3 Common Myths About Selling Branded Merchandise

Today, I would like to share some of the biggest misconceptions about selling Branded Merchandise that I have seen with many of our customers.

These aren’t tiny misalignments that don’t matter in the grand scheme of things… I’m talking about seemingly benign misconceptions that will adversely affect the entire trajectory of your journey to increasing your profits and growing your business.

Interested to hear about them? Read on!

Misconception #1: Branded Merchandise is only for large companies.

A HUGE misconception I see that people have towards Merch is thinking that only the big guys can make money selling branded products.

Let me tell you the story of how Otherworld had this misconception... but came to realize that in reality, offering a small array of products to its visitors increased profits and connection to its customers.

As a small, privately owned art experience, they struggled to stay afloat at the onset of the pandemic.  But with a small pivot to add selling of Branded Merchandise to commemorate their customers’ visit they have been able to not only stay in business but also grow customer loyalty that added to the bottom line.

Misconception #2: It’s expensive to sell Branded Merchandise.

Many business owners get a little sweaty-palmed when it comes to budgets. They think: “I barely have any money to promote my business … how can I afford branded merchandise?” As a result, merch is sometimes seen as frivolous, unnecessary.

In the past, I used to think that having my own logo on a t-shirt was expensive.

However, now that I am making money off my logo, I’ve found that it is a very cost effective way to increase the exposure of the business and add to the bottom line at the same time. 

It is pretty amazing to have marketing that pays for itself directly.

Misconception #3: Branded Merchandise doesn’t work for my business.

You may like the idea of selling Merch, but you’re just not sure your business is cut out for it. You think they cost too much, they’re unoriginal, or any of the myths we’ve just busted above. It’s easy to doubt the effectiveness of Merch – especially if you’ve never put them to work for your brand.

Branded products can work for any business in a variety of ways – whether you want to drive additional sales, boost brand awareness with giveaways or achieve something else altogether. After receiving a branded product, 85% of consumers do business with the brand, according to PPAI.  People love to feel connected to their community. Consumers are more interested in unique items that are meaningful in their everyday lives. By providing items specific to your business, you allow people to support what they love!