Top 10 new items: Chocolate, pizza, beer, and more

by Nina Vultaggio




  August 29, 2011

Tradeshows are all about the swag — but what happens when the swag-makers themselves have a tradeshow? Don’t attempt this at home: We’re professionals! Last week, Gorilla Marketing came, saw, and conquered a regional ad specialty tradeshow and made out like bandits. We got loaded down with freebies, of course, but the most exciting thing was the info. We saw all the newest products making a splash in the industry. Here’s some highlights we found intriguing.

How sweet it is

We know too much chocolate can be bad for your body, but here’s some chocolate that’s good for your lips: Lip balm in new chocolate, chocolate mint, and chocolate caramel flavors.Personalize the 4-color process label on the tube, and add a neoprene sleeve with clip so the lip balm goes wherever its user does. Practically guaranteed to be used to the last drop, and have them coming back to ask for more. $1.23 each, $45 setup, minimum order: 100 pcs.Request more information. to ask for more. $1.23 each, $45 setup, minimum order: 100 pcs.

How many licks does it take to create a fun, tasty promotion that makes everyone feel like a kid again? When we got our hands on the newImagipops, we weren’t counting — we were too busy enjoying the surprisingly yummy treat and teasing each other about the colors our tongues were changing. Now that’s effective engagement. Imagipops feature 4-color process printing right on the lollipop. Totally edible and totally memorable. Two sizes and nine colors are available. Request more information.

Pizza & beer

The crowd-pleasing combo of pizza and beer just can’t be beat, and neither can this handy little item. The Pizza Cutter with Bottle Opener features a durable serrated plastic blade, cheese-teeth to catch those long stringy bits, and a built-in bottle opener for all the beer and soda necessary to wash the pizza down. Perfect for rowdy college students and fine diners alike, and sure to get lots of use in the kitchen, where many buying decisions are made. Available in five colors. $1.99 each for a 1-color imprint, $45 setup, minimum quantity: 100. Request more information.

We’ve all seen the traditional squishy, collapsible can and bottle holders that keep your hands from freezing when you’ve got a cold brew. Here’s a new twist: the Can Grip and Bottle Grip, a brightly colored plastic handle that snaps onto your drink and turns it into a stein perfect for toasting. You’re in no danger of a party foul with these secure grips. Tailgaters, partygoers, and bar patrons will find these unique items different and useful, keeping them for re-use years down the line. Available in four colors and various sizes for cans and bottles. Starting at $0.95 each with a 1-color imprint, $50 setup. Request more information.

Sounds good

Gift cards are great one-size-fits-all presents, and everyone likes music, so we think song download cards are a great promotion, whether you’re handing them out or sending them in the mail. One innovation on the concept caught our eye: Instead of a plain-jane gift card, give the No-Tangle Card: they redeem the code on the back for their free music, and then keep the card (with your logo in gorgeous full color, naturally) to wind their earbuds around. It’s creative and practical, and keeps your brand and message in front of them as they rock out to the music you gave them.