Top 9 mistakes to avoid when ordering promotional products

Promotional products play a key role in brand visibility across the UAE. They create awareness, support events, strengthen customer loyalty and help businesses make a great impression. Yet many organisations still fall into avoidable traps when selecting and ordering their merchandise.

Here is our list of the top nine common mistakes you should avoid if you want your promotional products to work effectively.

1. Starting without a clear purpose

The most common mistake is ordering merchandise without knowing what it is meant to achieve. Every product should support a specific goal, whether it is increasing recognition, attracting visitors at an exhibition, welcoming new staff or rewarding loyal clients. A defined purpose keeps the selection focused and prevents wasted spend on merchandise that isn’t sufficiently tailored to your potential customer base.

2. Choosing items your audience will not use

A promotional product only has value if it is used repeatedly. Trend-led items and novelty pieces often end up in drawers or bins. Think about the daily habits of your recipients. Practical items such as drinkware, stationery, bags or tech accessories remain in circulation far longer and keep your brand visible.

3. Compromising on quality

Low-cost options can be tempting, but poor quality products send the wrong message about your brand. Items that scratch, leak, break or feel flimsy create a lasting negative impression. Quality does not always require a high budget, but it does require careful selection. Well-made products reflect professionalism and reliability.

4. Using outdated or incorrect artwork

Brand consistency is crucial. Outdated logos, wrong colours or low-resolution files lead to unclear printing and a disjointed brand identity. Before approving artwork, always check it against your current guidelines and ensure the files supplied are suitable for print.

5. Ignoring branding placement and scale

Branding is more effective when it feels well thought-out. Logos placed too small may go unnoticed, while oversized prints can overwhelm the product. Positioning should complement the design and follow how the item will be used. Well-balanced branding creates a polished, intentional look.

6. Leaving orders until the last moment

Late planning reduces choice and can force you into rushed decisions. Production times vary and certain products require more preparation. Ordering early allows time to compare options, approve samples and avoid express charges. Better planning leads to better results.

7. Choosing products that do not match your brand values

Your merchandise should reflect your identity. Sustainability-focused companies should consider eco-friendly lines such as recycled pens, jute bags or reusable bottles. Premium brands benefit from refined finishes, metal pens or executive gift sets. Alignment strengthens trust and helps your audience understand who you are.

8. Misjudging quantities and budget

Budgets often fail when businesses either over-order or underestimate print costs. Choosing fewer, well-selected products is often more effective than bulk ordering low-value items. A realistic, planned budget helps avoid last minute compromises and ensures you get the best return.

9. Failing to review the outcome

This is a good lesson to learn that is often overlooked. Very few organisations look back at how their promotional products performed. Simple feedback from clients, staff or event visitors can reveal what was useful, what was ignored and what people kept. This invaluable insight makes future merchandise decisions far more effective.

Make your promotional products work harder

Promotional merchandise works best when it is purposeful, properly branded and carefully selected. Steering clear of these nine mistakes guarantees that your products appear professional and offer practical benefits while creating a positive, lasting impact.

If you are looking for guidance in selecting high-impact, high-quality promotional products for your next campaign, we are always ready to help. Our team is approachable, knowledgeable and focused on making the process smooth from start to finish. We can walk you through product choices, advise on the most effective printing methods and support you with artwork preparation, ensuring everything reflects your brand at its best. We keep the process clear, organised and tailored to your needs. Reach out to our team to get started today.