A merger and acquisition can cause poor morale and declining sales. That’s why our client, Shore United Bank, tapped us to create a set of welcome gifts for new branches they acquired during an M&A. The bank wanted something tangible to express their appreciation to both employees and customers, while also launching the new brand and logo.
Problem
Shore United Bank needed the gifts to be unisex, functional, easily stored, simple to present, and well-matched to the recipients, which were a wide and diverse audience. Additionally, they were targeting a relatively low price point of around $30 per gift.
Solution
Ironmark helped create a simple box that embraced the new brand and could be easily stored, stacked, and delivered. It featured their logo with a “Welcome” so it was immediately recognized as an introduction. Inside, employees and customers found a sticker with their slogan, along with a plethora of useful, well-designed branded items—a thermal tumbler, bag/magnet clip, koozie, pen, hat, ceramic mug, and a journal.
Results
Shore United Bank was thrilled to see the gifts have an immediate effect. Both employees and customers were excited, expressing great gratitude and reporting that they felt more like a team. The gifts left a lasting impact on their recipients and continue to serve as a cost-effective branding campaign as they travel into the world and sit on employee desks.
- Promotional items foster loyalty
- Positive impact on all
- Gifts create lasting impressions
- Building relationships with tokens
Takeaways
Promotional items have been shown again and again to help build loyalty. Both the employees and customers (and the gift giver) felt the increasingly positive impact of these branded items. Sometimes a little gift can go a long way.