Like it or not, generic and boring company swag ideas like pens or coasters may be useful, but they don’t add any emotional value to your merchandise. Generic gifts create a disconnect right from the start, so why not focus on unique swag ideas that will get them to share their experience and leave a lasting impression?
Employees share company swag experiences
The stats in, our research found (employee advocacy guide), the following:
- Your employees have an average of 1,090 social connections (and growing)
- Employees have 5x more reach than corporate accounts
- Social followers of your employees are 7x more likely to convert
Also, a Nielsen study showed that 84% of people trust recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues over other forms of marketing.
So why not build company-branded products into your social media strategy?
You can set up the ordering and delivery of your employee swag through automated processes with your employee onboarding tools.
What is company swag?
Company swag is promotional merchandise that a company gives out to its employees and customers. It is usually branded with the company’s logo or slogan and is intended to help promote the company and build brand awareness. Some examples of company swag ideas might include t-shirts, hats, pens, or keychains.
Here are some potential benefits of giving employees company swag:
- Boosts morale and promotes a sense of pride and belonging among employees
- Increases brand awareness and recognition
- Can be useful for team building and creating a cohesive company culture
- Shows appreciation for employee hard work and can be a nice perk
- Can help to build a positive image for the company within the community.
We have this great list of swag ideas for your new hires or even customers you can share them with:
52 of the best company swag ideas
Click to view a quick list
- Phone wallet
- Tile mate Bluetooth tracker
- Webcam covers
- Mini keyboard vacuum
- Cable organizers
- Laptop sleeve
- Wireless chargers
- Ring light webcam mount
- Fitness tracker
- Dry erase boards
- Scented candles
- Air Purifier
- Personalized planners
- Dust Cleaner Kit
- Eco-friendly packages
- Polarized Sunglasses
- Coffee tumbler
- Gourmet Coffee
- Backpacks
- Tech Bag
- Branded face masks
- Aluminum Laptop Stand
- Roll-up organizers
- Mini Bluetooth speakers
- Employee Appreciation Pens
- Comfy hoodies
- Wireless Charging Mouse Pad
- Weighted blanket
- Phone Mount for Car
- Snack boxes
- Insulated Lunch Bag
- Portable blender
- Airtight Food Storage Container Set
- Umbrella
- Yoga Mat
- Work From Home Blanket
- Travel Passport Wallet Organizer
- Tech and Gadgets
- Pour Over Coffee Maker
- WFH Equipment
- Collapsible Water Bottle
- Eco-Friendly Goodies
- Monopoly Board Game
- Company or Partner Products/Samples
- Ankle Socks
- Workout Tools
- Dad Hat
- COVID-Care Kits
- Slam Balls
- Artificial Desk Plants
- Massage Gun
- Non-Work Interests
Why is good company swag important?
It helps your employee identify who you are as a person. Even when they can’t relate to your choice of gift, they will gain an understanding of how you think and what is important to you.
Adding a personal touch to your business helps you keep your employees happy and feeling emotionally invested. When packaged up nicely and sent in time can have long-lasting support for your employee onboarding process.
If they see you as nothing but a means to an end, they will not hesitate to jump ship immediately when something is amiss.
Here is a guide to 52 of the top company swag ideas that you could gift your employees.
1. Phone wallet (from Lifestyle Designs)
This is a slightly techy, yet very practical item that everyone should have. Phone wallets let you store cards and cash together with your phone for a worry-free trip to the coffee shop.
People sometimes get too flustered about carrying two separate items with them (i.e. their phone and their wallet), so having one thing that carries both takes away a lot of stress. Unless, of course, they lose both at once.
Click the image for availability!
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2. Tile Mate Bluetooth Tracker (from Tile)
This sleek designed Bluetooth Tracker will help your employees stress less when they forget their keys or laptop at Cafe.
The simple design provides a range of up to 250ft, it is water resistant and is also compatible with iOS or Android devices.
A simple addition to your next company swag pack!
Click the image for availability!
3. Webcam covers (from CloudValley)
People nowadays are highly conscious of their privacy. Some people even believe that their phones are “listening” to their conversations. Fortunately, they’re not, although technology does use highly intelligent systems to link your purchase and search histories together.
Nevertheless, webcam covers offer a huge relief to those people who are worried that their laptops will take over their lives one day. Or at least, it will help them make a quick bathroom break in the middle of a meeting.
Click the image for availability!
4. Mini Keyboard Vacuum (from Hayousui)
You can’t go wrong with a mini keyboard vacuum. It’s a small, practical gift that will come in handy for anyone who spends a lot of time at their desk.
Plus, it’s a great way to show your employees that you care about their workspace being clean and tidy.
Click the image for availability!
5. Cable organizers (from SOULWIT)
Again, it’s one of those things that people absolutely need but never think to buy.
A cable organizer is a must for office or work-from-home setups. Clutter-free workspaces are said to be more relaxing and invite more productivity than messy desks.
Click the image for availability!
6. Laptop Sleeve (from Simtop)
If you’re looking for something that’s both practical and stylish, a laptop sleeve is a great option.
They are a great way to protect your laptop from scratches and everyday wear and tear.
They’re also a great way to show off your company’s branding.
Click the image for availability!
7. Wireless chargers (from Anker)
This next item is something that they can use for both work and real life. A wireless charger is a lifesaver in awkward situations, such as when you need to call your spouse but your battery is dying on you. As it turns out, wireless chargers save relationships, as well as batteries.
What would your competitor do? Would they be googling this article for the best company swag ideas or do you think they wouldn’t even care?
Click the image for availability!
8. Ring Light Webcam Mount (from Acetaken)
This Ring Light Webcam Mount attaches to your laptop or desktop monitor and provides a soft, even light for your webcam, making you look your best during video calls.
It’s perfect for employees who are often on video calls for work, and it’s a great way to show your appreciation for their hard work.
Click the image for availability!
9. Fitness tracker (from Kummel)
Let your employees know that you’re concerned about their overall health and not just their deliverables. Instead of a gym membership, which can be willfully ignored by the employee, a fitness tracker that they alone can control and monitor will allow them a glimpse into their real-time health status.
By allowing your employees to take control of their health, you are giving them a gift that’s far more valuable than any other meaningless company swags out there. Who knows? They may just get into the habit of working out because of you.
Click the image for availability!
10. Dry Erase Boards (from PANDRI)
Dry-erase boards are not only practical and useful, but they are also a great way to promote employee engagement and collaboration. They also come in handy for keeping track of tasks and deadlines
They are a great way to show your employees that you care about their well-being and are invested in their success.
Click the image for availability!
11. Scented candles (from Yankee Candle)
Scented candles are all the rage nowadays – and for good reason. You can buy customizable candles to incite a certain mood, such as productivity, stress relief, and focus.
Keep in mind that some people may have sensitivities or allergies and might not be able to use strongly-scented candles. For your company swag kit, you might want to include mild scents suitable for beginners and veterans alike.
Click the image for availability!
12. Air Purifier (from VEVA)
Air purifiers are not only a thoughtful gift, but they’re also practical and can be used in the office or at home.
It is also known to improve air quality, reduce allergens, and eliminate airborne contaminants. They’re also quiet, energy-efficient, and low maintenance.
Click the image for availability!
13. Personalized planners (from MADEtoPLAN)
A planner might sound boring, but we assure you that it isn’t. People love to feel that they are in control of their day, even if it’s just on writing. Take it a step further and personalize your company planners with any of the following:
- Random facts about the company (e.g. the CEO is a cat lover)
- Inspirational work quotes
- Holiday destination ideas
- Their name on the cover
Click image for availability!
14. Dust Cleaner Kit (from Koowin)
This useful tool can help keep your work area clean and dust-free, and it’s a great way to show your employees that you care not only about their workspace but also their well-being.
Plus, the dust cleaner kit is an affordable option that won’t break the bank.
Click the image for availability!
15. Eco-friendly packages (from EcoBags)
You won’t get very far in today’s society without paying your respects to environmentalists.
Give your employees something to think about with eco-friendly items like metal straws, reusable shopping bags, silicone food packaging, or tumblers made from recycled plastic.
Click the image for availability!
16. Polarized Sunglasses (from Kaliyadi)
Polarized sunglasses are a great gift for employees, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors.
Not only do they protect against the sun’s harmful rays, but they also reduce glare, making it easier to see.
They’re also stylish accessories that can help employees look their best.
Click the image for availability!
17. Coffee tumbler (from Simple Modern)
The coffee tumbler is more versatile and thankfully less overused than our typical office mug.
Splurge a bit on your employees and get them the kind that retains temperature for longer periods. They will remember you fondly as they sip their caffeinated beverages.
Click the image for availability!
18. Gourmet Coffee (from Alegro Coffee)
Another coffee swag! Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, and gourmet coffee is a step above the rest.
If you’re looking for a unique and appreciated employee gift, gourmet coffee is a great option. Not only will your employees appreciate the quality of the coffee, but they’ll also appreciate the thoughtfulness of the gesture.
Click the image for availability!
19. Backpacks (from Matein)
A backpack is a perfect way to tote your work supplies when you’re on the go. Whether you’re commuting to the office or traveling for business, a backpack will help you stay organized and efficient. Some features to look for include a padded laptop compartment, multiple compartments for storage, and a comfortable fit.
There are plenty of services out there where you can integrate the distribution of swag bags to your employees as part of an automated onboarding experience or if you add this to a checklist for your supervisors or managers for when they onboard new employees.
Click the image for availability!
20. Tech Bag (from Bagsmart)
Tech bags are perfect for employees who are always on the go, as it has a place for carrying all of your essential tech items, like your laptop, phone, charger, and other tech items employees need to stay productive on the go.
If you’re looking for a way to show your employees that you care about their productivity and well-being, tech bags are a great option.
Click the image for availability!
21. Branded face masks (from Adidas)
Whether you like wearing them or not, face masks add a lot of spunk and personality to your outfit. They also help keep you healthy.
Sadly, not all face masks are made equal. Some are made so poorly that they do very little to keep viral particles out.
You can never go wrong with branded apparel. Giving your employee a well-crafted, branded swag face mask will assure them that you’re thinking about their health.
Click the image for availability!
22. Aluminum Laptop Stand (from Soundance)
An aluminum laptop stand is a great gift for employees who spend a lot of time working on their laptops.
It helps to keep the laptop at a comfortable height and angle, and it also helps to keep the laptop cool by providing airflow underneath.
Aluminum laptop stands are particularly good because they are lightweight and easy to transport.
Click the image for availability!
23. Roll-up organizers (from Joindo)
If your bag is quite messy, you’ll appreciate having something to help you make sense of the clutter.
A roll-up organizer is convenient to store and helps you locate all your things at once when you take them out.
Click the image for availability!
24. Mini Bluetooth speakers (from JBL)
These compact speakers don’t cost a lot these days, though they sure are highly effective noisemakers.
Giving an employee a mini Bluetooth speaker lets them know that you’re encouraging them to make noise and let their presence be known.
Click the image for availability!
25. Employee Appreciation Pens (from Eersida)
Employee appreciation pens are a great way to show your employees how much you appreciate them.
They can be used to write thank-you notes, sign important documents, or even just jot down a quick reminder.
Pens are an affordable and practical gift that will be used and appreciated by your employees.
Click the image for availability!
26. Comfy hoodies (from Hanes)
Let’s face it – dressing up for your work-from-home routine is ridiculous.
At least give your employees a comfortable hoodie that they can snuggle into for your next video conference.
Click the image for availability!
27. Wireless Charging Mouse Pad (from Viviya)
Do you want to make sure your employees are always charged and ready to go? A wireless charging mouse pad is the perfect way to do it!
This type of mouse pad has a built-in wireless charger. Simply place your device on the pad and it will start charging. No more searching for outlets or dealing with cords!
Click the image for availability!
28. Weighted blanket (from Topcee)
Many people are unfortunately still unaware of the therapeutic benefits of a good weighted blanket.
The weight offers much-needed comfort and warmth that any employee would need after a hard day’s work.
Click the image for availability!
29. Phone Mount for Car (from Qifutan)
Not only will phone mount for cars help your employees stay organized and hands-free while they’re driving, but it’s also a great way to show them that you care about their safety.
Plus, it’s a gift that they’ll use, which is always a bonus. So if you’re looking for a great employee swag gift, consider a phone mount for the car.
Click image for availability!
30. Snack boxes (from SnackBOX)
Snacking helps some workers to focus and also helps to take the stress off a daunting task.
It may not last them long, but your hardworking employees will be remiss to forget the thoughtful boss who sponsored their custom swag boxes contaning the best snack break ever.
Click image for availability!
31. Insulated Lunch Bag (from Tiblue)
No one likes eating a cold sandwich at their desk, so why not give the gift of an insulated lunch bag?
This is a great way to show your employees that you care about their wellbeing and want them to enjoy their lunchtime.
Not to mention, it will keep their food nice and fresh all day long!
Click image for availability!
32. Portable blender (from LEZAA)
This versatile trinket is not only useful for the fitness buffs out there. A portable blender can also help make quick milkshakes on a hot day.
Click image for availability!
33. Airtight Food Storage Container Set (from Seseno)
These containers are perfect for keeping food fresh, preventing spoilage, and can be used in the office kitchen or at home.
They also come in handy for storing leftovers, bringing lunch to work, or packing a snack for a road trip.
The containers are the perfect gift for any employee who loves to cook or who loves to eat healthy.
Click image for availability!
34. Umbrella (from Repel Umbrella)
No matter where you live, you’re bound to need an umbrella someday. What better way to express your concern for your employees’ welfare than to give them a gift that they can actually use on a rainy day?
Click image for availability!
35. Yoga Mat (from HemingWeigh)
Giving employees yoga mats as gifts may seem like a strange idea, but it can actually be a great way to show your appreciation for their hard work.
Yoga mats have a number of health benefits so they are a great way to promote health and wellness in the workplace, and they make a great addition to any home gym.
Click image for availability!
36. Work From Home Blanket (from SwagNSend)
With the chilly weather upon us and the holidays just around the corner, what better way to show your employees some love than with a cozy work from home blanket?
Not only will they appreciate the gesture, but they’ll also be able to stay warm and comfortable while they work from the comfort of their own homes.
Click image for availability!
37. Travel Passport Wallet Organizer (from Amazon Basics)
When traveling internationally, our passport is our most important document. It’s essential to keep it safe and organized. A great way to do that is with a passport wallet organizer.
A passport wallet organizer is a great gift for employees who travel frequently for work. It will help them keep their passport, boarding pass, and other important documents organized and within easy reach.
Click image for availability!
38. Tech and Gadgets
This will depend on the budget that your company has. They can go all out and upgrade the basic headset accessory with a wireless one. And with all the cables that you use in your work, plus your set of cables for your gadgets, a simple cable organizer/bag can definitely help prevent the cables from tangling up your workstation.
You can even spare some space in there to fit in a basic power bank for your employee.
Smaller items would include mobile phone holders and even laptop stands, or even your ergonomically-friendly items such as mouse pads with wrist rests lumbar supports, and footstools. That way, you both make them work more efficiently and keep them healthy at the same time.
39. Pour Over Coffee Maker (from Coffee Gator)
Pour over coffee makers are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a simple and easy way to make high-quality coffee.
They also don’t require any special skills or knowledge to use, which makes them ideal for busy professionals who want to enjoy a good cup of coffee without having to go to a coffee shop.
Click image for availability!
40. WFH Equipment
I was so jealous on hearing that one of my previous companies gave their employees an office chair during the initial stages of the COVID outbreak. This was part of their pivoting towards working from home and was something to keep the employees engaged.
Most of the other companies have also opted to give away gift certificates for the employees to purchase their WFH equipment.
If your employees will be working remotely, why not equip them with the best items to work with, right?
41. Collapsible Water Bottle (from Vapur)
It’s important to stay hydrated! Collapsible water bottles are perfect for on-the-go because they are easy to carry and take up less space than a traditional water bottle.
Plus, they are eco-friendly and can be reused over and over again. If you are looking for a unique and practical employee gift, consider a collapsible water bottle.
Click image for availability!
42. Eco-Friendly Goodies
Whether they stay at home or report to the office, it would be nice to have your employees come equipped with things they can use while they’re working. The company can even use this to hit two birds with one stone and make those things eco-friendly, which is a plus for their CSR folks as well.
For their meals, it would be perfect to use their tumblers along with their reusable utensils. But the ultimate kicker would be including reusable straws as well. I remember receiving one before, and it caught me off-guard that I still have it now. Sometimes it’s the little things that matter and will matter, to your employees.
43. Monopoly Board Game (from Monopoly)
It is one of the most popular board games of all time.
It can be a great gift for employees, as it teaches important lessons about strategy, risk-taking, and negotiation.
The game can also be used as a team-building exercise, as it encourages cooperation and communication.
Click the image for availability!
44. Company or Partner Products/Samples
I’ve even personally been able to give some products as holiday gifts to my relatives. It gives me a sense of pride as well to be working for that company.
One of the easiest swag items to think of, especially if your company manufactures known products used by society. I’ve always been excited whenever a previous company I worked for sends out random company products for their employees.
Not only do we use those items, but most even document this and show gratitude by posting the giveaways on social media. Talk about free publicity and word-of-mouth there.
I’ve even personally been able to give some products as holiday gifts to my relatives. It gives me a sense of pride as well to be working for that company.
Do not despair though if your company is not from the manufacturing industry. For IT companies out there, give your employees a sampler/trial of your latest software or even give out major discounts for them to purchase.
The choices are unlimited out there.
45. Ankle Socks (from Light up in the Dark)
Ankle socks are a versatile and practical gift that your employees will appreciate. They can be worn at work or at home, and they come in a variety of styles and colors to suit everyone’s taste.
Plus, they’re relatively inexpensive.
Click the image for availability!
46. Workout Tools
Nowadays, companies do not just look out for the productivity of their employees, but their overall wellness as well. There have been multiple programs to deal with physical, emotional, and mental health issues launched for the employees’ welfare.
Swag in this case might be in the form of fitness gear that your employee can use at their workstation or even bring home.
Resistance bands, jump ropes, or even a basic fitness tracker show that you care about your employee’s overall health. And, with TikTok videos and Instagram reels showing off workout routines, this may be another case of advertising via social media for the company.
47. Dad Hat (from Falari)
If you’re looking for a unique and thoughtful gift for your employees, look no further than a dad hat!
Not only will they appreciate the gesture, but they’ll also get plenty of use out of it – whether they’re running errands, working in the yard, or taking a walk on their lunch break.
Click the image for availability!
48. COVID-Care Kits
As the pandemic is still pretty much ongoing, sending out items to help prevent your employees from contracting COVID certainly helps. Face masks have been a fashion item now too, and cloth masks can be placed over regular surgical masks to increase the prevention of transmission.
A handy bottle of sanitizer or alcohol will come in handy anytime they have contact with other items basically once they leave the house. This can be attached to their handbags or keychains. Let’s help our employees continue to keep away from COVID.
49. Slam Balls (from Yes4All)
Slam balls are a great way to show your employees how much you appreciate their hard work.
They can be used as a fitness tool, or simply as a way to relax and destress.
Either way, they are a unique and thoughtful gift that will be sure to be appreciated.
Click the image for availability!
50. Artificial Desk Plants (from MyGift)
Not only do they add a touch of life and color to any workspace, but they also have several benefits for employees.
They have been shown to boost productivity and creativity. So if you’re looking for a unique and meaningful gift for your employees, artificial desk plants are a great option.
Click the image for availability!
51. Massage Gun (from Cholas)
If you’re looking for an employee gift that will show you care about their health and well-being, a massage gun is a great option.
Massage guns are becoming increasingly popular as people realize the benefits of using them for self-care. They’re a great way to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce stress.
Click the image for availability!
52. Non-Work Interests
Your employee is also a parent, a sports fanatic, or bikes 80km every weekend and the company can offer gift cards to provide items that they would need for their non-work selves.
Acknowledging that employees also have a life outside of work helps them understand what they need to maximize their potential.
This can be tricky, given that people have different interests, but this can be addressed by performing an assessment/sensing the needs of the people. A survey can even be made, to allow people to decide on their own which particular part of themselves they would be fulfilling a need of using this swag idea.
Another simple way to address this is to purchase ecards that can be redeemed at major retailers like Punchbowl, Chapters, or even for experiences like concerts and other events. This is a great way to let the employees decide for themselves what they would like.
You can purchase these in bulk for a discounted rate and have them emailed to each employee.
This is a great way to show that you are interested in their non-work lives and want to help make it easier for them to enjoy their hobbies outside of work.
It also helps build a positive relationship with employees, as they will see that you are willing to invest in their happiness.
Did you have any other best company swag ideas?
Times are tough, and sometimes, the little things will matter to an employee in terms of appreciating the value of the company they joined. Adding these items will show them that the company values them and can convert them into your very own brand ambassadors.
This is not to say that all should be present, as we know budget constraints can limit our choices, but you can include the above in your list of ideas when creating your own company’s swag kit. Take into consideration your company’s brand and values, and think of how you can integrate this into the swag kit for your employees.
We would love for you to send through if you have seen any great ideas or suggestions for the post. Also, you can check out our range of reviews on SaaS platforms that can help get your employee onboarding on point.
Frequently Asked Questions About The 52 Best Company Swag Ideas for 2023
1. What kind of company swag do employees like?
Based on a list that has been published by SnackNation.com, here are some of the popular choices for Swag ideas for 2022: customized swag boxes, teach accessories, self-care, eco-friendly items, fitness gear, coffee swag and bags.
2. What are the most popular swag items?
According to the Delta Marketing Group, branded drinkware, travel essentials, custom tote bag, branded backpacks, hybrid workplace essentials, promotional tech items, branded apparel and swag bags or boxes are some of the top company swag ideas, reflecting the effects of the pandemic and the change in workplace arrangement.
3. What is branded swag?
Swag pertains to a branded item, apparel or merchandise that is distributed to prospects and customers as a form of marketing tool or to employees as a form of tokens or welcome gifts. Companies, blogs and webpages offer swag boxes to their patrons to promote the company’s brand or to launch a new product or service.
4. Why do companies give swag?
There are two notable benefits of giving away swag boxes. The first is as an advertising or marketing device targeted for customers and prospects. The second is as a token of recognition and appreciation given out to the organization’s employees.
5. What is in a swag bag?
Swag bags and boxes usually include promotional items, free samples and branded merchandise that aim to give a lasting impression, pique interest and promote the company or a new service or product that a business is offering.
6. How do you design swag?
Gemnote.com has given a few tips and ideas on how to come up with the best swag boxes. This list includes a clear representation of the brand, collaborating with established products or companies, presenting a unique and eye-catching design, and customizing and using quality items.
Final Thoughts
From futuristic drinks tumblers or coffee mugs to health-related merchandise and stylish clothing items, the list of 52 best company swag items and ideas for 2023 provides a useful guide for any company looking to make a statement this coming year. By adding products that tie into the brand identity, companies have an amazing array of choices when choosing merchandise their target audience will love and appreciate.
With plenty of options for budget-conscious business owners, this list has something for everyone. Give your customers something they can remember you by no matter what item you choose. A great way to ensure you always stay top of mind long after your customer receives their promotional product or article of clothing is to add an element that speaks directly to their needs. With creativity and foresight, your great company swag will be a hit with customers!