In the Spotlight: Business Gift UK
We had the pleasure of speaking with Business Gift UK back in 2022, where we found out about their personal brand story, how promotional gifts help to support brand awareness, advice for new businesses looking at promotional items, and much more. They are our current local supplier for branded gifts for clients, and we have also used them for our own promotional items.
Business Gift UK started in 1985 as Ad-Options, selling advertising, print, and promotional gifts. In the late 1990s, the trading name became Business Gift UK. Their original logo was based around the red, white, and blue of the Union Flag, representing their specialism in UK-made business gifts.
Over the last few years, they have rebranded in two shades of green to reflect their own ethical commitments and that UK gift manufacturers have led the way in developing eco-friendly products. Their rebrand has been an eco-evolution – only using the new logo as and when something needs replacing.
We thought we were long overdue another chat, so we caught up with Managing Director, Stephen Ward and General Manager, Ben Ward at the fabulous Worden Hall in Lancashire about the current business gift climate, how promotional items help at events and tradeshow expos, and innovative business gifts on the market.
Q&A with Business Gift UK
1. How important do you think promotional items are at events?
Speaking to both Stephen and Ben, what was really apparent was the idea that handing over promotional items should be used as an incentive to start a dialogue, not the sum of the interaction.
‘Promotional products are a key catalyst to success and maximum returns at an exhibition. Initially, they are a great attention getter and conversation starters: “Have you had one of our notebooks? What are you looking to get from the event today?” This can be a great help for less experienced staff, drafted into a customer facing role at a show.
The giving of a gift puts the brand in a potential customer’s hand. Even if they are not ready to buy, the gift has a life beyond the event and it may still be around when a buying need arises. The exposure to the brand also increases the chance of a click through from a subsequent search online.’
2. Walking the floor at an event, what type of stand would catch your eye?
There’s no ‘right way’ to exhibit at an event or expo, but considering how your stand might be perceived by guests goes a long way. Stephen and Ben emphasised how it’s important not to mindlessly exhibit with no clear objectives or goals in mind.
‘The appeal of a stand will vary at different times, with moods, needs, health and even prejudices affecting what attracts you at different times.
A stand should be designed with an end objective in mind. If you want to collect data then run a competition, or offer a free gift, in return for contact details. If you want to raise awareness of a new product then clearly have samples on display; free samples if cost-effective are an attractive opening offer. If you want some quality time with potential customers, then offer seating and refreshments.’
3. Has there been an increase in people opting for eco-friendly products?
‘At BusinessGiftUK.com we have been offering an eco-friendly option, with most quotes, for over a decade now. It is only since Covid that we have seen the eco-option being more customer led. The majority of orders placed today are now ethically considered for environmental impact.’
4. How important is it for your business to be eco-conscious?
‘We have always recycled waste for a long as I can remember. We had solar hot water from 2008 and solar electricity from 2010. We had our first electric vehicle in 2012 and we have had three more since. I guess you could say it is part of our culture.’
5. What is your most popular branded product?
The possibilities for branded products are almost endless, so it can be overwhelming for businesses to navigate – especially for the first time. Stephen and Ben shared their most popular type of branded product, and which industries typically use them.
‘We have always sold a very large number of keyrings.
Many of our early customers were taxi and private hire cars, breakdown recovery and motor traders who wanted their contact details in customers’ pockets, for repeat business, recommendations and referrals. Many eco-friendly options are now made from recycled and sustainable materials.
If your business handles keys, then you should give away a key ring with every key you handle. We have hundreds of clients for whom this is a “no brainer”.’
6. Are there any new innovative products on the market?
‘There is one innovation that we really like: the move to recycled plastic promotional gifts. Plastic gets a bad name but it is a magnificently versatile, practical, low cost material that only becomes a problem when it is carelessly thrown away.
Our current favourite is the H2Oeco sports water, made from Prevented Ocean Plastic, to food grade standards, right here in the North West. Prevented Ocean Plastic is a raw material, made by a Global charity, that pays people to collect and recycled plastic waste before it enters the oceans. We are proud to be official distributors of this item.’
Do you need help bringing your event vision to life? Let Refined Marketing help you shine by taking the pressure off, bringing our years of experience and creative touch to your exhibit. Get in touch with our team to see how we can help support your event or exhibit.
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