The next rising group of consumers, Generation Z, is here. Born with technological advancement at their fingertips, Gen Zs are true digital natives who have been exposed to the internet, social networks, and mobile systems from their earliest youth. They are very comfortable with spending lots of time researching, collecting, and cross-referencing information online to find the best value. They are undoubtedly different from the previous generations, hence it is important to understand their interests, values, and behaviours, before deciding the right promotional products to reach them.
For instance, Gen Z views consumption and purchases as a way to manifest their individual identity. They don’t like it when things are defined in certain categories – such as female and male clothes, preferring things that are unisex. According to the research by McKinsey & Company, 48 percent of Gen Zers said they value brands that don’t classify items as male or female – in contrast, this number was only 38% in older generations. They are eager for personalised products and are willing to pay a premium for products that highlight their individuality.
As global connectivity soars, the influence of Gen Z – the first generation of true digital natives – is now radiating outward. Whether Generation Z is your primary audience or an untapped market, it is important to know what this demographic is interested in. If you want to attract Gen Z customers, this season is the perfect time to do it! Here are a few promotional product ideas you can use to attract Gen Z consumers.
Customised Items
As mentioned above, Gen Z is all about expressing their truths and identity, therefore they value personalised products. They are less label-conscious compared to older generations. Instead, they prefer to wear items that express their true identity or belonging to certain groups, which they can then promote on their social media platforms. Handing out customized promotional products, such as Stickers, Flags, and Pins with your brand’s name on it, or with certain social and political messages is a great strategy to target Gen Z.
Unisex Apparel
According to the aforementioned research, nearly half (48%) of Gen Z claim they value brands that don’t classify items as male or female, i.e. unisex brands. This is because they value identity freedom and do not want to define themselves through only one stereotype – instead, they believe that individuals need to experiment with different ways of being themselves and to shape their individual identities over time. For them, the self is a place to experiment, test, and change. As such, unisex apparel like Hoodie and Jackets will appeal to them better than a gender-specific outfit item.
This generation is more environmentally conscious and climate change is one of their top concerns. They want to make a positive impact on the world and are willing to support brands that take a stand in our fight against global warming. Tap into this idealism by offering eco-friendly items, like Reusable Bags, Paper Straws, or Reusable Water Bottles.
Tech Accessories
Technology has given young people an unprecedented degree of connectivity among themselves and with the rest of the population, making it an important part of Gen Z’s life. It is also crucial that they stay connected all the time as they are the heaviest users of social media – in fact, 31% of them don’t feel comfortable being away from their phone for 30 minutes or more. Handing out Technology Items with your business name will certainly be put into good use, so promote your brand with items like USB Flashdrives, Power Banks, Car Phone Holder, or Wireless Charger that they can use in their daily lives.
Get started on your next marketing campaign with giveaways that Gen Z will rave about and get your brand noticed. Promote It has an entire range of great promotional gifts that can be customised to suit your target audience and market, including the digitally savvy Gen Z. If you need help in developing or integrating a promotional products plan into your marketing strategy, be sure to contact us today on 09 917 1333 or admin@promote.net.nz for any inquiry about your promotional product needs.
