Take Note: Single Use Writing Instruments with Antimicrobial

No matter how far technology advances, writing instruments will never go out of style as they are a necessity to any business. Plus, with more people working from home and students learning virtually, the need for writing implements is on the rise. Single use writing instruments are also more important than ever so people can stay safe and not share germs. Suppliers are introducing stylish and unique instruments that also have anti-microbial finishes in light of the COVID-19 crisis.

These reasons and more are what make writing instruments a tried-and-true promo, according to Carrie Lewis at BIC Graphic. “There is availability at every price point, a low cost per impression, and they are accessible across all industries and demographics,” she elaborates. “That makes them the ideal promo during Coronavirus because a lot of businesses are feeling uncertain, but still want to connect with customers. Plus, writing instruments are available with a huge variety of interesting features and recognizable designs. These characteristics make writing instruments the ideal promo for everything from giveaways to high-end gifts.”

Lewis continues that 90s are currently experiencing a retro pop-culture moment right now when it comes to writing instruments. “Gel inks are sparking nostalgia for those ‘milky pens’ everyone had in middle school,” she notes. “Today’s gel inks are much improved, creating thick opaque strokes that show up well on dark or slick surfaces.”

According to Josh Goodelman of Liqui-Mark Corp., the pandemic has resulted in an increased demand for more school supplies as the number of children virtually learning is on the rise, as well as limitations being placed on the sharing of school supplies. To address this need, the company has created a pre-packaged school supply kit that Goodelman says has done well for both fundraising and the gifting of supplies. “Due to the presidential election year, we have seen an increased demand for single use pens and stylus pens for in-person voting,” he adds. “The registered voter must sign with pen at the polling location and/or use a stylus on an electronic ballot. Single use pens prohibit the sharing of pens that someone else has touched.”

This safety theme is also being seen at Hub Pen. “Pens are now being seen as a personal care item, particularly stylus pens,” Pamela Baker comments. “A well-made stylus pen stands in when using touch screen devices at checkout counters and ATMs. In this no-touch era people are seeing value in carrying their own pen. You wouldn’t share a toothbrush, why would you share a pen? We started the #keepthepen campaign.”

Over at Alpi, both Megan Embrey and Marc Canet agree that working from home is the new norm, although they acknowledge that people want to go back to work. “We have seen a steady increase in the last two months for non-PPE items, which is a great sign of economic recovery,” Canet shares.

While suppliers are relying on their tried-and-true writing instruments to continue to sell during such challenging times, there are also a number of new items to take “note” of. Liqui-Mark has added sidewalk chalk, which Goodelman says has not only been great for outdoor activities, but also for the use of drawing lines and instructions outside of businesses for proper social distancing requirements. The company also offers antimicrobial pens that include an additive in the plastic components that inhibit the growth of bacteria, in addition to the aforementioned pre-packaged school supply kit that includes 10 of its best-selling and essential retail items packaged in a reusable box (that includes a full-color logo printed on the top of the box).

In response to the overwhelming demand for Javalina pens with antimicrobial properties, Hub Pen has introduced two new styles in on-trend color palettes—the Javalina Pure and the Javalina Pure Stylus, Baker says. Available Javalina Pure colors include desert rose, light gray, lunar blue, moss green, and terracotta brown. The Javalina Pure Stylus comes in the following colors: coastal blue, iris purple, metallic lime, metallic rose, Miami teal, and slate.

Baker continues that two new pens in Ombre finishes (Textari Spectrum and Lemonade Comfort) have really taken off. “You can’t help but smile when you’re writing with them,” she says. “The Textari Spectrum fills that need for a good quality stylus pen to carry with you, and it’s got that feel good vibe people seem to be yearning for. The Lemonade Comfort features hybrid ink in a fine point and a soft touch finish, so it really makes writing fun again. We’ve been selling out month after month, which is a good problem to have!”

A new current BIC Graphic best seller—especially in the finance and food/beverage markets—is the #CSANTI BIC® PrevaGuard™ Clic Stic® Pen, Lewis reports. “In industries where writing instruments are used often, we’ve seen increased interest in pens and ‘keep your own pen’ programs to mitigate germ spread during the pandemic,” she details. “Our PrevaGuard™ writing instruments contain an EPA-registered antimicrobial additive that helps protect the pen and fights product degradation.

“Combining some of the hottest writing instrument trends, the new #56017 Souvenir® Truss Pen has a textured grip, matte jewel-toned barrel and gunmetal accents,” Lewis continues. “Plus, the exclusive design includes a chrome souvenir emblem near the plunger and optional full-color imprint as part of the elevated design. The #56022 Donovan Metal Pen is our newest metal writing instrument with a sleek rubberized barrel, chrome clip/plunger, tip, and banded accents. It comes complete with screen print or laser engrave imprint.”

In order to promote writing instruments to current and potential clients, Baker of Hub Pens recommends putting together story boards. “These presentations show not just our pens but other HPG products that complement each other,” she states. “It’s a painless process to have these made up and they just look clean and professional.”

Canet and Embry at Alpi suggest starting a dialogue with customers—pursuing non-traditional avenues and thinking outside the box.

BIC Graphic’s Lewis shares her selling suggestions. “It may be the digital age, but in the world of promotional products, writing instruments remain big sellers and it’s no secret why,” she comments. “With a cost per impression of one-tenth of a cent and 50 percent of U.S. consumers owning promotional writing instruments; this category is still a trusted way for brands to get their message in front of customers.

“There is no evidence that the convergence of writing and technology will derail the popularity of writing instruments,” she continues. “In fact, demand for stylish pens remains high, as they are given as gifts and perceived as fashionable accessories. The key is adapting with the times to provide elevated designs and ink technology that people love—and love to show off.”

In conclusion, Goodelman of Liqui-Mark agrees with Hub Pen’s Baker to treat your pen like your toothbrush. “Don’t share it! Writing instruments will always be the most cost-effective way to brand, promote, and market any business. More now than ever before, do not share your pen and realize that people of all ages appreciate a pen.”

Case Study

Carrie Lewis, BIC Graphic

The marketing department for a regional credit union was considering a custom writing instrument from overseas as part of a re-branding campaign. However, supply chain disruptions due to Coronavirus threatened to delay their campaign launch.

As a result, the credit union decided to move ahead with #RS BIC® Round Stic® Pens because they are produced domestically. Additionally, the barrel/trim color options coordinated with their new branding and the BIC® Easy-Glide System® Ink provided a reliable and smooth writing experience. As the Coronavirus pandemic progressed, the credit union placed an order for #RSANTI BIC® PrevaGuard™ Round Stic® to provide single use writing instruments with antibacterial properties at all facilities. They appreciated the quick turn around and being able to use the same artwork on an item that helped reinforce safe practices.