37% plan to incease their promo spending in 2024.

ASI’s exclusive research reveals client buying habits in eight markets and across multiple demographics.

ASI Research has launched a new series profiling the people distributors work with most closely: end-buyers. Each week we’ll release a new data set that spotlights one of eight markets and looks at end-buyers through demographics such as gender, region and company size.

This week, our research focuses on the retail industry, which has been marked by a period of robust spending and growth in the first quarter of this year. The retail industry is trending toward sustainability and greener approaches, but consumers are putting the onus on companies to prove their claims. Social commerce on apps like TikTok and increasing integration of artificial intelligence are also impacting this industry’s growth, according to Forbes.

Retail end-buyers of promotional products include department stores, convenience stores, warehouse retailers, boutiques, supermarkets and specialty stores. Giants within the industry consist of companies like Walmart, Amazon, Costco and The Home Depot. According to Counselor State of the Industry data, the retail market generated 5.9% of total promo industry sales in 2022, which equals roughly $1.5 billion.

98% of finance & insurance end-buyers who use promo products are satisfied with the ROI they receive.

ASI’s exclusive research reveals client buying habits in eight markets and across multiple demographics.

ASI Research has launched a new series profiling the people distributors work with most closely: end-buyers. Each week we’ll release a new data set that spotlights one of eight markets and looks at end-buyers through demographics such as gender, region and company size.

This week, our research focuses on the finance and insurance market, which employs nearly 7 million Americans. Despite economic ticks and turns that have contributed to buyer reluctance in the past year, this landscape has increased demand for financial advisers, new talent and top-level employees to enter the field. Businesses can leverage high-quality branded merch to provide a competitive edge and better engage with prospective employees.

Servicing end-buyers in credit unions, banks, brokerage firms, insurance companies, start-ups and government institutions, these businesses can benefit from utilizing financial promotional products like desk accessories and quality outerwear for employee gifting campaigns or corporate sponsorship for philanthropies. According to Counselor State of the Industry data, the finance and insurance market generated 6.3% of total industry sales or $1.6 billion in 2022.

Transport end-users to the land of sun and lemons this summer.

As summer 2024 quickly approaches, vacationers are gearing up for warm-weather trips overseas.

One of the most popular destinations each year is Italy – specifically the Amalfi Coast, an area south of Naples known for its idyllic pastel buildings, soaring rocky cliffs, magnificent views, bright blue waters and exotic lemon groves. According to travel site Euronews, the area brings in nearly 5 million people a year.

If recent summer seasons give any clue, the bold Amalfi Coast aesthetic – the fashion-forward cousin of the Mediterranean look characterized by natural textures and cool neutral tones – will soon make the TikTok rounds thanks to social media influencers. It’s sure to be further inspired by pop culture releases such as Netflix’s new thriller series Ripley, a remake of the 1955 crime novel The Talented Mr. Ripley set in Italy.

For those who perhaps don’t have an Italian getaway in their summer plans, Amalfi Coast-inspired products that encourage “la dolce vita” – slowing down and savoring life – can be a part of upcoming promotional campaigns.

1. Company Picnics

Employee gatherings outside are an ideal opportunity to celebrate the warm weather and encourage a little R&R. Fun lemon-shaped items are perfect as a giveaway to make self-care easier for team members.

Lemon-shaped and -scented jumbo stress reliever (DSSB38)

2. Team-Building Activities

Companies hosting outdoor activities during conferences and sales meetings should give participants essential sun protection. This sun hat can have your logo and motivational phrase on the brim or ribbon.

Straw hat with bow (PMG1708)

3. Influencer Kits

Consider creating gift bundles that include beauty products and fashion accessories that would fit well on the terraces of the Amalfi Coast. This brightly colored silk head or neck scarf evokes “la dolce vita.”

Silk scarf (RZ0608)

4. Travel Agencies

Vacation specialists and tour companies should send travel items to customers when they finalize their trips to sunny locales. Fashionable sunglasses always make a statement – especially in trendy leopard print.

Oversized cat eye sunglasses (GP74187)

5. Incentive Programs

Hardworking employees and loyal clients will appreciate high-quality housewares and kitchen tools with Mediterranean flare. This classic espresso maker allows recipients to enjoy the Italian experience in the comfort of their homes.

10-oz. espresso maker (SY1107)