Promotional products are everywhere. From pens and mugs to custom T-shirts and tote bags, companies worldwide are constantly sharing their brand with fans and consumers in fun and creative ways. These products are more than just swag; they’re tangible extensions of a brand’s identity. But have you ever wondered where it all began? The history of promotional products is rich, creative, and deeply intertwined with the evolution of advertising itself.
A Patriotic Beginning: The 18th Century
The origins of promotional products in the United States date back to the late 1700s. One of the earliest known examples was during George Washington’s presidential campaign in 1789. Supporters created commemorative buttons and pins bearing slogans to show their loyalty in an early form of political merchandising. While simple in design, these items laid the groundwork for a new kind of grassroots marketing: one that harnessed emotion, identity, and visibility.
The Birth of an Industry: Late 19th Century
The promotional products industry didn’t truly gain traction until nearly a century later. In 1886, Jasper Meek, a newspaper printer from Coshocton, Ohio, revolutionized the space. Looking for a way to keep his printing presses running between newspaper jobs, Meek partnered with a local shoe store to print its logo on school bags and give them away to children. The concept was a hit and a new business model was born.
Soon after, Meek’s competitor, Henry Beach, joined the movement, and the two began churning out branded calendars, rulers, and book bags. Their rivalry not only popularized the idea of promotional merchandise but also gave birth to one of the earliest product categories in modern advertising.
Coshocton, to this day, is often referred to as the “birthplace of promotional products.”
Growth and Innovation: Early to Mid-20th Century
By the 1900s, the promotional products industry had expanded rapidly. Businesses across America began ordering branded giveaways to create goodwill, drive recognition, and boost customer loyalty. Trade shows helped fuel this demand, offering the perfect venue for companies to distribute memorable keepsakes.
In 1904, a group of promotional product manufacturers came together to form what is now the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI). This organization helped establish industry standards and continues to support businesses today.
During the World Wars, promotional items played a role in morale-building and public education campaigns. Posters, pins, and pamphlets encouraged everything from war bond purchases to enlistment. After the war, as consumerism soared in the 1950s and 60s, promotional products became a staple in marketing campaigns nationwide.
The Digital Age and Customization Boom
The late 20th and early 21st centuries brought explosive growth and innovation to the industry. With advances in printing technology such as screen printing, laser engraving, and full-color sublimation, companies could now personalize a broader range of items with greater detail and quality.
E-commerce has made it easier than ever to browse, customize, and order promotional items in bulk. Meanwhile, sustainability and creativity have emerged as major trends, with eco-friendly products and thoughtful design becoming the new gold standard.
Today’s promotional products aren’t just throwaways, they’re brand ambassadors. Whether it’s a sleek water bottle, a tech gadget, or a beautifully engraved plaque, the goal is the same: to make an impression that lasts.
A Legacy That Endures
At Lane Award, we’re proud to be part of this long-standing tradition. As manufacturers of custom awards and promotional products, we understand the power of a personalized product. It’s not just about branding, it’s about connection, recognition, and creating something worth remembering.
From the campaign buttons of 1789 to today’s custom-crafted promotional pieces, one thing has remained constant: when done right, promotional products have the unique power to turn something simple into something unforgettable.