Marketers love college students and college students love free stuff. College students are living away from home for the first time and willing to experiment different stores and brands unlike older consumers who are typically more set in their brand choices. Students love free samples and giveaways, offering marketers the perfect opportunity to get their brands in front of a receptive consumer group. With this in mind, here are my top eight promotional items for university students.
USB flash drives are great for every student. Whether they’re used for working on a group project, taking something to get printed, or bringing a presentation to class, these are a definite necessity.
Sticky notes are also always in use. I’ve never used more in my life than when it came time for exams and final papers.
Neon sunglasses: Perfect in any season, these are a great, no-fuss item to distribute to students.
iPhone megaphone: Unique items like these are a perfect way to make your brand stand out in students’ minds.
Tote bags are imperative to a life on the go. Students walk everywhere.
Drawstring backpacks are great for everything from going to the gym to stowing a lunch for between classes.
Water bottles become more important than ever for transporting beverages to lectures and the gym.
Tumblers are great items to consider given students’ affinity for coffee. Reusable tumblers can save you a few cents at the coffee shop and are a great everyday item.
With whichever of these facets of college life you align your marketing strategy, be sure it fits with your company’s image. Sticky notes are a better choice for a bank than sunglasses as a promotional gift. Water bottles are perfect for an athletic gear company, whereas a USB drive would miss the mark. Unless you’re selling life insurance or AARP memberships, you’ll want to get your name in front of the highly accessible college student group to cultivate a consumer relationship. Students appreciate promotional items that are useful and stylish. These are the items they will keep and associate with you. And don’t forget, everyone loves a free t-shirt.
New Image Inc. 