 45% 10% 44% Not very important - I care more about functionality Somewhat important - design influences my decision Not at all important - design doesn't matter to me 1% PPAI • OCTOBER 2025 • 61 The 5-Second Impact | Must Read

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