Corporate Gift Case Study: Online Store Helps Non-Profit Citizen Schools Reach New Levels of Success

Challenge: Leverage an online store to increase visibility and brand impact

Citizen Schools comprise a national network of middle school apprenticeship programs that connect adult volunteers and youth through hands-on learning projects after school. The non-profit operates at 37 program sites throughout California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina and Texas—with more sites on the way.

ePromos has worked with Citizen Schools since 2003; over the years our staff and theirs have developed a close business relationship. That’s why, when the Citizen Schools marketing team set out to ramp up visibility with an aggressive branding campaign and a new online store, they turned to their ePromos account executive Lonni Ornstein.

Solution: Fill the store with promotional products to please many stakeholders

Lonni helped the Citizen Schools’ team get the store up and running, and filled with just the right selection of promotional products in categories geared toward different groups and purposes. Various sections of the store would offer:

• Outreach and appreciation gifts for volunteers and investors, including imprinted hats, picture frames, travel mugs, memo cubes and gift bags;
• Gifts and products to increase visibility on campus, including bumper stickers, polo shirts and folders; and
• Useful promotional products perfect for students, including pencils, notebooks, shirts and water bottles.

Result: Online store brings big increase in student and volunteer enrollment

The new online store had a major impact on name recognition and branding. Citizen Schools’ investment in the online store has been attributed to helping raise student enrollment from 2,000 to 3,500—it has also been attributed to nearly doubling the volunteer base from 1,500 to 2,800. The Citizen Schools’ team also expects that, as the store is introduced to more and more users, the apprenticeship program will continue to grow—and to touch the lives of more and more children nationwide.



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2008 Gift Trend of the Week - Eco-friendly Bamboo Products

This year's hottest trend may very well be the increasing consumer focus on ecological issues, which is forcing many companies to think "green" and find sustainable business practices. My favorite part of the current eco-friendly fad are all the bamboo-based items that promotional manufacturers are producing.

I have always loved the unique smooth texture and aesthetic qualities of bamboo, so imagine my delight when I found out that they are also eco-friendly. As it turns out, bamboo is an unique renewable resource due to its status as the fastest growing woody plant on the planet. At a growth rate of up to 1 meter per day, you can almost watch it grow before your eyes.

The incredible versatility of bamboo wood means it is finding applications in virtually any product categories that use regular wood. This is good news for companies looking for eco-friendly corporate gifts since this makes it easy to find something to fit any occasion.

My personal favorite bamboo products are brain twister games and bamboo office supplies such as pens and desk organizers.

Raffle Giveaway of the Week: Digital Music Players

If you are looking for a great fundraiser idea or a way to boost interoffice enthusiasm, a raffle is a great way to get results. As a fundraising tool, a raffle is nearly unparalleled in its earning potential and with just some modifications to tie in tickets with employee performance, it also makes a good employee incentive event.

Just make sure the raffle prize is one that will appeal to a large majority of people. Gift baskets, electronics, gift certificates, travel packages and cars are some of the most common prizes. Our pick of the week is custom digital music players. As convenient and portable as they are, it's no wonder that this popular promotional item has been showing up in conventions and trade shows everywhere as raffle prizes.

2008 Corporate Gift Trend Of The Week - Top 3 Bags For Corporate Gifts

Coming into work this morning, I had a mishap with my trusty old messenger backpack, spilling the contents to the ground. As I regathered my possessions it struck me that a good bag would make an excellent corporate gift.

I had heard that some companies have been getting into the practice of handing out new hire welcome packages in serviceable bags, so why not take it a step further and find out what is the best available? A high quality bag would certainly be a much appreciated corporate gift for any employee or a greatly desired item in a company incentive program.

My top 3 picks are:

- Solar powered computer backpack
Basically a mobile power generator, this bag is a godsend for any technophile who carries around a lot of gadgets. With the large collection of adapters included, you'll never run out of power for any device you happen to be packing.

- Wenger Swiss Army sling bag
Slim and lightweight, this bag is perfect for those outings where you do not want to carry everything. Constructed out of breathable, moisture-wicking material, it is also a great companion for outdoors and sporting events.

- American Classic computer brief
No bag collection can be complete without a stylish leather brief for those formal business occasions. Made of genuine top grain leather, this elegant brief has enough components for all of your essential business accessories.

Budget Tip - Choosing Promotional Products That Can Save You On Shipping Costs

When we last discussed direct mail strategies the conclusion was that complex, highly useful, social-friendly and bulky mailers are most likely to catch and hold the attention of recipents. However, while the items we chose for that piece were among the lightest we can find matching the criteria, they can still be beyond the price range of smaller companies.

IF you are cost conscious, using the thinnest and lightest products will help you get the most out of your promotional budget. These products tend to be low cost and their slim form factor and weight will save you even more in shipping costs. Some examples are promotional paper clips, soft keychains, flexible magnets and letter slitters.

Although these items may not have the sheer "wow" factor of those in our last list, they are still useful enough for customers to want to keep them around. Besides, with so many shapes and colors to choose from, with some creativity, you can still create a piece that will stand out from the competition.

Case Study: A Promotional Magic Mat Makes A Perfect Client Holiday Gift for SCDCorp

Challenge: What’s the best to make a lasting impression on clients—during the busy holiday season?

The South Columbia Development Corporation has dedicated itself to improving the economic development and quality of life in its hometown of Columbia, South Carolina. It does this by attracting businesses and providing incentives to purchase property in the community and to further add to the enrichment of the city. In addition, the organization works to find ways to clean up and improve the various neighborhoods, streets and avenues in the city.

For the holiday season, the company wanted to find a way to thank the various people that had served as valued clients and business partners and civic advocates. Corporate holiday gifts are very common for businesses to invest in, since they are excellent relationship builders and serve as great promotional opportunities. SCDCorp knew this and wanted to find the best item to reward its clients and strengthen and broaden the scope of its partnerships.

Solution: A promotional “magic mat” keeps loyal clients from slipping out of SCDCorp’s grasp

The company contacted ePromos and worked with a seasoned promotions expert, Omer Cohen, in choosing an item that combined functionality with cost-effectiveness. After some strategizing and working with ePromos sales, design and strategic departments, they settled on The Magic Mat—a useful item that keeps somewhat flat items like cell phones, coins, and sunglasses from sliding off of car dashboards—and what consumer does not need that, particularly given the vast amount of time that Americans spend in their cars. It was affordable and the company could easily mail the products off to its various customers. With its logo imprinted right onto the product, the mat would serve as an excellent advertisement and promotional tool—just like SCDCorp, a partnership which, even in a small way, facilitates ease and growth in everyday life.

Result: SCDCorp clients love the convenient gifts

Once they packed up and sent off all of the Magic Mats, the company heaved a sigh of relief that it was able to find a great product at a reasonable price. The mats truly resonated with the recipients as well—everyone raved about how much they loved the thoughtful gifts and really appreciated the company’s gesture in providing them with it. SCDCorp was very pleased with the turnout of the whole event, and aims to work with ePromos on future orders—knowing that they are well taken care of in the hands of the promo know-how people.



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(Via: The Promo Know-How Zone)

Corporate Gift of the Week - Loyalty Program Gifts: Photo Albums

In many industries, competition for skilled workers and top talent can be rather fierce, making employee retention a constant uphill struggle. We understand that offering competitive pay may not always be possible, but keep in mind that while everyone appreciates money, salary and bonuses are not the only factors in determining employee satisfaction.

A good employee gift incentive program can do wonders in boosting employee loyalty and morale. Even an item as simple as a digital photo album can be a remarkably effective way to make a valued employee feel appreciated if presented in the right way.

Filling the photo album with photos of workplace friends and celebratory events (successful product launches, company parties, etc.) can reinforce positive attitudes at the workplace. Make sure you don't underestimate the power of internal branding as well. Promotional gifts customized with the company logo can help employees associate those positive feelings with the company.

Case Study: Golf Tournament Goodie Bags Thank Generous Donors, Enhance Charity Event

Golf Tournament Goodie Bags Thank Generous Donors, Enhance Charity Event

Challenge: The ERS Foundation Seeks to Express a Warm, Hearty "Thank you" to Charity Golf Tournament Participants

If you're charged with raising funds for a non-profit, then you know what's involved in the planning and hosting of fundraising events—and that many times the success or failure of those efforts directly impact your organization's ability to secure the funds it needs to accomplish its goals. You also likely know that when you uncover fundraising success, it's important to maintain it for as long as you can!

ePromos is a close ally and friend of the Emmory Reagan Shapses (ERS) Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the research, treatment and ultimate cure of tuberous sclerosis, a rare genetic disease that often causes sufferers and their families to live under the daily threat of seizures, tumors, organ failure, mental disability or worse.

The Foundation's premier annual charity golf tournament is considered fundraising gold: the event, with its $500 to $10,000 dinner and player sponsorships, has so far contributed more than $3 million towards the research and treatment of tuberous sclerosis. The all-day affair includes breakfast, 18 holes, cocktails and a lavish dinner, as well as auctions, raffles and contests—like the chance for participants to win a luxury car or $1 million for a hole-in-one. Because the event is so important to the ERS Foundation, its members decided this year to give something memorable back to participants to thank them for their generosity.

Solution: "Welcome" Backpacks Stuffed with Branded Golf Goodies Start the Day Off Right

The Foundation drew upon its ties with ePromos to help conceive just the right tournament gift—a "welcome" drawstring backpack jam-packed with golf-themed items guests could use during the day’s activities. Among the goodies: sun block, golf balls, binoculars, a water bottle and a cap—all branded with the foundation’s logo to build a sense of community among participants during the day while reminding them of the event—and the foundation—for many tomorrows.

Result: This Year's Tournament and Promotion Score Big; Plans for Next Year Are Underway

Tournament participants raised $900,000 during this year's tournament, all for the research, treatment and eventual cure of tuberous sclerosis. We're told that the goody bags were a big hit with the golfers; and the ERS Foundation is already dreaming of ways to top this year's success.

Looking for great golf-themed items? Check out our Promotional Golf Products.
Browse our Non-Profit category.

(Via: The Promo Know-How Zone)

Case Study: High Quality Fishing Lures Reel In Success For SCAG Power Equipment

Challenge: Top off a client gift bag with just the right on-brand recreational item

A leading manufacturer of commercial power mowers, SCAG Power Equipment aims to infuse its motto, “Simply the Best,” into everything it does. Because of this, SCAG wanted to make sure the gift bag it compiled for an upcoming hunting and fishing trip would offer its invited VIP clients and valued employees nothing but the best: a topping-off gift indicative of the all-around good time in the great outdoors that SCAG seeks to evoke.

SCAG knows the importance of holding memorable, impactful corporate events. They offer opportunities for the brand relate to clients and employees on a more personal level. This relationship building is crucial for any company’s ultimate success, so savvy management at SCAG needed everything to be perfect. That’s when ePromos, top-of-mind to any seasoned marketing operative, entered the equation.

Solution: An attractive, useful fishing lure enhances the gift bag

The event’s name was the 2008 Cast and Blast and was held on the warm gulf coast: known all over the world as a top fishing destination. SCAG contacted seasoned ePromos account executive, promo expert Corey Boyer, to help choose a fitting item. With his help, they settled on spoon lure imprinted with the company’s name. Spoon lures, with their concave shape and ability to reflect light, are ideal for gulf water fishing: this point is also reflective of ePromos wide-ranging, deep-diving insight into client needs.

Result: With an added boost from the gift bag, the corporate event is a major success

SCAG reported that the Cast and Blast 2008 attendees were incredibly pleased with the event and the gift. The fishing lures helped the gang nab boatloads of quality fish and played an active role in enhancing the event. SCAG was extremely pleased with the results, and is looking forward to working with ePromos again for future promotional needs and ideas. The brand knows that it will receive expert sourcing, keen customer service, helpful strategic guidelines and a high level of creativity from ePromos—the promo know-how people.



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(Via: The Promo Know-How Zone)

2008 Corporate Gift Trend of the Week - The Top 5 Hottest Direct Mail Ideas

What makes a direct mailing campaign successful? That is not a particularly easy question to answer, as there is a whole host of factors that must be considered -- for example: Do you have a mailing list that is accurately targetted to your market? Is there an enticing teaser copy on the packaging? Will your recipent find it easy and convenient to respond?

Those are only a handful of the major issues you should pay serious consideration to, since a major objective should be distinguishing your company from the competitors. Deciding these factors can feel overwhelming, but luckily there is an easy way to "cheat." Recent research of marketing trends have indicated that including a promotional gift in the direct mailing can significantly diminish the chances of your package being discarded unopened. So, without further ado, here is our top 5 hottest direct mailing ideas::

1. Slim is not always better. In direct marketing campaigns the tendency is to select the lightest and slimmest-profiled promotional items possible. Unfortunately, this is an easy way to get lost in the shuffle, as your package may fail to stand out from the competition. A bulky package is almost guaranteed to be opened and custom imprinted t-shirts fits the bill perfectly. The added benefit is that the recipient will be advertising your company every time he wears the shirt.


2. Interactive items demand attention. A lightweight game or toy captures attention because such items scream out to be handled. A well chosen and engaging toy will be kept around for a long time and handled frequently. Socially friendly toys such as promotional frisbees will be shared with friends, creating further exposure to your brands.


3. Useful items are rarely thrown away. Even the cheapest promotional gift will be kept around if they are useful in some way. An imprinted letter opener and ruler combo serves this purpose really well. If it is custom imprinted with your company's logo, that's simply advertising longevity that can't be beaten.


4. Technology gives an illusion of value. Many electronics are frequently perceived to be more expensive than they really are. Promotional flat metal radios can make your customers feel truly appreciated without breaking the bank. Being light weight and perfect for fitting in an envelope they are a great way to keep your recipients listening to your company.


5. Appeal to their sweet tooth. Almost everyone loves free candy. Even if they don't, chances are they know someone who will appreciate it. Small tins of promotional mints or gum can last a while and will advertise your brand every time they are shared with friends.

Budget Tip: GOBE

One of the hottest new products I have seen this year is the GOBE. It is the perfect promotional product for when you are on a tight budget. When you are sending care packages to clients you can attach a GOBE to the outside of the package so they can easily, and safely, open their package.

Being light weight it is perfect for direct mail. Having a large imprint area you can gain maximum exposure. Made entirely of plastic this promotional box cutter is extremely safe. Perfect for your warehouse or mail room. You can guarantee that your employees will be safe with this great corporate gift.

Case Study: Goody-stuffed Promotional Backpack Creates Positive Moments of Truth for Las Vegas Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center

Challenge: Maximize first impressions and warmly welcome new patients

There’s power in new patient welcome gifts, especially when patients must return to your practice for a regimen of treatment lasting weeks or months. Welcome gifts not only promote positive patient relations; they also give staff the opportunity to create yet another positive moment of truth—moments that go a long way toward impacting patient satisfaction and referrals. The leadership team at the Advanced Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center in Las Vegas understands this power well, which is precisely why they turned to ePromos for help in selecting new patient welcome gifts.

Solution: Attractive, logo drawstring backpack filled with promotional gifts

Already in the team’s sights: a substantial promotion with a high-perceived value, including classic promotional gifts like water bottles and t-shirts. Not yet in sight, however, was a way to distribute those gifts. With the help of their ePromos Associate, the Center team selected a sleek, attractive high-quality drawstring backpack, imprinted with a brilliant rendition of the Center’s logo, phone number and Web address. The quality and eye appeal of the bag significantly increased the perceived value of the giveaway as a whole—which is precisely the effect the team was after. There were three factors at work here, both signifying a full package of attention and care: the treatment course as prescribed by the Center, a like-minded gift for patients which symbolizes ongoing care and attention and ePromos’ full experience in seeing each aspect of the project through on every level from diagnosis through cure.

Result: New patients feel like family; staff enjoys the glow of gift-giving

The Center team is pleased with the outcome. Not only does staff enjoy the glow that comes with giving gifts to new patients; but new patients on the receiving end say the gifts make them feel warmly welcomed—almost like part of the family. And, that, we believe, is promotional success!

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Pack up your promotions with Drawstring Backpacks.