What is Going on With Promotional Product Orders?

I wanted to reach out to my clients and prospects during this COVID-19 pandemic to see how you are doing and to give you an update on what is going on with promotional product orders now. Kind of a state of the industry address.

First, to paraphrase the late singer Kenny Rogers--I've just dropped in to see what condition your condition is in. Hoping that this finds you and those close to you in good health and spirits.

Did you know that one of my hobbies is painting? I've attached an image of one of my paintings, which was inspired from a trip to Hawaii from several years ago. Wouldn't that sound nice right now? Have you worked on any of your hobbies during the stay-at-home period? Or, have you still been busy with work? If you are working hard like I am, here is the latest info that I have as of right now on the status of promotional product orders.



1.) Factories in China are open. This would be a great time to have them work on virtual mock-ups or actual samples of items that won't be needed in the next 90 days or so. One of my customers just started the process of having a mold created for a miniature replica of one of their products; this will greatly speed up the delivery date for the final production.

2.) Many factories in the U.S. are open: Several of them are in the essential category. For example, the food companies are busy shipping out gift packets of cookies and other treats to employees of companies that are working from home. Other factories provide items, such as pop up tents and signs, both of which are useful. Still other factories are converting their production to protective gowns and masks for healthcare workers.

Note that even if the production lines are not operating right now, the administrative staff is working from home. Your order can be entered and an e-proof can be created so that when the factories are re-opened your order is queued and ready to be produced quickly.

3.) Factories are hungry for business: Many companies are lowering the minimum order quantity required, are waiving or subsidizing the individual drop shipment fees to home addresses and/or offering items at sale prices to help keep their employees working.

4.) Hand sanitizers and masks are coming back in stock. Some of the shipments are due in the next 2-3 weeks or later. Please understand that the prices for these products are higher than they have been in the past when the items were plentiful and some of the items will not be able to have a company imprint on them.

5.) Work-at-Home and Stay-at-Home promotional items are available: We have puzzle books and family games; work-from-home office supplies and tech gear, all that can be printed with your company brand to spread a little joy and brand goodwill during these hard times.

6.) Send flash drives, not sales people: Meetings canceled due to coronavirus? All is not lost. Send the meeting directly to your clients or members. Flash Drives can play video presentations, PowerPoint slides, showcase new products or send home a greeting of thanks and appreciation.

7.) Non-Profits need our help: Their fundraising events have been canceled and their resale stores have been closed all while demand for their services have increased. Thus Newport Promotions will be making a donation to WINGS (www.wingsprogram.com) for every order placed in the month of April.

Give me a call at 847-398-5500 or send me an email at dona.blunt@newportpros.com if I can help in any way or if you have other stay-at-home suggestions to share.

Most of all, I hope you stay healthy and hopeful.

Dona Blunt, MAS
Newport Promotions
Authorized dealer of Kaeser & Blair, Inc.