According to our 2024 report on corporate gifting in Polish companies, 76% of respondents indicated that merch is implemented in their companies. Onboarding, corporate trips, gift packages are some of its uses. How are companies using it, in what form, and how are employees receiving it?
When is corporate merch used?
The results of the aforementioned report “Corporate Gifts that Build Relationships. Report on corporate gifting in Polish companies” from 2024 indicated that corporate merchandise is most often placed in the hands of male and female employees of companies during the onboarding process (81% of responses). This indicates how crucial the first impression is in building a sense of belonging and connection to the brand through, among other things, welcome packs, which include corporate gifts.
At that time, they usually hand out office supplies with the company logotechnological accessories and company apparelsuch as personalized cotton bags, stationery items like notebooks and pens, T-shirts, sweatshirts and technology gadgets.
What do employees think of the merch?
Above all, they are happy to use it if the merchandise includes useful gadgets with a minimalist design. According to 71% of the survey responses, company employees use the gadgets they receive in the office, and 65% wear branded apparel in the office, but they also have their uses and after work – gadgets are then used by 65% of those surveyed, and apparel by 40% of them.
Thus, the use of gadgets and corporate apparel at an early stage of cooperation with an employee, as onboarding itself from the first days helps to build a sense of belonging to the team. In subsequent stages, this stimulates greater involvement in the duties performed and influences a positive atmosphere in the team.
Company merch strengthens relationships and builds ties
This is the most valuable reason to implement it in your organization. By using merch carefully selected and produced with care for the environment (always remember to focus on quality, not quantity of promotional gadgets) , we build a positive image of our company as a place that focuses on attention to detail and a high level of appearance. This makes both employees, customers and partners feel appreciated and taken care of.
What products to choose in the company’s merch?
Keeping in mind the highest possible quality is a cornerstone that should not even be forgotten anymore. After all, it is nothing attractive for any person to receive a gadget or piece of clothing that is produced at cost and deteriorates quickly. Such an advertising product will not only disappoint the recipient, but also negatively affect the image of the company that handed it out. Quality translates directly into brand perception – if the product is solid, useful and durable, it inspires trust and positive associations. When this issue is properly taken care of, it remains to consider what products are most liked.
In the MerchUp survey, the following were ranked first among favorite products sweatshirt with the company logo, followed by female and male employees of the companies mentioned bottles, mugs, T-shirts and backpacks. This leads to the conclusion that the best choices are those products that each of us uses in our lives on a daily basis. Sweatshirts and t-shirts can be worn both at home and for going out, while water bottles or mugs for coffee and tea are becoming an indispensable part of a lifestyle oriented toward generating less waste. Besides, a water bottle is a must on every person’s desk!
With this approach, company merch ceases to be just an advertising gadget and becomes part of everyday life. It’s a great investment in building lasting relationships with customers and employees who see the company as close, caring and providing real value in their daily lives.
It’s time to introduce merch in your organization
After all, company merch is much more than a set of gadgets or clothes! It’s a tool that makes a real difference in building relationships, enhancing brand image and motivating employees. As our report shows, the use of merchandise in processes such as onboarding or corporate events is becoming a standard in Polish organizations, and its growing popularity is due to specific benefits.
Employees and customers appreciate the quality and functionality of gifts that become a part of their daily lives, and companies gain a positive image, often followed by the loyalty of recipients. And with 76% of Polish companies already using this solution, your company should not be left behind!
