Based on ASI’s Q3 ESP Search Rankings
Original article → ASI Central
When in Doubt, Stay Classic
What the Latest ASI Trends Reveal About What Works
If you’ve ever stared at a wall of promotional products wondering what’s actually worth your money, you’re not alone. The newest data from ASI’s Q3 ESP Search Rankings has a clear answer: the classics still win.
Pens, water bottles, totes, and lanyards topped the charts again while many “flash-in-the-pan” items lost steam. Why? Because useful, everyday items deliver consistent brand impressions long after the event is over.
Why the Classics Keep Winning
Consumers crave things they actually use.
A water bottle on a desk or a tote in a grocery line keeps your brand visible without screaming for attention. It’s subtle. It’s smart. And it works.
The surge in searches for Owala bottles (up 68 percent) underscores this point. When a product combines quality, design, and utility, it doesn’t just carry water—it carries your brand wherever it goes.
A Smart Mix: Reliable Meets Relevant
The classics aren’t your only move. ASI’s report also points to new pockets of opportunity:
-
Bookmarks up 60 percent, thanks to the reading resurgence fueled by BookTok.
-
Fans up 41 percent, tied to outdoor events and summer promotions.
-
Ornaments and Santa hats rising fast as companies plan their year-end gifting.
The takeaway? A strong promo plan blends dependable staples with a few fresh, seasonal pieces that keep your brand current and creative.
How to Make the Most of It
A well-planned promotional strategy starts with three questions:
-
Will my audience use this?
-
Does it reflect the quality of my brand?
-
Will it still make sense six months from now?
If you can answer yes to all three, you’ve found a winner.
Think of promotional products not as giveaways, but as brand ambassadors. Each one represents your company’s thoughtfulness, reliability, and style.
Looking Ahead
The latest data is clear: the best promo products are the ones that serve your customer long after they leave your event or open your package.
When you focus on items that are useful, designed well, and aligned with your audience’s lifestyle, your brand doesn’t just get noticed—it gets remembered.
So as you plan your next campaign or holiday gifting program, start with what’s timeless. The trendiest thing you can do might just be staying classic.
