Each year we try to take a look at all the new products coming down the pipe in an attempt to figure out what the trend will be for the year.  Aside of the introduction of some flash into the promotional products market another clear trend is the ability to easily pack and ship goods.  This is manifesting itself in a good way in that many of the tote bags hitting the market pack quickly and easily into pouches.   That means you save on freight and space in the office.

Gemline was first to release a few products a year or two ago but they missed the mark.  They came back at it this year with the Shopatronic Kit which is a tote and organizer all in one.  We like this piece as it provides a notepad and has a pen loop.  When not being used as a tote you can strap it to your grocery cart while writing out a list of things you need to do that afternoon.  We have attached it to a bike here in the office as well as a treadmill.   It works great in the gym, remove your towel and water bottle and instead of throwing a bag on the floor strap it to the cardio equipment you are using.

For those less interested in the gym setting there are similar alternatives but without the paper pad.   Whether you are smiling, laughing or crying the Expressions Foldaway Shopper can be used as a backpack or even a tote on the go.  This is an increasing trend we are seeing of dual functionality.  The advantage of course of any of these items is that they pack in bulk well, so it is easy to ship them across the country.  By easy we mean less expensive than goods that do not pack as well such as the laminated bags.

Over the next week we will be expanding the Built line from Prime.  Many of you are aware of the brand as it is carried in stores all over the nation.  In an era where many are moving away from the B2B market it is refreshing to see a brand trying to capture the business promotional market.  In total we expect to release about fifty of their items in the coming weeks.