Conducted by the Australasian Promotional Products Association (APPA), the results of the latest promotional products industry survey are in, and the results are clear: tangible marketing works harder than ever.
The new research, relevant to consumers and businesses in both Australia and New Zealand, provides a comprehensive look at how promotional products influence consumer behaviour.
The results confirm what the industry has always believed: when merchandise is thoughtful, it becomes a powerful driver for loyalty and commercial growth.
The survey data underscores just how effective a physical touchpoint can be. Unlike a digital ad that disappears with a scroll, promotional products create sustained engagement.
Key insights from the survey include:
86% of recipients rank “usefulness” as the most important factor when determining the value of a promotional product, proving that high-utility items avoid the bin.
8 out of 10 recipients can name the brand on a promotional product, far outperforming the average recall of digital or print advertising.
84% of of Australians and New Zealanders feel more positive about a brand that gives them a promotional gift.
77% of people have purchased a product or service from a brand after receiving a promotional item.
66% of recipients are driven to visit a brand’s website or connect on social media immediately after receiving a physical gift.
The Impact of Tangible Marketing
The study also highlighted a shift in recipient expectations, with today’s consumer more sophisticated and much more likely to value quality over quantity. There is also now a clear mandate for businesses to move away from “landfill” items like flimsy plastics or novelty trinkets, which can actually trigger negative brand associations.
Ultimately, the research proves that thoughtful, unexpected “gifts” are the number one driver for creating an emotional connection with consumers. By choosing items that align with your audience’s needs and values, you aren’t just giving away merchandise- you’re building a bridge to a long-term relationship.
Diana O’Cobhthaigh, Owner and Founder of TurnKey Promotions, has been elected to serve on the Board of the Australasian Promotional Products Association (APPA) as Vice President in 2026.
This appointment is a testament to the dedication and passion Diana holds for the promotional products industry, and marks an exciting opportunity to drive the future of the industry.
APPA has been the promotional products industry authority for more than 35 years, and promotes the development, integrity and creativity of industry suppliers and distributors.
The Association is a respected and highly regarded authority, and election to the board is one of the highest acknowledgements of respect in the entire industry.
“Assuming the Vice Presidency allows me to contribute to the long-term vision of APPA and guide the strategic direction of an industry I have always been passionate about,” said Diana.
“In collaboration with President Greg Sandrey and other members of the Board, I look forward to supporting APPA initiatives that work towards building a more sustainable, future-focused promotional products industry. I am thrilled to represent the interests of our clients and peers on the Board, and thank APPA members for their trust in me.”
Carbon Neutral, a longstanding partner of TurnKey Promotions, recently announced the successful planting of a remarkable 1,760,000 seedlings across Australia in 2025.
This massive achievement supports vital local reforestation efforts and ensures the world is left a better place for future generations.
We are extremely proud to have played a direct role in contributing to this amazing milestone.
Thanks to our wonderful clients, we have proudly planted more than 1,500 native trees and shrubs since 2021, when our partnership with Carbon Neutral first began.
At the heart of this partnership is a simple commitment: for every order of 50 notebooks, TurnKey Promotions commits to planting one native tree or shrub. An order of 500 notebooks, for instance, results in the planting of ten trees.
By actively supporting Carbon Neutral’s Plant-A-Tree Program, we are directly working toward the UN Sustainable Development Goal #15: Life on Land. This goal highlights that nature is critical to our survival, providing us with our oxygen, regulating our weather patterns, pollinating our crops, and producing our food, feed, and fibre.
Thank you to all of our clients for helping us grow a greener future!
As the industry’s leading and longest-running trade show, PPAI Expo is the cornerstone of the global promotional products market.
Held annually in Las Vegas Nevada, the four-day conference/trade show sees thousands of established brands and suppliers converge to showcase new product collections and cutting-edge innovations to thousands of prospective distributors from around the world.
The show is a true mecca for promotional product distributors, suppliers and marketing professionals, and is known for forecasting product trends for the upcoming year.
What was trending on the show floor in 2025?
Magsafe Tech Magsafe integration is poised to be a dominant trend in 2025, revolutionising promo tech with seamless, magnetic functionality.
Pickleball Pickleball’s popularity translated into a flood of branded paddles, bags, and accessories, marking it as a standout trend at the show.
Travel and On-the-Go Travel-themed promo products, from branded luggage tags to portable chargers reflected the industry’s focus on experiences and on-the-go solutions.
Pets Pet products, including bowls and leashes, were a staple throughout the show, highlighting the industry’s embrace of the booming pet market.
Crocs & Accessories Crocs-style footwear and accessories were a major hit, proving the power of personalised comfort in promotional products.
Puffer Accessories & Apparel Comfortable and warm merchandise, including puffer blankets, continued to be a big theme on the show floor in 2025.
Sherpa-lined Bags and Accessories Unique sherpa-lined items, including backpacks, showcased the industry’s love for standout textures and materials.
Stanley Cups and Accessories Stanley cups and compatible accessories highlighted the strong demand for premium, customisable drinkware.
Shop TurnKey Promotions’ curated collection of new products and trends, as seen at PPAI Expo 2025, here.
