Top Trade Show Trends for 2025
Top Trade Show Trends for 2025
Trade shows aren't new, but your trade show giveaways can be! Whether you're looking to stick with the trade show classics (logo branded pens, custom tote bags…) or want to switch things up this year, there's something for everyone. Even the trade show classics can have a unique spin to help your brand stand out - from unique logo decoration types to thoughtful placement of your logo(s) on your chosen items.
Why are trade show giveaways important?
Yes, giveaways might be expected at trade shows, but there's more to it than that. Custom merch provides a valuable opportunity for you to put your brand front and center - choose a unique giveaway item, and no one will forget you!
Other benefits include generating buzz for your booth from attendees, trading merch for contact info to generate leads, and simply knowing that by sharing your logo branded gift, your attendees will spread the word about your brand by carrying it with them during and after the trade show.
Build Brand Recognition, Build Relationships
Brand recognition goes beyond the trade show. Taking the time to connect with your customers and partners (and remind them of that connection with branded merch) helps you stand out from your competitors and build lasting relationships. At Merchology, we believe that the real purpose of merch is to connect with people. Event attendee gifts draw a higher volume of visitors to your booth, which provide more opportunities to connect. When you give away corporate gifts that represent your brand in quality and thoughtfulness, you’re telling prospective customers that you care about them. You’re delivering quality without asking them to commit to anything. You’re greeting them with a gift up-front, before attempting to pitch or even close a sale.
How do I choose what to offer at my booth?
Choosing the perfect trade show giveaways all depends on the type of trade show you're attending. If it's a tech trade show then consider giving away some tech-related promotional items like smart speakers or portable chargers. If it's an agricultural trade show you may want to bring completely different giveaway option like branded drinkware and custom apparel.
You also should take your goals into consideration when selecting your trade show giveaways. For instance, if you simply want to maximize impressions of your logo for brand recognition then bulk orders of koozies and pop sockets make the most sense. Conversely, if your goal is to book demos then you'll want to go with more high-value promotional items like YETI drinkware or logo branded AirPods. If you take your audience and goals into account then you'll have no problem picking the perfect custom logo trade show giveaways!
Shop Top Branded Items for 2025 Trade Shows
Want some more help? We've compiled the top trade show trends for 2025 for you.
Eco-Friendly Giveaways
Your brand values may already include environmental responsibility - your merch should too! Customers are looking for eco-friendly merch that is built to last. Gone are the days of the throwaway items from a trade show. Trade show attendees in 2025 have enjoyed totes and backpacks made from sustainable materials, as well as reusable drinkware. A drinkware favorite of ours is from the Zusa brand, which creates their products from recycled water bottles.
Modern Utility with Branded Tech
Attendees are interested in branded tech accessories that have more than one use. One of the top merch picks of 2025 is a wireless charging mousepad with stand - not only is it a mousepad, but you can charge your phone, move your mouse, and use the item as a stand for your phone. We've also seen success with merch that can be used daily - like a branded card wallet that attaches to your phone or a simple cable set that stays organized on your keychain.
Swag That Stands Out
While not exactly "new" to 2025, trade show attendees are interested in giveaways that are unique. Choosing items to help your booth stand out from the competition can bring a lot of visitors your way! Some interesting merch we've seen this year include custom socks, shoe charms, keychains, and bucket hats.
Contact Us Today!
Ready to get started? Contact our merch experts today for gifting inspiration, ordering assistance, personalized solutions, and more!
