Earbuds, speakers, chargers, and power banks are performing exceptionally well as portable electronics continue to rise in popularity. Demand continues to be extremely strong as our society is constantly on the go and demands technology coupled with convenience. Cases are also extremely popular to protect—and preserve—these investments.
Wireless and connected products are top performers in the portable electronics sector, according to Gwen Brey of Beacon Promotions. “We are constantly on the go and we like to take all those conveniences with us as we go,” she comments. “No one wants to worry about cords getting tangled up or getting lost. Many of the new phones do not have the headphone jack so wireless is needed. She points out that demand has been strong in the company’s Corporate Gift wireless products. “This is due to the brand names and quality products at a great price point,” she says. “It’s also because these types of products are universal lifestyle gifts for any age group or gender.
Over at Athena Promo, Steve Davis maintains that power banks and mobile accessories are very popular. “End users love anything mobile from mobile phone stands to high-end power banks,” he says. “Since everyone now has mobile devices, this is not only a trend but the new normal. This is a great category, and everyone loves tech. Janette Redfern of the Colemax Group adds that form-fitted cases are trending at the company, as they protect any tablet, iPad, Samsung, Microsoft, Kindles and some private label. “Demand increases constantly,” she states.
Beacon Promotions has a new wellness division in its Corporate Gift Bose brand. “It has hear phones—conversation-enhancing headphones that are designed to help you hear in louder environments,” Brey explains. “Also new is the noise-masking sleep buds with built-in noise-masking technology for a good night of sleep.”
There is also strong interest in connected promotional products, Brey continues. “We see many requests come through for Bluetooth® and wireless speakers and headphones,” she adds. “We are also seeing more specific requests for items that are compatible or have Google Assist or Amazon Alexa built in. The customer is looking for lifestyle gifts that everyone can use.”
Over at Athena Promo, Davis notes that Bluetooth® speakers, earbuds, and power banks are all very popular right now. “Everyone needs and loves technology-related merchandise,” he comments.
Bay State has added two new power banks in slim versions to its line this year in addition to several close-out power banks, according to Josette Bosse. In addition, the company offers an AC/USB adapter so portable electronics can be easily charged, which comes in white with black, blue, green, or red trim.
The Colemax Group ensures that when carriers release new phones and tablets, all of the latest models’ cases are readily available.
Since technology impacts the lives of nearly everyone, Redfern of The Colemax Group recommends distributors target all industries—protection, pharma, hospitals, sales forces, point of sales, food industry, etc. She notes the possibilities are endless.
Brey of Beacon Promotion weighs in. “Corporate Gift items are attractive because of their brand recognition, quality, long-lasting value, and universal appeal,” she shares. “Many Corporate Gift items can be ordered in minimums of one. These are great business gifts, service awards, performance incentives, and recognition awards. Be sure to discuss compatibility with Apple and Android phones.
According to Athena Promo’s Davis, it is vital to understand the functions and usefulness of each product so the benefits can be explained with confidence and enthusiasm. “In general, I would just recommend understanding the end user's audience and marketing need very well,” he elaborates. “From there, it’s easy to pick tech products that might resonate with the end customer and products can be narrowed down by price point for those with tight budgets or low cost per item needs.”