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How Sustainable Branded Products & Gifts Increase Your Business? 

THE BIG SHOW & TELL - August 2025

EPISODE OVERVIEW

In this August episode of The BIG Show & Tell, Donna Bender and co-host Kim White dive deep into the world of sustainability in branded merchandise and corporate gifting. From defining what sustainability means in business, to showing real-life examples of eco-friendly products, to sharing strategic marketing insights, this episode blends education, inspiration, and practical tips for integrating sustainability into your brand strategy. Alongside engaging conversations, viewers see featured products with second-life packaging, renewable materials, and co-branded appeal — all tied to client appreciation and retention. Whether you’re a corporate marketer, entrepreneur, or team leader, this episode delivers actionable ideas to help you connect with clients, stand out from competitors, and make an impact.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN 

  • The three pillars of sustainability: environmental, marketing, and products
  • How to align client gifts with corporate values by researching their sustainability policies
  • Questions to ask when choosing sustainable branded merchandise
  • The benefits of sustainable packaging and second-life product designs
  • The difference between a gift and a giveaway — and when to use each
  • How the three Rs of marketing (Reach, Recall, React) can improve ROI
  • Why client retention is more profitable than client acquisition
  • Creative ways to celebrate unique holidays like International Coffee Day, World Smile Day, and National M&M Day
 

FEATURED SEGMENTS AND GIFT IDEAS

  • Defining Sustainability in Business

Donna breaks down sustainability into three key areas: environment, marketing, and products. She emphasizes researching client values, maintaining consistent marketing messages, and exploring the growing range of sustainable merchandise available today.

  • How to Choose Sustainable Branded Merchandise – Part 1

Two essential questions guide the selection: Is the product useful, durable, and designed to last? Are the materials renewable or responsibly sourced? Examples include a Yeti Rambler Tumbler and a bamboo Bluetooth speaker.

  • International Coffee Day – October 1

Ideas for celebrating include co-branded drinkware, mugs filled with coffee or treats, and custom gift boxes. Stats reveal surprising coffee consumption trends and global rankings.

  • How to Choose Sustainable Branded Merchandise – Part 2

Three more questions to ask: Is there proof the product is recycled? Is there a more sustainable alternative? Is it designed for easy recycling or composting? Examples include tracer-tag tote bags, solar power banks, and apple-pulp notebooks.

  • World Smile Day – October 3

Celebrate with playful gifts like emoji stress toys or smiley socks, using the science of smiles to create positive emotional connections.

  • Corporate Training & The Gift vs. Giveaway Conversation

Donna shares her experience from luxury brands to explain the strategic difference between giveaways for brand awareness and gifts tailored to recipient preferences.

  • National M&M Day – October 13

Gift ideas include candy-filled mugs or decorative dishes, pairing sweet treats with lasting keepsakes.

  • Second-Life Packaging Spotlight

A drinkware product packaged in a box that transforms into a bird feeder, illustrating innovative eco-conscious design.

  • The Three Rs of Marketing: Reach, Recall, React

Donna explains how these principles guide marketing campaigns, giveaways, and client engagement strategies.

  • Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Creative branded items — from pink sunglasses to cooling towels — to show support during events and races.

  • Client Retention vs. Client Acquisition

Statistics and strategies demonstrating why retaining clients is more profitable and how a strategic giving plan builds loyalty.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

  • Why sustainable products are now a core part of branding strategies
  • How second-life packaging adds value and memorability
  • The measurable ROI of client retention vs. acquisition
  • How niche holidays can create unexpected marketing touchpoints
  • Why aligning gifts with client values strengthens relationships

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“Sustainability isn’t just about the planet —
it’s about keeping your clients, your marketing, and your relationships thriving.”
— Donna Bender

CALL TO ACTION

Want to see how the right sustainable branded products can grow your business?