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What’s Trending in Branded Merch This Year (and What’s Overdone)


Man in sporty attire sits on green artificial turf, holding a golf club. Wears sunglasses, a white cap, and gloves, exuding a relaxed vibe.

Not all branded merch is created equal—and not all trends deserve to stick around.

We’re in a moment where brand visibility is both easier and harder than ever. Easier, because consumers interact with more brand touchpoints daily. Harder, because expectations are higher, attention is shorter, and bland giveaways just won’t cut it.


So what’s actually connecting right now? And what’s already feeling tired?

Let’s break down the branded merch trends worth leaning into—and the ones you might want to leave behind.


 


Man in sunglasses with a black backpack walks beside a concrete wall under sunlight, wearing a brown jacket and blue jeans.

What’s In: Elevated Utility

People love merch that fits into their lifestyle.

  • Well-designed tech accessories (think branded webcam covers, wireless charging pads, cable organizers)

  • Reusable drinkware with premium materials (like vacuum-sealed bottles, not just another plastic cup)

  • Apparel with detail (embroidered logos, tonal branding, cropped fits, premium blanks)


If it’s something they’ll use every day—at home or work—you’re winning.


What’s In: Sustainable Storytelling

Sustainability isn’t a gimmick anymore. People want transparency. They want materials that matter and brands that own their impact.

  • Organic cotton, recycled fabrics, or B Corp-certified suppliers

  • Thoughtful packaging that reduces waste or enhances the story

  • QR codes that explain sourcing or link to brand purpose


It’s no longer just about what you give—but how and why.


What’s In: Intentional Gifting

Instead of mass giveaways, brands are curating smaller runs of high-quality pieces. The ROI? Higher perceived value, longer brand retention, and better word of mouth.


Think:

  • Welcome kits

  • Client thank-yous

  • Event boxes


This is merch with purpose—not just merch for the sake of merch.


 

What’s Out: Gimmicky Grab Bags

Stop giving away things just because they’re cheap and fill space.

  • Stress balls

  • Low-quality lanyards

  • Keychains with zero relevance


If it’s going straight in the trash, it’s costing you more than you think.


What’s Out: Oversized Logos

Loud doesn’t mean effective. Branding is getting more nuanced—and people actually prefer items that feel designed, not plastered.


Try:

  • Tone-on-tone embroidery

  • Sleeve hits

  • Inside-label or subtle hem details


Make it wearable. Make it re-usable. Make it something they’d buy even if your logo weren’t on it.


Two men in polo shirts and sunglasses stand on rocky cliffs by the sea, looking into the distance. The sky is clear and the mood is contemplative.

 

Branded merchandise in 2025 isn’t about being seen—it’s about being kept. The brands that get kept are the ones that put thought into what they give, how it looks, and what it says.

If you want to leave an impression that lasts longer than the event, it’s time to level up the merch game.


Aliant Brands can help you do just that. Let’s build something they’ll actually keep.


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