Merch meets utility and a local seasonal product
In this issue:
Practical Swag: The industry's move to utility and we pick our favourite products from the NATCON convention.
Merch Distributor of the Year: An award 25 years in the making.
October Product Pick: A local favourite to spice up your brands marketing.
The Industry Shift
Last month our team headed to NATCON, Canada’s largest promotional product convention, hosted by Merch Canada (formally PPPC). Every year, this event showcases the latest quality gear from a wide range of suppliers across the industry, and this year there was a definite shift in what’s coming to market.
Over the years we’ve been watching the active move away from cheap trinkets, to products that prioritize real utility. This shift directly reflects the change in consumer desires and expectations.
When it comes to corporate gifts and promotional products, people prefer items that are both practical and enjoyable.
By choosing functional products, brands show that they prioritize sustainability while also ensuring that their merch gets used rather than tossed.
To highlight this trend, each of us who attended NATCON picked their favourite product from the floor. Here are our top spotlights from this year’s show!
Morgan’s Pick
600ml Ceramic Olive Oil Dispenser
There were a lot of cool products we saw, but one that really stuck with me was this ceramic olive oil dispenser. This new product from Spector & Co. just felt like the perfect pairing of such a useful kitchen piece that also looks incredibly sharp.
The ceramic dispenser comes in five colours, all with an ombre finish, and has floral detailing on one side with spacing for a laser engraved logo (or two) on the other side.
With each dispenser being packaged individually in a classic black box, this truly feels like a great high end gift for premium clients.
Ashley’s Pick
Kelvin 17 Multitool
If I have to choose, I would say Kelvin 17. SRG’s demonstration of all the capabilities that this multitool has blew me away. Not only did it have a level and a flashlight, but it also had a measuring tape built right in.
This screwdriver has a solid grip handle that pops open where the 13 bits can be stored. With the full colour branding on the side, it really is an amazing promotional product for anyone who wants to give something practical that everyone would use.
And with it coming from Kelvin, a Canadian company, it's just icing on the cake.
John’s Pick
Ajax All-Purpose Jacket
A piece that really stood out for me was KLO’s Ajax All-Purpose Jacket. When initially it seems to be just a simple classic style, up close there’s so much fine details that really makes this a high-end jacket.
With a clean chest pocket, an inner pocket and a soft fleece-like inner collar, it really was a comfortable jacket with great storage. I was so impressed that these jackets were completely designed and manufactured in Canada by KLO.
The fit was really sharp and with both men’s and women’s styles and a wide range of sizes (up to 6XL for men!) there’s really a jacket for every one.
A Team Win
On our final night at NATCON, Edgecombes was honoured to be named Merch Canada’s Medium Distributor of the Year (Eastern Canada) at the awards gala.
What makes this recognition truly special is that it was voted on by our supplier partners. Knowing they recognize our commitment to collaboration and seamless delivery for our clients every single day means the world to us.
While this award celebrates our success in the medium-sized category, we’re setting our sights high and aiming for the large distributor category next!
To the entire Edgecombes team—family by name or by shared dedication—thank you. Your hard work made this possible.
Seasoning for the Season
For this months product pick, we’re highlighting a unique local favourite.
Have your very own seasoning with The Halifax Spice Company’s custom spice bottles. We’ll work with you to create a custom label that’s true to your brand and conveys your message.
The original blend is the perfect seasoning to use on a wide variety of foods on a daily basis, such as steaks, burgers, wild game, chicken, pasta, steamed vegetables, salads, eggs, popcorn, and fantastic on all seafood.
Made in Canada and completely MSG free, this tasty promotional product is a great gift for all occasions. Available in regular or salt free.
A little about The Halifax Spice Company
Producing world famous seasonings for over 20 years, The Halifax Spice Company is locally owned and prides itself on delivering incredibly flavours for every occasion.
