No matter what time of year it is, healthcare products are always in strong demand, with companies emphasizing health and wellness programs, and supporting employees who wish to live a healthy lifestyle. Items such as totes, pill trays and splitters, pill boxes, first aid kits, hydration/drinkware, medical history organizers, syringe pens, and scrubs are all go-to products that employees use to stay on track when it comes to healthy living.
According to Carrie Lewis of BIC Graphic, more consumers are adopting telehealth technology. “Seventy percent of people say they would rather use video than visit a primary care physician in person,” she states. “As providers look to promote their digital and video services, a natural promotional product fit is tech accessories. Power banks support the promotion of a mobile experience while USB drives and tablet/laptop accessories are always popular.
“As workforce and patient demographics shift the healthcare industry is experiencing staffing shortages,” Lewis continues. “To remain competitive, companies are offering onboarding incentives and welcome packages which should include promos bearing the company logo. High-quality drinkware, bags, wellness items, and branded apparel show new employees they’ve joined a company that values them and sets the company apart from competitors.”
Home healthcare is another area where there is potential for growth, Lewis adds, noting that elderly patients that are released from facilities still require home health aide service. “Oftentimes services are recommended by word-of-mouth so high-impression promo items can really help spread awareness,” she details. “A magnet with contact information or a plush blanket that can be used by the patient are great promos that will last.”
Over at Aprons Etc., Pam Pennington reports that when it comes to the healthcare market, a branding opportunity that is desired, functional, and good ROI is important in today's healthcare market. “The healthcare industry is one of the world's largest and fastest growing industries,” she comments.
BIC Graphic’s Lewis adds to Pennington’s sentiments. “There is a lot of interest in overall wellness right now, so healthcare providers like physical therapy facilities and insurance companies are interested in capitalizing on this trend,” she comments. “Even doctor’s offices and hospitals can promote their services using overall wellness-themed items like stress balls or massage ball sets.”
New from BIC Graphic is the 26-ounce mybev® Classic Premium Tumbler that has double-wall vacuum with copper lining insulation to keep drinks hot or cold for an entire shift. It includes a durable Tritan® thread on/off lid with slide tab closure. The Express First Aid Kit comes in a compact and reusable non-woven gray pouch with a colorful zipper and includes antibiotic ointment, antiseptic towelettes, adhesive pads, and bandages. The Retro Reflective Tote features reflective accents and a clean design that combines trendy gray with clean white, Lewis reports, and is accented with a pop of color. The tote features a zippered main compartment, shoulder length handles, and imprinted front slip pocket.
While Aprons Etc. has seen an increased demand for custom scrub programs as younger generations seek individuality, the company’s best seller has always been its wheelchair tote. “The tote is the perfect promotional item because it's useful, provides excellent targeted branding, and is often kept longer than our industry’s current average of seven months,” Pennington says.
Bay State relies on its tried and true sellers in this lucrative category, including medicine spoons, medicine trays, pill trays, pill boxes, pill splitters, medical tray organizers, thermometers, and first aid kits.
Selling healthcare wares requires a careful marketing strategy, BIC Graphic’s Lewis advises. “The healthcare market sees more cautious and thoughtful marketing strategies than it did before regulations changed pharma spending,” she elaborates. “It is important for distributors to consider trends and demographics of the end user when suggesting promos so healthcare facilities can get the most bang for their buck.”
Pennington at Aprons, Etc. adds her two cents. “It's important to realize that this industry includes not just hospitals, but all types of medical practices and services,” she comments. “Consider the growing market of senior care and home health service providers, their need is fueled by the fastest growing age group in the U.S.A.—baby boomers!”