Office and Desktop

Promotional Products for the Restaurateur… Or For Your Office Break Room!

Thank you, Swanson, for selling the first TV dinner this month (September 10th, to be exact) in 1953. It wasn’t technically the first ready-made meal on a tray, but Swanson was the manufacturer of TV dinners that most successfully captured the market for convenience foods.

My lack of culinary prowess leads me to rely on microwave meals more often than is probably healthy. In college, poor eating habits are justified (well, somewhat) by busy schedules and inadequate kitchen space, but I no longer have a good excuse for indulging in frozen entrees. Am I lazy? Maybe a little bit. But I like to think I am eating a dish that is far tastier than anything I would have been able to whip up otherwise. I occasionally opt for a more upscale “TV dinner” dining experience by transferring my food from an unappetizing container to an attractive plate or bowl. I noticed many of my coworkers partaking in this seemingly odd ritual in our company’s break room, and upon trying it myself, I truly did notice a difference in the way my food tasted and the satisfaction I felt after consuming it!

To create the illusion of a fine dining atmosphere in your office’s otherwise mundane break room or cafeteria, why not invest in slightly more substantial custom imprinted paper napkins than the solid colored ones found in a grocery store? The logo and message featured on the napkins can subtly remind your employees, customers, and/or guests of the professionalism with which your brand approaches even the most minuscule of details. Custom napkins are inexpensive, come in a wide array of sizes and thicknesses, and are sure to impress their end users.

Another promotional item that may surprise frequenters of your company’s dining area is a pepper mill. No restaurant dining experience would be complete without fresh ground pepper to season a gourmet meal, so why not spoil lunch room diners with the same courtesy? Microwave dinners can benefit from flavor enhancing seasonings, just like restaurant or home-cooked meals!

Lastly, to remedy one of the worst problems associated with lunch or snack breaks, what office dining area would be complete without promotional mints? Most restaurants leave a container filled with logo imprinted mints at the host stand, and in that same fashion, Pinnacle Promotions, keeps a stash of custom imprinted miniature boxes of mints handy at all times to eliminate the risk of bad breath. Everyone should be able to enjoy their meal without worrying about the leftover scent of their food staying on their breath throughout the duration of the workday. By keeping a bowl filled with promotional mints or gum in or near the cafeteria, workers and guests can take the breath freshening items with them on the go, effectively keeping your brand in the forefront of their minds whenever they crave minty fresh breath!

Whether your employees and clients are food connoisseurs or convenience food aficionados like myself, allow them the opportunity to savor their meals in the workplace by offering them Food & Drink promotional products from Pinnacle Promotions.

Posted by Admin in How to Reach a Target Audience, 0 comments

Promotional Products to Bring Out the Inner Musician in Each of Us

_e.t-Davies-Symphony-HallSeptember happens to be Classical Music Month. As a longtime flautist (I began playing in the fourth grade and continued to pursue my passion for music throughout college), I have always been a fan of classical music and famous classical performers like Yo Yo Ma and Bocelli. I don’t know how I would have made it through college without the comforting sounds of classically trained musicians wafting through my headphones during late-night study sessions!

If you are looking for unique promotional products to distribute to musicians or loyal followers of the music world, sometimes the best product choices are also the most unlikely. During the time I spent developing my musical talent, I found many promotional products to be extremely useful. I never attended a Wind Ensemble rehearsal without a pencil and highlighter in my flute case to make necessary revisions and notes on my sheet music according to the conductors’ instructions. My home or dorm room practice sessions always made use of media players or speakers to amplify professional recordings of pieces that I was currently working on, and whenever I was stuck without a music stand to display my sheet music, I would look to handy desktop items like portfolios or note holders to prop up the pages. I also never left home for a rehearsal without a canvas tote bag to keep my sheet music, metronome, and tuner accessible at all times.

Both of my former flute teachers played in the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and encouraged me to listen to recordings and learn from world-renowned musicians like flautist James Galway. They would always give me CD recordings of performances by classical musicians for holiday and birthday gifts, and my collection of classical recordings has grown to include hundreds of discs. I store many of them in CD cases, but my favorites have earned a spot in my CD visor that I keep in my car. Don’t get me wrong; I listen to country, rap, rock, and pop music as well, but every once in awhile I find myself in the mood for some soothing classical performances to escape from the realities of horrendous traffic and lousy Atlanta drivers.

Promote your brand by giving away custom imprinted products to bring out the inner musician in each of your clients and employees!

Also, make sure to check out my current favorite musician, David Garrett. Not only is he a Juilliard graduate who holds the world record for the most notes played on the violin in one second (13!) during his rendition of Flight of the Bumblebee, but he has integrated incredible covers of songs by Michael Jackson and AC/DC into his extensive repertoire. See him breaking the world record here:

Or, if you are more intrigued by his ability to transcribe Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” into a violin performance, take a look at that video below:

 

Posted by Admin in How to Reach a Target Audience, 0 comments

Honor Your Workers This Labor Day With Promotional Gifts

Robert Couse-BakerThis coming Monday, Americans around the nation will grill hamburgers and hotdogs at neighborhood barbecues, play water sports at the lake, and maybe see some firework displays – all in honor of Labor Day. Often regarded by Americans as the symbolic end of summer – the last long weekend of the season before autumn begins and those long summer days begin to fade – it sometimes seems as if this holiday means little more than just a day off work, or school, or of course the beginning of the NFL and college football seasons. Traditionally, however, Labor Day is meant to be a celebration of much more than that, outlined in the first proposal of the holiday in the late 1800s as a day to exhibit “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations.”

Coming off the heels of the American Industrial Revolution that spanned the mid to late 19th century, the average American worker endured 12-hour days, 7 days a week, to make a basic living. The use of child labor and harsh working conditions were also prominent during that time. As workers sought an outlet to express their demands for better working environments and a better quality of life, unions developed and held parades to voice their concerns, the first of which took place on September 5, 1882. Recognized as the very first Labor Day, ten thousand workers marched from city hall to Union Square in New York City to honor the workers of America and to vocalize their workplace issues. As years passed, more states began to hold these parades, and finally, in 1894, Congress passed an act declaring the first Monday in September to be the legal holiday known as Labor Day.

Honor your workers this Labor Day by giving them promotion gifts to show your gratitude for all their hard work. Whether it’s a crystal engraved award, an executive pen set, or a simple scented candle, they will be sure to appreciate the recognition.

Jaime
Creative Writing Intern

Posted by Admin in Seasonal Marketing Ideas, 0 comments

Stay Healthy this Flu Season with Promotional Hand Sanitizers

mcfarlandmoThe H1N1 virus, commonly referred to as the Swine Flu Virus, is expected to infect between 30 and 50% of the American population this fall and winter. The resurgence of the Swine Flu virus may begin as early as September because of the start of the new school year, and experts predict cases to peak in mid-October. The H1N1 vaccine is not going to be readily available until mid-October at the earliest, and furthermore, vaccinated individuals won’t develop immunity for several weeks after they actually receive the vaccine. Particular groups that are more susceptible to infection include pregnant women, health care workers, the elderly, parents or guardians of infants younger than 6 months, and adults under 65 with an underlying health condition.

The H1N1 virus is highly contagious, but there are some ways to protect yourself and those around you from falling victim to this illness. The CDC recommends several basic steps, which most people normally follow anyway, to minimize the spread of germs.

1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water, particularly after coughing or sneezing. Promotional hand sanitizers are also effective tools for warding off infection.
2. Shield your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Make sure to dispose of the tissue properly after use.
3. Try to avoid touching your face with your hands, as this is a common way to disseminate germs.
4. If possible, keep your distance from people already infected with H1N1. People mainly contract influenza as a result of being exposed to the coughing or sneezing of infected people.

Should you happen to catch H1N1, stay home from work or school to minimize the risk of passing the virus to others.

Keep your employees, clients, and loved ones healthy by distributing inexpensive, yet highly effective, promotional hand sanitizers to encourage clean hands. Pinnacle Promotions sells many types of promotional hand sanitizers in a variety of forms and styles. Consider the impact that antibacterial spray or antibacterial gel imprinted with your company’s name and marketing message could have on your target audience. Any recipients of practical promotional products from our Hand Sanitizer collection are guaranteed to appreciate the items during flu season, and they will be reminded of your company’s concern for their well-being every time they take action to ward off germs!

And lastly, although the Swine Flu is a serious subject, this video posted on YouTube puts a humorous spin on the virus’ name. It made me laugh out loud, and hopefully it will brighten your day, as well.

We hope you enjoyed the song, we sure did. Avoid it, block it, or hide from the Flu behind PPE kits such as waterproof first aid kits or promotional face masks, you can also take extra cautious steps with an 1-8 social distancing barrier. Be sure to shop Pinnacle Promotions today!

Posted by Admin in Seasonal Marketing Ideas, 0 comments

Promote Your Brand with Brand Name Promotional Products

brand name promotional productsWithin the social structure of the United States, and any other developed nation really, there is a preoccupation with symbols of status – consumer products being one of them – used to denote one’s position within society. Though the nature of any correlation between these notions is highly subjective, it is hard to deny that those consumer products with brand names or designer labels are regarded as ones denoting wealth and prestige, and generally lie within the realms of the upper class. While many of these so-called designer items do rightfully align themselves with the rich and wealthy, owing to the quality of their goods, the true determination of their value is merely a social construct, initially developed from marketing schemes and sustained by consumer perceptions. More than just name recognition and the benefits of that familiarity, along with a brand name comes an identity of quality and excellence.

Your company can benefit from these marketing efforts of already recognizable labels by using their promotional products, and ultimately pairing your name with their reputation. At Pinnacle Promotions, we carry brand name promotional items such as promotional pens by Bic®, tools and watches by Swiss Army®, and office accessories by Alicia Klein®, just to name a few. Promotional products with brand names will be sure to impress clients and employees, and recipients will be even more likely to keep these products that they recognize to be of a certain value. You can see our entire collection of brand name promotional items by clicking here.

Posted by Admin in Brand Identity and Corporate Logos, 0 comments

PINNACLE Spells Promotional Products

I received an e-mail chain this week entitled “Random Thoughts of the Day” that basically outlined miscellaneous thoughts and situations that occur in our daily lives. Here was one of my favorites, a situation that used to happen to me more often than I’d like to admit when having to spell Conaway, Strickler & Margolis at the law firm where I used to work:

“Every time I have to spell a word over the phone using ‘as in’ examples, I will undoubtedly draw a blank and sound like a complete idiot. Today I had to spell my boss’s last name to an attorney and said “Yes that’s G as in…(10 second lapse)…ummm…Goonies.”

Inspired by this concern, today’s blog will consist of ‘as in’ examples for Pinnacle using promotional products!

P – as in Promotional Pens.

I – as in ID Badges & Holders.

N – as in Notepads.

N(2) – as in Non Woven Tote Bags.

A – as in Automotive Accessories.

C – as in Coolers.

L – as in Laser Pointers.

And finally E – as in Executive Gifts.

What does that spell? PINNACLE! (As in Pinnacle Promotions)

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Bueller… Bueller…

I have to say I was in shock after hearing the news of director/writer/producer John Hughes’ unexpected passing earlier this month. It is always sad to hear of someone passing, but even more so when it comes too soon in one’s life.I may be a bit young to be quoting lines from his films, but that is just a testament to his work and the fact that he could relate to the youth of that generation and even those that followed. His most famous films (Sixteen Candles, Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller) centered on the high school genre and revolved around one student’s woes or how a group of students interacted with one another.

Since the school year is beginning again for all of us in the real world, I thought it was appropriate to pay homage to one of the greats in the entertainment industry whom immersed himself in teen “dramedy”. We always want our kids to be prepared for whatever may come their way and Pinnacle is a great place to find supplies that make things a little easier. Not only do we have some stylish backpacks and cool functional USB drives, but we also carry the “not so fun” but necessary promotional items like pens and composition notebooks

So the next time you catch one of John’s flicks on TV or have nostalgia for those high school years just- “Don’t you, forget about me (Pinnacle)” for getting you geared up.

Stephania
Sales and Marketing Production Assistant

Posted by Admin in Current Events News, 0 comments

Express Your Beliefs with Promotional Signs and Presentation Tools

promotional signs and presentation toolsNews coverage has recently been inundated with stories and images of American citizens voicing concerns over President Obama’s proposed healthcare plan. With millions of Americans currently not holding any health insurance, and millions more currently underinsured, the government’s healthcare expenditure is out of control, and the whole country is in agreement that changes need to be made with urgency. However, opinions about how to revamp healthcare programs to conserve federal funds are far from unanimous. The on-going debate about Obama’s plan has led to a media frenzy, and neither the Republicans nor the Democrats have taken a clear-cut stance on the issue.

For years controversial topics such as this one have brought people with common beliefs together to fight for their shared convictions. Anything from animal rights, to anti-smoking, to green and sustainable initiatives, is enough to spur passionate dialogue from informed (and unfortunately sometimes, uninformed) citizens. Whether you are setting up a protest, or merely trying to direct peoples’ attention to a cause that you are dedicated to, it is important to prepare adequate signage and displays to effectively communicate your message. Your collateral needs to be bold enough to make a statement, but I would advise against setting up anything too permanent. Chances are that you will want to repeat your efforts in another location in the future, so your best bet would be to purchase presentation equipment that can be put up and taken down without a hassle. Also, consider transportation whenever you are planning for a cause-related event or rally. Can your display pieces be moved by a compact car? Or will you need to rent appropriate vehicles? Advance preparation will greatly benefit the execution of your event, and you will be more relaxed if you do not have to scramble for last-minute collateral and promotional materials.

To assist with your publicity efforts, we feature a wide array of Trade show Displays & Signage on our website. You can purchase items like portable tables and custom imprinted banners to enhance the professionalism of your staged protest or campaign. Passersby will be more likely to take notice of an attractively conveyed message, and if you do happen to capture press coverage, your organized rally will be taken more seriously than just a spontaneous get-together. Also, consider purchasing inexpensive giveaway items that support the objectives of your campaign. Items like pens or bumper stickers can gain serious promotional mileage, but make sure that you have adequate supply to distribute to all of the supporters in attendance.

As Americans, we are fortunate to be granted the right of free speech, and in accordance with that right, why not articulate your meaningful words on a customized promotional product or piece of promotional signage?

Posted by Admin in How to Reach a Target Audience, 0 comments

Wind-Down the Year with Fun Promotional Products!

Kikkerland Robot Pencil SharpenerI’d like to share my newest promotional product obsession with you: the Kikkerland Robot Pencil Sharpener. So cute and so unique, this fun little multi-functional office accessory does double duty as a pencil sharpener and walking wind-up toy.

I think the biggest selling point for me was that you actually wind up the robot by sharpening a pencil! Of course you can always use the trusty key when your pencil isn’t in need and you just need to see him move (wind-up toys always make me smile!). Once he’s done making his moves, shut the flaps in the front to cover his “mechanics” and he becomes a fun little accent on your desk.

As August winds down, it’s a great time to start planning for the upcoming holidays and end of the year celebrations. The Kikkerland Robot Pencil Sharpener along with other unique toys and executive games make perfect holiday promotional gifts. When giving a logoed promotional product, you want to impress your intended recipients while still getting your branding message across. Funky gifts and gadgets do just that.

Whether you throw a holiday bash for clients and employees or give subtle, yet thoughtful, end-of-the-year gifts, fun toys and trinkets make memorable promotional gifts. Impress your clients this season with imprinted yo-yos, puzzles or even wind-up robots. They’re sure to land a permanent spot on their desks!

Kim
Marketing Coordinator

Posted by Admin in Cool Promotional Products We Love, 0 comments

Put Your Marketing Message on the (Promotional) Moon

Sweetie187Because Pinnacle Promotions is the home of RocketShip 24-Hour Express Service™, I thought it would only be fitting to write a blog post about the 32nd anniversary of NASA launching the Voyager 2 spacecraft! Space exploration is an exciting concept, and August 20th, 1977 marked a significant advancement in humans’ understanding of the universe around us.

The Voyager 2 is an interplanetary space probe that became the sole spacecraft to reach Uranus and Neptune. To date, it is the only device of its kind to have completed the Planetary Grand Tour, an ambitious plan that exploited a unique occurrence in the Solar System, which happens only once every 176 years when the outer planets are arranged in a particular geometric pattern.

To make your next marketing campaign truly “out of this world,” consider using a theme related to space exploration or the extraterrestrial. We offer an enormous array of promotional products that relate to this topic, and you can be as playful or serious with your product selection as you would like. A Moons Calendar, which features photos of the moon in different phases for each month, or our America in Space wall calendar can bring clients or employees one step closer to outer space exploration, and remind them of your company’s name and contact information 365 days a year. With 2010 quickly approaching, make sure that you have ordered custom imprinted calendars to promote your brand.

To demonstrate your brand’s wit and light-hearted attitude, imprint alien stress relievers with a catchy tagline or slogan. For a more serious take on the theme, why not opt for a moon stress reliever to convey your marketing message? Or take a look at this futuristic futura photo frame to decorate your recipients’ desktops and keep your company’s name in front of them all day long. Personally, I think Judy Jetson would have enjoyed a trendy, cutting-edge item like this one!

Motivate customers or employees to “reach for the stars” with promotional products inspired by matter from our galaxy and beyond!

Dana
Marketing Coordinator

Posted by Admin in Seasonal Marketing Ideas, 0 comments