11 Holiday 2024 Trend Predictions

As the summer heat lingers, it’s hard to believe that the holiday buying season is just around the corner. Yet, our industry partners are already unveiling their holiday lookbooks and new products, offering an abundance of exciting ideas. With a flurry of so many choices, it can be challenging to know where to start.

Here are the top trends to watch out for this holiday season.

1. Name Brands

Recognizable brands remain a significant force in our industry. The holiday season often commands one of the largest budgets for many buyers, and consumers frequently associate higher spending with well-known brands. Opting for a name brand fulfill two crucial consumer values: trust in quality and the achievement of status.

2. Budget Friendly

Although this may feel contradictory to the name brand trend, many industry suppliers report seeing skewed numbers when it comes to where spend is happening. Many buyers either shop on the high end or very low end - with less action in the middle. If you’re working with buyers who are a bit tighter on budget this year, help them understand: 

• You can still find many name brand products with approachable price points.

• Products don’t need to be name brand to be high-quality, beautiful, and impactful. So often, the artwork used is the true make or break of its success.

3. Eco-friendly Storytelling

Incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly products into projects and programs is not only beneficial for our industry but also essential for our planet. However, it’s time to take it a step further. Today, many suppliers are leading the way by offering products that come with compelling stories behind their sustainability. One of my favorite examples is Gemline’s new Aware traceability solution that offers the ability to trace a product’s carbon footprint journey. 

4. Kitting/Packaging

In 2024, the significance of packaging is widely recognized. It remains a crucial aspect of our work to bring a brand’s story to life through the appropriate medium. It’s not just about the custom box; other elements like custom tissue paper, insert cards, decals, and personalized outer cartons also play a vital role. We all know it costs an arm and a leg to ship anything these days. You better make sure it’s worth receiving.

5. Home Goods

We’ve seen the rise of this category for many years and continues to grow in popularity. Consumers are spending more time in the house (especially if they WFH) and want high end, quality products they can enjoy at home with loved ones. Statistically, a promotional kitchen product has one of the longest lives of nearly any other product category in our industry. And this extends to the living room, home office and backyard. Another factor that plays into this trend is the increasing cost of entertainment outside the home (dinner and a movie isn’t the cheap date it once was!). Many people are opting for a cozy night in rather than an expensive night out.

6. Commuter/Travel Items

Many companies are moving to a more hybrid work model, encouraging employees to come back into the office. This results in an increase in commuter and travel products to help the transition. Consider sleek backpacks, spill-proof drinkware, tech items, and branded outerwear. 

7. Drinkware 

I was hesitant to give such a wide product category its own section, but I need to give it the respect it deserves. The Stanley tumbler craze ignited an even bigger devotion to the drinkware category. In fact, drinkware has been one of the biggest growth categories in our industry over the last year. Specifically, we’re seeing the 30-to-40-ounce size range absolutely dominate.

8. Influencer Inspiration

We become what we surround ourselves with. Due to the strong influencer presence on social media, many clients draw product inspiration from these platforms. (Fun fact: the 40-ounce Stanley trend originated here). Don’t be surprised when customers reference brands or product ideas they’ve seen on Instagram or TikTok. 

9. Full Custom 

Every year, our industry levels up on importing and full customization capabilities. There are so many resources available now (and many with quick turn times on specific products) where you can set yourself apart and customize every aspect of a product. If you’re reading this article and it’s still summer, take this as a sign to get the ball rolling now. 

If you don’t have the time, budget, or interest in going overseas, consider the decoration on the product. Is it a walking billboard or a functional product that fits in seamlessly with the recipient’s lifestyle?

10. High-Quality Apparel 

High quality doesn’t always mean high expense. A growing trend in this space is opting for a heavier-weight fabric, which often provides a higher perceived value. Consider other factors like softness, durability, color, and decoration, which can also alter the perception of a product. 

11. Pet Products

The pet industry is projected to grow to a $500 billion annual market by 2030. People are willing to spend big money on their furry friends. It’s smart to keep in mind if we want to attract and retain engagement. 

Don’t let your sales freeze over this holiday season! Educate and inspire early to get the ultimate leg up on one of the most lucrative times of the year.