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Trending Now: Trend #5 Mobile Tech

Mobile devices from smartphones to tablets are becoming hugely popular and are taking a slice of the pie in terms of total web traffic.  KISSmetric put together a great infographic on how Mobile Devices are Changing Business.   Interesting to note that mobile (phone & tablet) accounted for about 20% of the total web traffic in the US in 2012 and mobile is projected to surpass desktops as the most commonly used device to access the web worldwide in 2013.

This is a trend you can’t ignore and luckily we have plenty of products that are designed to enhance our fast-paced mobile lifestyle.  Our Mobile Tech products feature the newest technology and cutting edge gadgets from tablet cases and re-charging devices to cell phone accessories like microfiber cloths and earbuds.  Don’t let that word “technology” make you think that everything is expensive… there are plenty of inexpensive promotional products that will allow you to dip into this trend without exceeding your budget.  Here are some of my favorites:

 

Stylus Pen with Cleaning Cloth features a sleek barrel that pulls apart to reveal a hidden screen cleaner.  Earphone jack keeps your stylus attached and ready to work.  Great mobile tech item under $2!

 

The Xoopar Robo Powerbank is a clever robot with adjustable legs and arms that powers your mobile devices.  This was designed to cater to proud tech geeks… believe me, this is a huge market!  Imagine the delight when they receive this cool gadget.

The Microbuff Mini is a cute microfiber cloth that features repositionable Sticky Pad Technology® that allows you to grip it tightly to back of most gadgets without leaving a sticky residue.  Remove from the back of your phone, clean your screen and replace.  Another great inexpensive mobile tech product as low as $0.98.

Brookstone® Leather iPad Stand with Sleeve allows you to easily and comfortably view your iPad while on the go.  Sleeve secures tablet to your hand or arm for easy viewing… talk about enhancing your mobile experience! It also folds into a multi-angle stand for ultimate viewing.

Do the majority of your clients have smartphones and tablets?  These accessories may be the perfect branding opportunity.  Check out more great Mobile Tech products on our pinboard or on our website.

-Heather

Merchandising Manager

 

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Trending Now: Trend #4 American Utility

One of the most practical trends I am seeing in the promotional products market is “American Utility.” My definition of American Utility is a product that is stylish, yet functional. The item can have a rustic or rugged feel to it. Heavier weighted fabrics, like canvas are prevalent, and are used to make backpacks, uniforms, and outdoor gear. Hardware is a major element to this trend; tool kits, knives, flashlights and various accessories are big on functionality. Key colors include khaki, grey, black, olive green, navy and orange. Camouflage and denim are also important.

On a marketing note, who would not want to give a product that isn’t functional? Chances are the end user will think of you every time they reach for that multi-tool or Chillin Can Camo dispenser!
Here are some of my favorite American Utility discoveries.

Heritage Supply Duffel Bag– Check out the buffalo plaid lining!

 

Men’s and Ladies Straight Collar Chambray Shirts. Love the darker wash!

 

Fred & Friends i Pound Stylus– SO hilarious, but useful!

 

Alternative Apparel Eco Jersey Hoodie in Camo/True Orange- So hip!

Guzzy 22 oz. Filtered Water Bottle– A filtering system that reduces bacteria, heavy metals, parasites and more!

 

Check out our Pineterest boards too!

-Megan
Merchandising Manager

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Trending Now: Trend #3 Urban Gear

If you frequent your local coffee shop or take a look around when you are waiting for the train, you’ll see the next big trend that we’re seeing… “Urban Gear”.  With our dependence on a life in motion, we now have access to apparel and products that keep our gear (smartphone, tablet, mp3, headphones, etc) safe and stylish.

It seems I can’t sit through a stop light without checking my phone or fiddling with my music selection.  I guess you could say I’m pretty connected at all times!  I love finding products with practical, smart design that support my tech habits.  If your target audience is anything like me, you’ll need to check out some of my favorite Urban Gear products:

 

The Men’s Sherpa Fleece Lined Seam-Sealed Jacket is waterproof and features a audio port and convenient breast pocket for your phone or mp3. Available in a female companion as well.

 

The Impact Vertical Computer Messenger Bag comes in gray or black and features a padded exterior pocket that fits up to a 15.4″ laptop. Mesh side pocket holds your drink.

 

The RoxBox Bluetooth Speaker turns any mobile device into a sound machine. The built in mic comes in handy for a conference call on the go. Love this edgy speaker!

 

The Techie Headphones feature a sleek design and a fold up feature which makes it easy to travel with. With Beats by Dr. Dre being a hot item this holiday, we’re seeing lots of headphones in 2013.

 

For more Urban Gear products and apparel ideas visit www.pinnaclepromotions.com or our Urban Gear pinboard on Pinterest

-Heather

Merchandising Manager

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Trending Now: Trend #2 New Sophistication

One of the major tones in promotional products for 2013 revolved around a refined, classic and streamlined style. A generous sampling of both apparel and hardgoods were blessed with chic design. When I mention the buzzwords “New Sophistication,” I envision the colors black, platinum and gold. I think of old Hollywood glamour- Rita Hayworth, Lauren Bacall and Elizabeth Taylor. “New Sophistication” also lends itself to the handsome sensibilities of Clark Gable and Paul Newman.

How does the trend carry over to promotional products? Think chrome finished writing implements, sleek black tablet cases, rhinestone accented sunglasses, brushed silver desk accessories or a tastefully blinged out tumbler. The looks are polished and professional- leaving a perfect impression to the end user.

Here are a few of the products that define “New Sophistication” to me.

Rutherford Blazer. Available in black and navy.

20 oz. Spirit Ice Tumbler with straw.

Ogio Pearl Polo

Callaway Chamberlain Ballpoint Pen

Brookstone Women’s Amenity Case

Palmdale Polarized Sunglasses

Check our pinboard on this trending topic too. If you would like more info on this 2013 trend, please give us a call!

 

I hope the products above inspire you.

-Megan
Merchandising Manager

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Trending Now: Trend #1 Neo Retro

A big part of the Merchandising Team’s job at Pinnacle is spotting trends and finding products and apparel that resonate with our clients and the end-users. We do this by subscribing to trend reports, following retail trends, and keeping a keen eye when we’re out in public and at events. Each year, Pinnacle sends a team to the PPAI Expo to focus a few days entirely to uncovering the latest products, apparel, and trends specifically in the promotional products industry. When we came back we reported to the entire Pinnacle family on the 6 major trends we were seeing.

 

Trend #1: Neo Retro – a throwback to yesteryear with iconic objects, saturated colors, and synthetic materials. We’re seeing lots of turquoise, coral, and mint.  Here are some easy ways to incorporate this trend into your promotional products and branded apparel purchases this year.

Vintage Weekender Bag in turquoise, made with retro vinyl material

 

Ella Neoprene Cooler has a sleek, retro shape and fun flower detailing

 

Vintage Soda Bottle made from tritan material and available in 8 retro colors

 

 

Men’s 7.5 oz. La Brea Piped Jacket is a more stylized track jacket with retro inspiration

 

For more Neo Retro inspiration visit our pinboard on Pinterest or give us a call!  We’d be happy to put together an IdeaKit with product ideas that fit your brand.

 

What do you think about this trend?  Does it work well for your target?

 

-Heather
Merchandising Manager

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