At Steel City, we know that exhibitions are a significant investment, so we approach your merch exactly as we would our own: it has to be useful, it has to brand beautifully, and it has to be something people actually want to keep.
We know the stress of preparing for a show – worrying about bags splitting, “eco” claims falling flat, or stock arriving late – so we select formats and trusted suppliers that remove those risks and back you every step of the way.
- Repeat-use bag sizes: We will always suggest long-handle totes and drawstring bags because they are genuinely useful for the recipient. They sit comfortably on the shoulder and get reused time and time again outside the venue. By choosing practical sizes (e.g., 420 x 380mm totes), your branding stays in circulation and gets seen by family and friends, rather than being discarded at the exit.
- Proof you can show: It is really important that we don’t greenwash. We include options with FSC® references, GRS-certified recycled blends, and AWARE™ digital product passports because we know you need to trust the sustainability credentials. We provide the proof and traceability you need to sign off internally with confidence.
- Shortlist by use: We take a consultative approach to filter picks by what you are actually achieving on the day – whether it’s high-volume giveaways to increase footfall, or essentials for your team. We know how overwhelming the industry can be, so we narrow down the choices to keep your planning simple and ensure you get exactly what you need.
- Readable print areas: When you put your logo on a product, you want it to be perceived as really good quality. We select items with generous, clear print placements so your brand stands out from a distance. Where possible, we’ll guide you towards full-colour branding to ensure your logo lands well and looks exactly as it should.
- Faster UK turnaround: We keep UK-made options in the mix because they offer fantastic quality with shorter production windows (often 7-10 working days). If you are working to a tight deadline for an upcoming event, these options give you peace of mind that everything will be ready for your show.
- Posts without damage: We include “large letter” friendly sizes and packable shapes because they are perfect for pre-show outreach. It means you can post out invite packs that arrive looking pristine, leaving a great first impression without incurring unnecessary parcel costs.
- Bespoke when it matters: We start with these benchmarks to ensure quality and reliability before you spend a penny. However, if you have a bit more time and budget, our team can source incredible bespoke options tailored to your exact brief to really make your brand culture shine.