Struggling to choose branded products? You’re not alone. With thousands of options, it’s easy to get stuck.

In our video above, MD James Biggin explains how we help anyone struggling to choose the right merchandise for their brand. Below we’ve striped this down into a simple 3-step shortlist. We use it every day to help our customers decide on a branded gift faster, without the guesswork or trawling through catalogues.

Watch more quick tip videos in our Branded Products Minute series.

Step 1: Quick Brief (5 minutes)

To recommend the right options quickly, we start with a short brief. Share as much as you can:

  • Budget: how much you have available per unit or overall.
  • Lead time / date required: exact deadline (this could be an event or exhibition date for example) and any hard constraints.
  • Sector & audience: who it’s for (your customers, any new starters, event attendees, partners you work with).
  • Setting it is given: Where will it be given out at an event, at your offices or mailed out to individual addresses.
  • Quantity: realistic range (e.g. 50-100, 250+, split across different variants if needed).
  • Branding preferences: colours/Pantones you would like to match to, logo guidelines, positions on the items.
  • Sustainability: recycled, UK-made, plastic-free, etc.

Artwork tip: EPS/PDF vector art files with your Pantone references (if required) will speed up approval and the production process.

Notebook planner with Parker pen on a desk

Step 2:  Create an Ideas List

We shortlist 5 – 10 (or more if necessary) options that match your brief and explain why each item works for what you need. We’ll also include the typical MOQ and lead time so you can weigh up timing and cost.

What we consider:

  • Useability & visibility: Will it be used often and seen?
  • Audience Fit: Does it match your audience? E.g. a professional, playful, eco-led tone etc.
  • Branding quality: finish that suits your logo – deboss, foil, engrave or full-colour.
  • How will item be branded: We will consider items that can take your logo and ensure the branding process will be the best option.
  • Time Scale: can it meet your deadline date (standard or express delivery)?
  • Sustainability: recycled/UK-made options preferable where possible.

After we have considered all this information, we will consult with you to narrow the choice down ever further, so that we can deep dive into quotes, more information and begin the next step.

Measurement tip: Add a small QR code or short URL to track scans/clicks (use UTM tags to see performance in your analytics).

Selection of branded bottle samples

Step 3: Visualise, Price & Decide

We’ll make your choice easy with pricing, mock-ups and samples (if needed):

  • Clear price breaks (e.g., 50/100/250)
  • Artwork visuals showing placement, logo size and finish
  • Samples where useful (to check the material, colour and branding)
  • Simple approval process so production can start on time. We can get the job booked in and underway at any of the above stages depending on your urgency and the time frame you are working to!Branded tote bag visual on computer screen

Fast-track tips for when time is tight

Need items fast? Here are some tips to follow:

  1. Choose UK-made or in-stock lines.
  2. Pick quick branding methods (single position, digital printing or engraving).
  3. Send print-ready artwork EPS/PDF/brand guidelines with Pantones if necessary.
  4. Approve and sign off proofs as soon as they land in your inbox. (Some factories have midday cut offs that put lead times back by a day.)
  5. Avoid custom colours/finishes on short deadlines.
  6. Consider split shipping (priority quantity sent first).
  7. Confirm delivery addresses and any key information about the job early.

FAQs

Can you help if we don’t have a clear brief?
Yes—give us your audience, date and budget band. We’ll ask a few quick questions and build a shortlist.

How fast can we receive branded products?
Some items can ship in 5 working days with express services, subject to stock and artwork approval.

Do you supply samples or visuals before we order?
Yes—mock-ups are standard, and physical samples are available where helpful.

Can we make this sustainable?
Absolutely. We’ll offer recycled/UK-made options and alternatives like cork, bamboo, RPET or seeded paper.

What artwork is best?
Vector EPS/PDF with Pantone refs. We can redraw if needed.

Can you help with fulfilment?
Yes—ask about packing, inserts and multi-site delivery.

Ready for a shortlist?

Send your budget, date and audience and we’ll reply with 3-5 options (pricing, visuals and typical lead times) so you can decide quickly.

  • Get my shortlist → contact us here, mention the 3-5 shortlist.

  • Watch the 60-second video here.