For those unfamiliar with Aurasma, it is a free smartphone/tablet app, enabling users to view visual or audio content via objects in the real world. The premise is similar to the use of QR codes, which users scan with their phone to access digital content. However, Aurasma goes one step further. Aurasma recognises photographs, 3D objects and even people, and uses them as cues to run a moving image or audio clip. All that is required is a smartphone (or tablet), pointed towards the object, to play the media content. This provides a simple and unprecedented way to get your marketing message across, literally bringing real world objects to life.

In terms of commercial application, consider trying to sell a product using methods such as magazine advertising or promotional products. Now imagine being able to provide an instant demonstration to each and every person that comes into contact with your advertising. Aurasma ‘sees’ a 2D or 3D object – for example a photo of a person – and converts it into rich media such as video content. Using the app with a promotional product could trigger a video clip of a person showing how to use that product or a demonstration of features. The old adage ‘people buy from people’ is never more true, so providing a ‘virtual sales assistant’ with every product is an innovative way to translate the concept into the digital age.
This could not only revolutionise sales, but also aftercare, and even B2B relationships. Product demonstrations, marketing films, and a whole host of information can be shown, providing direct engagement between a business and its audience.

Imagine being able to provide an instant demonstration to each and every person that comes into contact with your advertising.

Marketing campaigns will instantly become more interactive and the application for promotional products is possibly one of the most exciting. Items such as promotional calendars are arguably the perfect platform for advertising with Aurasma since a different image can be used for each of the 12 or 18 months featured. Not only will this ensure retention, it means a chance to re-engage every month.

Currently, Aurasma is still in the early stages of mainstream uptake; however it is predicted that the app will become commonplace in the not too distant future. Whilst some critics claim that the app has too much of a novelty factor, the rate of downloads already suggests that there is increasing widespread appeal. Indeed, with consumers using technology as part of their everyday shopping experience, the advertising potential of Aurasma and promotional products in partnership could be virtually limitless.

If you’re planning to take part (or run future campaigns) then one measure is to hand out promotional sun screen. Sun cream needs to be reapplied during the course of the day, and every time it is, your message will be re-enforced. Similarly, lips also need protection, so lip balms with SPF15 are perfect for advertising your campaign slogan, either in a small pot, or a traditional lipstick shaped tube.

A large danger for sun worshippers is the ease with which its strength can be underestimated, especially where a breeze gives the illusion of coolness. A visual reminder can be invaluable, and gadgets such as branded UV monitors, are increasingly popular. They can also be incorporated into a key ring or a wristband, with a PVC colour changing disc indicating the strength of the sun. These are particularly effective for children’s promotions, due to their novelty nature.

Easy as ABCDE – The simple rules of self-checking moles and markings on the skin are Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, and Expert Help.

Often, covering up in the sun is the best methods of prevention and promotional clothing is ideal to promote this message. Hats and baseball caps are not only on-trend, but offer a highly visual branding area for any slogan. Equally, sun visors can be used to promote a sun message, and work well as part of a staff uniform. During the summer months, hotel staff or beach attendants can wear them to remind holiday makers about taking care in the sun – a great way to show the caring side of your business.

The simple rules of self-checking moles and markings on the skin are Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter, and Expert Help. Incorporate this message in your promotional advertising and ensure a bright summer for both your customers and your business promotions!

The flagship event for the week is The Big Challenge: a 10km walk along the Thames, carrying up to 10 litres of water. Whilst participation may not be possible for everyone, an alternative is to organise a simple fundraiser within the workplace.  How about raising money by asking employees to donate £1 for any drinks made at work on a given day, or by selling promotional mugs in conjunction with the event? They have direct relevance, and will be kept as a souvenir of the day’s activities.

For a fun approach, funky mugs could be given as ‘awards’ for the biggest fundraisers, or for a  tongue in cheek angle, how about an oversized printed mug, for the biggest drinker?!

Using your company logo in association with a good cause will ensure a positive association and set your business in a good light. If you have a front of house/customer facing environment, offer your customers the chance to buy a drink with a ‘free’ mug, all proceeds going to Project Waterfall! Everyone likes a promotion (and a good cup of coffee), especially with the feel good factor of a donation to charity.

For more details on the event, visit www.ukcoffeeweek.com

A branded umbrella is a great way to get your logo noticed, with a wide range of prices, styles, and different coloured panels. Umbrellas are a real ‘out-and-about’ product – held high for all to see, your logo will be displayed like a walking billboard. The exposure value of branding on an umbrella is considerable, being a practical and long lasting item.

When you hear the phrase ‘promotional umbrella’, you naturally think of an umbrella of one standard type. But in reality, there are a huge range of options – from small folding umbrellas to large luxury golfing umbrellas with brightly coloured panels.  Even the handles can vary in shape and size so it’s easy to find the perfect match for your advertising campaign.

As an alternative to the umbrella, disposable ponchos or lightweight rain macs are an increasingly popular giveaway. They will be just as appreciated in a downpour, whether given to staff or customers alike. And they work especially well for children’s promotions.
The April Showers theme can also be used to your advantage with novelty items such as printed seed pots – rain being an essential element for growth. Or for an even more tongue in cheek campaign, how about printed shower caps or toiletries, for use in the April showers?

With a carefully chosen promotional product, April need not be an advertising washout – you’ll have your staff and customers singing your praises in the rain!

Golf has long been synonymous with the corporate world, with many deals being struck over a friendly (or not so friendly!) game. As such, it is important that your business is ‘front of mind’ on the fairway.
Promotional golf items provide an effective way to do this, by giving your brand extra exposure during those tough negotiations. A golf ball printed with your logo may seem like a standard golfing accessory, but the subliminal advertising that this provides may just swing the deal in your favour.

Consider also, the association of your logo printed alongside some of the biggest names in sport – Titelist, Wilson and Callaway. Promotional golf balls are one of the most popular adverting products for the brand power they offer, and away from the course, they make a fitting executive gift.

One of the most visual branded golf items is the golf umbrella, which comes in rather useful for the changeable British weather. It is also an item that can be appreciated by non golf fans, since a branded golf brolly offers the ultimate in rain coverage!

Whilst golf is traditionally a summer sport, golfing giveaways can be handed out during any season. Branded polo shirts, bags and jackets all make an excellent appreciation gift and can help give your logo visibility away from the course.

Indeed, the use of branded golf products has long been considered an effective marketing tool, so whether on or off the green, golf fan or not, tee up your business for a memorable promotion.

1. The Dual Time Clock
Double acts are a key component of any talent show, and the two parts of this dual clock complement each other perfectly. Featuring both a traditional and a digital clock face, this timeless elegance is perfect for branding.

2. PVC Pencil Case
Talent shows wouldn’t be the same without the cute element of child contestants, and our pvc pencil case is a firm favourite for schools, kids clubs, and all child-related promotions. It’s also available in vibrant colour options for a ‘thumbs up’ from the panel!

3. Bottle Chillers
This is our ‘love’ em or love ‘em’ contender! Gel filled, these shaped insulators can be used straight from the freezer, to keep a crisp chill on summer drinks.

4. Keychain USB
If you’re unsure how best to approach your promotions, a practical staple item is always a safe bet. Like a natural singer with stage presence, the USB keychain provides the complete package – useful, practical, popular, and with a great opportunity to get your logo noticed.

5. Cotton Drawstring Backpack
This is our trendy hotpick: Eco friendly and 100% on trend for the season, as soon as you see this cotton bag, you just know it’ll be a big hit.

6. Frozen Star Mug
This cutting edge frozen coffee mug has a great frosted finish. Super-cool and confident, it’s bound to be a winner as part of your marketing mix.

Away from the home, spring cleaning generally starts with the desktop. Promotional desk items are a great way to organise any desk environment and they’re generally well received by recipients. Once on a desk, most items soon become part of the furniture and will stay in place for an extended period of time. Just consider how many times your printed logo will be viewed in a working day!

Promotional pen pots are one of the most popular (and practical) options for decreasing office clutter – especially all those loose pens and pencils that end up strewn across the desk. Many pen pots are also available with added extras such as a notepad or even a clock, so perfect for the minimalist work space.
For added organisation, a great gift idea is the office desktop set, comprising a range of co-ordinated desk items. Not only will this provide a zen friendly desk space, the matching branding on each item will re-enforce your logo daily.

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying though– cleaning needs to be done too! A great quirky giveaway is the highlighter & keyboard brush set, shaped like a little man, and perfect for removing those lunchtime crumbs from your keyboard.

And finally, let’s not forgot the mobile phone. This daily essential needs to be kept in tip top condition, so why not provide your customers with a branded mobile phone cleaner? Combine this with a co-ordinated mobile phone holder and your logo will gain a prime position on most desks – great for advertising and great for an organised work area.

The first stage of most health campaigns starts with raising awareness. Promotional products are an effective way to do this as they can be handed out directly to your target audience. Schools, doctors’ surgeries and awareness events are all great channels to promote any health campaign, with schools ideally suited to promote the ‘anti obesity’ message. Promotional frisbees or footballs, branded with your health slogan, can be handed out to keep kids entertained for hours; whilst at the same time providing a constant reminder of the importance of keeping fit. The added bonus is that the message is re-enforced with the positive association of ‘having fun’ – a very effective way of connecting with a young audience.

A health campaign which never loses its importance or relevance is drink awareness. It is estimated that 10 million people in the UK regularly drink over the safe limits but many people have no idea what their recommended daily allowance is! Giving any branded item can be a great memory jogger for these limits, printed for handy reference on a pen, notepad or sticker.

10 million people in the UK regularly drink over the safe limits but many people have no idea what their recommended daily allowance is!

Safe drinking campaigns are often aimed at older children, where items such as promotional button badges and wristbands are ever popular. For adults, however, something more ‘hard hitting’ such as a branded alcohol breath tester is a useful and functional giveaway. Printed with a message that makes people think twice about drinking too much can only ever be a positive thing. And, ultimately help to save lives.

So, if you’re looking for an effective way to promote your health message, use cleverly targeted promotional gifts to improve the wellness of your marketing efforts!

Everyone doodles – those little sketches we all draw whilst on the phone or in a meeting can be beautiful, wacky, or just plain weird! National Doodle Day, established in 2004, celebrates the art of the doodle whilst supporting a great cause – Epilepsy Action. Celebrity doodles are auctioned, whilst schools are workplaces all over the country organise doodle-ins of their own.

Giving promotional pens and paper in conjunction with an event such as Doodle Day will associate your brand with support for a great cause, and will enhance your own marketing campaign. Stationery is a great promotional giveaway; a gift that will definitely be used, ensuring that your branding remains in constant view. Equally, pens such as the acer ballpen are a great option for creating extended brand exposure. No-one throws pens away whilst they still work!

Notepads of course come in a vast range of sizes and shapes, from small myler flags and sticky notes , to handy sized A7 A6 or A5 smart pads. Or for added brand exposure, how about choosing a memo block with a colour print on all four sides?

Studies by Plymouth University (2009) have shown that doodling actually helps the mind to retain information in meetings and lectures, by preventing it from daydreaming. So providing promotional pens and pads in meetings could have a far more beneficial effect on your business than you might imagine!

Fairtrade is an increasingly popular aspect of the promotional gifts industry with a constantly growing range of items available. By giving Fairtrade products, you are demonstrating your businesses support for the ethical values being celebrated during the fortnight, and promoting a positive public image. It’s also an opportunity to get involved with awareness raising events such as raffles, sponsored runs and charity auctions.

Far from cheap novelties at the expense of cheap labour, Fairtrade products ensure a fair deal for farmers and producers in developing countries. Fairtrade is now the most widely recognised ethical label in the world and recipients will acknowledge that due consideration has been given to your marketing promotions.
Not only this, Fairtrade products offer excellent value and quality! Items such as Fairtrade cotton t-shirts are perfect for adding your printed logo or design; whilst promotional Fairtrade bags are a superb alternative to using wasteful plastic – yet an additional element of ethical sourcing.

83% of UK consumers surveyed said they ‘ look to companies they deal with to help reduce poverty by the way they do business’ – Fairtrade Foundation

To associate your brand with Fairtrade is to show that you care. An overwhelming majority of UK consumers surveyed said they ‘ look to companies they deal with to help reduce poverty by the way they do business’ (Fairtrade Foundation). Indeed, many major retailers have joined forces with Fairtrade to show their continuing support.

So, take the next step forward and consider the use promotional items with a Fairtrade mark – they don’t cost the earth, so you have nothing to lose!