When the pandemic hit in 2020, it became clear that its impact would be profound and far-reaching. At the time, though, many of us couldn’t have predicted just how deeply it would reshape industries and force businesses to innovate. Now, as we’re moving into 2021, we’ve got the opportunity to reflect on these changes and learn from the creative ways marketers adapted to connect with their audiences.
One particularly innovative development that emerged during this period was the rise of custom “swag†kits. These kits are essentially personalized collections of branded merchandise, carefully curated and packaged in a custom box, then sent directly to recipients. It’s a simple yet impactful concept that has proven to be incredibly effective in bridging gaps left by the pandemic.
Let’s explore two key areas where these custom swag kits played a crucial role in keeping businesses and their audiences engaged.
### 1. Trade Shows and Conferences
The pandemic had a devastating effect on the trade show industry. According to PwC, trade show and exhibition spending dropped by a staggering 65% in 2020. With physical events canceled or postponed, businesses that relied heavily on these platforms for generating leads and sales faced a significant challenge.
**The Problem:** How could companies maintain their momentum and continue to engage potential customers when traditional face-to-face interactions were no longer possible?
**How Custom Swag Kits Helped:** Virtual events quickly became the norm, but they lacked the energy and excitement of live gatherings. Custom swag kits provided a way to rekindle enthusiasm and make virtual events more memorable. By sending out personalized boxes filled with branded merchandise and event-related items, organizers were able to recreate some of the excitement of in-person experiences.
These kits often included desk accessories, snacks, interactive guides (like drink recipes or game instructions), event programs, and even ambiance boosters like scented candles. The idea was to make participants feel valued and excited about attending, even if they were sitting at home in front of their screens.
For exhibitors, these kits also served as a powerful tool for staying connected with clients and leads. A thoughtfully designed swag box can leave a lasting impression long after the virtual event ends.
### 2. Onboarding and Company Events
Another area where custom swag kits shone was in employee onboarding. With remote work becoming the norm for many organizations, the traditional office-based onboarding process was no longer feasible. According to Gallup, 33% of workers were fully remote by the end of 2020, and two-thirds expressed a desire to remain so. This shift presented both challenges and opportunities for fostering company culture.
**The Problem:** How could companies maintain a strong sense of community and belonging among remote employees who had little or no in-person interaction?
**How Custom Swag Kits Helped:** Custom swag kits proved to be a fantastic way to bridge this gap. By sending branded welcome kits to new hires, companies could help them feel more connected to their new team and organization right from the start. These kits often contained items that were both practical and symbolic, such as branded USB drives, earbuds, or power banks. They also included ready-to-sign onboarding documents with clear instructions for returning them, along with branded masks or other essential PPE.
Incorporating these elements into onboarding kits not only made the process more engaging but also helped new employees feel valued and integrated into the company culture. For many, these kits were the first tangible connection they had to their new workplace, making it all the more important to get it right.
### Conclusion
The pandemic forced businesses to adapt in ways they might never have anticipated, but it also sparked some truly remarkable innovations. Custom swag kits are a perfect example of how creativity and resourcefulness can lead to meaningful connections, even in challenging times. Whether you’re organizing virtual events or welcoming new employees, these kits offer a unique way to stand out and create lasting impressions.
If you’re looking to implement custom swag kits for your business, don’t hesitate to reach out. CustomUSB is here to help you design and produce beautiful, engaging kits that will captivate your audience. Let’s work together to bring some of that much-needed excitement back into your business!
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