Trade shows are an excellent opportunity to generate leads and build brand visibility. But handing out the wrong kind of giveaway can backfire, leaving your brand forgotten—or worse, remembered for the wrong reasons.
Here are five types of promo giveaways to avoid, and how BrandsUp helps you make smarter choices.
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Low-Quality Items
Cheap pens, flimsy tote bags, or poorly made gadgets send the wrong message about your business. If your gift breaks in the first week, it creates a negative impression. Instead, invest in durable branded products that reflect the quality of your services.
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Too Many Mediocre Gifts
Quantity doesn’t equal impact. Handing out dozens of forgettable corporate branded items wastes your budget. It’s far better to focus on one or two useful, high-quality giveaways that leave a lasting impression.
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Noisy or Gimmicky Products
Toys, whistles, or gimmicks may attract attention for a moment but rarely connect with your target audience in a meaningful way. Your giveaways should add value, not noise.
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Off-Brand Choices
If your corporate gift has nothing to do with your brand’s values or target market, it will quickly be forgotten. Every promotional item should tie back to your identity—whether it’s eco-friendly, tech-driven, or lifestyle-focused.
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Oversized or Impractical Items
Trade show visitors don’t want to carry bulky or awkward items. Portability is key. Choose lightweight gifts that fit easily into promotional bags without hassle.
BrandsUp Expertise
At BrandsUp, we help you avoid these pitfalls by curating promotional products that reflect your brand identity and resonate with your audience.
With decades of experience, we know how to balance creativity, quality, and budget to ensure your giveaways create real value and measurable ROI.
Contact the BrandsUp team today. Read what clients have to say about BrandsUp and compare our prices.
