Top 5 Swag Trends from PPAI Expo 2025

Every year, our team heads to the PPAI Expo to uncover the latest and greatest in swag trends, and 2025 was no exception. As the premier event in the promotional products industry, the expo brings together thousands of suppliers, consultants, and branding professionals eager to showcase innovative new products and creative customization options.

With over 2,600 booths and nearly 1,000 exhibitors, the energy was high, and the inspiration was endless. We explored cutting-edge designs, sustainability-driven products, and fresh ways for brands to make a lasting impression with their swag. Here are the top trends we spotted along with some of our favorite new products you’ll want to add to your next campaign.

Swag Trend #1: Fully Customizable Swag Takes Center Stage

Customization has never been more accessible, with vendors offering in-depth personalization options such as mix-and-match color combinations, all-over designs, and full-color printing. This trend allows brands to create truly unique promotional products tailored to their identity and audience.

• Numo 3-Way Pen: Choose a color for the barrel, plunger, and clip to create a unique three-part design. With 18 color options for each component, there are over 5,832 possible combinations!
• Custom Crocs Clogs: This iconic, comfort-forward style can now be fully customized with your brand’s colors and patterns. Complete the look with personalized Jibbitz charms or choose from a variety of pre-made options.
• Squishables Custom Plush: This beloved plush brand now offers completely customized shapes, sizes, and designs. Brands can also personalize existing Squishables with embroidered logos.

Swag Trend #2: Fresh Tech & Work-From-Home Essentials

With the rise of hybrid and remote work, functional and stylish tech accessories remain in high demand. These products are designed to enhance productivity and elevate the home office experience.

• Recycled Mini Rechargeable Desk Lamp: Tap the top of the lampshade to toggle between three light modes—cool white, warm, and natural. This eco-friendly lamp provides up to 6 hours of continuous light and recharges in just 3 hours, with proceeds supporting 1% for the Planet.
• Ember Cup: Perfect for home or office, this self-warming smart cup allows users to set and maintain their ideal drinking temperature for up to 2.5 hours and easily take it on the go.
• ZAGG Keyboard & Mouse Bundle: Featuring an ergonomic design for smooth, comfortable use, this bundle reduces typing fatigue and enhances efficiency.

Swag Trend #3: Premium Heavyweight Apparel

High-quality, heavyweight apparel continues to grow in popularity. More brands are expanding their offerings with premium materials, earth tones, and muted pastel colors for a modern, elevated look.

• Bella+Canvas Heavyweight Tee: A thicker, more structured tee with dropped shoulders and a boxy, relaxed silhouette—perfect for contemporary, streetwear-inspired branding.
• Allbirds Sweatshirts and Joggers: Made with a merino wool blend and 330 gsm fabric weight, these pieces are ultra-soft, sustainable, and perfect for layering.
• Original Favorites Heavyweight Organic T-shirt: Crafted from 100% GOTS Certified Organic cotton, this premium tee features a sueded finish for an ultra-soft feel and relaxed fit.

Swag Trend #4: Swing in Style with Branded Golf Gear

Branded golf gear is making a splash, as more companies turn to high-quality accessories that blend performance with style. Whether for corporate retreats or casual weekend outings, these golf-inspired swag items are a hole-in-one.

• Golf Ball Stencil with Marker: This handy tool helps golfers create straight lines and custom markings for easy identification and putt alignment.
• Adidas Printed Blend Polo: A performance-driven polo shirt, ideal for corporate golf outings. Customize with an embroidered logo on the right sleeve.
• Imperial Habanero Performance Rope Cap: This sleek, structured six-panel cap features a performance fabric sweatband and a pre-curved visor for a comfortable fit on and off the course.

Swag Trend #5: Under $5 Giveaways That Shine

Budget-friendly swag doesn’t have to be boring! These low-cost, high-impact items make for great event giveaways, trade show handouts, and employee appreciation gifts.

• Cappy: A simple yet ingenious gadget that creates a lid for canned beverages, preserving carbonation and temperature. It also features a keychain hole for easy portability.
• H2fOld Collapsible Bottle: This space-saving, BPA-free bottle folds down to half its size, making it perfect for travel, hiking, or commuting while promoting eco-conscious hydration.
• Aromatherapy Room Spray: A naturally derived, essential oil-based spray available in scents like lavender, citrus, and cinnamon. At just 0.33oz, it’s pocket-sized and perfect for event gifting.

Closing Thoughts

From hyper-customization to premium textiles, sustainable work-from-home products, and trendy golf accessories, PPAI Expo 2025 showcased a wealth of exciting new swag opportunities. Whether you’re looking to impress clients, engage employees, or attract event attendees, these emerging trends offer innovative ways to elevate your brand. Ready to incorporate these swag trends into your next campaign? Let’s make it happen!