Top 10 Product Categories for Branded Merch in 2023: Your Guide to High‑Impact, Sustainable Corporate Gifts

Reusable bags continue to dominate as one of the most versatile and eco‑friendly merch categories. They offer daily visibility and align with sustainability goals. These options use recycled or responsibly sourced materials, making them ideal for events, onboarding kits, and retail‑style giveaways. Top sustainable picks: Out of The Woods® Rabbit Tote, Repreve® Ocean Duffel and Cotton Market Tote.

Pens remain a staple in branded merch—but today’s top choices prioritize sustainability and modern design. Lightweight, stylish, and made from renewable materials, these pens are perfect for conferences, office kits, and customer gifts. Top sustainable picks: Eco Ballpoint Pen, Belmond Bamboo Pen and Bamboo Quick Dry Pen.

Branded apparel is one of the most effective ways to build team identity and extend brand visibility. Sustainable apparel is especially in demand. These garments use recycled fibers, organic cotton, or low‑impact materials—ideal for staff uniforms, event swag, and retail‑inspired merch. Top sustainable picks: Hanes EcoSmart 50/50 T‑Shirt, District Re‑Tee Crewneck and Allmade Women’s Tri‑Blend.

Reusable drinkware continues to be a top performer thanks to its practicality and daily use. These premium options offer durability, insulation, and a high‑end feel—perfect for corporate gifting. Top sustainable picks: Klean Kanteen 14oz Mug, Hydro Flask® 12oz Coffee Mug and Ember Mug² (14oz) with Charger.

Tumblers are a must‑have for hybrid workers, commuters, and event attendees. These designs combine sustainability with modern aesthetics, making them ideal for year‑round gifting. Top sustainable picks: MiiR Climate+ Tumbler 12oz, Aviana Journey Glass Tumbler with Straw and CORKCICLE® Commuter Cup 9oz.

Hydration products remain one of the most popular branded merch categories, especially with eco‑conscious consumers. These bottles offer long‑lasting use and strong brand visibility. Top sustainable picks: 17oz Bamboo Lid Bottle, 30oz CamelBak Straw Tumbler and CORKCICLE® Soft Touch Bottle.

Branded hats are a timeless merch favorite—great for outdoor events, team gear, and retail‑style collections. Made from recycled plastics and organic fibers, these hats support sustainability while delivering style. Top sustainable picks: Recycled RPET Bucket Hat, Organic Recycled Eco Trucker Hat and Eco Recycled Polyester Hat.

Perfect for summer events, wellness programs, and outdoor activations. These items offer high perceived value and large imprint areas for branding. Top sustainable picks: RPET Cooling Sport Neck Towel, Slowtide® Turkish Cotton Stripe Towel and Recycled Polyester Dye‑Sublimated Beach Towel.

Recognition products help celebrate milestones, achievements, and company culture. Sustainable awards reinforce your commitment to responsible sourcing while honoring your team. Top sustainable picks: Eco Wood Desk or Wall Plaque, Recycled Glass Award and Fusion Plaque with Textured Glass.

Lanyards are a highly visible branding tool, perfect for events, conferences, and everyday workplace use. With options ranging from recycled materials to premium woven styles, lanyards offer a simple way to elevate brand recognition and reinforce professionalism. They come in a variety of sizes but our top sustainable picks are: 1/2″ Recycled Lanyard, 3/4″ Bamboo Lanyard and 3/4″ rPET Dye Sublimated Lanyard.