There was a time when buying a lot of branded pens seemed like an idea. They were cheap. We could get them quickly. After a week most of them were already lost or broken. That taught us a lesson. The things we give out say something about us.. It is not just what is written on them. Cheap plastic is just that. Cheap. Sustainable promotional products are different. Additional info!

A bag made from canvas says something quietly but clearly. A water bottle made from steel says we should refill it instead of throwing it away. A notebook made from paper that can be planted is useful and surprising. We can use it and then plant it and watch it grow. That is not something we give away. It is something that starts a conversation and shows we care.

This is not just about how things look. It is about what our brand stands for. When we say we care about the earth but give out things that hurt the earth people notice. People are smarter than we think. They can tell when we are not being honest. It takes a long time to get their trust back.

The things we make our products from say something too. Bamboo feels warm and thoughtful. Cork feels honest and natural. Old plastic that is used again gives things a new life. Natural fabrics feel different. Softer and more thoughtful. Even the way we package things says something. A special wrap that can be composted shows we care in a way that plastic cannot.

Things that are useful are better than things that’re just new. A solar charger is really helpful when someones phone is dying. A good reusable cup becomes part of someones routine. Useful things stay with people. On their desks in their bags in their lives. They make people talk about our brand in a way.

We have to be realistic about money. Sustainable options often cost more at first.. Things that last are better than cheap things that break quickly. A good product that lasts is worth than many cheap ones.

The story behind our products is important. If the people who make our products are local we should say so. If the materials were used again we should mention it. If making our products used water we should share that. People care about the story, behind things. A simple thing becomes interesting when it has a story.

We should look at what we’re buying now and ask if it will be kept or thrown away. We should think about what it took to make it.

Our brand does not need to add to the trash. It needs merchandise that shows what we really stand for.