Promotional Partners

Service Case Study

2011-10-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

Challenges:
-Keeping Grey Metal South’s name in front of HVAC businesses during the year
-Creating fun “sales call promotion” for sales team

Solutions:
Suggesting Grey Metal South use the holiday season as a time to enhance relationships with functional gifts that promote their brand; high quality products such as Maglight flashlights and invoice storage clipboards.

Creating playing card decks were a low cost impression, but great impression of the company with full digital playing cards as an “ice breaker” with new products.

Case Study:
“The flashlights and clipboards have been quality products that get our name in front of the end user of our product. The flashlights and clipboards are quality built items and have been a real hit. We use these as door prizes for the counter days and open house of the distributors we sell through. The playing cards were an excellent ice breaker.”

Tony Evans- Plant Manager

Release Program

2011-10-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

Challenge: How to reward partnerships with a “bank” of promotions. New York Life had been seeking a blue signature vase to provide local partners as a gift; cobalt vases presented a challenge for several years with stock availability.

Solution: Finding a source with affordable product in stock, we were able to purchase the remaining pieces and “bank” those on a release program for when they are ready to acknowledge a local partner.

Outcome: New York Life appreciated being prepared to ship out product quickly when a new recipient was identified.

Why Flash Drives?

2011-10-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

Flash memory is only made by a few manufacturers and they control the prices. Flash memory chips are in everyday items like your refrigerator, TV, car, stereo and IPods. The demand for the components is huge and the supply is limited. 80% of a flash drive’s cost is determined by the cost of the memory chip.

Japan makes most of the components, so the Tsunami last year drove the price up for a while due to shortages in manufacturing.

A flash drive is a small solid state memory device that is similar to your computers hard drive because it can hold any kind of information such as pictures, songs and written documents. Flash drives unlike your computer are mobile and unlike paper can store large amounts of data in a small compact easy to carry space. Unlike your computer, a quality flash drive won’t crash or break your arm carrying documents to a meeting; everything you might need at the click of a key.

Flash drives are also popular for their green component. Users are saving a lot of paper when downloading magazines and reports onto the flash drive.

Tech folks will like knowing quality flash drives are RoHS and WEEE compliant.

Many flash drives offered online come with hidden dangers. Specifically, reduced memory; an issue with 40% of the chips sold holding only 60% of the memory that should be installed. These reclaimed chips are sold in the open market for around 5 cents. Some online companies use software that allows them to take small chips and overwrite the memory to make it look like for example a 1 GB flash drive. This is why you need to make sure you are buying quality flash drives and compare pricing “apples to apples.”

We avoid quality issues by only purchasing from companies that sell Grade A-tier 1 certificate flash drives because they reliant and guarantee their full memory.

What size to order?

· Did you know that a 4 GB flash drive can hold every National Geographic Magazine ever published?

· Did you know that a 4 GB flash drive can hold every page of the 2009 Federal Budget Report and still have plenty of room left on it for more data?

· 1G is the most popular order we have, but unless you have large volumes of documents you will be fine with smaller memory.

Rewarding Referrals

2011-10-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

Challenge: Dr. Kazmer has a successful periodontic practice in Cary. For over 12 years they have been rewarding the referrals they receive to their practice from referring dental practices in a variety of ways including their popular Oktoberfest each fall. How do we keep this promotion “fresh”?

Solution: For this event, the attendees received a commemorative glass to remind them of the event. This year’s glass will be truly unique with a permanent custom orange color added to the glassware.

Outcome: Our knowledge, resources and creativity for knowing product lines that offer something “special” helped to create a one of a kind addition to their collection.

Testimonial: "Thank you Olivia and Keith for years of top-notch service. You give every order your utmost attention. You always have ideas for all my projects and can find something for me in any price point.
You are more than business associates.....you are friends!"

Church Case Study

2011-10-25T10:50:00.000-07:00

Problem: Looking for ways to get their name out in the public for those looking for a new faith or ones in need of a church.

Solution: Use a magnet that can be used on a car to raise awareness of their church. Also to be used to connect people within the church to one another since the size of the church is so large.

Case Study: One older church member was heading to a church member’s house this past spring and got totally lost. In her frustration, she pulled into a gas station to get gas and figure out what to do. As she was getting gas, she happened to notice that there was a “Cary Presbyterian” magnet on the back of the other car. She didn't know the driver but went up to her and introduced herself (because of the magnet)! The other driver ended up leading her to the house she was trying to find, and now they know each other when they see each other in church!

Entertainment Promotions

2011-10-24T10:51:00.000-07:00

Local TV Station CW22 MYRDC works with Promotional Partners for ideas to help them promote their programming in the community. This station will be carrying the popular "Big Bang Theory" as part of their new programming line up. To familiarize the viewing community with the launch of this program,CW22 sponsored an evening with the Mudcat's Five County Stadium where they distributed tee shirts with the station logo and digital fans in shape of show characters Penny and Shelton. The hand fans kept attendees cool during the game and generated fun during the evening which sparked interest in the show for the local audience to tune in to the show.

2011-03-23T10:15:00.000-07:00

Check out this video about umbrellas along with some facts about what to look for in a quality umbrella so your promotions don't leave you "all wet". Umbrellas relate to many industries themes for coverage and protection, they are useful across all ages and gender. The size of the imprint area and outdoor venue insures high visibility as well as low cost per impression for your brand as a walking or stationary billboard. A quality umbrella will last for years and will leave your recipient with a good impression of your company. Great ways to provide these for distribution would be to families that attend sporting events, sponsoring a team, carpool line a local school, professionals that must get out in elements such as real estate related fields; perhaps reward your best referral partners while providing them an opportunity to have future clients ask about your brand. Watch this quick video and then visit our website for some purchasing tips for umbrellas in the newsroom location. While on our website, click the link at the top of the home page for video of the week to access a library of archived quick educational videos about products for many types of promotions.

http://www.mypromosaver.com/vasv.asp?VideoID=957&CustomerID=2595&label=The Industry Show&nb=videos&sec=is&vDistCom=Promotional Partners, Inc.&vDistPhone=919-387-9223&vDistEmail=oscott@nc.rr.com

One of our many unique umbrellas.

2011-02-17T11:43:00.000-08:00

Thanks for such a great turn out this morning for the am networking. Couldn't make it? You missed great food, networking and ideas to grow your business. Stop by when you're in downtown to play in our showroom. Branding is all about the "chatter" it creates; playing with ideas will spark the imagination and creativity you need to make an impression with your brand. Did you know that Promotional Products Cost Less, Achieve More, Accomplish Goals, Build Goodwill and Create Market Share?

In the US the cost per impression of a production product is half a cent! $0.005; which is equal to a BOGO deal for advertising!

More costly advertising vehicles such as TV, radio and print publications reach huge numbers of people, but are they reaching your demographic?

How long will your advertisement circulate in front of the demographic you desire?

83% of recipient can remember the advertiser on promotional products they received

A correctly placed item will yield multiple impressions a day. For example a pen has at least 10 impressions on average per day, 437 per month.

60% of respondents indicated that they have done business with an advertiser AFTER receiving an item; creating a change in behavior! Is your current advertising campaign affecting that type of call to action?

Recipients like “free” products and those products are changing opinions. 41% of respondents have a MORE favorable opinion of an advertiser after receiving a promotional product.

Unlike print ads with a limited life cycle before becoming compost or an art project, 62% of respondents see the value in giving away a product to someone else to use if they are able to use it themselves. Think about it, how long will you use a plastic grab bag versus a non woven, canvas or nylon tote? A branded tote with average of 1,078 impressions per month, bags more profits.

64% of recipients have a more favorable view of a company AFTER receiving a “gift”.

Let us help you grow your sales, your profits and your brand awareness with our expert and creative knowledge for how to properly apply a brand that will make an impression one brand at a time.

Sanmars's 40th Anniversary

2011-01-19T06:28:00.001-08:00

Our favorite supplier for apparel; it’s also the company store on our website. Ask us to create a custom website for your company or organization for easy orders, send you a digital catalog tailored to your select products, provide videos about apparel, download spec sheets or instantly see color choices on models on the website store. These are just a few of the benefits of working with Sanmar’s family owned business looking after our family owned business looking after our clients like family!

WIN WIN

2010-12-21T10:30:00.001-08:00

Schools always face a challenge when it comes to school spirit, they want the kids to be involved but they don't have the tools that will be considered “fun” by teens. Promotional Partners and Dr. Stuart Higgins DDS are active in the community working with programs &r sponsorships at Apex HS, so they were happy to help the student Cougar Crazy’s show some school spirit.

Dr. Higgins, a Gold Cougar Sponsor for Apex High School helped the students with … “rally hair”! It was a “win win” situation. The branding on the band of the hair created awareness for his business while giving the kids a fun way to show off their school spirit! As you can see, the kids had a blast with it!

Tradeshow Ready? January starts a new year of tradeshows will you be ready?

2010-11-01T13:28:00.001-07:00

Colorful displays, prize wheels, punko games, chairs, counters, display stands, flags , banners, digital backdrops and table covers, floor graphics, pop up and retractable signs, outdoor tents, balloons, full size mascots for interaction these are all areas we can help our clients. Often our clients only see us for the source for the promotional give away for attendees, but we can design tiered prizes for good prospects, branded raffle items and of course unique reasons for attendees to visit your booth. Perhaps your booth will have the hot bag, fun toy to take home to the kids, the latest techie item or some standard items such as pens and mints.

Here’s an item that was a hit with some of our clients this past year, custom fortune cookies! Available in many colors and flavors with 23 flavors, 12 colors and up to 5 custom inserts, your booth can create contests and fun with food.

Here are some examples of fortunes we have used for our own company:

The journey of 1,000 miles begins when you take your first step with Promotional Partners

Your lucky number for a successful promotion is 387-9223

Editable Profit that we make boring and stale fresh and exciting

Wiseman once side, Improve your results with unique brand exposure by Promotional Partners

Made’ya look are some of our favorites with results

Of course each fortune also includes our contact information. We’ve even given these out in a giant double handed size for administrative assistant’s week to our local administrative assistant’s! Reply if you want to know what flavors or colors you may select.

Shopping Local

2010-11-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

Shopping local

A recent nationwide survey conducted by WebVisiable www.visable.com in conjunction with market research firm Synovate e Nation conducted a survey involving 1,000 consumers. The posed the question “What makes you choose to patronize a small local independent business over a large chain?” 4 out of 5 respondents sited small business over “big box” and provided consistent answers for their top three reason as being, supporting the community, more convenient and personal service. Promotional Partners is part of the Apex Downtown Business Association or the ADBA. You can find our website at www.apexdowntown.com to see our membership. Our ADBA in this past year was a Gold Level Sponsor of the Apex HS Cougar Club, many of our business donated prizes to local charities and school groups seeking auction items, we have businesses that have own retail and food awards, our membership regularly supports the local Apex Herald and The Salem Street Gazette with advertising and articles. Our businesses are sponsors of local church and civic activities in our community and our collective energy helps to sponsor our own activities such as Trick or Treat on Salem Street and Christmas On Salem Street as well as participating in town sponsored events such as Peakfest and July 4th. Check out some images from our photo gallery on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Apex-NC/Promotional-Partners/111851192160823)

Promotional Research

2010-11-01T13:08:00.001-07:00

According to research conducted by PPAI 69% of attendees at tradeshows and events would keep and use a promotional item that was given to them; free. Only 2% don’t appreciate free products and 74% of the respondents to the survey reported having at least one promotional product in their work area while 59% had between 2-11 products. Last winter we challenged our clients for a fun blog contest for unofficial confirmation regarding the presence of promotional items in their immediate work space. The responses were overwhelmingly yes, full of free branded items with many respondents hosting at least 25-30 products within their desk chair!

2010-09-30T13:03:00.000-07:00

Problem:
Unique piece for families and scouts to commemorate the event, identify their group and show other scouts during Jamboree.

Process:
Taking sketches of ideas for what symbolizes Scouting and turn it into a real actual product rather than just a vision or concept.

Outcome:
The scouts and families involved loved the final cap, in fact, no one wanted to trade their cap for any other souvenirs, in fact their cap was the hit of the event! As the distributor working on this project, it's fun to see local families I know involved in scouting still wearing our cap designs months later at events I am attending in the community.

Testimonial:
In Scouting, it's all about how cool the custom stuff is. Whether it be patches, hats or shirts, you know you've impressed people when you see them wearing the item long after the event. Thanks to the help of Promotional Partners, I was able to design a fully-custom, embroidered baseball hat for participants in a bus day trip to the National Scout Jamboree, and I still see it at Scout events months later. People are still asking me if I have any hats left, as they want one; even grown men are asking for the hat! Not only is it cool in design, but the materials and workmanship are exceptional. And no one can get over the price...an awesome value as well. Many thanks to Promotional Partners for taking my initial ideas and sketches and turning it in to the best souvenir out there!

Paula GardnerOcconeechee Council Jamboree Day Trip

How to effectively honor years of service

2010-09-30T12:41:00.000-07:00

How would you like to be honored after years of service to on organization or company. Both of these unique pieces were created by renowned artisan Adam Jablonski a certified glass technologist who has been pursuing the art of glass making since 1952. Jablonski's art is prominently displayed in over 30 countries globally and has been presented to such dignitaries are kings, presidents and prime ministers. Imagine how you'd feel to be the recipient of one of his masterpieces for your home.

Need Money?

2010-08-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

It’s no secret that educational institutions and organizations suffer when the economy has dips, funding is often short of needs. Given our owners background in teaching, leadership roles on PTA and serving on many types of boards as an active committee member our company is able to create unique ideas that work for fundraising using our access to the over 900,000 types of ad specialty products available to you. By tailoring a low cost product to the needs of your organization we can show you how we have been successful for walks, runs, charity auctions and creating funding for operational money needed to jump start programs at the beginning of your calendar year. A perfect example is when an educational group wants to reward its employees with a branded yet functional gift. Sticky pads can provide a low cost item that could be viewed as an operational expense rather than an advertising expense. We can even create programs to collect data from your website with reward programs geared towards your target audience or create custom calendars or photo books that serve your organization with images that promote your organization while raising you much needed funds. Ask our team to share some case studies with results!

Boardwalk Property for your Branding

2010-07-21T08:39:00.001-07:00

What’s one of the hottest products we’ve seen at a low price point with the opportunity for a holding advertising space on “boardwalk”? Screen Wipes! Little Micro fiber cleaning cloths that remove dirt and particle from your electronic devices, they will not damage the surface! Think about it, most everyone today carries some type of mobile device; why not put your branding right in front of them? It’s simple and it’s economical and will be long lasting advertising for cell phone companies, awareness or charity groups, schools for fundraising, recruitment or alumni, on line retailers, gasoline companies and salons.

Silly Bands

2010-07-15T10:39:00.001-07:00

Retail designs are in demand within the promotional products industry because they offer businesses and organizations the opportunity to brand with items that are requested by consumers. Imagine if your organization could sell silly band with shapes related to your organization or as your mascot. What if they glowed? Maybe you need a unique fundraiser with a tote that expresses a shape recognized by group or offers a product your target audience can use such as a cute pumpkin treat or treat bag? Ask our team how to make this type of promotion work for you.

How Do Calendars Compare to Other Media?

2010-06-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

Newspaper ads have a life cycle for that issue and those readers; they compete for attention and may miss the target audience completely. Often we hear that businesses do them for brand identity rather than acquisition, choosing to advertise with projects and events we'd like to be associated within the community. Other forms of advertising that are common include magazines, radio, calendars, television, internet, and direct mail. Before considering an avenue for advertising, consider the following 5 components:

Will the ad be directly aimed at the prospect?

What is your message? It should be clear.

Is the advertising affordable to you? Calculate your initial investment, the prospective number of views, and the frequency. Keep a log of how you acquire new clients to know if it was the pens distributed or the ad on the radio that brought in the customer as this will help you measure the performace of your advertising dollars when you track your ROI and CPI.

Does the advertising method you choose offer a flexibility of options?

Will your ad be competing with others in the same space or time for attention to your target audience?

Why Do Calendars Work?

Visual appeal for your brand

Presence; on wall or desk

Targeted distribution

Cost effective for Cost Per Impression, frequency of views

Use a design that reflects your business, even go custom. There are plenty of options including color, design, and format

High visibility, 12 months. Consider making it interactive with specials or tips.

High perceived value for a gift because it's useful.

Look at your workspace right now; most people have an average of 2.5 calendars in their workspace. How do you rank?

Helping Our Community

Our community in the RDU area is filled with personal stories for how organizations and non profits are funded every day by businesses that care. Volunteer hours are logged and numerous individuals benefit from the local endeavors of our business community. Every business should plan to be vested in the community for one of the many areas that can benefit from their talents, their knowledge or their funding. At Promotional Partners we work closely with schools in the area supporting learning opportunities at the school, creating internships at our location, and donating to local schools in a variety of programs to help generate the funding students need to be successful. Serving on the education committee of the Apex Chamber of Commerce, it provided me a great sense of community to see that 31 business or individuals gave money to help raise over $10,000 to help our local Apex schools. Please become a fan of the Apex Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and visit their chamber website to learn more about who is helping in our community.

Bookbag Bonanza

2010-06-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

For the past 10 years the Apex Chamber of Commerce has held an event called the Bookbag Bonanza to help students at our local schools in Apex. Members of the chamber contribute time, supplies, and money to help put students on a positive start to school by providing the basic supplies they need to be successful. All of the money donated to the annual Bookbag Bonanza helps students at the elementary, middle, and high schools, while the staff at each school makes sure that the funds are used for those areas and students that need it the most. I've been an active member of our education committee for the past three years because it's an area our business focuses our contributions during the year to give back to the community. As a former teacher I can tell you that when a child struggles to have their basic needs met, it creates a gap that is hard to bridge. Helping to provide them with supplies will help to set them on the right course for the year. This year our company offered our partners the ability to donate $5.00 to the project and receive a credit for a $45.00 set up FREE for one of our suppliers that provides many low cost fundraiser items. I'm delighted to report that our partners and company were able to contribute a combined total of $150.00 to the annual cause.

Statistics and More

2010-06-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

The newest statistic Market Tools for PPAI showed was that out of the 1,005 consumers on their panel, 90.4 reported that they owned or possessed a promotional product that was given to them in the last 24 months!

How did they feel?

83% liked getting products, 48% wanted more products given more often, 30% liked it when the products had their name on it, 25% refer to the product for the advertiser’s contact information, 38% said it was a constant reminder for advertising that company, 49% are not bothered by seeing a corporate logo on products they use and only 2% disliked receiving promotional products!

What did they think?
73% thought it promoted a message or service
63% think it represents brand awareness
56% see these as an acknowledgement of business; thank you
32% think it created good will
25% feel it acknowledges a person or event
3% consider promotional items a waste of money

Among those that were asked, logoed gifts with a higher perceived value where seen as both a form of advertising and an acknowledgment by the recipient of their relationship with the company, by the way that was 59% of the group.

Did you know that 91% of consumers surveyed said at least one promotional product was in their kitchen? 74% sited at least one in their work space.

What were the top items that made respondents more likely to want to do business with a company after a logo gift? Gift basket, MP3 Player, clocks and watches, digital photo frames, luggage, golf shirts and t-shirts, wallets and tote bags! Hopefully you realized we can provide all of those items to our clients. We also use statistics like these to help educate our clients about how to spend their budget effectively for a high return on their investment. For example, last Christmas one of our clients asked for help with an idea for referral partners; while not a “new idea” the travel tumbler for the car seemed to fit for their demographic of referral partners. Initially they asked for a budget model to save money. When I asked if they owned any travel tumblers they said, “Oh yeah, at least 6”. I then asked them which ones they use; they replied, “only one”. I asked them to describe that favorite tumbler. Instantly they realized that it was a nicer product, so they used it more and were then creating a stronger relationship with the referral partner and advertising their name more frequently. Market research suggests that most sales come from referrals. What’s that ole cliché? “You get what you pay for?”

Working with your Friends

2010-06-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

Collateral Referrals is one of those buzz words used in networking frequently, but what does it really mean? We pitch to our clients constantly to fully utilize the relationships that they have with other business partners that refer within their network. For example, if you are in real estate and you are working with home repair services, mortgage brokers, appraisers, inspectors, decorators, or closing attorneys, then it only makes sense to work together in marketing your business. On May 1st each spring the town of Apex opens its doors to the community with Peakfest. This year award winning Anna's Pizzeria and your very own Promotional Partners teamed up with a promotional piece to advertise our location and services. We dished up pizza slices on red flying discs to hungry festival attendees. They loved the idea and came away with a fun summer toy. Did you know that promotional products are kept on average over 7 months or that 84% of recipients remember you name after receiving a product and 62% did business with companies after receiving the product? We knew and thanks to us so did our business client, Anna's Pizzeria! For only $0.89 for 250 units, flying discs provide a low cost per impression with a high rate of return for both of us! Post a question about how we can help you market with another company for an upcoming promotion. Create you post by June 25th for a chance to win a huge Promotional Partners duffel bag, perfect for summer trips!

The Benefits of Partnerships

2010-06-07T12:17:00.000-07:00

Are you reading the newspaper? One of the New Neighbor Welcome greeters, Helanie Sharifipour, turned her 2,600 basket recently according to the article in the May 27th edition of the Apex Herald. What happens when businesses take a look at all their options for advertising? Some great teams are formed to create new prospective clients. Advertising is about effectively reaching your target audience with a call to action that inspires, well ACTION! Partnering with New Neighbor Welcome, Promotional Partners has grown a local accounting company's client base. Take a look at the link at this recent taping with NC17 to learn more about how The New Neighbor Welcome business is effective in targeting new residents to the are that needs your services. Enjoy this taping with President Joy Wilkes:
http://wake.mync.com/site/Wake/news/story/48897/new-neighbor-welcomes-residents-with-a-knock-on-the-door/ or visit her website at http://www.nnws.org/

Then visit our website http://www.promotionalpartnersofcary.com/ to read Joy's testimonial to fully appreciate how partnering with local businesses increases the value of each business to their community partners. Ask us for some case studies or referrals from our partnering clients!

Kill the Germs

2010-06-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

Every week clients ask, what's new? Germs are not a new problem, nor are they likely to go away! However for all of you out there that love had sanitizers and other products designed to reduce the spread of germs you are going to love this one! A new pen, that is UV and scratch resistant created with anti bacterial agents in the molding and construction of the pen. This means for the life of the pen you will have the benefit that it kills 99.9% of bacteria within 24 hours. The protection lasts the life of the pen. Hold to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria, and its effective against viruses, fungi, and bacteria such as MRSA, Ecoli, Salmonella, and Staph! This is a great product for health care industries, senior citizens, and schools. As a former teacher I know how easy it is to come in contact with germs daily. Ask me how to get your sample. If you have received one, provide us some feedback!

Want Proof That Promotional Products Work?

2010-06-07T06:21:00.000-07:00

Every client looks for a call to action or high rate of return on their promotional money! Check out this new video clip about promotional office products. Our company ran a contest via the Winter 2009 edition of our educational newsletter for clients by polling of our clients. The prompt was to look around ones desk in 30 seconds; without having to leave the desk area count how many branded items were within site or fingertips. Our volunteer contestants reported in their findings to cash in on one of our prizes. Guess what? All respondents had over 14 products, the majority about 20-25 and the tops OVER 30!! The second part follow up was how long have you had those products around your desk and most responded at least a year! What does this prove? Useful items are appreciated and used; daily. Ready for another contest? Here is your homework, post a comment here about your favorite office promotional item. Something you use and enjoy. Explain why you like it and remember to tell us whose name is branded on the product! All those that respond by June 18th will running for 4 FREE Chick-fil-a spicy chicken sandwiches! The new spicy chicken sandwich is great. Our company enjoyed a sneak preview in late May courtesy of the owner of the Apex location at Beaver Creek. Get typing because you're going to love the new taste at your local Chick-fil-a.

Heres the link to check out the video...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8JCiB5-x9M

Planting while Promoting

2010-05-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

MOO......says the cow! We know what noise a cow makes, but did you know that the ad specialty industry has cow shaped and patterned products? Cow aprons, banners, table covers, pencils, and of course cow bells just to name a few items related to cows. However, how do you brand a cow (excuse the pun) when your goal is to showcase education and sell ice cream? Maple View Farms is a local working farm, located around the Hillsbourgh area just minutes away from any destination in the RDU area!

Challenged with two large marketing events in April, Maple View Farms needed ideas to promote both their education center as well as their yummy ice cream. Among the items we suggested was a seeded paper ornament in their Maple View Blue, with a custom inserted seed card to explain what their education center has to offer guests. By producing the print media communications on seeded paper, the farm was able to explain their mission while giving their visitors an item that could be planted after the event to produce flowers! At only $0.62 per unit it was a perfect way to show how a farm makes use of our earth growing and planting seeds for future rewards!

Promoting Art

2010-05-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

Ad Specialties creates an environment ripe for fun and innovation. Ideas to market your business don't have to be expensive; they only need to be true to your mission and objectives. Recently artist and motivational speaker DJ Svoboda visited our company looking for an economical way for him to promote his art and serve as a reminder of his speaking engagements after the event. Capitalizing on the ability to capture graphics in full color with digital imprinting, we teamed with Gemini Industries to use a full color key tag to reproduce DJ's art! Using the key tag at only $0.69 for as few as 125 units was the perfect way to showcase DJ's art, while providing him with a low cost item that is easy for him to carry to his speaking engagements. Here is the feedback we received form DJ after his first speaking engagement with the key tags in hand:

"The Conference in Abingdon, Virginia was a very amazing and incredible success! It went really well and lots of lives were touched greatly. The key chains did great. I sold some, I even had to sign one. We showed them to our friends and family and they really liked them a lot too. My Mom and I greatly appreciate all your wonderful and awesome help. Thank you greatly for everything and we wish you a very amazing and incredible day everyday!!"

D.J

To learn more about DJ's art and his mission with public speaking, please visit his website at: http://www.myimaginville.com/

Spend Less Achieve More

2010-04-06T12:17:00.000-07:00

Use promotional products to reach out to your customers in this economic crisis.

What's Missing?

2010-04-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

Put your company logo on any type of product.

People Love Promotional Products

2010-03-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

The video link below provides a quick presentation about why…."People Love Promotional Products"!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8QIEKkjhi4

Green Is Hot

2010-03-26T13:01:00.000-07:00

Green is hot, wasting paper is not…so how about combining your need for visual communications in print with ecological products made from recycled seeded papers? Handmade papers are functional, attractive, economical and create an environmentally friendly gift with your marketing created right here in the USA!

Custom seeded mailer package shipped a DVD titled “An Inconvenient Truth” for Paramount Pictures. Instead of throwing away the packaging it was planted to grow basil. The response was incredible, even Al Gore featured them on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

WD-40 An American Icon!

2010-03-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

We enjoy when clients ask questions like can you get Leatherman Tools, Mag-Lite Flashlights, Cutter and Buck Apparel and Corporate Gifts, Waterford Crystal or Godiva Chocolates because they are always surprised when we say YES! Our industry is full of suppliers with non name brand quality products as well as staple “American Icon’s” like WD-40! Next time you are considering a recognition or incentive piece, even a fundraiser with a “blank product” image the impact of your brand coupled with that promotion. Ask our professional team to help you design the right campaign for you.

Digital Photo Frames

2010-03-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

The past time you were in the doctor’s office or your automotive repair shop, you might have seen a Digital Photo Frames. Use Digital Photo Frames to teach! The ease of use in a waiting environment makes a digital photo frame with a screen saying “Press Me”. A great way to go through an interactive educational module while waiting creates the opportunity to showcase your services with before and after images. You might also consider mounting units to keep them from “bumps” in the office. In addition to showing information about how your business is helpful to your prospective client, you might consider some soothing music to help them enjoy their wait time. Finally, the last application you might consider for these frames is a quiz about your information with a “prize” to redeem at the end. This way you can monitor who is watching your presentations!

Why is Olivia so happy?

2010-02-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, human beings have five different types of needs:
· Biological and Physiological Needs such as water and food
· Safety Needs like shelter
· Love Needs such as belonging and acceptance
· Esteem Needs which include respect, rewards and recognition
· Self-Actualization Needs which include personal challenge and advancement
Each need must be met fully before the next need can be attained. For example, all Biological and Physiological Needs – food and water – must be met before an individual will seek out shelter. All Safety Needs like shelter must be met before an individual will seek out love from another person and so on.
The basic human needs exist at work. The Organizational Pyramid illustrates how basic human needs are expressed at work.

Promotional Partners Cool Tech Apparel

2010-02-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

Promotional Partners Cool Tech Apparel is the way to go. We provide fast, professional service on our items that will keep you coming back. We offer shirts, hats, visors and more with just a 36 piece minimum up to any quantity. We have youth, womens and mens sizes up to 4XL and can provide any of the newest fashions that many can't. Our shirts are made of moisture management fabric that is soft and breathable as well as being anit-microbial, UV protected and stain resistant. To look at our full line, go to promotionalpartnersofcary.com and click on the Favorite Links button on the left and go to the Promotional Partners logo and click. Ask us how we can help with your apparel today!

Cotton Prices Rising Sharply

2010-02-09T12:24:00.001-08:00

Higher demand and recent poor weather in Asia have driven the price of cotton, an increase that will likely be passed to consumers within three to four months. Additionally, world cotton production is now expected to fall short of demand in the current crop year, which runs through July 31. "It's not something anyone can run from and there's no place to hide," says Rainer Friedrich, vice president of production at Charles River Apparel/ "There won't be a price change until there's a leveling off and the demand evens out. That could be six to eight months from now."

According to Friedrich, in just the last two months the price of cotton produced in Pakistan has jumped by 40%. Overall, the cost of cotton has increased roughly 15% globally. "In general, consumers will pay more at some point," says Friedrich. "By March or April, the effect will be there. Manufacturers will try to spread out the increase, so there may not be a large difference at first. Distributors will probably have to charge more."

With a larger number of apparel items, like polos, now commonly offered in synthetic fabrics, the greatest price volatility is likely to occur among suppliers that produce T-shirts. "In our industry, it probably affects the wholesalers more," said Chris Clark, vice president of sales at Ash City. "When we use cotton, our pricing stays fairly consistent since we buy on the futures market." Despite the surge in the cost of cotton, Friedrich believes there is a twist of good news to consider. "It means the economy is coming back," he says. "Demand for product is going up and you have to stock the shelves."

Pens Pencils and Highlighters Oh My!

2010-01-22T05:44:00.000-08:00

We may find ourselves texting and e-mailing more and more today, but keys at any size are not replacing writing instruments. Pens, pencils, highlighters, multi function pen-highlighters, lanyard pens and even germ free pens are showing up daily with new looks for every promotion. Writing instruments top the list of most requested items each year in our industry as they are funcitonal, adaptable to multiple budgets from inexpensive click to high end products for the executive. A high return on your investment is also a deciding factor for many marketing campaigns as pens are used, passed, given and see frequently in the daily routine offering a low cost impression with high performance and longevity for your marketing dollars. Did you know any of the following facts? Pair some of these fun facts with your next promotion!

More than 14 billion pencils are produced in the world every year-enough to circle the globe 62 times.

Pencils didn't always have erasers. The first patent for attaching an eraser to a pencil was issued in 1858 to a man from Philadelphia named Hyman Lipman. In fact, today in Europe most pencils are still sold without erasers.

The first great success for the ballpoint pen came on an October morning in 1945 when a crowd of more than 5000 people jammed the entrance of New York City's Gimbels Department Store. The day before, Gimbels had taken out a full-page ad in the New York Times promoting the first sale of ballpoints in the United States. The ad described the new pen as a "fantastic...miraculous fountain pen...guaranteed to write for two years without refilling!" On that first day of the sale, Gimbels sold out its entire stock of 10000 pens-at $12.50 each.

100 billion crayons have been made since before World War I. That means your great, great, great, great grandparents colored with crayons.

Need Some Inspiration for 2010?

2010-01-20T06:39:00.001-08:00

Benjamin Franklin once said, “Be always at war with your vices, at peace with tour neighbors and let each new year ding you a better man. “ Referencing this passage as an introduction for a motivational article, Editorial Director for Promo Marketing, Nicole Stella, recounted the relationship of the quote to a required reading by author Rabbi Harold S. Kushner. In the book Rabbi Kushner wrote that, “Nature is morally blind, without values. It churns along following its own laws not caring who or what gets in the way. But God is not morally blind; God stands for justice, for fairness for compassion; for me, the earthquake if not an ‘act of god’. The act of God is the courage of people to rebuild their lives after the earthquake and the rush of others to help them in whatever way they can”. Here is hoping that you work for your passions this year and make it a successful year.

Promotional Arm Tattoo Sleeves

2010-01-20T06:37:00.000-08:00

Here is a new fad that we hope becomes a trend because the applications for sports, road races, sponsorships, spirit wear and uniform work wear are numerous! This is a US made product that can sport an instant tattoo or brand your company logo or sports theme quickly in full digital color. Best of all it is easy to remove or apply for comfort given the environment you are in without becoming as cumbersome as a sweater or coat when mobility is important.

How Apparel Savvy Are You?

2010-01-20T06:36:00.001-08:00

What makes cotton organic?

You’ve probably heard the term organic cotton, but do you really know the difference between what if standard and organic cotton. Organic cotton means that the cotton is grown without pesticides or chemical additives. Additionally the soil that the plant is grown in must be chemical free for at least three years. Once harvested, the cotton must be processed differently than regular cotton to avoid contamination. Among organics there are different standards or certifications for the integrity of the cotton as pure. If your company requires certification papers, please ask us to provide those documents to you for review.

Performance fabrics:

Trademark Names may often hold similar properties. The idea with performance fabrics is to keep the body cooler and provide fewer odors. If sweat is odorless, why do we stink after physical activity? The bacteria on our skin cause the odor to form on the fabric. What will help to destroy the odor? Is the answer Moisture Wicking, UV resistance, Antimicrobial or anti pill? If you answered Antimicrobial, you are correct because the fabric has been treated with chemicals to inhibit the growth of bacteria. If you knew that, do you know what fabric has natural anti bacterial and fungal properties? Garments made from Bamboo! Our clients with bamboo apparel have provided feedback that the comfort and resilience of the fabric is makes it a great choice for mobile individuals.

Last test:

What is the difference between waterproof and water resistant or water repellent? Waterproof is seam sealed to withstand a specific amount of water pressure keeping the garment dry since it blocks water absorption. Water resistant is treated chemically to repel or resist water. While water repellent is when the fabric can resist the penetration of water with limited conditions, however once washed or dry cleaned those properties are usually altered.

How Can I Spot a Trend?

2010-01-20T06:30:00.000-08:00

Experts at trendwatching.com encourage trackers to set goals. Understand how the hot products in our industry can apply to your target audience. Keep up with the 7 stages of a trend which are: Emerging, Incoming, Pre-Peak, Peak, Post-Peak, Outgoing and Decline.
Be aware that trends can cross industries. Need an example? What is your home thread count on your sheets? The push for luxury hotel pampering for spa items and high quality dense thread count lead to a desire to offer the average consumer high thread count sheets. The same application works in our industry when the average client wants to impress their end user and prospects with luxury based products geared to their client’s interest. For example custom crystal barware, personalize golf club or bag, electronic equipment even Godiva chocolates!

Are You Tracking Trends?

2010-01-20T06:24:00.000-08:00

Effective Promotions use cultural and demographic trends that motivate your target audience. Did you ever wear leggings in the 80’s or a beehive hairdo in the 60’s? If so you were part of a trend. Currently apparel in our industry caters to both the traditional work apparel as well as contemporary style like burn out, tattoo inspired arm wraps, as well as hot fabric choices like bamboo, environmental conscious with recycled content.
Apparel suppliers offer new lines seasonally, with name brand product choices, popular requests for fabrics, knock offs to name brand looks and of course the “HOT” colors or styles for that season.

What is the difference between a fad and a trend? In short, trends are products that are showing a wave of change. In our industry the push towards green product in all categories such as sustainable, organic and recycled as risen steady the past three years. BY contrast fads are immediate impulses like “pet rocks” from the 70’s! Sometimes fads can continue to resurface across generations like tie dye. What was your worst fad?

When the Office Has the Flu!

2010-01-20T06:14:00.000-08:00

Employee absenteeism affects sales, operations and morale across all industries. Many companies are fighting back by offering time away from the office for flu vaccines or large companies are coordinating efforts to have healthcare professionals on site. Options for smaller companies include having a health care professional visit at a staff meeting, posting literature about best health practices for disease prevention or short educational video pointed to ways to reduce passing along germs to other employees. For industries like healthcare professionals who will be exposure to more germs, products like pens, optical mice and keyboards that are treated with permanent antimicrobial properties represent a way to show you care about keeping there organization running with healthy employees.

Internally providing Wallet sized, cold and flu kits, anti bacterial wipes, hand sanitizers, vitamin C tablets in a pocket roll, lip balm, antimicrobial pen and stainless steel water bottles to keep germs contained to individuals are all ways to provide some assistance to company’s employees that do business with your company!

Generate More Traffic at Tradeshows

2010-01-13T11:38:00.000-08:00

One of our industry suppliers, Target Graphics, created a unique T-shirt promotion to drive more traffic to their booth. The shirt featured their logo on the front of a black t-shirt highlighting one of their new leather ink processes. On the back they used a four color process to create a simulation of a $100.00 bill with text below it reading, “If we print on paper we’d be counterfeiters”. Pre-show mailings and publicity included teaser with the action call, come to Target’s booth and get a t-shirt to wear at during the show for a change to be entered to win a chance for $100.00. What was the result? They yielded enough traffic to post double their leads from the previous year!

Ask us to help you create a clever way to generate more traffic at your next convention booth or tradeshow event.

Boring Business Cards?

2010-01-13T11:32:00.000-08:00

Take a look at your business cards; consider your cards a low cost way to beef up marketing for 2010!

Make your business card a more effective marketing tool by giving the recipient something they can use such as a calendar, tip calculator card, use a holographic/ lenticular image to get their attention or provide a discount for their first order on the card.

Turn your business card into a useful tool with a large imprint area, such as a nail fail, pocket mirror, pen, magnet, or a USB drive that looks like you! Instead of giving them the card give them something they can use each day!

Get Ready to Market Yourself in 2010!

2010-01-13T11:30:00.001-08:00

Self Promotion is the key! Here are Five Quick Tips to get you started

5 quick tips:

1. Public Speaking Engagements give you a moment to share you expertise and gain credibility.
2. Publish articles in your trade journals or association newsletters. Link those back to your website or blog
3. Build up a social presence on one viral networking tools such as LinkedIn, face book, 919.
4. Create a blog to post tips, trends, new products and success stories. Make them entertaining and educational. Don’t be afraid to use video, even the youtube type to make your blog more interesting.
5. Apply for awards and recognition; look within your industries and associations for applications for awards.

Please share your best tip with other partners!

Ogio Bags

2009-10-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

These are the newest styles for ladies. These Hobo style bags are manufactured by Ogio and all you have to do is sling this roomy bag over your shoulder and hit the road in style! These bags are made out of either alpaca yarn or suede. They have a satin liner, a large main compartment and a smaller pocket for your cell phone or keys! It's the perfect size for any need!

Would you like to have one of these bags? You can! Just comment on them and vote for which one you like best and you will be registered to win one of these bags! But, you have to vote by November 11 because we will be drawing a name that day! So, hurry and vote and one of these stylish bags could be yours!

Community Partners

2009-10-13T13:02:00.000-07:00

Recently Apex High School students from the schools Academy of Information Technology program were able to put their classroom experience into real life practice by assisting at a recent holiday showcase for a local Apex company called Promotional Partners. The program for these high school students is designed to have them complete paid internships, during which time they receive hands-on exposure, professional supervision, and practical work experience. This allows students to begin the process of building a resume while "trying on" their future professional roles. Students are selected for these industry-specific placements on the basis of interviews and their fulfillment of coursework requirements. Also attending the showcase was a guest appearance from "Crew" the Peak City Film Festival mascot. Crew and team are gearing up for the final exciting weeks leasding to the first annual international film festical for general audience rated films! The venue for the film festival is set int he historic district of downtown Apex. Many of the festival events will be anchored in the Halle Cultural Arts Center. The Halle, nestled in the heart of the historic district, also provided the perfect backdrop for Promotional Partners holiday showcase held for their clients and partners in the local community. Promotional Partners brought a taste of NC companies to their clients in need of holiday ideas for branding as well as acknowledgment to employees and local business partners. Company owner, Olivia Scott, created the show for their clients to have the opportunity to learn how her company could design programs featuring NC made products that would assist with their client's branding needs. Utilizing the students that support their company intern program was a way to provide a "fun marketing moment" for students. Olivia comments "When clients see the opportunities to partner with local business, schools and new events like the Peak City Film Festival, it strengthens the bond of community partnership."

Making Airport Security A Snap

2009-09-28T08:03:00.000-07:00

"Imagine what you can accomplish this year if you take fear out of your vocabulary", Janice Peller owner of EMCO Technologies. Have no fear of slowing down at the gate as you go through security checkpoints during the upcoming holiday travel season. You might be flying for business, they might be traveling fro leisure, but not having to take your laptop out a checkpoints is "priceless". Ask us about this product!

Holiday Showcase

2009-09-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

Holiday Showcase:

October 8, 2009

Halle Cultural Arts Center

10:30-1:30

All About Pets

2009-09-03T12:26:00.000-07:00

In the last year, Americans invested more than $45 billion on their pets. More than $17 billion was on animal chow, $10.2 billion on pet supplies and medicine, $12.2 billion on vet care and about $6 billion on grooming, boarding and purchasing more pets. As you can see, pets bring in some big business. Given our country's love of pets, it makes sense to logo pet products to boost business for pet shops, animal hospitals, boarding services, breeders, and pet sitters. It is surprising at how many pet products are out there; far beyond a pet scoop, water dish, or ID tag.
For starters, there's always that pet owner who dresses their dog in clothing, so for that type of person there is a Doggie Skins Thermal Hoodie.
How about Framed Pet Memorials that can celebrate the life of a beloved pet?
Don't rule out hygiene with Hypoallergenic Pet Shampoo, and Pet Accessory Bags for traveling and the all necessary All Purpose Pet Scoop.
You never want to leave home without a Bag Dispenser with Carabineer equipped with biodegradable bags that attach easily to any belt loop or leash and is perfect for picking up those doggie unmentionables.
Practical items that are used each day like a Retractable Dog Leash, Muddy Paw Wipes, a Clip Safety Light that hooks onto your pets collar and even a Dog's Life Key Holder with charms.
For the enthusiast, try offering a book entitled 97 Ways to Make Your Dog Smile. It is filled with tips on how to rub, massage, scratch, tickle and knead dogs and even ways to keep your pups amused.
Pets play a big part in people's lives and there are many products to serve them. They are no longer front porch friends but instead they are now part of the family, just as much as any other person in the house, making Pet Products the way to go for advertising each day in a personal setting with a long term useful tangible ad!

Call to Action

2009-08-27T11:59:00.000-07:00

Looking for a unique way to provide a call to action? Many businesses and organizations look for a fun memory hook when asking for a change. For instance, a community center that provides programs and events, churches that want to promote migration to the church, service industries that ask you to move your business for better service, "our service" will move you, an organization that focuses on volunteers or fitness, even a company that wants to start an internal fitness program to reduce health benefit costs from employees that "get fit". Ask us how we can provide you some fun in boosting your next call to action with boogie bots!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qx-jaYf022M

People Who Should Be Rewarded

2009-08-05T06:40:00.000-07:00

Everyone likes to be rewarded or acknowledged. In our current economy as companies have cut back, the trend is to ask employees to do more. Increasing an employees daily "to do list" without recognition does not create a positive work environment. Here are some people who should be rewarded.

School students "caught" doing something good
School students who make the Honor Roll each quarter
Employees who come up with the best name for a new product or service
Employees who come up with the best cost-saving idea
Salespeople who make the most cold calls in a day
The "most inspirational" manager
Customers celebrating a milestone
Customers who give the best suggestions
Customers who give you the most/best referrals
Most loyal customers
Employees celebrating a milestone
Employees reaching a health-related goal
Employees reaching a safety-related goal
Employees who recruit new employees
Salespeople who make 100% of quota for the year

The picture shown here is of a USB Fragrance Dispenser. So for ones who spend much time during their day working at a computer, this could be the perfect little Aromatherapy Treatment getaway right at their desk!

Halloween

2009-08-05T06:21:00.000-07:00

High Gloss, Full Color Graphic and inexpensive Halloween treat bags are a great way to acknowledge client loyalty. They are helpful high exposure products reminding families of themes such as security, fun, partnership, safety, and preparation. If you use these themes with your clients this is the perfect way to re-connect before the end of 2009! We even have a supplier for bio degradable plastic bags!

Now Halloween isn't the only thing coming up. There are dates for everything! So you need to make sure you are prepared!

Most people are aware of major holidays each year, but what do you know about seasonal and national awareness days that directly affect you or your client base?

Educate yourself quickly by using our on-line promo planner on our website http://www.promotionalpartnersofcary.com/. Use the website to scan the calendar both by month and day to learn what might be an effective way to partner with your clients for an upcoming event.

Next take action by offering to share a booth or combine your services to educate a new client base with a shared promotion.

Partnerships increase the value of each business and strengthen partnership bond.

The public perceives greater merit for companies that join forces for a "cause". Now you're increasing brand awareness among a larger demographic.

Our New Showroom Space

2009-07-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

Promotional Partners recently opened a new showroom space in Apex. The new space showcases many of the products Promotional Partners can order for you. The benefit is that you as clients can come meet with us and we can show you products from multiple suppliers instead of just bringing a few items to you. Doing it this way lets you see the unlimited possibilities whether you need items for a fundraiser or to promote your business. So stop on by our showroom and let us help you! Here is a short video to show you our new showroom space.

Fun Food Ideas

2009-06-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

Allow 5% of your budget for packaging, it creates a memory hook for the clients response to you next time you meet! What can you do with food products, they are consumable. Food relationships with powerful images contribute to those sensory memories with trigger responses later and build relationships with clients. Clever packaging for a continuance program or unique shapes in food get your company noticed: you stand out in the pack! If you gave a client a package of jelly beans and one was a different color, they'd notice and you'd say, "We are unique among what seem to be similar companies" let us show you how we solve problems.

Summer Time

2009-06-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

Apparel is often the first opportunity for a prospective client to form an opinion about your company or organization. It’s the introduction to your brand; therefore your image should reflect your mission. Fortunately for our clients the industry keeps up with the ever changing demands of consumers. Whether you need product from certified organic cotton or bamboo for a green based business or a specific name brand golf line for a corporate partner, you’ll find what you need. Even in the athletics arena the push is to mimic the looks of the pro and more groups are adding the custom options for cut and sew on uniforms.

However what if basic quality business apparel is your current challenge? Do you need a broad range of sizes? How about XS-10XL? Is your challenge creating uniformity in a color that brands your company, but offers the flexibility to have every piece from the T-shirts, the men and ladies companion polo’s and the long sleeve oxford match in the identical color? We got your source! Perhaps you need specific apparel unique to your industry, for safety, healthcare, lines, work wear uniforms, restaurant aprons or even specialty items for hospitals, etc. We have the product lines you need, let our educated staff guide you through the options.

Once it’s time to order for a large group, ask us to send you an electronic spec sheet with the images & sizing available to compare. Is your large group hard to please? Ask about our spec sample program to review for quality and sizing prior to your order.

Need us to help you understand what fabric content’s mean? Then you are ready for Fabric 101. Ask us to send you the fabric guide for tips in understanding apparel jargon.

Advertising Information

2009-06-26T10:24:00.000-07:00

With all the news about the economy this year, do you seek some good news around the water cooler? How about some of these facts to get you smiling today:

In the 90's : Jif reported that their sales grew 57% and Kraft Salad Dressing grew 70% after increasing advertising during recession years!

To summarize information on tangible advertising:

Instant recall: More than 8 out of 10 (84%) respondents remembered the advertisers of the promotional products they’re received.

Very impressionable: 42% of respondents had a MORE favorable impression of an advertiser after receiving the item. And nearly a quarter (24%) said they are MORE likely to do business with the advertiser on the items they receive.

It’s all business: Most respondents (62%) have done business with the advertiser on a promotional product after receiving the item.

Pens are in: Writing instruments are the most-recalled advertising specialty items (54% of respondents recall owning them), followed by shirts, caps and bags.

User-friendly: The majority (81%) of promotional products were kept because they were considered useful.

Staying power: More than three-quarters of respondents have had their items for more than 6 months.

Bag it!: Among wearables, bags were reported to be used most frequently with respondents indicating that they used their bags an average of 9 times per month. They also deliver the most impressions: Each bag averages 1,038 impressions per month.

Most impressive: The average CPI (Cost per impression) of an advertising specialty item is $0.004; as a result, marketers get a more favorable return on investment from advertising specialties than nearly any other popular advertising media.
Ad specialties are proving their worth; remembered by recipients who also gain a more favorable impression of the advertiser on the product, according to a new study by the Advertising Specialty Institute.
The advertising specialties industry comprises a 13% share of the advertising marketplace, with $19.6 billion in sales for 2007, the group said yet the study found that advertising specialties beat out all forms of TV, radio and print advertising as the most cost-effective advertising medium available.

How's that for some good news? Ask our well educated staff to come in for a lunch and learn seminar or an am coffee break to share with other businesses in your building or a group of departments how working with a distributor that knows the industry can save you time, money and headaches, allowing you to focus on the tasks in your box for the day!

Prime Line

2009-06-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

Need the flexibility of setting your quantities for the remainder of the year?

Prime Line is living up to their tagline of "what you want" with form, function, and fun this year by letting the client set the minimum order.

Prime has a broad line of products that cover the categories of Bags, Leisure, drink ware, office, writing instruments, technology electronics, travel, stress relievers, executive toys, lights, key tags and tools. What are people buying?

The top 5 most effect products still rank as:

Shirts
Writing Instruments
Desk Accessories
Food Gifts
General Gifts

How and why are our partners using promotional products?

73% Business gifts- branding and self promotion, acknowledgment
52% Customer retention and loyalty programs
48% Tradeshows
47% Customer Acquisition
41% Employee Incentives
39% Employee Recognition
20% Dealer Promotions

Need to control your budget but want to advertise?
Set your own minimum quantities with quality Prime Line products!!
Use the link below to access the entire catalog!

To read the Flipbook, click here http://www.my-catalog.at/35306_09psi/.

Flip Flops

2009-06-25T07:51:00.001-07:00

Flip flops are a very popular item during this time of the year for all ages! They are a fun item to wear and are great for school fundraisers and sporting events. They come in girls and guys styles. You can customize them by adding your logo to the straps or even the bottom so that when you walk on soft surfaces such as sand or dirt, it leaves an imprint. Call us to get more information or to help you with any ideas!

Fundraising Idea

2009-06-23T10:11:00.001-07:00

What is the newest, craziest way to create a buzz among our community for your business? Advertising with crazy hair; popular with both guys and girls!

Imagine your name out front of the local community that goes out to support the "home team". Teens will be inviting action with this product in the stands, creating more and more buzz for your company to your target audience. This would be great exposure for a sponsorship or charity fundraising event as it is useful for both indoors and out!

Why use a distributor?

2009-06-22T10:39:00.000-07:00

My name is Miranda and I am a student intern at Promotional Partners. I have been working here now for a number of months. As I come across new things and questions every day, there is one question that people continuously seem to ask…Why would I use a distributor if I can order it myself online? Now I would have been asking the same thing a short time ago but my view on this question has changed. There are a number of reasons why using a distributor is the smart way to go.
For one, good distributors do more then just sell items but instead, they have the time and knowledge to work with you and make sure that you as the customer are completely satisfied with your order. In addition, as distributors, it is their job to be up on the latest trends. A good distributor adds creativity, innovation and imagination. Online stores can show you products you want to see and help you find the product you want but distributors can provide tangible samples that make your ideas come to life!
In addition, unlike online stores which you never have face to face contact with anyone, most distributor companies you can find locally providing customers with convenience. Also, online stores, while they may provide you with information you need, they never go above and beyond. A distributor guides you through the process and is always available to answer any questions you might have. Then once an order is put it, the distributor tracks your items, making sure that you get what you need and that you get it on time.
Finally, distributors work with their suppliers many times, in turn building relationships with those companies. Because of this, distributors can not only save you time but more importantly in this economy, money. As an educated staff, they know questions to ask you that you might not think to ask them so they can provide you information on quality, quantity or pricing: all things important since we know your imprint is very important to you. Since distributors have a relationship with their suppliers; they can sometimes get deals on items that you wouldn’t be able to find anywhere else.
So as you can see, there are many benefits to using a distributor versus using an online source. Whether its time, money or convenience, a distributor is the way to go!

Promotional Partners and the Community

2009-06-19T07:43:00.001-07:00

Promotional Partners is very active in the Apex community, supporting other businesses in our Chamber of Commerce as owner, Olivia Scott is an ambassador with the Apex Chamber. Often our company posts short video clips and stories about chamber events so businesses that want to seek new areas for networking are aware of the opportunities provided via the local chamber. Here are a few examples of recent events attended...

This was the unveiling of a recent model home in the Seagroves Farms neighborhood in the Apex Community.
http://wake.mync.com/site/wake/Community/story/36495
http://wake.mync.com/site/wake/video/7166/

Promotional Partners was also at the Grand Opening of the Apex location of the SunTrust bank.
http://wake.mync.com/site/Wake/news/story/31169/SunTrust_Open_House/

We were also in attendance at the unveiling of the new Camaro at the Apex Chamber After Hours event. Here is some footage of the night.
http://wake.mync.com/site/wake/video/6407/

In addition, Olivia, the owner of Promotional Partners was in attendance of some other events going on in the community. This is just a glimpse of few.
http://wake.mync.com/site/wake/Community/story/34498

About Promotional Partners

2009-06-19T06:37:00.000-07:00

Do you have ideas about how to promote your business or your organization but you need a partner that understands your needs and is committed to developing innovative ideas that fit your mission? Then you need a business partner that will find the products, the quantities, the quality and response time you need to be successful in your endeavors.
Promotional Partners is for you. It is a husband and wife owned business, both with experience in the business. We are open 24-7 with our online store, we are very flexible and we have a personal artist on staff! As a company, our mission is to build a reputation of reliable, quick, innovative low cost marketing tools for our clients that will generate success and recognition they desire for their business or organization.
Promotional Partners moved from their Cary location about 6 months ago to their new location in Historic Downtown Apex above Anna's Pizza. As you see here, this a picture of the ribbon cutting we held in January. Since then, we have expanded opening not only office space but also a show room to demonstrate many of the products we can offer. We also just celebrated their 2 year anniversary in May.