wearables

Despite their long history and broad usage, disposable plastic shopping bags are on their way out. A number of cities nationwide have banned disposable plastic bags completely. Meanwhile, other cities like Chicago have created a tax to suppress their use by consumers.

Promotional products are more than just after-the-sale reminder advertising. Likewise, they are more than another version of business cards with names and phone numbers imprinted on pens or magnets.

Did you know that millennials constitute the largest living generation? Bet you never thought of them that that way — as a bigger cohort than even the Baby Boom generation. Perhaps now, no matter what line of business you are in, you should think of them as that: more influential as a subset of society than other groups and especially as consumers.

Last fall a columnist for Parade, the popular magazine insert that graces weekly newspapers nationwide, said something we thought was funny. The author said embroidery “isn't just for grannies anymore".

We've spent a lot of time on this blog talking about the importance of distinct, eye-catching logos. Whether they appear on two-dimensional surfaces or more tangible and touchable items, they should indeed catch eyes and hold them. There are so many places now for small or medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to showcase their brands. These include your customers’ websites, brochures and other printed materials, social media channels like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and promotional products.

It's getting cold and, in many parts of North America, it feels and looks like winter. You've probably seen your friends and neighbors break out their fall fleece or winter coats, if not their hats and gloves. Winter, just like any other season, presents a great opportunity for businesses to brand and outerwear is the ideal promotional product that distributors can discuss with them.

"A great work uniform not only makes your employees feel and look good, but it also increases positive brand recognition and company image, and helps promote safety in the workplace," writes PPB Magazine, a publication of the Promotional Products Association International.

That's certainly true. But also remember that a prominent logo on shirts, outwear or other apparel gets the name and brand of companies or institutions out there for all to see.

Just over a week ago sports history was made. After 108 years without a championship, the Chicago Cubs won the World Series, in a contentious and exciting seven-game battle with the Cleveland Indians. We knew before the first pitch was thrown was that sports excite people.