The Big Takeaway Across thousands of responses, one truth stood out: Consumers are raising their expectations, not their attention spans. They want fewer products, but those they receive should be better designed and more meaningful. That’s why it’s no surprise that low durability, poor design and irrelevance are the three leading causes for merch to feel cheap or forgettable, consumers say (see Figure 6). Consumers are looking for promo products that feel intentional, not incidental. They want items that tell a story, align with their values and serve a real purpose in their daily lives. When companies deliver on those expectations, merch transforms from a giveaway into a genuine connection. “Purpose and perception now drive promotional success,” Bhat says. “When usefulness, design, sustainability and emotion come together, the product doesn’t just represent the brand, it becomes the brand.” Corrigan is deputy editor at PPAI. Which categories feel overused or outdated? Figure 6 What makes a product feel cheap or forgettable? Low durability Poor design Irrelevance Non-sustainable Overused category Poor branding 62% 55% 43% 28% 25% 25% Buttons & Badges: embroidered patches, button pins, name badges, clothing magnets Food & Beverage: condiments & spices, candy & mints, bottled waters, gift baskets & tins Labels: window clings, stickers, decals, bumper stickers, temporary tattoos Magnets: business card magnets, mirror magnets, shaped magnets Date & Time: clocks, wall calendars, desk calendars, planners Games & Toys: playing cards, stuffed animals, coloring books, puzzles, stress relievers Awards: trophies, plaques, ribbons, medals, frames Drinkware: water bottles, shaker bottles, tumblers, mugs, stadium cups Writing: pens, pencils, markers, highlighters, stylus pens Bags/Travel: briefcases, messenger bags, duffel bags, totes, backpacks 30% 19% 18% 17% 12% 11% 11% 10% 9% 7% PPAI • DECEMBER 2025 • 65 PPAI Consumer Study | Must Read
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