The definition of patriotic is “having or expressing devotion to and vigorous support for one's country.” Patriotism seems to take on a whole new meaning while this country is in the midst of a pandemic. Now more than ever, products that tout the virtues of the U.S. can provide inspiration and comfort when so much remains uncertain. Using drinkware and kitchen items with patriotic themes may help people look forward to the days of summer picnics and parties when restrictions are lifted. Flying or displaying a flag is another way to remain upbeat. The following are some new and best-selling patriotic products suppliers are offering.
Tervis—a manufacturer of insulated drinkware—has introduced a Patriotic collection—with items available in classic patriotic colors such as red, white, and blue. American-made military tumblers, water bottles, and mugs spotlight each branch of the military. The drinkware features a printed wrap-around design (U.S. Army Forever Proud, Coast Guard Forever Proud, Marines Forever Proud, and Coast Guard Forever Proud) sealed between the walls of the tumbler. This drinkware is great for both hot and cold, microwave and dishwasher safe, reduces condensation, and incudes a lid.
The Life is Good® - Daisy Stars and Stripes drinkware from Tervis is available in a 16- and 24-ounce tumbler size. This wrap with a travel lid has the same features as the military drinkware. Tervis has also added Coton Colors™ - Home of the Free Because of the Brave Wrap with Red Travel Lid in a 16- and 24-ounce size, and a 16-ounce mug; Land That I Love Wrap with Red Travel Lid that comes in a 16- and 24-ounce tumbler, 24-ounce water bottle, and 16-ounce mug.
Josette Bosse of Bay State says that patriotic products immediately bring to mind Fourth of July cookouts. The company’s USA-made Top This Ice Cream Scoop features a deep-dip design with a safe, non-slip, textured handle, and is molded in tough, dishwasher-safe, polypropylene material with an extra-large copy area. Available colors include Azure Blue, Deep Blue, Green, Red, White, and Yellow. The Champion Corn Butterer, also USA made, is used to loading soft butter into top and slide along corn. “It is fun to use, fun to give, and a conversation piece,” she comments, adding that it is perfect for company picnics, county fairs, and cookouts. It comes in yellow.
Bosse continues that several Americanna products also fall under the patriotic theme. The USA-made Vinyl Jar Opener is a new twist on classic rubber jar openers. This product boasts unmatched gripping power with a soft comfort, cushioned, grip; and is attractively packed in individual polybags with “see thru” back panel, Bosse says. It can also be used as a coaster and is available in black, blue, navy blue, burgundy, green, lime green, orange, pink, purple, red, tan, teal, white, and yellow.
Americanna also has a cork coaster in the shape of the United States (made in Portugal). Bosse notes that this item provides a protective barrier against water rings and scratches while displaying a daily message. Made from one-quarter inch thick, all-natural cork, the coaster is absorbent and durable; and is high density for great imprints.
Quinn Flags offers and extensive line of American flags; bunting and pleated fans; car flags; indoor flags and stands; U.S. flag home sets; U.S. pins, patches, and decals; U.S. stick flags; and USA spirit body flags.
Distributors should take the lead of their customers when recommending patriotic products. Find out what type of occasion or event that the products will be used for. Hopefully companies will be more than ready to celebrate their employees—and customers—when nonessential businesses get back to work. Remember, as Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu once said, “When a nation is filled with strife, then do patriots flourish.”