Hottest Must-Have Merch Trends of 2025

The promotional products industry is changing faster than ever—shaped by retail inspiration, sustainability demands, and fresh ideas that make merch feel like must-have lifestyle accessories. At ASI Chicago 2025, our team walked the floor, explored the latest launches, and connected with suppliers to see what’s next. The result? Our Hottest Must-Have Merch Trends of 2025 collection, designed to inspire brands that want to create memorable, engaging product experiences.

Here are the top trends defining the year ahead:

1. Eco & Sustainability: More Than a Checkbox

Environmental responsibility is no longer optional—it’s the baseline. 83% of consumers prefer brands with environmental commitments, and Gen Z in particular expects authentic sustainability practice. From Grosche’s reusable drinkware funding safe water projects to Gomi’s recycled-material chargers, eco-conscious products deliver real impact while building brand trust.

Why it matters: Sustainable merch demonstrates corporate responsibility, strengthens brand differentiation, and ensures your products align with consumer values.

2. Retail Brand Partnerships: Built-In Credibility

Retail names are crossing into promo more than ever—and they’re a game-changer. Whether it’s Goodr’s bold sunglasses, YETI’s durable drinkware, Anker’s innovative tech, or Rhone’s elevated activewear, these partnerships bring instant credibility. Products from brand collabs see an average $47 boost in perceived value and can drive 340% higher retention compared to generic alternatives.

Why it matters: Recipients view retail-brand merch as premium gifts worth keeping—and they love sharing them organically on social media.

3. Puffy Bag Aesthetics: Fashion Meets Function

If you walked the ASI Chicago floor, you couldn’t miss it: puffy textures everywhere. What started as a luxury fashion trend is now influencing backpacks, totes, and cases. Puffy bags photograph beautifully, invite interaction, and even add practical padding.

Why it matters: This tactile, Instagram-worthy look transforms bags from “basic utility” to fashion-forward statements.

4. Custom Charms & Stickers: Personalization That Lasts

Personalization is still king—but it’s evolving. Charms, patches, and stickers let recipients swap, share, and style their merch, extending engagement well beyond the initial unboxing.

Why it matters: A simple water bottle becomes a customizable canvas. The more interaction, the longer your brand stays in the spotlight.

5. Nostalgia Items: Comfort With Staying Power

From retro mixtape speakers to recycled vinyl record décor, nostalgia is everywhere. These products act as memory triggers, stress relievers, and conversation starters, with retention rates that outlast typical promos by years.

Why it matters: Nostalgia creates emotional bonds. People don’t just use these products—they keep them, share stories about them, and associate your brand with comfort and connection.

6. Tech Upgrades: Smarter Every Day

Tech is becoming sleeker, more integrated, and more practical. At ASI Chicago, we saw buzz around tools like the SATECHI® FindAll™ trackers with Apple Find My integration and Aura’s Carver Mat digital photo frame with video messaging.

Why it matters: Tech upgrades turn functional items into conversation starters that impress, simplify life, and enhance your brand’s reputation.

The Trend Takeaway

These aren’t passing fads—they’re the new standard for promotional products. When combined, the results multiply: products that are sustainable and retail-inspired, or tech pieces made personal with charms and customization, can quadruple engagement and retention rates.

If you’re ready to create branded merchandise that people truly want to keep, use, and share, our 2025 trend collection is your ultimate guide.

👉 Explore the full Hottest Must-Have Merch Trends of 2025 collection here