Best Business Swag Ideas for Companies

August 14, 2021
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The best business swag gifts for building solid long-term relations.

For the best in business swag items, choose on-trend, high-quality products that can stand the test of time. By finding customizable items that are relevant to your company culture and desirable to the recipients, you’ll create custom merch that leaves a lasting impression.  

 

When it comes to creating ideal swag for your customers and employees you don’t have to invest in expensive merchandise that is not in your company budget. Thanks to a growing swag business niche in the marketplace, there are plenty of items on the market that offer all the benefits you need. At Gemnote, the experienced staff can help you cut through the clutter to find the sustainable products you’ll be proud to put your logo on. 

Business Swag Savvy

Take a look at the Top 20 Business Swag Ideas for 2022- 2023. Through a variety of products and categories as well as prices to suit every budget, developing a swag strategy that will build lasting relationships for your business just got easier for: 

  1. Swag Strategy for Employees
  2. Swag Strategy for Clients
  3. Best Marketing Swag for Business

 

Top 20 Best Company Swag 2022

1. Nike Dri-Fit Polo

A performance polo makes a great work shirt, especially if your company has, like so many others, adopted a more casual office dress code since the pandemic. Nike’s Dri-FIT moisture management technology provides breathable comfort at work or play. The Nike name adds value to your swag thanks to its track record for quality and its demonstrated commitment to facilitating healthier people, healthier communities, and a healthier planet. 

 

And, isn’t that what we all want? We want to buy from companies that do good things and care about people, right?

 

Benefits: 

  • Dri-FIT moisture management technology for comfort
  • Slightly tailored through the chest, arms and waist for a modern fit
  • Open hem sleeves 
  • Brand favorite with contrast Swoosh embroidered on sleeve.
  • Slightly tailored through the chest, arms and waist

 

Comparable to Adidas, Under Armour, and Champion.

Shown: Nike Dri-FIT Solid Icon Pique Modern Fit Polo

2. The Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic Backpack

No stranger to the great outdoors, Topo Designs offers a full lineup of packs, bags, duffels, accessories, and even apparel that have quality, durability, and colorful design down to an art form. 

 

Benefits: 

  • iconic silhouette
  • name brand design 
  • roomy main compartment
  • double side buckle closures
  • drawstring cinch
  • internal padded laptop sleeve 
  • top flap zip pocket
  • bottom zip pocket
  • expandable side pockets for bottles
  • double compression straps
  • top carry handles
  • available in 20 colors
  • designed for durability

 

Drawbacks: Starting at $99 it’s on the pricier side

Comparable to: Herschel Supply Company, InCase, and Timbuk2

Reviews: Check out the Topo Designs Rover Pack Roundup Review

Learn more about The New Outdoor: Urban Fishing with Topo Co-Founder Jedd Rose

Shown: Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic Backpack

 

3. Stanley Adventure Quencher Traveler Tumbler

The Stanley  Adventure Quencher Traveler Tumbler features an easy comfort grip handle and ample room—as in 40 ounces—for your favorite beverages. The versatile lid allows can be used as a wide mouth or with the included straw. To prevent spills, splashing, and leaks, just close the lid and you’re on your way. 

Benefits: 

  • 90% recycled 18/8 stainless steel
  • BPA-free
  • 40-ounce capacity
  • Includes a reusable straw
  • Double-wall vacuum insulation
  • FlowState™ screw-on 3-position lid
  • Fits in most cup holders
  • Dishwasher safe

With over 2000 reviews and 85% being 5 star and 7% being 4 stars, the biggest drawback seems to be some leaking if the tumbler is knocked over. 

 

Comparable to Corkcicle, Hydroflask, and Miir

Shown: Stanley Adventure Quencher Traveler Tumbler


4. Timbuk2 Luggage Roller

Let the good times roll! Globetrotters will love this lightweight, easy-to-pack, easy-to-handle luggage for its sleek urban styling and legendary quality (with a lifetime guarantee). This is a great choice when you need luxury company swag to impress a VIP or for your swag bag business. 

 

  • Clamshell construction for easy packing and organizing
  • Features an expandable compartment to isolate shoes and toiletries
  • Padded-zip pocket fits up to 13" Laptop
  • Bike-inspired comfort roller handle system
  • Reinforced grab handles on all sides 

The weight is heavier and could be considered a possible drawback. 

Comparable to Rains bags. 


‍Shown: Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller

5. Pocketo Rollerball Prism Pen

Work is more fun when you have a great pen, especially one with a shimmering chrome finish in on-trend colors. The subtly prismatic shape of this pen and its fine-point rollerball take the art of writing to a whole new level! Plus, the price point is especially good for small business swag.

Benefits:  

  • 0.4 mm point
  • Black rollerball ink
  • Set of 5 hues with chrome finish 
  • Comfortable grip
  • Refills available

Compare to Topo Designs Apex Pens in metallics. 

Shown: Poketo Rollerball Prism Pen

6. California Gummy Bears

It’s like your favorite gummy bear from back in the day, only a whole lot better for you! So when it comes to inexpensive swag, why skimp on quality, when you can gift tasty high-end snacks made with real fruit?

Benefits: 

  • Made with natural California fruit
  • No artificial ingredients
  • No high fructose corn syrup 
  • No preservatives or additives
  • Giftable packaging 
  • Organic, vegan, plant based

Comparable to Candy Club.   

Shown: California Gummy Bears

7. Baggu Standard Reusable Bag 

The perfect sustainable swag gift for all of your merch needs. The standard Baggu reusable bag is perfect on its own or as the carrier for your swag kit. 

 Benefits: 

  • Washable
  • Reusable
  • Available in 81 designs and colors
  • Holds 50 pounds of groceries
  • Made of recycled materials

 

Tip: See how you can use your Baggu as gift wrap

Comparable to customizable bags. Talk to your Gemnote rep for more options.   

 

Shown: Baggu Reusable Bag 


8. Corkcicle Nona Roll-Top Lunchbox

The Nona Roll-Top is no ordinary lunchbox. Engineered with flexible insulated material, it can be adjusted to snugly secure anything from a small snack to a full lunch. Fill it with gourmet snacks for a nice addition to your onboarding swag. 

Benefits: 

  • Insulated materials
  • Perfect for customizing
  • Ideal custom merch for employees  
  • The flexible material and adjustable closure make it easy to store

Compare to Yeti and Stanley 

‍Shown: Corkcicle Nona Rolltop Lunchbox

9. Miir Travel Tumbler

When it comes to business swag ideas tumbler tops the list and there are a lot of good ones out there to choose from, but doesn’t it feel better to buy yours from a B Certified company that is also certified as Climate Neutral? That would be the Miir Travel Tumbler and it has all the features you’re looking for: double-wall insulation, leak-free BPA-free lid, 18/8 medical grade stainless steel, lifetime warranty.

Benefits: 

  • Double Wall Vacuum Insulation Technology
  • Won’t leak 
  • Insulated Lid
  • No metal aftertaste
  • BPA Free
  • Easy to clean
  • Lifetime warranty

With 318 reviews for an overall 5-star rating, this is a sure-fire way to ace your swag!   

Compare to Corkcicle and Hydroflask. 

 

Shown: Miir Travel Tumbler

10. The North Face Packable Travel Jacket

This amazing windproof, water-resistant jacket folds down to pack into its own zippered back pocket for total traveling convenience so that you’re ready at a moment’s notice for whatever Mother Nature decides to dish out. This company not only engineers premium gear for your outdoor adventures, but they are also committed to sustainably responsible manufacturing and business practices.

Benefits: 

  • Durable
  • Water Repellant 
  • Offers protection from wind 
  • Stowable, adjustable hood
  • Jacket packs into its own zippered back pocket for ultimate traveling convenience
  • Two utility chest pockets
  • Secure-zip hand pockets

 

Because The North Face is considered a lux name brand with top-quality products, there are less expensive options on the market.  

The North Face Packable Travel Jacket is comparable to name-brand jackets from  Patagonia, Eddie Bauer, Outdoor Research, Carhartt, Columbia and more.   

‍Shown: The North Face Packable Travel Jacket

11. Mast Brothers Chocolate Bar 

Gifts for executives that are memorable can be decadent too. For sharing, gifting, or indulging, the Mast Chocolate bras is the perfect choice for any occasion. Almost all the bars are made of organic ingredients, so there's less guilt when indulging in this treat.

Benefits: 

  • Organic ingredients
  • Created by Brooklyn’s acclaimed bean-to-bar pioneers
  • Made in the USA
  • Upscale packaging 

Possible Cons: May be considered on the higher price point for chocolate

Comparable to: Tcho and Compartes Chocolate  

‍Reviews: See reviews and the early beginnings of the Mast Brothers on Chocolatier.

Shown: Mast Chocolate Bars in Sea Salt Chocolate, Lavender Chocolate, and Raspberry Chocolate


12. Incase Laptop Case

This sleek shoulder bag has a compression-molded, impact-absorbing compartment lined with faux fur to cuddle and, more importantly, provide robust protection for your laptop on the go. There’s plenty of room for other business essentials as well.

 

Benefits: 

  • 3-side zip design opens brief and lays flat
  • Multiple pockets for accessories
  • Dedicated sleeve for iPad
  • Eco-dyed 300D poly Ecoya/ Nylon Black: durable abrasion resistant 840D Nylon
  • Padded, fur-like lined laptop cage with TENSAERLITE
  • Detachable padded shoulder strap

 

Compare to Topo Designs 

Shown: ‍Incase Reform 16-inch Brief with TENSAERLITE Laptop Case


13. Retro Vibe Keychains

Technology has opened so many doors for us—and with the right code or swipe literal doors. But when it comes to old-school fun, nothing beats a retro keychain for all the keys you still use. As company swag for leaders, and customers, as well as the best custom merch for Gen Z tops your list, these keychains are just the thing to add your logo to. 

  

Shown: Hotel Keychains

14. AS Colour Surf Cap 

When it comes to custom merch for your business needs, nothing beats a hat. With multiple options available for customizing, it’s just what you need to market your brand or even add to your custom merch store. Starting under $20 it’s also great for adding to your swag boxes and new employee onboarding kits.  

Benefits: 

  • Lightweight
  • Non-structured 
  • available in several colors
  • Adjustable snap sizing  
  • 100% quick-dry nylon

Possible drawback: The surf hat is designed for warmer months as opposed to all year round. 

 

Shown: Surf Hat by AS Colour

15. Native Union Key Cable 

Perfect for anyone who is out and about and finds their phone needing power. The Native Union key cable attaches to keys, which means chances are, it goes where you or your recipient does. Always having a charging solution is a great way to impress your best clients and appreciate your employees. 

 

Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and AirPods, the key cable is available in several options such as the Native Union key USB C to lightning cable. You can also find the USB-A to USB-C and USB-A to lightning options.


Benefits: 

  • Compact design 
  • Perfect for on the go and traveling 
  • For iPhones, iPads & AirPods
  • Reinforced nylon braiding withstands wear & tear
  • Apple MFi certified
  • Also available in USB-C to Lightning, and USB-A to USB-C

Out of 150 reviews, the key cable comes in at 4.7 meaning chances are, your recipient will like this key cable as well. 

Shown: Key Cable by Native Union

15. JBL Waterproof Speaker

Ever been transported back in time by hearing a certain song? That’s the power of music and why any swag that’s music-related is sure to be a hit. The JBL Go 3 Waterproof Portable Speaker is a very affordable and memorable swag item, especially if you’re looking for summer swag ideas

Benefits:

  • Compact size delivers great sound
  • Water and dustproof design for added durability
  • Wirelessly streams music via Bluetooth
  • Play up to 5 hours before your next charge
  • Rechargeable Lithium-polymer battery
  • Available in multiple color options
  • Great price point 


Comparable to the Sony SRS-XB12 Mini Bluetooth Speaker

See the JBL Go 3 Waterproof Speaker Review from Mark Ellis

Shown: GO 3 Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

17. Public Supply Notebook

Notebooks make great swag, but, seriously, it can’t be any ordinary notebook. This one has a story that makes you happy to give and receive it. Public Supply products are  FSC Certified, Rainforest Alliance Certified, acid-free, with 10% post-consumer waste (recycled content). Plus, Public Supply channels 25% of net profits to high-need classrooms focused on creativity (painting, acting, singing, writing, or coding).

 

Benefits: 

  • 25% Of Profits Donated Public Schools 
  • Features 48 acid-free pages 
  • FSC Certified, Rainforest Alliance Certified paper
  • Your choice of dot or ruled 60# cream paper
  • Materials are made of 10% Post-Consumer Waste (Recycled Content) 


Shown: Public Supply Pocket Notebook

18. Woolly Mammoth Camping Blanket

No camping is required to fall in love with this simple, superbly-crafted merino wool blanket crafted by the Woolly Mammoth Woolen Company. Blankets are their only product and they are focussed on crafting them to be legendary for their comfort and durability no matter where you use them.

Benefits: 

  • 80% merino wool blend
  • A touch of acrylic added for enhanced durability

Possible drawback: Recommended dry clean only 

Compare to Woolrich blankets

Shown: ‍Woolly Mammoth Camping Blanket

19. Rains Tote Bag

Rain or shine, you cannot go wrong with this roomy, waterproof tote for your business swag. The classically simple, gender-neutral design zips closed to protect your gear whether you’re off to work, the gym, or on a weekend getaway.

 

‍Benefits: 

  • Available in 8 neutral and muted hues
  • Features Rains’ signature waterproof PU fabric
  • Durable strength
  • Smooth feel finish

Possible drawback: Smaller than the Rains classic tote.  

Compare to Incase and Baggu

Shown: Tote Bag Rush

20. Native Union Cable & Belt Tie

Everyone has their favorite tech accessories. Whether it’s ear buds, chargers, etc., one thing is for sure. Having an organizer to keep your essentials safe and sound is paramount. Luckily, there’s a swag option to the rescue. 

 

Benefits

  • Offers lightweight storage 
  • Protects your electronics on-the-go
  • Crafted with a resistant textile exterior 
  • Features soft quilted interior
  • Genuine leather accents
  • Flexible loops & pockets organize all your accessories
  • Water-repellent zipper & coated canvas finish for extra care

Shown: Native Union Stow Lite Organizer

What is Your Swag Strategy?

There are three basic categories of business swag you ought to consider as you map out your strategy and put together your budget:

1. Swag for Employees 

You probably have different levels, like: Execs, Mid-Management, Exempt, Non-Exempt.

2. Swag for Clients/Customers

You probably have different levels based on volume of business, etc.

  • Welcome Thank-You Gift
  • Annual Holiday/Appreciation Gift
  • Event(s) Swag

3. Marketing Swag for Prospects

  • Trade Shows
  • General Business Promotion Swag

Get Expert Help

Whether you’re ready to implement a complete corporate swag plan, or simply want to set up a company swag store, drop ship personalized swag with business cards, or need swag bag ideas for business events, Gemnote is an upscale business swag company ready to give you sound advice, help you curate your unique collection of custom business swag, and provide the kind of fulfillment services that make your job way easier and let you sleep like a baby at night. Sweet dreams!

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