10 Must-Have Trade Show Promotional Products in South Africa for 2025

From Johannesburg to Cape Town, Durban and Pretoria, trade shows are prime time for brand discovery. The right branded giveaway turns a quick booth visit into months (even years) of daily visibility. Below are 10 standout, customisable picks—each linked to a live BrandsUp product page—with practical tips to maximise impact on the show floor.

1) Altitude Ortega Recycled PET Water Bottle – 1 Litre

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  • Why it works at expos: Big 1L capacity = fewer refills, more logo time in busy venues.
  • Stand talking point: Recycled PET tells a sustainability story that resonates with SA audiences.
  • Branding ideas: One-colour wrap print for speed; add a neck-tag with a QR to your lead form.
  • Pair with: A sachet of electrolyte powder in your brand colours.

2) Gatsby Twist Action Ballpoint Pen

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  • Why it works: Premium metal feel and gift box presentation elevate perceived value.
  • Best use: VIP meetings, signed deals, media kits.
  • Branding ideas: Laser engraving (logo on barrel + tagline on clip) for a crisp, durable mark.
  • Pro tip: Reserve for qualified leads—handwrite a note on your card and gift with the pen.

3) Westpoint Push Button Ballpoint Pen with Touch Screen Stylus

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  • Why it works: Dual-purpose (pen + stylus) = constant use on phones and tablets.
  • On-stand win: Perfect for digital demo areas where stylus control matters.
  • Branding ideas: Laser or pad print; match pen accent to your brand palette.
  • Bundle: Include with a mini notepad for quick meeting notes.

4) Altitude Glide Sublimation Mouse Pad

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  • Why it works: Desk items deliver long-tail impressions after the show.
  • Design space: Full-bleed artwork for bold call-to-action or campaign key visual.
  • Audience fit: Office teams, remote workers, students—broad reach.
  • Tip: Add a trackable QR in a corner to measure post-event engagement.

5) Altitude Platformer Jumbo Sublimation Mouse Pad

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  • Why it works: Larger surface = more brand real estate and daily visibility.
  • Use case: Prize for booked demos or workshop attendees.
  • Branding ideas: Full-colour desk-mat layout with calendar or quick-reference shortcuts.

6) Bold Twist Action Ballpoint Pen (Metal)

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  • Why it works: Metal body, smooth twist action—“budget-premium” pen people keep.
  • Distribution strategy: High-volume tier for general booth traffic.
  • Branding ideas: Laser for longevity; 1-colour barrel print for speed and scale.

7) Altitude Jet Recycled Aluminium Water Bottle – 750 ml

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  • Why it works: Lightweight, durable, and reusable—great for field teams and gym-goers.
  • Eco note: Recycled aluminium supports responsible brand positioning.
  • Branding ideas: Wrap print for bold logos; laser for a refined executive look.

8) 1 Litre Glass Water Bottle

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  • Why it works: Premium aesthetic for VIPs, hospitality lounges, and media gifting.
  • On-brand styling: Minimalist one-colour logo; gift in a kraft tube with tissue for impact.
  • Placement: Hand out during executive briefings or partner meetings.

9) Altitude Badge Reel Double-Sided Satin Lanyard

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  • Why it works: Event-essential that lives on after the show for office access control.
  • Practicality: Retractable reel + satin lanyard for comfort and visibility.
  • Branding ideas: Step-and-repeat logo on both sides; colour-match to your PMS.

10) Altitude Stella Plastic Water Bottle – 500 ml

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  • Why it works: Cost-effective, eye-catching shape for high-volume campaigns.
  • Use case: General giveaway for walk-ups; keep VIPs for metal or glass upgrades.
  • Branding ideas: One-colour side print for speed; add a “Scan to win” QR on a neck tag.

How to Maximise ROI from Trade-Show Giveaways

  • Tier your gifts: Reserve premium pens/bottles for booked demos; use pens/mouse pads for general traffic.
  • Make it measurable: Include QR/UTM codes on packaging or inserts; track scans and conversions.
  • Bundle smart: Lanyard + pen + bottle = a useful “show kit” attendees carry all day.
  • Design for speed: Keep artwork clean (1–2 colours or laser) to reduce production risk.
  • Plan fulfilment: Hold back stock for post-event follow-ups and regional roadshows.

Need it curated and delivered?

BrandsUp can quote, brand, pack and deliver nationwide. Share your event date, quantities and branding method—we’ll propose fast, on-budget options and manage the rest.

Contact BrandsUp
Tel: +27 64 606 4781
Email: sales@brandsup.co.za