ASIC Product Trends For The Year 2018- A Quick Follow Through!

2018 is half way through and it will be interesting to take a quick follow through the ASIC reports on some of the product trends that we are likely to see. From trending tech products to some timeless classic gift choices and exciting color choices- there is a lot to look forward to in 2018.

Custom products that are useful, value added and above all that leave a lasting impression have been popular choices this year so far.  From Bluetooth beanies to rumble bottles with speakers and beach umbrellas with coolers and speakers- the list is truly impressive. The feedback has been quite good for such products as customers respond to these hottest products instinctively. Promotional product trends complement the happening in the rest of the world and the cultural changes and events around.

Brilliant colors are trending

Drinkware  items in brilliant and bold colors, metallic accents, saturated shades and fanciful designs have been the most noticeable trend in custom products this year. Tailored to attract the substantial community of  millennial consumers, these logo items are mystic and ensure a playful pop of colors. The trend clearly shows that the promotional product market is switching  more towards a younger and hipper consumer segment.

Though the promotional product industry might not embrace the trends as soon as it emerges, definitely there has been a shift in the patterns to appease  the all-important millennial consumer.

In the days ahead, we can expect to see a lot of daring colors and saturated tones that are a league apart the customary color choices of navy, red and neutral colors. The color range is getting expanded as never before particularly in drinkware.

Traditional designs are making a comeback!

Traditional designs in backpacks and duffel bags that had waned off some years back are coming back in the non tech gift segment. The new styles have infused a fresh interest in this segment and marketers will have a lot of interesting models to choose from.

Backpacks are back with a bang

Briefcases and messenger bags are being replaced by backpacks for their comfort and convenience. From being the trusted bag of students and outdoorsy audience, backpacks have evolved to be a favorite choice of professionals and sales people. Smart trends and material fabrics have made backpacks look more classic and stylish and more suited for the corporate settings. Mixed fabrics, leather designs and accents have all enhanced the elegance and utility of backpacks. NPD reports show that there been a 5% increase to $864 million in the sales of men’s backpacks in a 12-month period ending in August 2017.

Go Wireless!

The latest trends show that wireless gadgets enjoy a high popularity graph as never before. From wireless headphones, earbuds, wireless speakers and more, Bluetooth-enabled products are likely to be  a rage in the year ahead. Some cool designs and trends are happening here for sure. It will be interesting to keep a close watch on this highly evolving segment in custom gifts. Interestingly the Bluetooth capabilities are not just restricted to headphones as products like fidget speakers or hats with speakers are also emerging much to the delight of the wireless clan.

Sound choices

More high-end electronics brand companies like Bose are entering the industry, which means that a lot of affordable speaker options will be available in future.

Wearable Technology

Hot news: Levi’s in association with Google’s “Jacquard” technology has designed a new Commuter Trucker jacket that infuses yarn with digital connectivity. This smart jacket can sync a phone to the to answer texts, follow GPS directions, listen to music  and more. Smart clothing with avant garde features like built in sensors that can keep a tab on work out data and health are the latest technology accessories on the market. Smart clothing will be a big trend in the days ahead.

Nike is also selling NBA jerseys with a built-in NFC tag, which the users can sync and scan to the NikeConnect app, which will allow fans to watch highlights of the player whose jersey they’re wearing!

Smart clothing and other wearable devices will  enhance communication and reduce health care costs. Smart watches and smart bands are all well poised to undergo a lot of transformation in the days ahead. Accessories like smart glasses could give employees instant access to needed data. Reports suggest that smart wearables will become common workplace tools by 2020, which means the users can find an answer to everything that need at their fingertips literally.

Unique Product  packages

Visual appeal and a unique tag will make objects more appealing and desirable. Promotional products experts will be putting on their creativity to test to package custom gifts as memorable experiences to create an unforgettable moment for the users. Interesting packages and unusual ideas will all come to the center stage in the days ahead. For instance a tailgate in a box includes a portable grill and all the other necessary paraphernalia that tailgaters may need to make their party a super success. Another example is cameras with instant print feeder that will freeze the special moments into experiences that live on forever.

Product Safety

Product quality and safety compliance will make a great point to consider while scouting for custom products.  Clients are becoming more aware and enlightened on product safety specifications and compliance standards and the trend is likely to continue in the years ahead as well.

Form meets functionality

Gone are the days when style alone was the major factor to consider in office uniform. These days they can effortlessly transition from the office to job sites thanks to the more relaxed apparels  and high quality apparels that look good everywhere from beach to boardroom!  Formal suits and ties are being shoved to the backburner these days.

Be Natural

Custom products made of natural fibers and eco fabric like cotton or hemp will be an exciting new trend to watch out for. Relaxed and easy on nature, these apparels will continue to be in high demand.

It will be interesting to keep a close watch on the trends in custom products as the year goes by! Which of these trends do you think will influence your promotional product strategy? Share your thoughts at our facebook page.

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2016 ASIC Survey report On The Promotional Products that most companies bought In The Last 12 Months