Inspiration, News, Tips and Advice

Event Merch for Branded Giveaways

Branded Merchandise is more than a marketing extra – it’s a powerful tool in your brand strategy. Whether you’re setting up a stall at a conference, exhibiting at a careers fair, running a pop-up shop, or simply attending a networking event, high-quality event merch can spark meaningful conversations, leave lasting impressions, and ensure your brand stays at the forefront long after the day is over.

At Printed.com, we know just how impactful well-designed, high-quality printed merch can be. That’s why we offer a wide range of fully customisable products that are ideal for event merchandising. From creative Sticker Sheets to practical Notebooks, our merchandise is made to be remembered.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top branded merchandise ideas for events, how to use them effectively, and how you can turn everyday print into powerful company merchandise that elevates your brand.

Custom branded business card

Image Credit: The Hoi Polloi

Why Branded Merchandise Matters at Events

Think back to the last event you attended. Did you pick up any freebies? Chances are you did. But did any of them really stick with you?

The best business merchandising isn’t just about slapping a logo on something. It’s about telling a story, offering value, and creating something your audience will want to keep.

Here’s why event merch matters:

  • Boosts brand recall – Lasting items help solidify your brand identity.
  • Creates a lasting connection – Physical merchandise engages more in more ways than digital ads.
  • Drives footfall – Useful or unique giveaways attract attention to your stand.
  • Encourages social sharing – Eye-catching items get photographed and shared, extending your reach.

Printed.com’s Top Picks for Event Merchandise

At Printed.com, we specialise in merchandise printing that’s practical, creative, and totally customisable. Whether you’re looking for something eye-catching or eco-conscious, we’ve got the perfect products for your next event.

1. Branded Notebooks and Notepads

Perfect for conferences, workshops, or training days. Add your logo, brand colours, or even an inspiring message. Choose from a wide range of cover paper stocks, great for creating sleek branded or custom Notebooks with your own designs. Choose from Perfect Bound, Spiral Bound, or Hardback binding. These practical items keep your brand in front of users long after the event ends.

Custom notebooks

Image Credit: We Are Proper Good

2. Stickers and Labels

Fun, affordable, and highly customisable, stickers are a great way to make sure your brand and your message isn’t forgotten. From Sticker Sheets to Sticker Rolls, or Die Cut options, we’re here to help bring your Sticker design to life. Use them in product packaging or hand them out in goodie bags – the possibilities are endless. 

personalised and branded stickers

Image Credit: Printed.com

3. Custom Magnets

A fun and functional merch idea that sticks – literally. Custom Magnets are a brilliant way to keep your brand visible, whether they’re decorating a fridge, filing cabinet or whiteboard. With options for different shapes and sizes, you can create designs that showcase your logo, campaign, or even event details.

custom magnets

Image Credit: Printed.com

4. Branded Lanyards

Branded Lanyards are perfect for holding ID badges, passes, or key cards – and they double as wearable advertising. Designed to support your branding goals, their full-colour sublimation printing delivers vibrant designs that make your logo or message impossible to ignore. Designed for safety, each Lanyard comes with a secure breakaway feature, making them ideal for any event.

custom lanyards

Image Credit: Printed.com

To complete the look, pair them with our custom Lanyard Cards, ideal for displaying event schedules, delegate names, or important info in a sleek, professional format.

5. Promotional Pens

Branded Pens are one of the most cost-effective and high-impact pieces of company merchandise. Whether you’re handing them out at your event or including them in welcome packs, a well-designed branded pen offers everyday practicality and keeps your business name in constant circulation.

custom pens

Image Credit: LMNOP Creative

6. Tote Bags

Stylish, sustainable, and endlessly reusable – custom Tote Bags are a brilliant way to showcase your brand while offering something genuinely useful. Print your logo, event theme, or a bold graphic design to turn the public into walking brand ambassadors – designs can be applied to one or both sides of your bags in full colour DTF printing.

custom tote bags

Image Credit: Millie Illustrates

7. T-Shirts and Hoodies

Wearable merch with a long shelf life. Custom printed Clothing isn’t just practical – it’s a canvas for your brand. Whether you’re going minimal or bold, branded clothing gives your event a professional edge and helps build team unity or guest engagement.

custom branded hoodies

Image Credit: Printed.com

8. Diaries and Calendars

Keep your brand at the top of their mind all year long with custom Diaries and Calendars. These practical products are especially valued in office environments, making them ideal for B2B campaigns and client gifting.

custom desk calendar

Image Credit: Good Tuesday

9. Drinkware

From Ceramic Mugs to reusable Metal Water Bottles, branded drinkware is a fan favourite. Practical and long-lasting, it keeps your logo in front of customers during every tea break or while they sip the day away. It’s also a great conversation starter at events or as part of a welcome pack.

custom metal water bottles

Image Credit: Printed.com

10. Loyalty Cards

A small but mighty addition to your merch strategy. Custom Loyalty Cards help boost customer retention, encourage repeat business, and support promotions. Add QR codes or traditional stamp boxes for an interactive touch.

Custom branded business card

Image Credit: Tbco

Bespoke Options 

Want something that stands out from the crowd? Reach out to our Bespoke Services to create custom merch designs for products that are as unique as you.

How to Choose the Right Event Merchandise

Before you place that print order, take a moment to think strategically:

1. Define Your Objective

  • Brand awareness? Choose merch people will use repeatedly.
Custom branded business card

Image Credit: Chiara Celini Art

2. Know Your Audience

  • Corporate professionals? Sleek Notebooks, planners, and Business Cards.
  • Eco-conscious attendees? We have a range of recycled and sustainable options.

3. Set Your Budget

With flexible pricing and low minimums, Printed.com caters to every business size. From small startups to large corporations, you’ll find merch that fits your budget and goals.

Design Tips for Memorable Merchandise

Once you’ve selected your products, make your design count:

  • Stay on brand – Colours, logos, fonts and tone of voice should be consistent.
  • Keep it clear – Prioritise readability and essential info.
  • Add engagement – Use QR codes, promo codes or social media tags.
  • Use high-res assets – Pixel-perfect design reflects professionalism.

Need support? Our free templates make designing for print easier than ever, with pre-set sizes and bleed guides.

Corporate Merchandising Made Exciting

Corporate merchandise doesn’t have to be dull. With a little creativity, you can use print to boost internal culture, impress clients, or build out a bold brand presence.

Custom branded notebooks

Image Credit: Printed.com

Creative Merchandising Ideas to Try This Year

Want to stand out at your next event? Try these ideas:

  • Mini Goodie Bags – Load up one of our stylish Tote Bags with branded merchandise such as custom Hardback Notebooks, Ceramic Mugs, and Cork Coasters.
  • Workshop Kits – Take this chance to toot your own horn with information about your brand or service with Magazines, Leaflets and Flyers, and Saddle Stitch Booklets in your event packs.
  • Print-to-Win Games – Use Strut Cards to display QR codes to reveal instant prizes.
  • Loyalty Program Cards – Reward repeat engagement with printed Loyalty Cards.

These small touches add up to big brand moments.

Eco-Friendly Merchandise Printing

Sustainability is no longer optional – it’s essential. At Printed.com, we want to help you reduce your environmental impact. From using innovative packaging and sourcing eco-friendly papers, to minimising waste and promoting recycling, we’re dedicated to giving you more sustainable choices across our range.

Custom branded flyers and leaflets

Image Credit: Handmade in Nottingham

Show your customers that your values align with theirs – without sacrificing style or impact.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand?

The right branded merchandise can leave a lasting impression and drive long-term brand engagement. From creative stickers to premium business cards, Printed.com has everything you need to create unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re gearing up for a trade show or rethinking your business merchandising strategy, we’re here to help. Explore our full range of customisable merchandise printing options today and let’s make your next event your best one yet.

Are you kitted out for your next event giveaway? Explore event merchandising at Printed.com.

Shop branded merchandise now

About the author

When she’s not crafting content, she’s likely off on an outdoor adventure with her rescue dog, Poptart — or nose-deep in a good book, blissfully ignoring her to-do list.

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