What does Gen Z actually want from promotional products?

In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Anne Marie sits down with fellow Gen Z team member Emily Pritchard to discuss what makes branded merchandise worth keeping—and what ends up in the trash. From quality and usefulness to sustainability and memorable brand experiences, they share an honest Gen Z perspective on what today's consumers value most.

You'll also hear their thoughts on why subtle branding beats constant advertising, the products they reach for every day, and a rapid-fire "Keep or Toss" challenge featuring some of the most common promotional products in the industry.

Whether you're a distributor, supplier, marketer, or brand looking to connect with younger audiences, this conversation offers practical insights into creating promotional products that people actually want to use.

In this episode:

What Gen Z values most in promotional products

Why quality and usefulness matter more than ever

The role sustainability plays in purchasing decisions

How thoughtful experiences create lasting brand impressions

Favorite promotional products—and the ones they'd leave behind

Advice for distributors marketing to Gen Z

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This episode is brought to you by Safety Made