Summer Essential Swag for Your OOO Adventures

Summer Essential Swag for Your OOO Adventures

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to gear up for beach days, backyard barbecues, and those well-deserved Out-Of-Office (OOO) moments! But while you’re packing your sunscreen and sunglasses, why not consider adding some fun and functional branded promo products to your vacation stash?

At Cascade Print Media, we’ve curated a list of summer essentials that’ll make your clients’ time off a breeze—and you don’t even have to leave the office to grab them! Whether you’re looking to stock up for your next company retreat or give your customers a lasting impression while they’re lounging poolside, our summer-ready promo products will keep your brand shining all season long.

  1. Branded Beach Towels

There’s nothing quite like lounging by the ocean with a towel that screams “vacation vibes.” Our branded beach towels are perfect for company swag or giveaways that get your brand noticed even on the sand. These towels are big, bold, and perfect for customizing with your logo, ensuring that every dip in the ocean or pool is a reminder of your company’s sunny side.

  1. Custom Sunglasses

Keep your clients’ eyes protected from the sun in style with custom sunglasses. These affordable yet high-impact promo items are a hit at any summer event or giveaway. Available in a variety of colors and styles, these sunglasses are the perfect way to ensure your brand is seen everywhere—whether on the beach, at a BBQ, or while strolling through a summer festival.

  1. Personalized Coolers and Drinkware

Stay refreshed and hydrated while keeping your brand cool with custom coolers and personalized drinkware. Whether it’s a cooler bag for beach picnics or a water bottle that keeps drinks cold all day long, these essentials will make sure your clients stay hydrated and stylish. Think about branded tumblers, insulated bottles, or even custom beach bags that carry everything in one go.

  1. Picnic and Beach Blankets

Picnics are a classic summer activity, and a branded beach blanket can make it even better. Not only are they functional for outdoor dining, but they also serve as a perfect backdrop for your brand to be showcased all season long. Plus, they fold up neatly, making them easy to pack for any getaway. A cozy, custom blanket is bound to be a favorite summer essential.

  1. Custom Tote Bags

Heading to the beach or a summer event? Custom tote bags are a versatile and eco-friendly option to carry everything you need—whether it’s sunscreen, snacks, or a good book. Personalized with your logo, these bags make it easy for your brand to travel everywhere, from the beach to the boardwalk. Bonus points: They’re reusable, making them great for eco-conscious customers!

  1. Portable Phone Chargers

Let’s face it—no one wants their phone to die in the middle of a beach selfie or while navigating through their summer vacation. Keep your clients’ devices charged and ready for action with custom portable phone chargers. These compact chargers are perfect for travel and can be branded with your logo, ensuring your clients never miss a moment to share their summer fun.

  1. Sunscreen and Lip Balm with Your Logo

Protect your clients from the sun’s harsh rays with branded sunscreen and lip balm. Perfect for vacationers, these small but mighty items fit perfectly into beach bags, and your logo will be on display every time they reapply. Whether they’re protecting themselves from the beach sun or the summer heat, these products will keep your brand in the spotlight.

  1. Beach Chairs and Umbrellas

For those longer days on the sand, branded beach chairs and umbrellas make the perfect summer companion. Your clients will appreciate the shade and comfort while you gain exposure as their go-to brand for relaxation and fun. These items are perfect for giveaways or corporate events, ensuring your brand gets a front-row seat at the next summer beach day.

How to Order Your Summer Essentials:

All of these summer essentials (and many more!) are available for quick and easy ordering on our website. Whether you’re looking for something fun and functional for your employees, clients, or event guests, Cascade Print Media has you covered.

Visit Cascade Print Media’s website or get in touch today to shop for your summer-ready promo products and keep your brand shining bright all season long!

Get Ready for Your OOO Adventures:

The summer sun isn’t just for enjoying—it’s for promoting! Whether you’re lounging at the beach, hiking in the mountains, or attending a summer event, these branded products will help keep your company top of mind. And while you’re out of the office, we’ll handle the details to make sure you have everything you need for a stellar summer.

Promotional Products Return on Investment (ROI)

Promotional Products Return on Investment (ROI)

Promotional items

A study by the Advertising Specialty Institute found that “business promotional items are one of the most cost-effective advertising mediums for businesses.” The recall rate for promotional goods is around 89%, meaning that roughly 89% of customers can recall the advertiser on a promotional product they received within the past two years. A further 80% of people can also recall the messaging of the brand if they receive a promotional product from them. A physical item can also be much more effective than other types of campaigns. Promotional mugs and tumblers rank as more effective than radio/TV advertising. Studies report 57% of people can recall a brand’s advertising on a mug vs only 28% against recalling the advertiser on TV.

So why aren’t more businesses leveraging this growth opportunity?

One of the main reasons businesses may not be investing in corporate gifting or custom products is a perceived upfront cost. Certainly, depending on the products chosen, the upfront costs can look higher than expected. It’s important to consider more than just the raw cost when looking for promotional items.

Calculating ROI on promotional items

While not as easy to measure as a digital marketing campaign, this post challenges you to consider the ROI on promotional goods. The ROI is based on impressions – the number of people who are likely to see the branded product. When comparing investing into a marketing plan here’s a way to calculate the return on promo items.

No. of Items x Cost Per Item = Total Spend

Impressions per Product x No. of Items = Total Impressions

Total Spend / Total Impressions = Cost per Impression

 

Let’s break it down in a simple example using custom coffee mugs:

 

72 mugs x $10ea = $720

50 impressions ea x 72 = 3,600 views

$720 / 3,600 = $0.20 per impression

 

So, 72 mugs infrequently used only 50 times a year will get an estimated 3,600 impressions at an average cost of just $0.20 per impression. To put this in perspective the average CPC for Facebook advertising across all industries is roughly $2.00 per click.

With customers who consume coffee every day you could be looking at 72 x 365 or over 26,000 impressions a year. That takes the cost per view down to just $0.02 an impression. Those numbers don’t include others who might see the branding as well, which only drives down the impression costs even further.

Approx number of impressions

Clothing generates the most overall impressions over the expected lifetime of a product. The only exception being polo shirts, which can give the impression of a work uniform, making the wearers seem like employees and not casual users of the product. On average any product is expected to generate multiple hundreds if not thousands of impressions over its lifetime.

Know your target audience

Pick promotional products that your target audience will find useful or enjoy. Narrow in on products that are relevant to your business and will see use. Choosing well focused and quality products helps them stay around.

Approximately 87% of people keep promotional products for longer than a year while 4 out of 10 keep them for more than 5 years. That means people will continue to see your brand over and over, helping give you even more return on investment.

 

While at first glance promotional product expenses might seem more costly than alternative marketing options the actual cost per impression of promotional goods are extremely cheap. They provide long last lasting and consistent brand reminders to current and potential customers over a long lifespan.

Let Cascade Print Media help you grow your brand by offering solutions and options to stay in your customers’ minds while meeting your budgeting needs.

 

Sources: PPAI, ASI

Packaging: Tips and Tricks

Packaging: Tips and Tricks

Guest Post by: Cori

Packaging is a key essential in promoting your product and making it stand out next to your competitors. When your product is on the shelf, what does it say about your company and the product you are selling? Here are a few key factors in choosing your packaging and how it can make you more successful.

 

Branding

Who are you, and what are you selling? What about your packaging makes it stand out compared to your competitors? Use your packaging to get your name out there, using images of your product and examples of why someone should invest in it is a key essential to selling your product.

 Quality

The quality of your packaging says a lot about your company and the product you are selling. On average 10-40% of manufacturing cost go into packaging.  It is essential to make sure your packaging holds up and protects the product inside.

Product Differentiation

Create unique packaging, something fun and exciting that catches the attention of the consumer and draws them to your product instead of the competitors. Consumers want to know why your product is different, how it is better and why they should choose you.

Information

Use your packaging to tell consumers what your product is, and how it was made. Is it made in the USA, is it more economical than others, is it safe for you and the earth? Can it be recycled, or reused? These are all important reasons why someone might want to buy it, use your packaging to draw the consumers’ attention to these important reasons as to why your product is better.

Physical & Emotional Appeal

Give your packaging some personality, find a way to connect to consumers through your packaging.  Bright colors, legible fonts and even textures are all great ways to give someone a reason to pick your product up off the shelf. Once they are interested in the packaging, you are halfway there to them being interested in the product inside.

Sustainability

Rather you are selling your product in stores or shipping it to the consumer, it is very important to make sure it is well packaged and will withstand the handling. Just as it is important to use the outside of the packaging to draw attention, it is just as important to make sure the product inside is protected. To ensure your product arrives safely and intact, make sure to use a well-fit sustainable package filler to mold your product and hold it in place. Make sure you use a thick enough material that protects the product but is also easy and user friendly to remove. Using recyclable material makes it easier on the consumer and better for the environment.

Production

Mass production is usually the best way to go to get a better unit cost. The more you print the less each piece’s cost to produce. This is true in most cases unless you are packaging an item that requires certain compliance and safety regulations, these often change, especially for food and cosmetics. If you print this information directly to the packaging, you may find yourself having to waste the packaging due to a reprint. There is a simple solution, print generic packaging for information that won’t change, and use labels to provide more fluid information such as product ingredients, warnings, and expiration dates. Although labels and the cost to apply may increase your production costs and time, this will save you money in the long run.

Testing

How do you know if your packaging will hold up? Before shipping your product to the consumer or retailer, conduct some tests. Ship yourself a package using your local freight company, store your package in a hot, cold or frozen environment to make sure the packaging doesn’t deteriorate.

If you are shipping to a retailer, visit the stores, conduct a survey of the product to make sure it stands out on the shelf and consumers are showing interest.

If you are shipping your product, add a comment card or a QR code where your customers can visit and provide feedback with information and images of the product they received. Asking someone’s opinion of your product shows you care and want to improve if needed.

 

Packaging says a lot about your product and brand, is a key element in promoting your products. Looking for ideas to get started? Contact us today!

 

 

 

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Print In Your Marketing Plan

Print In Your Marketing Plan

Creative Ways to Use Print in Your Marketing Plan

In today’s digital-first world, incorporating print into your marketing strategy is a powerful way to stand out. Tangible, eye-catching, and versatile, printed materials can leave a lasting impression on your audience. Here are some creative ideas to effectively use print in your marketing plan.

Stickers for Brand Awareness

Stickers are small but mighty tools for spreading brand recognition. They’re affordable, versatile, and loved by customers. Include your logo, a catchy slogan, or fun designs that align with your brand. Use them as giveaways, packaging seals, or incentives for social media shares.

Pro Tip: Create limited-edition sticker sets to drive excitement and engagement.

Calendars for Year-Round Visibility

Custom calendars ensure your brand stays front and center all year. Include important industry dates, your promotional events, or helpful tips relevant to your audience. Calendars are especially effective as corporate gifts or customer appreciation items.

Pro Tip: Add QR codes linking to your website or digital resources for a modern touch.

Promotional Products with Practicality

Branded notebooks, pens, water bottles, and tote bags are not just giveaways—they’re functional items that keep your brand in sight. Distribute them at trade shows, conferences, or community events.

Pro Tip: Choose high-quality products that reflect the value of your brand to create a positive association.

Branded Apparel for Walking Advertisements

T-shirts, hats, and hoodies with your logo or creative designs turn customers and employees into brand ambassadors. Branded apparel is perfect for giveaways, contests, or employee uniforms. Check out our post here about the power of promotional products

Pro Tip: Use bold designs that make people excited to wear your apparel beyond promotional events.

Banners and Signs for Event Marketing

Large banners and signs are essential for trade shows, community events, or storefront promotions. They grab attention and provide vital information at a glance.

Pro Tip: Use weather-resistant materials for outdoor events and keep your message clear and concise for maximum impact.

Postcards for Direct Marketing

Postcards are a cost-effective way to deliver targeted messages. Use them to announce events, highlight promotions, or share updates. Their compact size makes them easy for recipients to read and keep.

Pro Tip: Add an exclusive discount code or invitation to drive customer action. Ask us about our mailing discounts!

Direct Mail Campaigns for a Personal Touch

Despite the rise of digital marketing, direct mail remains one of the most effective ways to connect with customers. Personalize your mailings to make a stronger impact and ensure your brand stands out in a crowded mailbox.

Pro Tip: Combine direct mail with digital campaigns by including URLs or QR codes to track engagement.

Brochures for Detailed Information

Brochures are excellent for showcasing your products or services in detail. Use them at trade shows, in-store displays, or as inserts in mail campaigns. High-quality design and professional printing ensure they leave a lasting impression.

Pro Tip: Make your brochures interactive by including fold-out sections or augmented reality features.

Posters for High-Impact Messaging

Posters are perfect for promoting events, sales, or new product launches in high-traffic areas. Bold visuals and concise messaging make them an attention-grabbing medium for local or in-store marketing.

Pro Tip: Use double-sided posters to maximize exposure in glass windows or hanging displays.

Custom Packaging to Delight Customers

Turn your packaging into a marketing tool by incorporating custom designs. Branded boxes, tissue paper, and thank-you cards enhance the unboxing experience and foster brand loyalty.

Pro Tip: Include small print items like stickers or postcards in your packaging to surprise and delight customers.

Why Print Works in Marketing

Print materials create a tactile connection that digital marketing can’t replicate. They build trust, reinforce brand identity, and provide long-lasting visibility. By incorporating these ideas into your marketing plan, you can engage your audience in creative and impactful ways.

Ready to amplify your marketing efforts with print? Contact us today to bring these ideas to life!

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Elevate Your Brand: Custom Branded Clothing

Elevate Your Brand: Custom Branded Clothing

Guest Post by: James

In today’s competitive landscape, a well-designed company uniform or branded clothing line is more than just a way to dress your team – it’s a powerful tool to project professionalism, boost brand awareness, and foster a strong company culture. Investing in custom company clothing is essential for your business and how to make the most of this branding opportunity. 

Reasons to Invest

  • Well-designed company branded clothing projects a polished and professional image to clients and customers. When employees wear company apparel, they become walking billboards, subtly promoting the company wherever they go. The unified look and branding helps clients more easily recognize and interact with employees to be better served.
  • A consistent uniform or apparel theme creates a sense of belonging and unity among employees, strengthening team spirit and collaboration. This can help boost loyalty and morale.

Key Considerations for Choosing Branded Clothing

  • Align your clothing design with your brand identity, considering color palette, logo placement, and overall style. Investing in durable, high-quality materials will ensure long-lasting wear and project a positive brand.
  • Cascade Print Media works with a wide variety of clothing suppliers allowing us to offer a range of clothing items. These include t-shirts, polos, hoodies, jackets, hats, and many more to cater to different needs and branding preferences. You can select what styles, colors and overall looks are acceptable for your business needs.

Creative Ways to Utilize Branded Clothing

  • Gift new hires with an onboarding welcome package including company branded clothing to help integrate them into the company culture. 
  • Encourage employees to wear company clothing at conferences, team building activities, or special company sponsored events to further promote your brand.
  • These options and more are easily paired with online storefronts allowing employees to login, select, and order clothing that fits both their aesthetic and size. This allows for increased employee freedom while keeping the company’s approved vision and branding needs in mind.

Company branded clothing is a valuable tool to elevate your brand image, strengthen employee engagement, and create a unified company identity. By carefully considering design, functionality, and usage scenarios, you can leverage branded apparel to project a positive and lasting impression on your employees, clients, and the wider community. 

Do you have any questions about incorporating branded clothing into your company culture? Contact us today to explore our custom apparel design options and elevate your brand today! Whether it’s a dozen hats or an entire online apparel website for multiple locations, Cascade Print Media can provide solutions and help elevate your business.

 

 

 

 

The Power of Company Stores

The Power of Company Stores

Streamlining Inventory Management and Elevating Brand Consistency

In today’s competitive market, maintaining brand consistency and efficient inventory management are paramount for businesses striving to stand out. For print companies like ours, facilitating these aspects through company stores proves to be a game-changer. Company stores are indispensable for ensuring seamless operations, empowering employees, and reinforcing brand identity.

 

Centralized Inventory Management

Imagine the chaos of scattered inventory across various locations, resulting in delays, miscommunication, and ultimately, dissatisfied clients. Company stores offer a centralized platform where employees can access a curated selection of branded materials, from stationery to promotional items, all in one place. This not only simplifies inventory management but also enables real-time tracking of stock levels, ensuring timely replenishment and minimizing stockouts. The best part? We manage it all for you!

Enhanced Brand Consistency

Consistency is key in building a strong brand presence. With company stores, businesses can uphold uniformity in branding elements, such as logos, colors, and messaging, across all printed materials. By providing pre-approved templates and design guidelines, employees can effortlessly create on-brand collateral tailored to their specific needs, eliminating the risk of inconsistent branding that could dilute the company’s image.

Ease of Access and Ordering for Employees

Empowering employees with easy access to branded materials fosters a sense of ownership and alignment with the company’s values. Company stores serve as a convenient one-stop-shop where employees can browse, customize, and order the materials they need, whether it’s business cards for a new hire or branded merchandise for an upcoming event. With intuitive ordering processes and quick turnaround times, employees can focus on their core responsibilities without the hassle of navigating complex procurement procedures.

Cost- Efficiency and Control

Beyond streamlining operations, company stores offer cost-saving benefits through bulk ordering and centralized procurement. By negotiating favorable rates with suppliers and leveraging economies of scale, Cascade Print Media can help your business optimize your spending while maintaining quality standards. Moreover, implementing approval workflows and spending limits within the company store platform enables tighter control over expenses, preventing unauthorized purchases and budget overruns.

Data-Driven Insights

In the digital age, data is king. Company stores provide valuable insights into purchasing patterns, popular items, and user behavior, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and refine their marketing strategies. By analyzing these metrics, companies can identify emerging trends, anticipate demand, and tailor their offerings to meet evolving customer preferences, ultimately driving growth and innovation.

 

 

In a dynamic business landscape where every interaction shapes brand perception, the importance of company stores cannot be overstated. By streamlining inventory management, ensuring brand consistency, and providing employees with easy access to branded materials, company stores empower businesses to make a lasting impression and stay ahead of the curve. As pioneers in the print industry, we recognize the transformative impact of company stores and remain committed to helping our clients unlock their full potential through tailored solutions that drive success.

 

 

At Cascade Print Media, we’re not just printing materials; we’re empowering businesses to thrive in a world where every detail matters. Contact us to elevate your brand and streamline your operations with our comprehensive company store solutions.