Name Brand vs. Dupe

As we enter 2024, many take this as an opportunity to plan for the year ahead. For our customers, this means considering buying decisions and budgets in the new year. Most economists agree the US was able to avoid a recession in 2023…but will this hold out for the year ahead? Regardless of where the economy and markets go, there’s a sense of carefulness that uncertainty leaves in its wake. 

For those in the branded merch and print industry, an impactful way we can support our end-user buyers is presenting product options that meet the strategic needs for which they’re intended - no matter the budget. What this often comes down to is whether or not they choose to prioritize a name brand or not and the nuances involved. Here’s what you need to know:  

Brand Names 

The demand for name brand products over the last several years has skyrocketed, and our industry offers hundreds (if not thousands) to choose from. Earlier this year, I wrote the article, 40 Name Brands Merch Buyers Should Consider, which highlights some top recommendations. 

What’s interesting is that in times of uncertainty, we actually see many name brands perform quite well. If we enter a recession in 2024, it doesn’t mean name brand sales stop. Many buyers gravitate to established brands because they trust their quality, status and efficacy. Name brands are still attainable; the product itself just may need to be scaled back if showcasing the brand itself is the priority. 

Dupes (NOT knockoffs) 

First, let’s define what a “dupe” is. This is a trendy term short for “duplicate” and is almost always referred to in a favorable manner, compared to the term “knock off”, which carries cheaper, negative undertones. Especially amongst younger buyers, finding a good dupe for a name brand is often proudly shared. In a way, avoiding the steep price tag becomes its own sort of social status. 

So, when should you prioritize a “dupe”? This is perfect for buyers who care more about the true function and utility of a product than the name itself. They’re budget conscious and would rather get “more for their money”, rather than minimize buying power. This is also a smart approach for buyers who may prefer to avoid aligning with another product/retail brand in conjunction with their own.

Here are a couple of my favorite examples in retail right now (you may have even gifted a few this holiday season!): 

The UGG dupe: 

In middle school, I would’ve been sheepish about admitting I didn’t have the name brand. Now that the brand has seen a resurgence 15 years later, the attitude has changed. There are countless videos and articles dedicated to determining which dupe is best. 

Photo: https://brittanykrystle.com/amazon-ugg-dupes/ 

The Stanley Dupe

Another hot product that’s much more tied to our industry. In fact, ASI just named the Stanley Quencher “Product of the Year” for 2023. The great news is that we have access to the OG product in our industry – however, there are infinite options when it comes to dupes as well. Personally, I’ve been using the Elemental® 40oz. Commuter and am obsessed with the look and quality. 

There are also some amazing options from Hit Promotional Product, The Magnet Group and Gemline. 

Regardless of what’s in store for us in 2024, it’s our mission to help customers understand their options and navigate product decisions to ensure their goals and needs are always met. Understanding this can make all the difference when it comes to influencing ideas, execution and purchasing decisions. Cheers to a thriving year ahead!