When you look at a promotional pen, stress ball, or t-shirt, you probably don’t think about why it’s in your hand, but promotional products have a long history in the United States. In fact, it’s a history almost as long as the United States itself.
The history of promotional products goes a long way back. The first promotional item in US history was a commemorative button made for the George Washington in the election of 1789. Due to the success of his campaign, promotional items like almanacs, calendars, rules, and wood specialties slowly became available.
Most people credit to Jasper Meek as the father of promotional products as an industry. In the late 1800s, Meeks was a newspaperman who wanted to keep his presses running during slow times. He then started printing burlap bags with advertising messages. A local shoe store then gave them to school children to promote his business.
The industry, like every business in the United States, was hit hard during the depression. However, by the late 1940s, business was booming again – by 1947, industry sales figures of $124 million were recorded!
The promotional products industry has come a long way since Washington’s buttons. With nationwide trade organizations, tradeshows, and publications, it is now a booming business.
What’s the most memorable promotional product you have ever received?