Author: Kayden McDowell

Custom school merchandise is more than just clothing—it’s a tool for building school pride, raising funds, and celebrating milestones. Whether it’s a t-shirt for spirit week, a hoodie for grads, or water bottles for a fundraiser, the right merch can create excitement across your entire school community. But what should you order? And how do you make sure it actually gets worn or used?

In this guide, we’ll walk through the best types of custom merch for schools, how to choose what works for different events, and how to make the ordering process as smooth as possible.

What to Consider Before Ordering School Merch

Before diving into product options, take a step back and clarify your goals. Are you trying to raise money, reward students, promote school spirit, or all of the above? Different goals will call for different products and price points. A t-shirt for a spirit event is different from a premium hoodie meant as a grad gift.

Also consider your audience. Elementary students may want something bright and fun, while high schoolers typically prefer more neutral colors and stylish designs. Parents and teachers might appreciate practical items like tote bags or notebooks. Think about who will be using the merch and where they’ll be using it.

Budget and timelines matter too. Try to plan at least a month ahead, especially if you’re ordering during the busy back-to-school or graduation seasons. Use a simple spreadsheet to track sizes, quantities, and deadlines. For tips on managing bulk orders smoothly, check out our promotional products guide.

Best Custom Merch for School Fundraisers

T-shirts remain the go-to fundraising item because they’re affordable, easy to print, and universally useful. But hoodies have grown in popularity, especially during colder months. While they cost more, they also have a higher perceived value—which means you can price them higher for fundraising.

Other great merch options for fundraisers include:

• Water bottles: Practical, long-lasting, and don’t require sizing.
• Tote bags: Perfect for parents, staff, or events like book fairs and open houses.
• Merch bundles: Combine a shirt, bottle, and sticker at a slight discount to increase order value.

If you’re wondering whether merch really works for school fundraising, our post on why promotional products are worth it dives into how branded gear continues to deliver real value.

What Works for Spirit Days and School Events

School-wide events are the perfect opportunity to build unity through custom apparel. Coordinating t-shirts by grade, team, or house color creates visual energy and makes everyone feel included. Keep designs fun but simple—a bold slogan, mascot, or one-color print often looks better (and costs less) than a complicated graphic.

Accessories can also play a role. Items like branded headbands, bandanas, or even socks help students get into the theme without needing a full outfit. For seasonal events, tailor the products to the weather. Lightweight tees work well in spring; long sleeves and toques are better suited to fall and winter.

Popular spirit event items include:

• Color-specific shirts or hoodies for house/team days
• Mascot-themed bandanas or face decals
• Seasonal accessories like beanies or scarves

Thoughtful Grad Gifts That Stick

Graduation is a major milestone, and students want keepsakes that feel special. Custom hoodies or crewnecks with the school name and graduating year are always a hit. Many schools also choose to include all student names on the back of the hoodie—a small touch that adds huge sentimental value.

If you want to go beyond apparel, leatherette notebooks, embroidered toques, or cozy blankets with the school crest make excellent grad gifts. You can even add a thank-you card or motivational quote inside each gift package for a personal touch.

Offering personalization—like adding a student’s name—can elevate the item even further. It may increase the price slightly, but it turns a good gift into a keepsake.

Design Tips for Student-Approved Merch

A clean, stylish design makes all the difference in whether your merch gets worn. Stick to bold type, limited colors, and straightforward slogans. Avoid overly busy designs or ones that feel too juvenile for older students.

To increase adoption:

• Offer a few design mockups and let students vote.
• Stick to neutral tones with school-colored accents.
• Keep logo placement subtle and well-integrated into the design.

Curious how different print methods affect look and feel? Our printing guide explains the difference between screen printing, embroidery, and other techniques.

Simplify the Ordering Process

The biggest hurdle for most schools isn’t picking the merch—it’s managing the logistics. To avoid chaos, use digital order forms with sizing charts and clear deadlines. If you’re handling payment, offer options like e-transfers or a cash collection day.

Assigning the task to a student council or parent committee can also make things easier. Keep a master list to track who ordered what and whether they’ve paid. If possible, order a few extra items in common sizes to accommodate late orders or exchanges.

Tips for smoother fulfillment:

• Package items by class or homeroom
• Use name labels or tags for easy distribution
• Keep extras on hand for sizing swaps

Final Thoughts

When done right, school merch becomes more than a shirt or hoodie—it becomes part of the experience. Whether you’re raising money, building school pride, or celebrating grads, custom gear should be easy to order, fun to wear, and designed with your audience in mind.

At Drive Sportswear, we make it simple for schools to design and order custom apparel and accessories. From spirit days to graduation, we’ll help you create products that students and staff will be excited to wear—and remember long after the school year ends.

Promotional products have long been a staple of marketing strategies, offering businesses a tangible way to connect with their audience. From branded pens to custom apparel, these items leave lasting impressions. But beyond their practicality, promotional products pack a surprising punch in terms of effectiveness and history. Let’s dive into ten fascinating facts that highlight why promotional products should be part of every business’s marketing toolkit.

1. Promotional Products Have Been Around Since 178

The history of promotional products dates back to George Washington’s presidential campaign in 1789. During this time, commemorative buttons were distributed to promote his candidacy. Over two centuries later, promotional products have evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry. While the concept of branded items may have started with political campaigns, it has expanded to encompass every industry imaginable, proving its timeless appeal.

2. 85% of People Remember the Advertiser Who Gave Them a Promotional Item

Promotional products have an unparalleled ability to foster brand recall. Studies show that 85% of people who receive a promotional item can remember the advertiser behind it. This level of recall far exceeds that of other marketing methods, such as digital or print ads. It’s a testament to the power of physical, branded items in embedding a business into the minds of consumers.

3. Promotional Products Generate More Impressions Than Prime-Time TV Ads

Bags, one of the most popular promotional products, generate an average of 3,300 impressions throughout their lifespan. When compared to prime-time TV ads, the reach of these items becomes even more impressive. Whether it’s a branded tote bag used at the grocery store or a backpack carried to work, these items serve as mobile billboards, delivering constant exposure at a fraction of the cost.

4. 82% of People Have a More Favorable Impression of a Brand After Receiving a Promotional Product

Receiving a free promotional product creates a positive emotional response. Research shows that 82% of people develop a more favorable impression of a brand after receiving a promotional item. This is because giving something away for free fosters goodwill and strengthens the bond between a business and its customers.

5. 89% of Consumers Can Recall the Advertiser of a Promotional Product They Received in the Past Two Years

Promotional products don’t just create immediate brand recognition—they have lasting power. According to data, 89% of consumers can recall the brand of a promotional product they received even after two years. This remarkable retention highlights the value of investing in high-quality, useful items that resonate with your audience.

6. Promotional Products Have a Lower Cost Per Impression Than Most Media

Promotional items are one of the most cost-effective marketing tools available. Their cost per impression (CPI) is significantly lower than that of TV, magazine, and newspaper ads. For example, a single promotional t-shirt or mug might be seen hundreds of times over its lifespan, making it an affordable way to maximize brand exposure.

7. 81% of Consumers Keep Promotional Products for More Than a Year

The longevity of promotional products is another reason they’re so effective. Studies indicate that 81% of consumers keep promotional items for over a year, with many holding onto them for even longer. Items like custom apparel, drinkware, and tote bags are especially durable, ensuring your brand stays in circulation for extended periods.

8. Promotional Products Can Increase Response Rates by Up to 50%

Including a promotional product in your marketing campaigns can significantly boost engagement. Research shows that direct mail campaigns with a promotional item included see response rates increase by up to 50%. This tactic not only grabs attention but also creates a memorable experience that encourages recipients to take action.

9. Sustainable Promotional Products Are on the Rise

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, the demand for eco-friendly promotional products continues to grow. Items like reusable shopping bags, bamboo utensils, and products made from recycled materials are gaining popularity. Offering sustainable options not only aligns your brand with modern values but also positions your business as socially responsible.

10. The Promotional Products Industry Is Valued at Over $23 Billion

The promotional products industry has grown into a $23 billion powerhouse, serving businesses of all sizes across various industries. This impressive valuation underscores the effectiveness and popularity of promotional products as a marketing tool. From small startups to global corporations, everyone is leveraging branded items to build their presence.

Why Promotional Products Matter for Your Business

Promotional products are more than just giveaways—they’re an investment in your brand’s visibility and reputation. They offer unmatched recall rates, cost-effectiveness, and longevity, making them a smart choice for businesses looking to connect with their audience in a meaningful way. Whether you’re planning a trade show, a marketing campaign, or a customer appreciation event, promotional items can amplify your efforts and leave a lasting impact.

How to Choose the Right Promotional Products

Not all promotional products are created equal. When selecting items for your business, consider the following:

• Relevance: Choose products that align with your brand and target audience.
• Practicality: Opt for items that are useful and likely to be kept, such as tote bags, t-shirts, or drinkware.
• Quality: High-quality items reflect positively on your brand, so don’t skimp on materials or production.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly options appeal to modern consumers and demonstrate your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Final Thoughts

The power of promotional products lies in their ability to connect with consumers on a tangible level. By understanding these surprising facts, businesses can make informed decisions about integrating promotional items into their marketing strategies. With their proven effectiveness in boosting brand recall, increasing engagement, and delivering long-term value, promotional products remain a cornerstone of successful marketing.

Ready to leverage promotional products for your next campaign? Explore options that align with your brand and make a lasting impression on your audience.

Have you ever seen someone wearing a shirt with a bold logo and immediately recognized the brand, even if you’ve never bought from them before? That’s no accident. Branded t-shirts are one of the most effective tools for building awareness, boosting recognition, and making a lasting impression.

Whether you’re a business, school, nonprofit, or event organizer, custom t-shirts with your logo can turn everyday people into walking ambassadors for your brand. In this post, we’ll explore why branded apparel works so well, how to get the most out of it, and what makes a logo truly memorable on a shirt.

1. T-Shirts Turn Your Customers and Staff Into Walking Billboards

One of the biggest advantages of branded t-shirts is visibility.

When someone wears your logo out in public—whether they’re walking through a mall, at the gym, or attending an event—they’re exposing your brand to everyone around them. And unlike digital ads that disappear after a few seconds, t-shirts get worn again and again.

Custom shirts offer repeat exposure for your business in a way that feels natural and effortless. If your employees wear them at work or your customers receive them as part of a giveaway, they’re spreading your brand every time they put it on.

Think of it this way: one well-made branded shirt could result in hundreds or even thousands of impressions over time.

2. Visual Memory Is Powerful—And Your Logo Is the Hook

Humans are wired to remember images. In fact, studies show we retain visual information much better than words alone. That’s why your logo—when printed clearly and consistently—is such an important branding tool.

If you’ve ever recognized a business just by the shape or color of their logo on someone’s shirt, you’ve experienced brand recall in action. When your logo is printed on apparel, it becomes an anchor for your business in people’s minds.

But for this to work, your design needs to be done right. A poorly placed or hard-to-read logo can get overlooked. More on that shortly.

3. Emotional Connection Through Apparel

Branded t-shirts don’t just promote your logo—they build emotional connections.

Think about it: people don’t wear shirts they don’t like. When someone chooses to wear a t-shirt with your branding, they’re showing support or pride in being connected to your company, event, or team.

This is especially true for:

• Employees who feel like part of a team when wearing branded apparel
• Customers who love a brand enough to wear it
• Event participants who wear their shirt as a memento
• Students and teams who wear spirit wear with pride

When there’s meaning behind the shirt, it gets worn more often—and each wear is another opportunity for your brand to stick in someone else’s mind.

4. Apparel Outlasts Ads

Most digital ads last a few seconds. Flyers get tossed out. Social media posts disappear in the scroll. But a good-quality t-shirt? That sticks around.

Branded t-shirts have a long lifespan, especially if they’re made with quality materials and designed with care. People hold onto their favorite shirts for years. And every time they put it on, your brand gets exposure all over again.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, long-term marketing investment, t-shirts offer incredible return on value—especially when ordered in bulk for teams, staff, or events.

5. The Secret Is in the Design: What Makes a Logo Memorable on a Shirt

Not all t-shirts are created equal—and neither are all logo designs. If you want people to remember your brand, the design needs to be clean, balanced, and wearable.

Here are a few tips to make sure your logo makes an impact:

• Keep it bold and legible: Avoid small text or overly complex graphics
• Use high-contrast colors: Make sure your logo pops against the shirt color
• Choose strategic placement: Chest, back, or sleeve logos all have different uses
• Use soft, wearable fabrics: If the shirt is comfortable, it gets worn more often

At Drive Sportswear, we help businesses and organizations create custom t-shirts that look professional and feel great to wear. Whether you’re going for subtle or bold, we can help you get the look just right.

6. Real-World Uses: How Businesses & Events Leverage Branded Apparel

Branded t-shirts are incredibly versatile and work well in just about any setting. Here are just a few ways our clients use them:

• Trade shows – Make your team easily recognizable and approachable
• Fundraisers – Give donors or participants something meaningful to wear
• School spirit wear – Create unity and pride in your student body
• Grand openings or launches – Generate buzz and leave people with a lasting reminder
• Staff uniforms – Build a consistent, professional appearance

If you’re running a campaign or organizing an event, giving out custom shirts can create a lasting impression far beyond the day itself.

Conclusion

A branded t-shirt is more than just fabric and ink—it’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your business top of mind. Whether it’s worn by an employee, a loyal customer, or a first-time event attendee, your logo becomes part of their routine, their environment, and their memory.

At Drive Sportswear, we specialize in custom t-shirt printing that helps businesses, teams, schools, and events stand out. We’ll work with you to choose the right style, fit, and design to bring your brand to life—on a shirt people will actually want to wear.

Ready to turn your logo into something unforgettable?
Contact us today to start your custom t-shirt order, or explore our printing options to learn more.

When you’re just getting your business off the ground, every decision feels like it matters, and truthfully, it does. Between budgeting for marketing, hiring a small team, and managing day-to-day tasks, it’s easy to overlook something like branded uniforms. But if you’re thinking, “Do I really need custom uniforms yet?” — the answer is yes.

Custom uniforms aren’t just for large corporations. They’re a simple, cost-effective way to improve your brand image, build team morale, and make your business stand out. In this post, we’ll break down exactly why investing in uniforms early on is a smart move for any small business.

1. Look Professional From Day One

First impressions count, especially when you’re building a name for yourself.

If you or your team are showing up to job sites or customer meetings in plain clothes or mismatched outfits, it can unintentionally send the wrong message. On the flip side, a clean, branded uniform instantly communicates professionalism, attention to detail, and reliability. These are the kinds of cues that build trust before you even say a word.

For service-based businesses, think cleaning companies, HVAC, plumbing, catering, or dog grooming—your appearance is part of the customer experience. Branded uniforms help clients feel confident that they’ve hired someone who takes their work seriously.

2. Build Brand Recognition on the Go

One of the most overlooked marketing channels for small businesses is your own team.

Custom uniforms turn every interaction—whether it’s a delivery, service call, or in-store experience—into an opportunity for brand exposure. When your team wears your logo and brand colors, they become a moving advertisement for your business.

Even if you don’t have a physical storefront, uniforms can increase brand recall in your local area. If people repeatedly see your brand on shirts, hats, or jackets around the community, it creates familiarity. And in marketing, familiarity breeds trust—and eventually, more sales.

3. Promote Team Unity and Morale

Small teams can feel more like a family than a corporation, but even families benefit from unity.

Custom uniforms help create that shared sense of purpose and identity. They make employees feel like part of something bigger and more established. It’s a subtle but effective way to boost morale and build company culture, even if you’re only working with a handful of people.

When everyone looks the part, they start to act the part too. That increased confidence can translate into better customer interactions and a more consistent service experience

4. Save Time and Simplify Dress Expectations

As a business owner, you don’t want to waste time answering questions like, “Is this okay to wear?”

Uniforms eliminate guesswork and keep things simple. You set the standard once, and it’s clear what’s expected: no dress code debates, no last-minute wardrobe choices, no mismatched appearances.

This is especially helpful if you’re onboarding new hires or managing seasonal staff. A uniform gives everyone a clear framework from day one, which helps keep your business looking consistent and organized.

5. Affordable Branding That Pays Off

Many small businesses assume uniforms are expensive, but the truth is, custom apparel is one of the most affordable forms of branding you can invest in.

At Drive Sportswear, we offer competitive pricing on bulk orders and low minimum quantities, so you don’t need to be ordering hundreds of pieces to get started. Even a few branded shirts or hoodies can go a long way.

And unlike digital ads that disappear when the campaign ends, a custom uniform can be worn hundreds of times—making it a long-term, high-ROI investment.

6. You Don’t Need to Be a Big Company to Look Like One

There’s a myth that uniforms are for companies with big budgets and large teams. But in reality, looking polished and cohesive is one of the easiest ways to look like a bigger, more established brand, even if you’re still building.

When your business looks consistent across employees, events, and customer visits, people assume you’re well-organized and experienced. That perception alone can be enough to land you more contracts, bookings, or sales, especially when you’re competing with other small businesses in your area.

7. What to Include on Your First Uniform

If you’re new to branded apparel, don’t worry, we’ll make it simple.

Here are a few key things to consider when designing your first uniform:

• Logo placement: Most businesses choose the left chest for embroidery or screen printing. Some also include a larger logo on the back.
• Staff names or titles: If your team interacts with customers often, names can help create a more personal experience.
• Color matching: Stick to your brand colors for a consistent look across apparel, signage, and marketing.
• Style selection:
  • T-Shirts – Affordable, casual, great for events and promotions
  • Polos – Professional and breathable, ideal for service-based roles
  • Hoodies/Jackets – Great for colder months or outdoor workers
  • Hats – A subtle branding piece and functional add-on

If you’re not sure where to start, Drive Sportswear can help guide you through the design process. Whether you already have a logo or need help getting one onto apparel, we’re here to make it easy.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait to Invest in Your Image

You don’t have to wait until you’ve “made it” to dress like a professional businessperson. Custom uniforms are a small detail that makes a big difference—one that can help you grow faster, look more legitimate, and build a stronger brand from day one.

At Drive Sportswear, we make it easy for small businesses to order high-quality, affordable custom uniforms. Whether you’re outfitting a team of 2 or 20, we’ve got options that fit your budget and reflect your brand.

Ready to get started?
Contact Drive Sportswear today to explore your custom apparel options or request a quote for your first order.

Introduction

As we reflect on 2024, it’s clear that the promotional products industry experienced a transformative year. From eco-friendly innovations to cutting-edge tech merchandise, businesses embraced trends that not only elevated their marketing strategies but also resonated deeply with consumer values. These shifts demonstrated the power of promotional items to build brand connections and drive meaningful engagement.

One of the standout themes of 2024 was the alignment between consumer preferences and product design. Sustainability, personalization, and bold creativity became the pillars of successful promotional campaigns. For businesses, understanding and leveraging these trends wasn’t just an advantage—it was essential for staying competitive in an ever-evolving market.

At Drive Sportswear, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of these changes, delivering high-quality branded products that reflect the latest trends. As we look back on 2024, let’s explore how these innovations shaped the industry and provided a glimpse into the future of promotional marketing.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Promotional Products

In 2024, sustainability emerged as a defining force in the promotional products industry. Businesses increasingly sought out environmentally friendly options, recognizing the importance of aligning with the values of eco-conscious consumers. Recycled tote bags, bamboo utensils, and reusable drinkware became staples of corporate giveaways and branded merchandise.

This shift toward sustainability wasn’t merely a trend; it was a response to growing consumer demand for products that minimized environmental impact. Companies embraced these changes, using eco-friendly promotional items to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility while creating a positive brand image.

At Drive Sportswear, we’ve seen firsthand how these products resonate with audiences. By offering sustainable options, we’ve helped our clients reinforce their brand identity while contributing to a greener future. As the demand for eco-friendly solutions continues to rise, these products are likely to remain a cornerstone of promotional marketing strategies in the years to come.

High-Tech Gadgets and Functional Merchandise

In an increasingly digital world, high-tech promotional products took center stage in 2024. Businesses turned to tech-driven items like wireless chargers, smart office tools, and portable power banks to capture the attention of tech-savvy audiences. These products not only provided practical value but also reflected the growing influence of hybrid and remote work environments.

The appeal of these gadgets lay in their functionality and ability to seamlessly integrate into everyday life. Promotional items that served a dual purpose—such as branded wireless earbuds or smart notebooks—enhanced brand visibility while meeting the evolving needs of professionals on the go.

At Drive Sportswear, we embraced this trend by offering a curated selection of high-tech merchandise that combined innovation with branding opportunities. These items proved to be a hit among our clients, helping them stay relevant and connected with their target audiences in a tech-focused marketplace.

Bold and Creative Design Choices

When it came to aesthetics, 2024 was all about making a statement. Businesses leaned into bold and creative design choices to make their promotional products stand out. Vibrant colors, eye-catching patterns, and unique branding techniques were at the forefront of this trend.

Minimalism also played a role, with many designs striking a balance between simplicity and vibrancy. The result was promotional items that were both stylish and memorable. This trend extended to various products, from custom-branded water bottles with gradient finishes to apparel featuring artistic prints.

Drive Sportswear helped clients bring their creative visions to life by offering customization options that pushed the boundaries of traditional design. By blending bold aesthetics with high-quality craftsmanship, we ensured our clients’ promotional products left a lasting impression on their audiences.

Personalized and Custom Promotional Items

Personalization became a standout trend in 2024, as businesses sought to offer unique, customizable merchandise that resonated on a personal level with their audiences. Items like monogrammed apparel, engraved tumblers, and custom-branded water bottles gained immense popularity, allowing companies to create stronger emotional connections with recipients.

Custom promotional products weren’t just about aesthetics; they also reflected a brand’s attention to detail and commitment to providing value. By incorporating personalized elements, businesses were able to turn ordinary giveaways into cherished items that recipients were proud to use.

At Drive Sportswear, we specialize in delivering custom solutions tailored to each client’s vision. Whether it’s apparel with intricate embroidery or drinkware featuring unique designs, our personalized promotional items helped brands make a lasting impact in 2024.

Branded Apparel: Fashion Meets Functionality

In 2024, branded apparel continued to evolve, blending style and practicality to create items that recipients loved wearing. Premium fabrics, retail-inspired designs, and functional features like moisture-wicking materials became the hallmarks of successful promotional apparel.

This shift towards fashionable yet functional branded clothing reflected the growing expectation that promotional items should align with everyday wardrobe choices. From stylish hoodies to performance polos, businesses invested in apparel that recipients would wear frequently, extending brand visibility.

Drive Sportswear led the way in offering apparel that combined trend-forward designs with high-quality craftsmanship. By delivering wearable items that balanced fashion and functionality, we helped clients ensure their brands remained top-of-mind for audiences.

Conclusion

As we look back on 2024, it’s evident that a deep understanding of consumer preferences drove promotional product trends. Sustainability, technology, bold creativity, personalization, and fashionable functionality defined the year, setting new benchmarks for the industry.

What will 2025 bring? As these trends continue to evolve, businesses that stay ahead of the curve will be better positioned to connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.

Want to ensure your promotional strategy stays ahead of the curve? Explore Drive Sportswear’s collection of cutting-edge branded products today!