In today’s blog post, I’ll share ideas about how to highlight your business via custom plaques. I’ll introduce you to what they are, why they are important and the most common types of material.
Plaques are recognition items used to highlight achievements, show gratitude, or acknowledge contributions. Plaques have a long tradition. They play a role in different settings. For example in governmental organisations, NGOs, the corporate world, schools, and sports. They usually carry a particular logo, image and text, e.g. the name of the recipient, the award title and date.
Plaques are often displayed in public areas, homes, or offices. To showcase exceptional deeds.
When you recognise someone’s exceptional achievements or contributions, you want to show that person how much you care. Custom versions of plaques do that because they prove you’ve gone the extra mile. By personalising the plaque in such a way that it speaks to the individual recipient.
Receiving a custom plaque can mean a significant boost in morale and motivation. Not only for the recipient but others, too. Because it proves that achievements are being recognized. As social beings, this is particularly the case when the plaque is being handed over on stage. In front of other people.
Custom plaques are important since they represent an investment into relationships. They have a long tradition of serving as a symbol of appreciation and respect. Presenting someone with a plaque is a feel good moment.
As physical objects, plaques serve as lasting reminders of achievement. They are durable items that will stand the test of time and are often placed at visible spots such as e.g. a desk, shelf or wall.
Custom plaques that show details about an organisation, e.g. the name and the logo, contribute to successful branding. This conveys a professional image about the brand.
Plaques can be made from many different materials. Either from one single material or a mix of several. The best option will depend on your brand’s identity, timeline, budget and what you believe the recipient will appreciate most.
Acrylic is a transparent plastic that for plaques is often used instead of glass. Because it is easier to shape, whilst being cheaper and lighter. Printing and engraving offer excellent options for personalising an acrylic plaque. Additionally, one can choose from many different color options.
Out of all materials mentioned here, metal is the most premium one. The perception of value you’ll achieve by using metal is high. One can shape it via different technologies, e.g. casting, forging and CNC. Metal offers the possibility of detailed 3D shapes and diverse finishes.
Wooden plaques are chosen for their warm and elegant look. Natural grain patterns add a unique character to each individual plaque. There are many wood types available which can be stained in various colors. Branding can be done via CNC or laser engraving, printing or plates made from metal or plastic. At the end of the production process, wooden plaques can be coated in a protective lacquer. To further enhance durability.
Glass plaques do exist but it is a tricky material. Due to its weight and the fact that it can break into sharp pieces. Logistics are kind of a nightmare with this material.
Plaques made from mixed materials can be particularly elegant. Our favorite is to mix wood and metal. Both are premium options that together look sophisticated. This combination often results in a wooden back panel and a metal element on top. It could be a medallion or an engraved or printed plate.
There exist many materials and manufacturing technologies to choose from. This means endless possibilities for creating plaques. The emphasis needs to be on the initial concept development phase. To first determine a creative solution.
Engraving is a useful technology for personalisation. Because it is very cost-effective for low volumes. And it works with many different materials. If it is the best option depends on the design. For larger volumes of metal plaques, it will often be better to first invest into a tool. For casting the product. A supplier will be able to tell you which technology is the most cost-effective for your project.
Plaques made in the traditional way never contain electronics. But hey, you don’t have to stick to tradition. Plaques can for example offer illumination. By adding LED strips or other types of light sources.
Our in-house product design and development team has brought a lot of custom plaques to life. They aim find new ways to get the most out of a product. Always from an aesthetic perspective. Sometimes from a functional perspective, too. But it has to make sense. Let’s face it, a lot of plaques don’t even end up on a desk, shelf or wall, but in a drawer. A well chosen function can add value. One needs to be careful to choose the right type. Not something that trivializes the item or occasion.
Custom plaques are about recognizing someone’s achievement but about branding, too. You don’t want to invest money into a custom product without your brand gaining a fair part of the spotlight.
Plaques made from glass or acrylic material are transparent options. They are very common items in the health industry. I recall visiting a doctor who had about a hundred of them in his office. The commemorative product version that has a laser etched 3D object “floating” within.
Plaques are a product category with a very long history. I'd say more than 700 years! There exist a broad range of materials, finishes and manufacturing technologies. Which give you a lot of options. With a custom solution, you'll be able to communicate the unique character of your brand. And show your appreciation for the people who receive them. In case you need any further advice, do let me know.
Ivica Baraba - Sales & Marketing management
"In PES I get to work on many custom branded merchandise projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
In today’s blog post I’ll talk about the top promotional product ideas and how important they are for your sales success. There don’t exist product categories that will work for every brand and every occasion.
I’ve therefore chosen examples that primarily work for the drinks industry because that’s the industry we here at PES have, since 1992, gained the most experience in. At the end of this blog post, I’ll give you a few tips on how to choose the right promotional products, and the options you have for sourcing them.
Promotional products are crucial to sales success because they are a physical extension of a brand, they facilitate customer loyalty, and improve brand recall.
Promotional products provide long-lasting brand visibility. Compared to digital ads, customers actively use and engage with a promotional product. Whilst others who are not using the item might still notice the product. This means your brand is getting reinforced. Over weeks, months, or even years.
A person who receives your promotional product is likely to remember your brand over other brands and feel a need for reciprocity. This is a deeply engrained part of human culture. It means the person is more inclined to trust and ultimately buy from your business.
Promotional products can serve as on pack gift items, significantly increasing the perceived value of your offer. “Buy X and get a free keyholder.” This directly increases sales.
Using promotional items as giveaways pre-purchase can serve as conversation starters which facilitates sales. Whilst being used as a post-purchase gift item, promotional products make customers feel appreciated. This in turn increases the probability of customers remembering the interaction, and in the future opting for a repeat purchase.
A quality promotional product will help your brand stand out. At event booths they can help attract traffic, thus facilitating customer engagement. Unique promotional products can create a buzz, encouraging people to show them to others and talk about them.
There doesn’t exist a specific list of promotional products that in general will be the best. It always depends on the specifics of a brand, its target audience and how they go about marketing.
As an example, here are eight product ideas that will work well for drinks brands
Bottle glorifiers are one of the first products drinks brands invest in, when it comes to being present at the Point of Sale, e.g. a bar or a supermarket. Depending on the brand and the budget, glorifiers will be made from either plastic, metal, wood or MDF.
Bottle glorifiers are one of the first products drinks brands invest in, when it comes to being present at the Point of Sale, e.g. a bar or a supermarket. Depending on the brand and the budget, glorifiers will be made from either plastic, metal, wood or MDF.
In bars bottle openers are an essential tool. If custom designed, they represent visually appealing items that draw consumer attention. Made from metal, they can reach a high level of durability.
Keyrings are a cost-effective promotional product that can serve as a gift or giveaway. Most keyrings are made from plastic or metal. The branding is done via print, laser engraving, stickers or a custom shape, e.g. a relief which comes from the custom mould.
Everybody likes to receive a medal. It symbolises exceptional achievement and serves as a physical reminder of all the effort exerted. Mostly round in shape, medals are made from metal and branded via a print, a label, laser and CNC engraving, and/or a custom shape.
Pins are communicating a brand via a logo, name or slogan. Mostly small in size, ca. 15 to 25mm, they are made from metal and fixed via a butterfly clutch, a pin or a magnet.
Every brand has certain elements that are linked to its industry. One could say these elements are part of its iconography. Within the whisky domain, three such items are a bottle, a barrel and a still. These are well known products that many consumers already expect to be part of a brand's communication. To support their visibility and storytelling efforts, organisations invest in product replicas. Often these are mini replicas.
An important distribution channel for drinks brands is the On Trade channel. Bars, cafes and restaurants will often use menu holders and coaster holders to communicate what they are offering. Menu holders are made from wood, MDF, plastic or metal. Coaster holders mostly from a sturdy cardboard material, metal, MDF, plastic or leather.
Menu and coaster holders occupy prime Point of Sale territory. Placed in the middle of tables, they are right in front of consumers who are about to make buying decisions.
Be it on a shelf in a supermarket, on a bartop or part of a promotional booth, product displays are used in many different channels. They are a vital Point of Sale material category which increases brand visibility.
Branded utensils are, in the context of drinks brands, bar tools or tableware that carry the logo, name or design of a company or brand. Items like spoons, shakers, jiggers and cheese boards.
These items are mostly being used in bars, during retail store tastings, at events and as Gifts With Purchase.
When it comes to choosing the right promotional product there are many things to consider. Most notably quality, timeline and budget.
The product needs to match your brand’s positioning. This in turn will influence what good material options are. Do you e.g. choose metal, wood, MDF or plastic? To a high degree quality is subjective. This means you need to look at this from your target audience’s perspective.
What promotional products would they appreciate? Which ones match their needs and desires best? Do the products offer a high functional and aesthetic value?
I remember a project during which we won a new client who managed a whisky brand. He trusted us with a purchase order to make custom bottle glorifiers, although our price was the highest amongst a few competitors.
What he liked best, though, was the quality of the prototype we delivered. I’ll never forget what his feedback was: “If the product doesn’t match at least 95% of my quality expectations, it will rather hurt than help us achieve our business goals.”
In today’s fast paced world, brands are constantly racing to outdo their competitors. Be the first to launch a specific campaign, one that is innovative and not a copy of something that has already been seen. Terms that are being used in this context are “speed to market” or “agility”.
All of our clients here at PES have clear deadlines in mind. When preparing a brief, it is helpful to define a timeline with several checkpoints:
By when do you need to receive quotes?
By what date would you want the concept, the prototype and the PP sample to have been approved?
By when do you need the goods to have been delivered to your warehouse or to the individual outlets?
The more detailed of a timeline you have prepared, the easier it will be to check if you are on track. Not just for you but all the project partners you work with.
How much time and money you can dedicate to a project, will directly impact what you get out of it. As I’m certain you’ve already experienced, it isn’t linear. A larger budget doesn’t necessarily equal bigger success.
The same way a football team with a relatively low budget, think e.g. Leicester here, can win the Premier league title, some suppliers will be able to create more value for you than others. When bringing a custom promotional product to life, many things can go wrong.
Clarity about your budget is valuable but the key is to manage the project, starting from the initial brief, the right way and using your resources in a cost-effective manner.
The vast majority of branded promotional products are standard items that are then customised via the application of a logo, visual and/or text. This could be done via many different technologies, e.g. print or laser engraving.
Which technology is the best choice will depend on your budget and the type of product you’re sourcing. Custom products can be bought from many different companies. Online. In physical retail stores. Via a vendor with a standard product catalogue that can personalize them.
Custom shaped items, in the UK they use the term bespoke, are a bit more challenging. Your product does not yet exist. There is no sample you can assess. To bring custom shaped promotional products to life, often requires a tooling phase which can take up a substantial portion of your budget.
There exist different organisations who can help with custom shaped items. The best fit will depend on your needs and preferences. Firstly, apart from the product itself, what type of additional services will you need? Concept development, prototyping, product testing, licensed merchandise, retail activations…? Secondly, I recommend assessing the ethos of a supplier, how they communicate and if their organisational culture fits how you like to do business. Thirdly, does the project scope and type of product fit what the supplier does well?
Your choice might be a large aggregator, a creative agency or a manufacturer like PES.
Promotional products are one out of many marketing options you can choose from. In order to get the best value for price you need to think about different aspects.
This means taking into consideration your brand characteristics, the people the products are for and how you will get these promotional products in front of them. Luckily there are many suppliers out there who can help you with this
Ivica Baraba - Sales & marketing management
"In PES I get to work on many custom branded merchandise projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
Pins seem to have been around for ages. And for good reason. In today’s blog post I’ll first explain what branded pins are and the different types you can choose from.
After this, I’ll cover how to use them effectively, for different occasions, and what to consider when designing them.
Branded pins are custom pins visually communicating a particular brand. Via a logo, name, slogan or any other element that represents the brand.
Pins serve as a cost-effective promotional product that can impact all of the following aspects:
- brand awareness / visibility
- employee recognition
- customer loyalty
- community building
- sales (as an onpack gift or merchandising item)
There are three main categories of pins. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Enamel pins are small metal pins coated with colored enamel, a glass like coating. These are very durable products. One distinguishes between soft and hard enamel.
Soft enamel is added to the recessed areas of the pin but not all the way up to the metal edges. This means soft enamel leaves a slight texture. One can use different colors on the same pin because metal edges are separating them from each other.
Hard enamel is baked at high tempreatues and results in a polished finish. The enamel is added in layers and then polished down to the height of the metal border.
This production technique is more expensive but offers a premium quality. Both in terms of material and visual appeal. Hard enamel is primarily used for luxury products that are meant to last an extremely long time.
Lapel pins are small pins, as the name already suggests, attached to the lapel of a jacket, suit, coat, or other clothing like ties or hats. They represent a fashion accessory with which to show one’s affiliation or simply a means of self expression.
Lapel pins can be manually painted, enameled or domed. Domed pins are metal pins with a doming sticker inside. The sticker, often called 3D label, too, is coated with either epoxy or polyurethane, a transparent, dome shaped element which assures the pin is durable and protects the visual beneath.
Button pins are small, usually circular types of pins made from light metal. Most of the time its edges are slightly rounded.
On the front there is a printed piece of paper, covered with a transparent plastic foil. On the back there is a safety pin or clasp via which one attaches the product to e.g. a shirt or a backpack.
Button pins are commonly used as promotional products, representing a company, cause, or event. They are widely used during political campaigns and as memorabilia.
In comparison to enamel and lapel pins, button pins are, regarding its price, more on the economic side. They are more casual than these other two pin types, too.
Button pins almost always use a safety pin style mechanism on the back, while the other pins use a butterfly clasp, stick pin or magnet.
There are several purposes for which branded pins can be used as an effective marketing tool.
Corporate and networking events
Many corporate and networking events you’ll attend will feature pins. Why not join the party? I remember a business event here in Zagreb which was organised by the British Embassy. I was wearing a lapel pin which was showing both the UK and the Croatian flag. It served as a great conversation starter since people asked me where I got it from.
Employee recognition
People being the greatest organisational asset, pins can serve as a small element via which to celebrate achievements and foster team spirit. It could be for a milestone like X years of being part of the company, a special achievement, e.g. a sales goal or completing a project, or you could award pins to someone who is embodying your company values. In any case, pins will serve as a lasting symbol of recognition.
Customer loyalty
Pins can be used as a tool to communicate with your customers, create a sense of connection and encourage repeat business. Particularly when you’re offering exclusive pin designs that make them feel special. Some organisations use tiered designs. These are different pin designs, each representing a different level of loyalty. As a cost-effective and small item, pins can easily be used as a direct mailing gift. One of the keys of using pins successfully is its design. You need to make sure they are both practical and visually appealing enough that customers choose to use them. When investing money into pins, the last thing you want is that they end up in the trash.
Design plays a crucial role in creating branded pins. If you don’t have an in-house designer, it is a good idea to work with a supplier who does. The process starts with a brief after which you’ll receive a full color render visualization.
This will help you align with the designer in regards to what you like and dislike. Before starting any bulk production process, it is wise to first receive a prototype or a pre-production sample.
The first decision you’ll need to make is what type of pin works best for your brand, your budget, the people who will receive the pin and the occasion. If your brand is a premium one and you’re organising a VIP customer event, an enamel pin will be the right choice.
If your target group are children for whom you are organising a large promotional event, you will want to rely on a cost-effective solution like a button pin.
The type of pin you choose will, to a great extent, already determine the material.
Lapel or enamel pins are made from metal, either cast, e.g. from a zinc alloy named ZAMAC, or laser cut from sheet material, e.g. steel. Combinations of different materials are possible, like we did here. For the Tullamore D.E.W. whiskey brand.
Like with any marketing material, you will want to make it your own. Differentiation is a key in brand visibility. If your brand has a long tradition, you’ll probably want to choose an antique metal finish. If your brand is a modern one, you’ll want to choose a more contemporary look.
Pick an element from your visual guidelines which will work well with a pin. If your logo has too many details for such a small object, use a simplified version or choose a slogan.
Most pins are somewhere between 15 and 25mm in size. The most common shape is a circle. Many pins are rectangular, oval or even custom shaped. Choose the size and shape that works best for your particular visual.
If you choose to communicate your brand logo, it will often automatically determine the shape of your pin.
There exist several mechanisms for attaching a pin you can choose from. The most common ones are a butterfly clutch and a magnet. A butterfly clutch is safer but some people don’t like to create a hole in their clothes, albeit it being a very small one.
Magnets assure you avoid this but, unless you use a single unit packaging like a box, logistics will be messy. Because pins with magnets will attract each other and, within the export carton, create a “ball” of pins. Besides, a pin with a magnet on its back, tends to fall off easier. My personal favorite is therefore the butterfly clutch.
There are occasions when having your pins packaged into polybags, of 50 or 100 units each, will work fine. In other occasions you will want to use a single unit packaging option.
Instead of single unit polybags we recommend either paper bags or cardboard boxes. The good thing is these can carry a printed label or direct print which can even be personalized.
As a promotional product, pins have a long tradition and offer you many options to be creative. Since a pin is a small object, you can easily distribute them. It is a product category where you can, with a relatively low investment, create a custom version.
Ivica Baraba - Sales & marketing management
"In PES I get to work on many custom branded merchandise projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
Whenever you collaborate with On trade outlets, e.g. a restaurant or a bar, you have a vested interest in providing them with your branded menu holders. After all, outlets need to present their products and a menu holder is an essential Point of Sale material with which to do that.
In today’s blog post I’ll explain all the reasons why a menu holder is important, the different types that exist and present a few product ideas to get your creative juices flowing. I will talk about them in terms of relevance to someone who is managing a brand, be it within the organisation that is the brand owner, e.g. Diageo, or be it as their marketing execution partner who is taking care of designing, developing and/or sourcing menu holders for them, e.g. HH Global.
Menu holders serve several purposes. Not only do they help present menus in an organised way, so that customers can make more informed decisions. They protect menus from scratches, spills and stains, too.
Menu holders are one of the top Point of Sale objects that you’ll want to manage. Typically located on tables and bar tops, menu holders are easily visible to consumers. They’ll actively use them to read what products/services are being offered. It is in your interest to use menu holders to communicate with consumers and position your brand as the top choice.
An aspect that is often neglected is that your menu holders should not only represent your brand and appeal to your target audience, but they need to work well for the outlet owner, too. In terms of the interior design and what the brand of the outlet stands for. Too often I’ve been in outlets where this aspect has been completely neglected. A sleek, minimal menu holder in a steampunk themed bar? Yeah, that does not work well. A custom solution will work well here.
A personalized model is different. Some people refer to them as custom or, in Britain, they call them bespoke keyrings. They are unique, in the sense that nobody else is using the exact same model. They might even go beyond that, containing e.g. the name or the person that is receiving it.
Within the world of menu holders, there exist three main categories.
Tabletop menu holders represent the most common menu holder category. As the name itself already reveals, these are menu holders that are placed on top of the tables customers sit at. It is important that they do not occupy too much of the table surface. Otherwise there wouldn’t be enough space space for plates, cutlery, glasses and, last but not least, for guests to rest their arms, keys, wallets or phones on.
Some restaurants prefer to use wall-mounted menu holders. It is typical in fast food type of restaurants. Whilst consumers wait in line to place their order they are reading the information about the menu on holders that are hanging on the wall behind the cashier(s).
The most common menu board you’ll come across is the so-called A-board. Looking at it from the side, its shape looks like the letter A. I’m referring to the boards you often run into whilst passing by a restaurant or bar. More often than not these are either made from a white plastic panel one can write on with a marker, with an aluminium frame, or from a black chalkboard panel that has a wooden frame.
There are a lot of different menu holders out there. The easiest way to categorise them is by material. Here are five options.
Wood is a high quality, robust option. From lighter to darker wood types, it offers a broad range of color options, particularly since one can tone wood. The most common wood types for menu holders used in Europe are beech, alder and walnut. Personalizing them is easy and done via printing, hostamping or engraving.
MDF stands for Medium-Density Fiberboard and is an engineered wood product where wood fibres and resin are compressed at high temperatures. Natural wood is more durable than MDF and withstands wear and tear better. MDF, though, is the more economic option. It is easier to cut and shape, too, and less prone to cracking when drilled or screwed into. From a sustainability perspective it is considered to be better than wood, since MDF is made from recycled wood fibres. Although one has to point out that the production of MDF involves chemicals that can emit harmful gases. In any case, you’ll find a lot of menu holders are made from MDF.
Another economic option for menu holders is acrylic glass. These are typically laser cut from premade, flat acrylic glass plates. These exist in many different colors and thicknesses, e.g. 3mm, 5mm and 10mm. One can bend flat acrylic glass pieces via applying heat and easily print onto them. If you need a true 3D shape, plastic menu holders are the way to go.
With plastic menu holders we are referring to 3D shaped menu holders. These are often not made by laser cutting premade acrylic glass plates but rather by first developing a stainless steel mould and then using a manufaturing technology called injection moulding. By using this technology one injects heated material into a mould. It is akin to baking muffins. You need a mould to create the desired shape.
Menu holders made from metal are even more robust than wooden ones and extremely durable. The most common types of metal used are aluminium, stainless steel, copper and brass. Metal versions are a good choice if your goal is to use modern looking menu holders.
Managers building a new brand that focuses on the On Trade distrubition channel, think e.g. a beer or soft drinks brand, often consider menu holders as one of their first investments into Point of Sale material. It is that important of a product category.
After all, since menu holders are placed in the middle of tables, it is the promotional product that is the closest to the actual consumer. It stares him or her right in the face when they are about to make their purchasing decision.
Ivica Baraba - Sales & marketing management
"In PES I get to work on many custom branded merchandise projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
Keyrings are one of those branded merchandise options that have been around for what seems like an eternity. Tried and tested. A proven vehicle for marketing success. In today’s blog post I cover what personalised keyrings are, describe the benefits you gain by using them, explain how to create one and share unique keyring ideas.
With personalised keyrings I refer to all those keyrings you won’t find in a catalogue. I mean those thick promotional product catalogues you’re probably receiving on a regular basis. Keyrings are always one of the product categories that show up in there.
A personalised model is different. Some people refer to them as custom or, in Britain, they call them bespoke keyrings. They are unique, in the sense that nobody else is using the exact same model. They might even go beyond that, containing e.g. the name or the person that is receiving it.
There are many reasons why your business will benefit from personalised keyrings. Here are five of them.
Keyrings are neat, small items that help promote your brand. They get the word out there. Brand visibility assured. Without ongoing costs. Keyrings not only reinforce the brand towards the user but towards other people who are next to them whilst the product is being used, lying on a desk or hanging from a hook on a wall. Attached to car keys, house keys, or bags.
Keyrings, as an everyday object of functional value, engage customers. They use the product with their hands. They grab it. They turn a key whilst holding and seeing it. They are often exposed to the product and therefore the brand. Much more often than a billboard they might, from time to time or maybe even just once, have driven by. Or a digital ad that shows up in their browser. Only for a few seconds.
Personalised keyrings are not cheap but very cost-effective. Especially when produced in bulk. They don’t break the bank whilst providing constant brand messaging. They are much more memorable than other types of promotional materials, like flyers or business cards. Keyrings of a high quality will last for years and not be thrown away. For all the talk about how keys will be replaced by mobile phone apps or access cards, we’re not there yet. The truth is there are still a lot of them being used. They are everywhere
Personalised keyrings, particularly those with a customer’s name or initials, create an emotional connection between the business and the recipient. This makes the recipient feel special and valued.
A personalised keyring feels more meaningful than a standard product, fostering a sense of customer care and building brand affinity. They are often used at events, e.g. as part of the welcome package, and can thus serve as conversation starter. As portable objects, they turn users into moving brand ambassadors. Wherever the keyring goes, it can spark conversations about the business and connect to new potential customers.
When creating personalised keyrings for promoting your brand, design versatility is a key advantage. Keyrings are suitable for matching a brand’s unique character and appeal to a specific target audience. They can be cut or cast into almost any form. Be it flat, debossed, embossed, or in full 3D. For limited editions or mass quantities.
There are numerous color options and ways to personalise them, e.g. via names or initials, custom messages such as a motivational quote or a special date, or even custom images. Additionally, a capable manufacturer will have a multitude of print techniques and finishes available, e.g. laser engraving, hotstamping and printing.
The versatility of keyrings can turn into a challenge. There are so many options to choose from. What does a proven process look like when planning to source a personalised keyring? What aspects does one need to consider?
Keyrings will be different depending on the goal and the occasion you need them for. Is it for direct sales or for branding? Are you planning to use them for a direct mailing campaign, as an onpack gift item or as a giveaway at events? The shape might be different when you distribute them via an envelope, attach them to a bottle, or hand them over manually.
Does the personalised keyring need to match a particular seasonal or event based theme? Christmas, a company anniversary or a product launch? Keyrings will serve as a small souvenir to commemorate the event.
Once you and your supplier are clear about the goal and the occasion, the next step is to determine the design. You’ll want to rely on a professional designer for this, since they’ll know how to create a model that will be most cost-effective. You should rely on a full color, 3D render visualisation and provide feedback. Later on a prototype and a pre-production sample. Before any bulk production related processes start.
Personalised keyrings can be made from a wide range of materials, each of which offers a different visual appeal, tactile experience and price point. Metal is durable and premium, plastic lightweight and affordable, leather elegant and luxurious, acrylic highly customisable and lightweight, wood eco-friendly and warm. Even more sustainable options are recycled plastic or metal, bamboo, or biodegradable materials. Whichever materials you consider, they need to fit your brand’s identity and your target audience’s preferences.
Keyrings don’t only need to be keyrings. Additional elements can enhance the product. Examples are:
Multi-functional keyrings increase the level of functionality the keyring offers. This increases the frequency with which the recipient uses the product.
There are so many options when it comes to creating unique personalised keyrings. Here are a few our PES team brought to life.
Personalised keyrings are a small but capable tool for promoting your business. They offer a unique combination of functionality, cost-efficacy and brand visibility. From a design perspective, they can easily be adapted to represent your unique brand and match your target audience’s preferences. Keyrings provide your stakeholders with an easy to carry and memorable product. Used as giveaways or corporate gifts, they foster customer relationships and improve brand loyalty. Personalised keyrings are a safe and pragmatic choice when it comes to choosing promotional merchandise.
Ivica Baraba
"In PES I get to work on many custom branded merchandise projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
In the last blog post I’ve covered what the best time is to consider a personalized trophy or award. In this one today, I’ll be sharing my thoughts about custom trophy designs and how these can help your brand. What different types of trophies exist and I’ll be sharing a few custom trophy ideas. I hope it’ll serve as good food for thought whenever you might need a custom trophy. Should you have any comment or feedback, best drop me a message on LinkedIN.
When I was a kid I did a lot of sports. Mostly football, basketball, swimming and table tennis. Whenever any of my friends and I participated in a competition, the medals and trophies were a big deal to us. The vast majority of events had very similar type of trophies. Back then I did not know why. After a while it was boring.
The rare events that had unique trophies were special. Amongst adults, I don’t believe it is much different. Yes, I now understand that not everyone who is handing out trophies will put in the same amount of effort into developing nice ones. I now understand the role the budget plays in making these type of decisions.
By using custom trophies the organizers are sending a strong message of quality and attention to detail. With custom trophies it is much easier to align the trophy with the brand. Whilst one can personalize standard trophies, e.g. with a printed logo, the date and the name of the event, custom trophies offer more options. You can pick a particular material and the entire design can be adapted to what makes most sense for your brand. If e.g. one of the brand values is creativity custom trophies allow you to go all in. This way the value is communicated both internally and externally.
Some clients use the term instagramability. It refers to the likelihood of a product, be it a parader in a night club or a trophy, to be shared on social media. With a custom trophy that is well designed the instagramability score will be higher. This results in brand exposure to a wider audience.
Custom trophies are better for the participants, too. Whoever is involved in the organization of the award ceremony, they’ll feel better about a custom trophy than a standard one. Those who are competing for it, will feel more motivated if the trophy is a well designed custom one. Nobody likes to have a cheap looking, boring trophy on one’s shelf.
There exist all kinds of trophies. From many different materials. In many different designs.
The most common type of trophy is the cup trophy. These stem from ancient times when chalices and cups were considered valuables and were common award items. Most often they are made from metal, in silver or gold color.
Unlike cup trophies plaques don’t have a true 3D shape. They are almost flat metal pieces. To such a product, akin to many keyholders or pin badges, we here in PES say the product has a 2,5D design. On the backside plaques are flat and on the top side they have a relief. Debossed and/or embossed areas. They often come in a cardboard or wooden box. Sometimes even with a small printed card inside that carries a message relevant to the event and receiver.
Trophies and awards sometimes take the form of objects that are to be hung onto a wall. Most often these are made from printed metal, plastic or wood.
Medals are very common award items. They are often combined with additional, larger types of trophies, like a cup trophy. Most often round in shape and made from metal, medals are attached to ribbons, so that one can carry them around the neck. A subcategory are medals of honor, which are commonly used in organisations such as the military.
Trophies can be mostly made from a figurine that is often attached to a base element made from a different type of material, e.g. a metal figurine and a wooden base.
A very common type of trophy. A 3D piece made from acrylic glass, often in a geometric form, with something inside that looks like a 3D object. It is etched into the acrylic glass.
A lot of trophies are made from glass or acrylic glass. They can be personalized via engraving or print.
A relevant object, linked to the brand world, that is replicated. This is another very common category of trophies and awards.
Think about the more artsy shapes here. A sculpture but not a figurine. No cup either. No medal or plaque.
1. Out of office
In collaboration with BBDO, the Croatian National Tourism Board managed a brand awareness campaign named “Out of Office”. The most creative “Out of Office” messages got an award. The product has been designed by BBDO and is a beautiful example of a budget type of award that still looks unique. The product is made from several pieces of light blue acrylic glass material connected to each other.
2. Heineken
For more than 15 years now, we’ve been crafting custom Point of Sale material and branded merchandise for Heineken. One of their internal events was an award ceremony for the best sales representatives. As the top award we made a trophy that consisted out of a Heineken glass replica made from metal and a large base.
3. MaiStar
Maistra is the name of a hotel group. As their guest you can become a member of the MaiStar Rewards Club and enjoy exclusive benefits. It is a loyalty programme for which their agency partner, Bruketa&Žinić&Grey, developed the below award.
4. ICT Gold
The ICT Gold Award is a Croatian national award for the best ICT implementation. It is made from polished brass with an engraved ICT logo.
5. Croatian exporters
The National Croatian Exporters organisation hosts an annual award ceremony for the companies that achieved the best export results. The product is made from solid metal, attached to a solid wood base.
6. Rotary Gear
Conceptualised and designed by Ana Banić Göttlicher, this product represents the annual award of the Croatian Chamber of Mechanical Engineers. It consists of four fragmented gear segments, each of which has six teeth. Since there are four different levels of recognition, there are varied materials used for this custom award.
7. ATP Croatia Umag
After more than 30 years of organizing the ATP Croatia Open Umag tennis tournament, the company that stands behind this event, Plava Laguna, decided it was time for a redesign of their trophy. Actually not to redesign but reinterpret the existing trophy.
The goal was to find a more modern look and to replace crystal with metal. Our client’s design partner, Andrija Previšić, came up with a new concept. Our role was to help develop and make it. The products have been crafted in our workshop located in Zagreb, Croatia.
Custom trophies are a common sight in many different industries. They are tools for recognising extraordinary achievements in a way that reflects the unique culture of the particular industry. Below I’ll describe a few famous awards, categorised by industry, plus present fresh trophy concepts for the majority of these industries.
Education and Academia
Not a trophy in the traditional sense, the Nobel Medal is the most prestigious award in more than just one field. The medal carries a relief of Alfred Nobel’s profile. More than anything the design of this award communicates tradition.
The Pulitzer Prize Medal, is awarded in 24 categories, relating to journalism, literature, and musical composition. The medal has a relief on both sides and is presented in an elegant cherry-wood box with brass hardware.
Culinary
The most well know award in the culinary industry is the Michelin star. The award comes in the form of a square shaped, thin wall item. The product is made from metal and printed.
Other notable trophies and awards are the James Beard Award in the US and the Bocuse d’Or Trophy in France, which is often called the culinary Olympics. Each winner of the first receives a medal with a relief of the founder’s profile. Each winner of the second receives a trophy with a 3D figurine. The figurine represents a male chef, Bocuse himself, and is made from metal. With either a copper, silver or gold color finish.
Advertising and Media
The Cannes Lions Trophy symbolises achievements in advertising and media. The design featues a metal 3D lion, mounted on a black rectangular base.
The Clio Awards is the most prestigious advertising festival in the USA, founded in 1959. It is often referred to as the Oscars of the advertising industry. The trophy looks quite similar. It comes in four different versions: Grand, gold, silver and bronze.
Architecture and Design Industry
The Pritzker Architecture Prize is a bronze medallion that carries a relief on both sides. It symbolises the cultural value of architectural work.
The AIA Gold Medal is awarded by the American Institute of Architects. The award is a gold medal with classical design elements.
The Red Dot Design Award is a printed A4 sheet of paper in a silver frame. The competition dates back to 1954 and is taking place in Essen, Germany.
Corporate and Business Industry
The Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Award is based on a technology inspired design, featuring digital numbers or geometric shapes. The main goal is to communicate innovation and rapid growth.
Founded in 1986, the E&Y Entrepeneur Of The Year Award has expanded to close to 60 countries. It honors business leaders for their achievements and entrepreneurial spirit. In most countries the award is made from metal and acrylic glass. Attached to a black base which is either made from wood or MDF.
Music
The Grammy Award, in the shape of a golden gramophone, mounted onto a black base, is a classic symbol of musical achievement. Awarded across various genres, its vintage design represents the timelessness of music.
In terms of its design, the Brit Award, is special. Because each year a different well-known artist is in charge of its design. This way it reflects the contemporary nature of the music industry.
Fashion
The CFDA Fashion Award is awarded by The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). It is a modern trophy in the shape of a human figure, made from silver finished metal.
The Fashion Awards are a UK related ceremony. The trophies are designed by famous artists or designers, representing the creativity inherent in the fashion industry.
Automotive
The Motor Trend Car of the Year Award often features an aerodynamic design, symbolising the movement inherent in this industry. The shape is often a stylized car, wheel or another car part. The award represents innovation and achievement in automotive design and engineering. This award, having debuted in 1949, was the first publication to name a Car of the Year.
The Movin’On Challenge Design, formerly known as the Michelin Design Challenge, is a sustainable mobility design competition. Each year the organizers announce a new theme. Like the Motor Trend Car of the Year Award, the Movin’On Challenge Design trophy often incorporates an automotive part.
Sports
The FIFA World Cup Trophy is made of 18 carat gold. This award trophy features two humans lifting up our planet. It is 36,8cm high and weighs a bit more than 6kg. This trophy represents the global unity and competitive spirit of soccer.
Each year the Vince Lombardi Trophy is awarded to the National Football League’s champion. The team that wins the Super Bowl. The trophy is made of sterling silver and shows a football in a kicking position, on a tall stand.
Entertainment
The Academy Award, also know as The Oscar, is probably the most recognized trophy in the world. The iconic golden statue depicts a knight holding a sword. It symbolizes achievement in film and is present annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).
The MTV Video Music Award, also called The Moonman, features an astronaut holding an MTV flag. The Moonman trophy is a playful, innovative design which represents MTV’s creative and youthful brand positioning.
In conclusion, all of the above examples show how custom trophies are not just awards. They are powerful material representations of the immaterial domain. Because they convey values, achievements, and prestige of individuals, organizations and entire industries. Through its creative design, quality materials, and symbolic representation, these trophies elevate the brands behind them and foster relationships with employees, customers, and other business partners.
Ivica Baraba
"In PES I get to work on many custom Point of Sales material projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
There exist many occasions for which you’ll want to consider investing into personalized trophies. In this blog post I describe five such occasions.
Additionally, I’ll explain what personalized trophies are, your benefits when giving them out and how to best personalize them.
Personalized trophies and awards are custom made objects via which one honors specific individuals, teams or organizations. They are different from standard trophies and awards because the design is not generic and mass produced but personalized.
Personalization can mean different things. The trophy and award can carry a recipient’s name and title. The name of an event. Custom branding elements like a logo. A category which the award is linked to, e.g. Sales. The trophy and award can even be made using custom materials.
Personalized trophies and awards elevate the occasion and grant benefits to all parties involved.
Elevate the event: Personalized awards elevate the event. Participants are more likely to perceive the organisation, brand or individual that are handing out personalized awards to be professional and serious about quality.
Present values: Giving out personalized trophies and awards helps establish a culture of recognition. Awarding an individual’s or team’s achievement shows that the awarder values and is willing to celebrate the work they have put in.
Communicate the brand: Trophies that carry a company logo, its colors or unique copy help communicate the brand. Not only towards the participants of the event itself. To other stakeholders, like suppliers, consumers and clients, too. Via images and videos that are being shared after the event.
Increase motivation: People who receive an award with their name on it, feel personally recognized. This can help them to keep on giving their best and push their limits. Their hard work is being validated and an award serves them as a physical reminder of their achievement.
Foster relationships: Personalized trophies and awards show that the giver notices and values the recipient’s achievements. This alone can help foster relationships, e.g. between an employer and employees. Team members who know their achievements are seen and recognized are more likely to be loyal towards the organization. Other employees might look up to the person who has won an award as a role model. Thus elevating the recipient’s status amongst his peers.
Create competition: Personalized trophies and awards can serve as a vehicle for people to improve their game. Be it in sports or other organisations. Some people will feel inspired to reach new heights. This hopefully fosters a healthy type of competition.
Personalized trophies and awards are a powerful tool to recognise someone’s extraordinary achievements. This has a positive impact in a multitude of areas.
There exist many occasions that are suitable for giving out personalized trophies. Here are five of them.
Anniversaries are special dates that commemorate the occurrence of a meaningful event in the past. These occur annually, communicating the passage of time. An anniversary at which personalized trophies might be used are a celebratory event about the foundation of the organization or the launch of a significant product.
Brand celebrations are events organised by an organisation to recognise certain milestones, successes, or special moments referring to the brand. They serve to position the brand in a positive light, strengthen team dynamics and/or customer relationships. As such anniversaries are always brand celebrations, too. Other brand celebrations are rebranding initiatives, product relaunches and customer milestones.
Besides anniversaries and brand celebrations there are many other events at which you’ll want to consider handing out personalized trophies and awards. These are often focused on one particular group of people, be it a company’s own employees, their suppliers or their customers. Recognising significant achievements of any of these groups with personalized trophies will elevate the experience.
Events could be related to holiday celebrations, e.g. a Halloween party at which end the participants dressed in the most creative costumes win trophies. Another possibility are charity events, celebrating positive work and achievements the broader community benefits from.
As a student, back in 1999/2000, right during the millenium change, I worked at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Cancun, Mexico. The hotel was one of roughly fifty Ritz-Carlton hotels in the world. One of the many things I do remember is that competition was an integral part of the organisational culture. Each month the quality department was putting up lists with certain numbers to a pin board, next to the entrance of the employee cafeteria.
The numbers referred to 15 different categories which each single hotel of the Ritz-Carlton network had in common. The categories were guest satisfaction measurements relating to aspects like reservation, valet parking, check-in, cleanliness, room service, billing, overall value for price…
This way each hotel team could continuously see how they were performing. In comparison to all other hotels. The best ones would earn awards.
The Ritz-Carlton managed another type of competition which was more focused on the individual hotel. All employees had to always carry small sheets of paper and a pen with them. Whenever you’d find out a guest’s preference, e.g. a particular type of beverage they liked, you’d write it down and throw it into a mailbox. A team of three people who formed the guest satisfaction team would then input these preferences into a database. Whoever collected the most preferences was the winner of the competition and got an award.
There are many other competitions organisations come up with: sales results, cost reductions, profitability, number of new clients. It depends on the organisational culture, but the more they are able to gamify them, the more fun and successful they tend to be.
Organisations set goals and when they achieve them, it is time to celebrate. There exist a lot of achievements that warrant a personalized award:
- a project completion
- a brand’s entry into a new market
- the one millionth customer
- sales milestones
- new product or service development (think about a personalized award in the shape of a light bulb here #innovation #idea)
- recognition of long-term employees who are part of the company for 5, 10, 25, or more years
- living company values
- leadership or customer service excellence
- the best team
- top individual performer
- sustainability achievements
- retirement
- community impact
Whatever it is, personalized trophies and awards can help elevate the occasion. By honoring the recipients and reinforcing company values related to recogntion and excellence.
To personalize a trophy means to customize it to the specific occasion. The most important aspects to take into consideration are the brand behind it, the theme of the occasion and the individuals involved. Depending on the circumstances, there can be other aspects such as “How visible is the trophy on images or videos?” or “How easily can it be transported?” or “What packaging is needed”? that one needs to consider.
The type of personalisation will depend on the brief. Budget plays a major role here. If it is low, materials such as acrylic glass are a good option whilst a more premium material such as metal most likely won’t be doable. Especially for low volumes, the right manufacturing technologies need to be chosen in order to avoid high set up costs. This could mean laser cutting acrylic glass instead of producing a 3D plastic object via injection moulding. Trophies can be made from many different materials: metal, glass, crystal, wood, acrylic, resin, MDF, marble, leather…
Fully custom trophies and awards have a unique shape whilst personalized ones can mean a standard product which is then e.g. engraved with the name and date of the event + the name of the recipient. These are two very different options, since fully custom trophies will first require the development of a concept.
Personalized trophies will reflect a brand’s style, in terms of logo, artwork and colors. If the event has a unique theme the trophy might reflect that, too. For example a trophy for the national champion of a tennis tournament could be made by combining aspects of the country and the sport.
Some trophies can include lighting or moving parts to highlight certain elements. By personalizing a trophy one creates a unique and more meaningful type of award. One that, amongst other awards standing next to it on a shelf, will for sure stand out.
There exist many occasions during which the use of personalized trophies and awards make sense. Choosing the right type of trophies, the ones which match a brand’s, an event’s and a target audience’s unique character, will elevate the experience the most.
In the next blog post I’ll be presenting custom trophy ideas. These will hopefully inspire you to come up with your own ideas for personalized trophies and awards.
Ivica Baraba
"In PES I get to work on many custom Point of Sales material projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
In this blog post I write about personalised utensils, physical objects, that help you develop the visibility of your brand. I’ll cover what they are, what role they play, which ones you can personalise, how to personalise them, how to make sure they don’t lose their luster and at the end I’ll present a few examples.
In general, personalised utensils refer to cutlery and kitchen tools that are customised per the unique preferences of a brand. For the purpose of this blog post, I will focus on utensils that are used by brand ambassadors who represent a drinks brand. This is one of the industries in which personalised utensils are used most.
Personalised, particularly custom brand ambassador utensils, can help your brand stand out in many ways.
Unique style: By using utensils that are uniquely representing your specific brand you automatically set yourself apart from other brands. Unique shapes, colors, patterns.
Memorable experiences: Personalised utensils can serve as conversation starters. Picture a premium spirit tasting, hosted by a brand ambassador. Everyone will be exposed to the utensils he will be using.
Brand perception: Personalised utensils demonstrate an elevated attention to detail and thoughtfulness. Consumers are likely to interpret this by perceiving your brand to be of higher value.
Specific purpose: Personalised or custom utensils can be made with a special focus on functionality and comfort. This assures they don’t only look good but are also extra practical. This proves that your brand values both aesthetics and functionality.
Brand storytelling: When using personalised or custom utensils you have a chance to express your culture or a specific theme. To tell your brand story. A good way to do this are replicas. The following item, the Reyka Mini Still, represents a miniature version of one of the six original stills. These are located in Iceland. The black rocks represent the original lava stones which are used as part of the distilling process of this premium vodka.
Branded merchandise: Personalised utensils can not only be used by brand ambassadors but by consumers, too. This is an opportunity for gifting. Depending on the product, this ranges from small giveaways to prestige VIP gift items. To consumers these items are often desirable and in some cases even treated as collectibles.
Your brand enthusiasts will particularly be eager to own them. There are for example Facebook groups in which members share insights into how to obtain branded utensils of a certain brand. Throughout the years we here at PES have received a lot of enquiries from individual consumers. They ask us if we’d be able to sell them certain personalised utensils of their favourite brand.
There are many utensils out there that can be personalised.
Cutlery: spoons, forks, knives.
Bar tools: ladle, jigger, strainer, mixing glass, wine key, muddler, pourer, cutting board, ice bucket, peeler, zester, bar spoon, bottle opener, cocktail shaker
Serving utensils: serving and ice tongs, cake servers, salad servers, tray, cheeseboard.
Specialty utensils: there are endless possibilities to create personalised or custom utensils. Think about examples such as chopsticks, cheese knives, ice cream scoops. The list is endless: dippers, special cutting and slicing tools.
The decision how to best personalise your utensils has to be based on your brand identity, the product and your target audience’s preferences. There exist many methods, such as CNC or laser engraving, hotstamping, printing, electroplating, etching and coloring. Utensils can be personalised via custom shapes, too.
If you plan on using your utensil as a gift item you will want to pay attention to its individual packaging, too. Your goal is to elevate that first impression when a consumer is receiving your gift.
How to take care of personalised utensils will differ depending on the type of product. Particularly on the material and the quality level. The best thing to do is to follow the care instructions your supplier should provide you with.
You or your supplier might manage 3rd party tests, e.g. a food safety, a dishwasher safety, maybe even a salt spray test. A salt spray test is used for metal items, e.g. a stainless steel jigger. Via a salt spray chamber you can simulate how the product will look after a few years of usage. Essentially, it gives you insight into the durability of your product. Before you start the bulk production phase.
For the vast majority of personalised utensils with delicate finishes you will want to hand wash them only and avoid any abrasive cleaners. Avoidance of prolonged exposure to heat and proper storage are important aspects in order to properly take care of your personalised utensils. Especially utensils that are personalised via print can easily fade from exposure to direct sunlight.
When it comes to wooden items, e.g. cheese trays, you will want to regularly oil them, avoid soaking them in water and any dishwashing.
There exist a vast amount of personalised utensils. Let me present three PES ones. These have, as all of our products, been made in our own workshop, located in Zagreb, Croatia.
An example of a custom utensil that at the same time has been used as a gift item towards consumers is the Hendrick’s Jigger. The client had first asked us to develop a concept for an on-pack item that was meant to be used in the Global Travel Retail (GTR) channel. As part of a gift set that included a bottle of Hendrick’s gin.
Once the design got confirmed, we developed a tool via which we could bring the custom shaped item to life. In this case it was a semi-automatic tool which means it performs several of the production steps. A semi-automatic tool is often the most cost-effective option for projects with large volumes. Of at least a few hundred thousand units.
For Glenfiddich we developed a custom premium tasting set. As an upgraded version of the commonly used printed sheet of paper. The premium set consists of a a stainless steel bar tray, a wooden tray, coasters, ice tongs and forged coins which indicate the number of years the different Glenfiddich whiskeys have aged.
The Copper Dog is a Blended Malt Scotch whisky brand owned by Diageo. For brand activations, primarily at events, we had been asked to make so-called dipping dogs.
The origin story behind the “dipping dog” dates back to the 19th and early 20th century and is linked to Scottish whisky distilleries. A “dipping dog” refers to a small copper vessel, typically cylinder shaped. It was used by distillery workers to sample whisky straight from the cask. This product was called a “dog” because it was a worker’s best friend and it was often kept hidden close to them. Like a loyal companion.
A dipping dog serves as a symbol of the resourcefulness of distillery workers. It stands for a time during which whisky production was less commercialised and more about craftsmanship.
Some dipping dogs are sold as collectibles and serve as memorabilia. Our dipping dog model is functional, too. Since it is made from food safe material. We can make this product either with a cork stopper element or a metal cap that is screwed onto it.
In summary, personalised utensils can play a significant role for brands.
They help tell the brand story and make it easier to create memorable experiences for consumers. Utensils offer a unique opportunity for differentiation and often add practical value as objects of everyday use. Sometimes they can be used as branded giveaways or corporate gifts, thus serving as daily reminders of your brand.
Ivica Baraba
"In PES I get to work on many custom Point of Sales material projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
Coaster holders are mostly smaller type of objects designed to store and organize drink coasters when they are not being used. They can be made from many different materials and come in various designs. To fit a particular brand or interior.
Coaster holders help keep coasters stacked, protected and easy to grab. Placed on tables, within bars, cafes and restaurants, they represent an excellent opportunity for communicating to consumers.
Within the domains of design and material, there exist all kinds of coaster holders. Let me first introduce you to the most common materials before showing you some of the most inspiring coaster design ideas.
Plastics is by far the most commonly used material for making coaster holders. It is a material that can be molded, extruded, or cast into many different shapes. It has a high durability, is lightweight and cost-effective.
Sustainable plastics, e.g. bioplastic, recycled plastics and biodegradable plastics, reduce environmental damage, and hence offer valuable alternatives to traditional types of plastics.
If you manage a premium brand, you’ll probably want to choose a premium material for your coaster holder. Wood is a good option for this. With wood like oak, alder or walnut, you can achieve a rustic, classic look. There exist wood types with which you can achieve a modern look, too. It always depends on the finish and the overall design.
Another premium material option is metal. Metal coaster holders are very durable and offer the option of a vintage or a more modern style. Most often metal is used for contemporary designs. Metals that come to mind are stainless steel, aluminum, iron and brass.
Ceramic refers to different types of material made from inorganic, non-metallic substances. This means mostly clay. Treating the material at high temperatures is key here.
There exist many other materials which are, for various reasons, rarely used for making coaster holders.
Glass: can be clear or colored. Due to the high fragility, glass coaster holders are not very common.
Leather: leather offers a unique tactile sensation and links with premium or luxury brands.
Stone or marble: this material is durable but quite heavy.
Fabric: felt, cotton or some other woven material. These materials are soft and flexible. They offer a cozy type of décor.
A short definition of “eye-catching”: you can’t help but notice.
What makes consumers notice a coaster holder? A unique design. If a coaster holder has a unique visual appeal, e.g. via its shape, color, texture or graphics applied to it, there is a good chance consumers will pay attention making them a great use in POS.
Same as menu holders, coaster holders are placed in the center of tables. As such they are very likely to be seen. Exceptional craftsmanship increases the probability. This could mean special patterns, hand-painted details or intricate engravings.
Innovation regarding the functionality of the product. A holder that creatively presents or organizes coasters will increase consumer curiosity.
The interior design of the place, e.g. a bar, the coaster holder is part of, matters. If the holder matches the décor, be it contemporary, minimal or steampunk, that will be quite unusual.
Because most coaster holders are mass market type of items. As such, they aren’t able to adapt well to the surroundings. This means they don’t add much value to the décor.
Coaster holders offer a lot of room for playfulness. You can choose from many different options. Especially when you develop your own unique concept by working with a product designer.
Here are fiveideas to guide you.
The power of a brand story lies in its potential to create emotional connections with consumers. It has the power to differentiate your brand and inspire consumers to become loyal. Storytelling makes your brand more relatable and memorable. More human.
You can use this for any branded merchandise product. For coaster holders you might use different geometric shapes and create a story around that. You might use different prints or colors, too.
You might create a story around universal symbols, integrating them into your coaster holder design. What’s important is that it makes sense with your specific brand and is relevant to your target audience.
Thematic design means you create a unified visual and conceptual experience by focusing on a specific theme. There are a lot of options for this. Your brand might already revolve around a specific theme:
- Seafaring
- Art Deco
- Japanese Zen
- Nature
- Cinematography
The theme serves as a focal point around which all design elements revolve and therefore reinforce the chosen concept. The theme you choose will have a direct impact on your coaster holder design: colors, patterns and materials.
When using coaster holders that align to a particular theme, it is important to consider the décor of the outlets you plan on using them. If an outlet is decorated in a steampunk design, art deco designed coaster holders won’t work well.
Therefore it can be counterproductive to thematically overload a coaster holder. The product needs to be designed in a careful way.
A unique approach when it comes to designing a coaster holder is to choose a minimalist version. This means a simple design that focuses on clean lines, none to little embellishment, often monochrome or bicolor and efficient use of space. The shape is often geometric, e.g. circular, rectangular or squared. The look is elegant and understated. There are no bold decorations or details that stick too much out.
A minimalist coaster holder will only present essential design elements whilst still offering an aesthetic appeal. It’s an object that intentionally understates. It appears clean to the eye. The following saying is rightfully associated with minimalist design: “less is more”.
All design aspects considered, functionality is key. Your design choices should always support it. Not compete with it. Consumers are not the only ones who will judge your brand based on the level of practicality your coaster holder offers. Your B2B partners will, too. With this I am referring to the outlets you work with. Their people will judge your products to a very high degree by how well it gets the job done.
With so many promotional messages out there, it is challenging to stand out. In the realm of coaster holders, eye-catching design is essential. A high level of practicality is a given. Great design is what will draw attention and add personality to your product.
There are a many options to achieve this:
a) a set of geometric shapes which might even be multi-levelled. Imagine a coaster holder that stacks coasters in a geometric arrangement.
b) a coaster holder could incorporate electronics: illumination, glow-in-the-dark, sound…
c) themes or novelty aspects
d) artistic and sculptural: imagine a coaster holder that, along with the coasters, looks like a piece of art or an art installation
e) bright and bold colors or gradient effects, which means the colors transition from one to another
f) innovative materials offer an opportunity to achieve an eye-catching product solution. Imagine a drink that is based on elderflower. Its coaster holder could be made from resin with elderflowers embedded in it.
g) coaster holders could incorporate some type of interactive element, e.g. a a rotating mechanism or a board game, something that can be playful
h) depending on the outlet coaster holders can be personalized, e.g. via its color, a print or an engraving
i) magnets can be used to keep the coasters attached in an unusual wayj) vintage or retro designs can be used, e.g. by using patinated metal, to evoke a sense of
j) vintage or retro designs can be used, e.g. by using patinated metal, to evoke a sense of nostalgia
Coaster holders are a cost-effective promotional item for positioning your brand and increasing sales. At events and in on-trade outlets.
There exist a ton of options when it comes to designing your product. Counting on professional help regarding the design, the development and the production is key.
You wonder if besides coaster holders we produce coasters, too? Thanks for asking. We do. But only the custom and premium type. Not made from cardboard but from metal, wood, plastic, leather, marble….
Ivica Baraba
"In PES I get to work on many custom Point of Sales material projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
Product displays are one of the most common Point of Sale materials out there. There exist many different types. Depending on your industry and the retail set up, some will make more sense than others.
A product display is a promotional tool for presenting merchandise. Its role is to attract and engage customers. By doing so it elevates the shopping experience and, if done well, helps increase sales.
There exist a lot of different types of displays. Just to name a few:
Point of Purchase displays: These are the ones close to the checkout areas. For impulse purchases.
Window Displays: These are displays you can see from the outside of a retail store. Retailers arrange the window display to entice you to enter the store.
Island Displays: Stand alone type of displays that are placed in high-traffic parts of e.g. within a supermarket. These are often used to present special promotions.
Shelf Displays: Shelf displays are often used in supermarkets or behind a bar top. More often than not they include special signage or setups that make products stand out.
Mannequins: Very common for clothing brands. It helps consumers gain a clear visual about the look of e.g. skirts and trousers.
Good-looking product displays play a significant role in presenting and selling your products.
Eye-catching displays make consumers stop and pay attention. Notice the product that is being offered and, best case, even trigger impulse purchases. Beautiful displays transmit a message of quality which elevates the perceived value of a product and the brand as a whole.
Effective displays show consumers the way through a store, thus guiding consumer behavior within a store. Displays communicate essential information about the product, e.g. certain benefits, what to use the product for or maybe a discount. This helps consumers make more informed purchasing decisions.
A visually appealing display enhances consumer experience. By elevating the interior design of a store and evoking positive emotions. A good display makes good use of the retail space which can lead to an increase in sales per square meter.
In summary, good-looking product displays are powerful tools for driving consumer engagement, improving brand image and elevating the overall shopping experience. If done right, it will lead to an increase in sales, too.
There are different psychological aspects that product displays tap into.
First impression: Beautiful displays create positive first impressions which influence a consumer’s overall impression of a brand. Designers achieve this via color, lighting, motion elements, unique shapes. A unique design will particularly stand out because consumers are attracted towards novelty.
Emotions: Product displays convey a brand’s story, thus facilitating an emotional connection. Particularly with consumers who are already loyal fans. A positive emotional connection makes consumers more likely to buy the product. Beautiful designs foster positive emotions and a positive mood.
Memory: When a consumer comes across a product display it helps reinforce the brand. If this is one of several touchpoints, across different channels, it will lead to easier brand recall. The more unique the display, the more memorable it will be. The product display needs to display the product, not compete with it and take over the show.
Social proof: Quality displays create the impression that the product is popular. This takes advantage of the social proof principle. This principle leads consumers to believe that a popular item must be of a higher quality. People assume there must be something worthwhile exploring. Another psychological effect directly linked to social proof is shareability. Some people call it instagram ability. Beautifully presented products are more likely to be photographed and shared on social media.
Cognitive ease: By making a product stand out, displays help consumers make easier decisions. Clear messaging reduces the cognitive load and helps consumers find and select products. Well-presented products can induce a sense of trust in a brand, facilitating purchase decisions.
Product displays use principles of psychological effects to elevate the shopping experience, drive purchasing behavior, and build stronger bonds between consumers and brands.
One the one hand producing a great product display requires a thoughtful integration of the display into the overall marketing strategy. On the other hand it needs to be adapted to the specific location where it will be used. There are several essential elements of a great product display.
Product displays benefit from vibrant, contrasting colors to draw consumers in. Adequate lighting can further highlight the product and create a beautiful ambiance.
When it comes to the usage of product displays, a clean layout is important. An easy on the eye arrangement, e.g. grouping similar products together, helps consumers take in your offer. The products need to be in easy reach for all heights and easy to access. Ideally from all sides. Provide clear product information like benefits, ratings, testimonials, certificates, awards or endorsements.
Integrate the product display into a narrative, your brand story, by using a consistent theme that highlights it. The theme might be focused on your brand or on a season, e.g. Christmas, Halloween or Easter.
Make sure you display high-value products safely, in order to prevent theft. The display itself needs to be safe, e.g. no sharp edges, in order to avoid accidents. Particularly in high-traffic areas such as at retail stores in airports.
Select only quality materials that fit your brand’s positioning. Any logo or text the display is showing needs to be clearly visible and easy to read. When choosing materials and a design, make sustainable choices. Already at the start think about what will happen to the product once you won’t be using it anymore.
Consider allowing consumers to try your products before they buy, especially with food and cosmetics. Live or video demonstrations can show what your product is about.
Whenever possible, think of ways to make product displays modular. This way they can be easily adapted to different retail environments. Adaptable shelves and fixtures can display products of different sizes.
Consider integrating digital displays that show dynamic content like videos or social media feeds. Encourage consumers to share their experience via hashtags and QR codes.
By considering the above elements, you can develop a product display that is eye-catching, practical, drives sales and elevates the overall shopping experience.
If you manage different products, you need to carefully select which ones to display in order to maximize sales and consumer engagement. Here are several options to consider.
Best Sellers: The products that already sell well are likely to continue to attract consumers. Or the products that are customer favorites. The ones for which you can highlight reviews, ratings and awards.
New Products: Consumers love to discover new options.
Promotional items: Highlight products that are discounted.
High-Margin products: Showcase products with the highest profit margins to increase your profitability. Add comparable, higher-end product versions that buyers might switch to, in order to take advantage of upsell opportunities.
Impulse Purchases: Position small, low priced products close to the checkout area.
Cross-sell: Bundle products together that complement each other and are therefore likely to be purchased together, e.g. shoes and socks or phones and accessories.
Items for the occasion: Display products relevant to a particular season, e.g. winter gear, event, fan utensils for a sports event, or holiday, e.g. Christmas.
Exclusive Products: Display limited edition or exclusive products that create a sense of urgency.
Visually striking: Display visually stunning products that will attract crowds and create a certain buzz.
Newsworthy: Showcase products that have a newsworthy story attached to them, e.g. local and sustainable products which talk about your collaboration with local artisans.
Personalisation: display products that offer personalisation. You can sometimes see this at premium spirit stands at airports that are offering to personalize bottle labels with a name.
As you can see, there exist many options to choose from. By displaying these types of products, you can experiment and identify which work best for your brands and products.
Ivica Baraba
"In PES I get to work on many custom Point of Sales material projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
