It makes great business sense to flaunt your company logo as much as possible at business functions and public gatherings. Most people remember things at a higher proportion when they see a visual illustration. Those people are most likely to notice you and associate you with your business if your logo is striking and imaginative. In today’s business environment, every chance to promote your company is important. Rise above the crowd using promotional apparel and other branded items.

Apparel is the most purchased promotional product in the business industry, but that shouldn’t be surprising. Jackets, sweatshirts, t-shirts, polo shirts, and ball caps are things we all can use and always appreciate. Picture your logo and business message being displayed each time one of these items is worn – and all the places it will go. Promotional apparel can literally be thought of as instant billboards.

Smaller businesses are sometimes concerned about operating costs, but need to know that all costs of purchasing promotional, or branded, merchandise is tax deductible – it is a business expense. Perhaps you could start by outfitting your key personnel by ordering just a dozen items. You can purchase more items to use as gifts for customers at a later time.

You can increase the visibility of your business in many ways using promotional items. Try dressing your “team” in matching polo or t-shirts at the upcoming tradeshow or softball game. While making a unified appearance, each member of the team will also be a billboard for your business, advertising to everyone who is attending. And during that softball game try lobbing some of those shirts into the crowd of spectators? Everyone loves free t-shirts, and each one will become a new billboard for your business.

Branded items can be used as prizes, small and large, for corporate challenges. You might also use them as small thank you gifts for people who have participated in your event – it’s a nice way to show you appreciate them. An effective method of increasing sales is to give branded items to consumers as a “gift with purchase.” This also encourages people to buy immediately.

Promotional novelty items and apparel are fun and creative. They can be used by charities, schools, sports teams, and other non-profit organizations for fundraising projects, and for awareness raising for their cause. Branded apparel and novelty products give supporters a lasting souvenir of their donation or time.

Sponsor a community activity, or just get involved, sporting branded products to boost your company’s visibility. T-shirts, drink bottles, balloons, stickers, and treats with your logo on them will keep your business fresh in everyone’s mind.

And finally, safety in the workplace provides yet additional visual real estate for your logo. In production or warehouse environments, branded, high visibility vests, jackets, and hats are a great idea. Provide employee or client incentives in the form of branded, health-and-safety themed items such as lip balm, sun screen, first aid and medical kits, and auto sun shades. Put to use every piece of “visual real estate” you can think of. Add your logo to umbrellas, pens, pencils, mouse pads, stickers, and display banners. Remember – we all like free stuff.