Ideasbynet reveals economic downturn fuelling change in marketing strategies for businesses

Ideasbynet has noted an important change in marketing strategies during the current economic downturn. While promotional gifts remain a simple and effective marketing method, companies are now choosing products which have a practical use, rather than mere novelty value.

In 2010, Ideasbynet saw a steady drop in sales of promotional logobugs, fridge magnets and stress toys, and large increases in the likes of cotton shopping bags, ice scrapers and pocket diaries.

2010 also saw a threefold increase in tax disc holders, as well as large increases in sales of both branded pens and ceramic, branded mugs.

Since the beginning of the credit crunch, Ideasbynet has seen products such as the trolley coin keyring take over from their plastic 'promo' counterparts, selling in excess of 100,000 units in both 2009 and 2010.

Companies continue to seek value for money in their promotional products and gifts. However, their approach is now to focus on products which may have a higher unit cost but are less disposable and may be used daily by members of their target audience.

Lucy Evans, Account Director at Ideasbynet said: "Our customers are realising that practical products allow them to promote their brand more widely. For example, a cotton shopping bag displays a company logo not only to its owner but also to the general public."

As Ideasbynet previously revealed that the average coffee mug is used more than 2000 times, offering over 2000 promotional opportunities, this is sure to be a cost-effective and successful trend.

About Ideasbynet:
Ideasbynet is part of a marketing services group formed in 1985 that has evolved to become the market leaders and one of the most trusted names for promotional products ideas including premium corporate gifts, promotional pens, promotional clothing, promotional eco gifts and other branded promotional products.

Ideasbynet.com was the first UK company to make business gifts and promotional products instantly more accessible over the internet. With Ideasbynet, one hour quotations, product availability, free virtual samples and professional design services, are only a click away.

Strenuous efforts are made to ensure all products promoted on the website are manufactured in an ethical and fair way. Wherever possible, it is Ideasbynet's policy to favour promotional products manufactured using environmentally responsible techniques and utilising recyclable materials.

PR contact:
Patrick Hathaway
Online Marketing Manager
Ideasbynet
King's Croft
Savage Lane
Dore
Sheffield
S17 3GW
0114 262 2050
www.Ideasbynet.com