Ready to take your brand from ordinary to unforgettable? Check out these 7 quirky merchandise ideas that will have everyone talking about your business.
In a world where attention spans are shorter than ever, standing out isn't just a goal—it's a necessity. With so many companies vying for attention, finding ways to stay top of mind can be daunting. This is where bringing in strategically planned branded merchandise can take your business to the next level.
Branded merchandise is more than just swag; it's a chance to create a lasting connection with your audience. When done right, it can sky rocket your brand recognition and boost customer loyalty. But what kind of merch will make your brand impossible to ignore? In today’s blog, we’ve rounded up seven quirky and unusual merchandise ideas that are sure to get your brand noticed—and talked about!
People are wired to remember things that surprise and delight us. That’s why quirky and unconventional merchandise sparks curiosity and leads to memorable experiences for your customers and clients. When you offer something unexpected, it grabs attention and gets people talking, making it the perfect tool for word of mouth marketing.
What started as a playful trend became a cult favorite among Jeep owners, with these tiny ducks now being a symbol of community and adventure. How about Taco Bell’s hot sauce packet floaties? These were so quirky that they lit up social media, driving engagement far beyond the pool party crowd. Quirky branded products don’t just promote your brand, they create shareable moments that ultimately boost your visibility.
Let’s face it: T-shirts and hats are cool, but they’re just the tip of the branded apparel iceberg. If you want your company to stand out in style, think outside the wardrobe box. Imagine branded socks with wild patterns or hoodies with built-in Bluetooth speakers for a twist. Glow-in-the-dark apparel is another head-turner, making your brand pop even in the dark.
These unique pieces of clothing don’t just sit in the back of a closet—they get worn, talked about, and shown off. Whether it’s at a festival, on social media, or during a casual hangout, these apparel items make your brand part of the fun and unforgettable moments.
Who says office supplies have to be boring? Instead, they are an opportunity to infuse some fun into the workday by adding personality to everyday tasks. Think funky sticky notes shaped like animals, novelty USB drives that look like mini hamburgers, or custom desk toys that brighten up any workspace.
These items do more than just sit on a desk—they make your brand part of someone’s daily routine. And when your branded items become afunctional tool that adds charm to the workday, it leaves a lasting impression.
Home is where the brand loyalty is. Branded merchandise doesn’t just belong in the office or on the go—it can be woven into everyday household items, making your brand a permanent fixture in someone’s home. Think quirky kitchen gadgets like pizza cutters shaped like bicycles, or fun plant pots with a personality of their own. Even something as simple as a set of unique coasters can transform a regular coffee table into a branded conversation starter.
When your merchandise makes itself at home, your brand becomes a part of your customers' lives in a more personal and enduring way.
Let’s talk tech. From branded VR viewers to quirky phone holders and portable power banks with a twist, tech gadgets will always be in high demand. Customers crave tech that’s not just functional, but also fun. Imagine a fidget cube that doubles as a phone charger or emoji-themed power banks that turn charging into a playful experience.
These items are not only practical but also packed with personality, making them an irresistible addition to anyone’s tech collection and a brilliant way to keep your brand in the spotlight.
Everyone loves a good collectible item. From custom enamel pins to eccentric keychains and branded fidget spinners, novelty accessories tap into the collector’s mindset. Creating limited edition items adds an air of exclusivity and desire—who doesn’t want to be part of something rare and special?
You can even design a series of collectibles that encourage repeat engagement. When customers are eager to complete their set, they’ll keep coming back for more, keeping your brand top of mind. For example, Starbucks' "Been There Series" mugs have become a global phenomenon, with collectors seeking out different designs from cities, states, and countries around the world. This ongoing series has turned everyday coffee purchases into a collectible adventure, encouraging repeat visits and boosting brand loyalty.
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a priority. Consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, so why not align your brand with their values by offering fun, sustainable merchandise? Reusable straws in fun cases, branded tote bags with eye-catching designs, and seed paper products that can be planted after use are all examples of unconventional eco-friendly items that appeal to today’s conscientious consumer.
Not only do these items promote sustainability, but they also enhance your brand’s image by showing that you care about the planet—whiles till keeping things fun and quirky.
In a world full of noise, standing out requires a mix of creativity, originality, and innovation. From wild socks to ‘plantable’ pencils, quirky merchandise can help your brand make a lasting impact. The key is to think outside the box and choose items that resonate with your audience in unexpected ways.
Ready to take your brand to the next level? Explore the endless possibilities of quirky and unique merchandise, and make sure your brand is the one everyone’s talking about!
For over 80 years, Helm has been helping brands enhance their appeal and inspire loyalty through our evolving set of unique, customizable, and client-focused services. Your brand is our passion.
