Promotional Merchandise Statistics: What’s Working in 2025?

As digital marketing channels become more saturated, branded merchandise continues to stand out by offering something tangible and lasting. Whether given away at events, sent in the post, or used daily in the office, promotional products help brands stay visible in a way digital channels can’t always match.

And the data supports this sentiment. In the UK, the promotional merchandise industry reached a record £1.232 billion in sales in 2024, growing by 4.2% over the previous year despite wider economic challenges (Images Magazine) This steady growth shows businesses are still turning to branded merchandise to create real-world impact. 

Here’s a look at what’s working in 2025, with the latest stats from the UK market.

Key Stats: Why Promotional Merchandise Works

• 90% of recipients remember the brand after receiving a branded promotional product (365Retail)
• 87% of people keep promotional products for more than a year, and 40% keep them for more than 10 years (SellersCommerce)
• 99% of people are willing to go out of their way to obtain a promotional product (PPAI)

Eco-Conscious Consumers

In 2023, “eco-friendly” was the most commonly searched theme by distributors in Sourcing City’s product database, highlighting a clear shift in the industry toward sustainable and environmentally responsible merchandise.

This trend reflects rising consumer expectations, with 46% of UK consumers say eco-conscious branded products improve their perception of a brand.

Festival Season: High Energy, High Impact

Festivals aren’t just about music, they’re also a prime opportunity for brands to connect with engaged, open-minded audiences.

• 81% of festival goers say branded merch enhances their festival experience
• 74% are more likely to buy from a brand after receiving a branded item at a festival

Practicality and sustainability matter:

• 55% prefer useful items over keepsakes
• 50% say sustainability influences their preferences

The most popular festival freebies include:

• Power banks (30%)
• T-shirts (25%)
• Water bottles (17%)

These insights, sourced from a 2024 British Promotional Merchandise Association (BPMA) report, reinforce how branded merchandise can elevate live experiences while building long-term brand affinity.

Water Bottles Reign Supreme

Another BPMA survey shows that reusable bottles are still at the top of the branded merch leaderboard. Here’s why:

• 94% of consumers aged 16-40 own at least one reusable water bottle
• 27% own four or more
• 69% would welcome another, especially from a trusted brand
• 67% take their water bottle everywhere, creating mobile brand visibility
• 27% buy a new bottle monthly

What do buyers care about most when it comes to reusable bottles?

• Leak-proof design (58%)
• Durability (52%)

In short, water bottles aren’t just functional, they’re aspirational. High-quality options (like stainless steel or aluminium) offer long-lasting appeal and help brands stay top of mind.

What These Stats Mean For UK Brands

Across events, workplaces, and everyday life, branded merchandise is showing up and standing out. Here are some key takeaways for marketers.

• Practicality wins: consumers want items they’ll use again and again
• Sustainability matters: eco-friendly = brand-friendly
• Repetition = recognition: the more people use your merch, the more they remember you

If you want merchandise that actually works, don’t just print a logo on a product. Choose something that reflects your brand values, resonates with your audience, and delivers real-world utility.

From festival essentials to water bottles - and so much more - we've got all the merch ideas your business could need this spring. Require assistance finding a specific item? Contact a member of our friendly and experienced Sales team on 01376 509092 or email us today for more information.