Branded merchandise is one of the most effective ways for a business to be remembered. Unlike an ad that disappears with a scroll, a useful branded product is kept, used and seen again and again, by the person who received it and by everyone around them.
It helps a business stand out from its competitors, stay front of mind when it’s time to buy, and start conversations that lead to new customers. And it works alongside digital marketing, not against it, turning a physical moment into online action.
APPA’s 2025/26 industry research surveyed 399 people across Australia and New Zealand who have received promotional products. Here’s what happened next.
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77% went on to purchase from the brand |
81% can recall the brand on merchandise they’ve received |
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84% told others about the brand |
66% visited the brand’s website or social channels |
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Source: APPA Recipient Study 2025/26 (399 respondents across Australia and New Zealand).
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It keeps your brand in view A product people use every day puts your logo in front of them, and the people around them, long after the moment they received it. |
It turns attention into action Recipients don’t just remember the brand. Most go on to buy from it, and two in three look it up online. Physical products drive digital engagement. |
It gets people talking Branded merchandise is shared, worn and noticed. The research shows most recipients go on to tell others about the brand. |
APPA also surveyed 228 buyers and decision-makers, mostly from micro and small businesses across Australia and New Zealand, about how they choose branded merchandise.
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Price and quality come first Price and quality lead the choice of provider, with customer service close behind. |
Made to be kept Buyers are moving away from single-use items towards merchandise made to be kept and used. |
Source: APPA End-User Study 2025/26 (228 respondents, mostly micro and small businesses).
Download the free Fast Facts Sheet for the key insights from both studies, or explore the research in more detail.
Explore APPA Industry Research 2025/26 or find an APPA member to get started.
