2025 Predictions in Corporate Swag Trends

Trend #1:  Savvy Spending

With the uncertainty of the economy, people are discovering the desire to save more than ever. For companies, there’s a growing preference for practical, functional swag that adds genuine value to the recipients’ daily lives. Choosing items that echo practicality and indulgence (and can be used beyond work hours in the kitchen, during vacation, or on the go) aligns with the more careful, thoughtful purchasing habits that will resonate with people.

Cue items that are perfect for travel and home. Cozy up with airplane-ready eye mask and sock sets from Kashwére, impress with kitchen-bound Pi Prep Boards and high-end Cuisinart outdoor pizza ovens, or choose color-forward puffy jackets and totes from Hexa Customs that will keep warm when temps drop. All these items add a bit of elevation and enjoyment while still feeling like smart choices.

Trend #2:  The Rise of New Materials

Science is taking sustainability to the next level in 2025. Lab-grown materials like leather, silk, and cotton will lead in sustainable fashion and design, offering cruelty-free, eco-friendly alternatives with customizable qualities. As climate consciousness becomes a shared priority, businesses will adopt carbon-neutral operations, closed-loop designs, and transparent practices.

Upcycled and repurposed items made with renewable materials are in high demand, and it's exciting to see how so many interesting brands have stemmed from this movement, each making a meaningful impact in both sustainability and design. GotBag’s Ocean Plastic, Everybody.World’s recycled fabric, Lux and Nyx’s Freedom Fiber, Prodir Pen’s fully biodegradable QS10 pen, Swanky Badger’s newly launched upcycled leather line Eco Deluxe, and Out of Wood’s Washable Paper are just a few of our Brand Stylist favorites that are blending ethical sourcing with inventive, planet-positive choices.

Trend #3: Maximalist Aesthetics

Maximalism will make a vibrant return with rich colors, elaborate patterns, and layered textures—from intricate embroidery to bold patchwork and mixed prints in fashion. This trend encourages creativity in color and design across products, from socks to speakers, inviting us to move beyond core palettes and embrace themes tailored to specific events or programs.

We’re diving headfirst into the maximalism trend by offering a curated selection of customizable or undeniably vibrant products that fully embrace its bold, expressive aesthetic.  Sock Club’s patterned starter trios bring playful sophistication to everyday essentials, while TOPO’s brightly contrasted backpacks are both functional and statement-making, perfect for any adventure. Pattern Brands’ vibrant Quarterly Goal Planner turns organizational tools into motivational art, encouraging creativity in daily routines. Printfresh’s artfully printed pajamas transform loungewear into wearable works of art, and Numo’s retro corduroy duffels combine nostalgic charm with modern flair–ideal for travel or events.

Trend #4: One-to-one Relevance

Hyper-personalized promotional items like custom-engraved accessories, AI-created caricatures, or team-designed gear will trend. This approach creates a uniquely tailored experience, leaving recipients with something deeply personal and memorable.

Brands like Paravel, Away, and Rains excel at offering high-quality, monogrammed travel essentials, giving recipients luggage, bags, and accessories that showcase their individuality. For those who appreciate luxury with a playful twist, Anecdote Candles offers cheeky, exclusive candles featuring witty messages, infusing charm and personality into any space. And for a truly bespoke touch, Abby Young Styling transforms gifting into an unforgettable experience with color analysis, empowering individuals to discover their most flattering shades—making an impression that lasts far beyond the ordinary.

Trend #5: Culture of Collaboration

As companies focus on building supportive and inclusive workplaces, many are embracing "Collaborative Culture Change" by creating internal groups like ERGs to highlight individual strengths and foster a sense of unity. This shift cultivates an environment where innovation thrives alongside teamwork. Whether it’s celebrating shared heritage or hosting global movie nights, thoughtfully curated swag becomes a meaningful way to reinforce these cultural transformations.

But it goes beyond just ERG-specific items and team-building events. Consistent onboarding kits, employee programs, and virtual team bonding activities like watch parties play a crucial role in shaping a collaborative culture within global teams. Our Fulfillment Warehouse is equipped to efficiently prepare and deploy these initiatives.

A few standout favorites include Patagonia sweatshirts featuring brand logos, CreativeMC’s multi-brand Welcome kit, or culturally rich items like Spicewalla’s diverse hot chocolates (AAPI) and Louisa’s Latin spices (Hispanic/Latinx). For global teams, themed popcorn packs from Gourmet Expression’s Pop Culture Popcorn Gift Set can make virtual watch parties even more engaging when connecting teams across the globe.

Trend #6: Unwind and Delight

With an ever-growing focus on mental well-being, people and companies are finding joy in everyday experiences, not just grand gestures. This shift is also reshaping workplace culture, with companies promoting enjoyment through onsite massages, guest-led exercise classes, and fun team-building activities like dance workshops or wellness-themed fireside chats.

Swag serves as a tangible memory of unity and participation in these shared moments. Reflected in themed event decor and take-home goodies like Nodpod Sleep Masks, Coyuchi Robes for spa retreats, a sustainable yoga bag and mat set by Restore for on-site yoga classes, Lush Bath Sets or KOBO candles to help attendees bring back a little zen to their own bedrooms. The perfect opportunity to make these moments of delight stand out as something special.

Trend #7: The New Power Moves

In 2025, sustainability takes center stage, with solar-powered gadgets—chargers, speakers, lights, and fans—leading the charge. As people look for practical alternatives to disposable batteries and grid-dependent devices, the demand for renewable solutions continues to rise.

Incorporating these solar-powered items into promotions allows brands to align with their clients’ eco-conscious values while addressing the growing appetite for sustainable innovations. These gadgets go beyond functionality, showcasing a company’s environmental commitment and resonating with consumers who seek smart, planet-friendly technology.

By harnessing solar energy, brands are delivering products that keep users connected and eco-friendly—whether at home, on the go, or off the grid entirely. Urbanista just launched the first-ever self-charging solar-powered headphones while Solgaard has launched their own solar-powered boombox. GoSun brings innovation to the outdoors with a brilliant solar gadget for cooking and camping, and Nixon’s Solar Watch, featuring the cutting-edge Solar Power Movement, transforms sunlight into unstoppable precision.

Trend #8: Experience-First Values

As our reliance on technology deepens, brands are reimagining connection by championing sensory-driven experiences that encourage us to unplug and reengage with the world around us. These experiences serve as a gentle nudge to step away from screens and immerse ourselves in moments that feel authentic, grounded, and real.

By promoting digital detox moments, brands offer consumers a refreshing break from the relentless buzz of the online world, inviting them to reconnect with touch, scent, and sound. These activities foster presence and mindfulness, creating meaningful, tactile escapes that leave a lasting impression: Raen transforms events with on-site sunglass try-ons, letting guests experience the perfect fit and finish firsthand. Corium elevates gatherings with monogram parties, where participants craft personalized leather goods that are uniquely their own. Timbuk2 empowers gift recipients to create custom bags and backpacks, tailoring fabrics and colors to their vision. Fellow’s coffee-tasting experiences immerse guests in the art of brewing, inviting them to savor rich aromas and intricate flavors.