Best Promotional Backpacks For 2020

Do you have a corporate client you would like to impress? Does your PTA need to boost the school’s spirit store? Is there a stand-out employee you would like to reward with branded company gear? Threds has access to a variety of backpack options. From multiple color choices, different material options and price points that fit your budget - Threds is your one-stop source for customized backpacks. We offer the name brands you know as well as more economical options that still offer long-lasting durability and high quality.

Here’s a list of our personal favorites, client picks and vendor heavyweights.

1. OGIO MARSHALL PACK

This pack protects your laptop, caters to your professional needs and delivers bold OGIO style at a price point that won’t break the bank.

This sturdy OGIO bag features a top-entry padded laptop compartment and fleece-lined valuables and a digital media pocket. Complete with all the extras like dual-sided beverage/accessory holsters and ergonomic adjustable shoulder straps. This sleek and stylish bag is sure to impress clients, and is perfect for those out-of-town over-nighters and events. Why else do we love it? Well, look at that logo space! Most bags offer an area only a few inches wide, but the Marshall Pack provides a large imprint area to highlight your brand.

Dimensions: 19.25"h x 13"w x 9.5"d

Laptop sleeve: 15.5"h x 10.5"w x 1.5"d; fits most 15" laptops

2. OGIO STRATAGEM PACK

One of our most popular packs due to its unique uni-body back panel. 

Meet the OGIO Stratagem. This backpack features plenty of compartments for storage and helps keep things comfortable with air-flow mesh built into the back. Other than being designed to help keep the sweat off your back, this bag also aims to keep you from feeling like you've been carrying a pack all day. When loaded down, this Ogio Stratagem stays firmly in place with the help of ergonomic chest straps and an adjustable cross-chest sternum strap. This backpack is ideal for clients who like to spend their time outdoors or travel frequently.

Laptop sleeve: 15.5"h x 11"w x 1"d; fits most 17" laptops

Dimensions: 19.5"h x 15"w x 10.5"d

3. THULE ENROUTE COMPUTER PACK

The team at THULE® has been engineering and designing products that work exactly as you want with styling that sets them apart from the rest.

This no-nonsense pack is built for commuters on the go. While not quite a full-sized pack, this stylish, compact bag comes with a quilted laptop compartment, accessory section and an expandable water bottle compartment. This sensible bag also features hidden high-visibility straps that help keep users safe and noticeable long after the sun has set. This unique computer bag is perfect for daily commuters or for those seeking a smaller, lightweight alternative pack. The ‘Enroute’ is an exceptional bag that is sure to make an impression and will likely become a favorite whether presented to clients or employees.

Laptop Sleeve: 15”

Dimensions: 17.3" H X 10.6" W X 9.1" D

4. MERCHANT & CRAFT ASHTON PACK

Simple essentials for a modern lifestyle.

This trendy rucksack style design also doubles as a computer bag with a 15” laptop sleeve accessible via a zipper inside the main compartment, which keeps laptops protected. This bag also features a small zippered accessory compartment perfect for keys, chargers, and more. The ‘Ashton’ also features a larger accessory compartment ideal for phones, small tablets, notebooks or other accessories. Unlike many rucksacks, Merchant & Craft have kept things real with the often overlooked hydration pouch sewn to the side of the bag. The ‘Ashton’ also features nicely padded ergonomic shoulder straps that you might not find on other price-minded bags. The ‘Ashton’ is a great choice for a retail offering, events, giveaways and more.

Laptop Sleeve: 15”

Dimensions: 18.75" H X 5" W X 12.75" D

5. HIGH SIERRA UBT DELUXE PACK

Deluxe pack with all the features.

Like most backpacks today, the UBT Deluxe pack features a laptop sleeve but, with a bit larger 17” compartment, complete with quilted padding to protect your investment while traveling. The main compartment features several mesh organizer pockets and has a second large compartment that offers several zippered pockets for additional odds-and-ends. One stand out feature is the quick-release key fob that keeps you from having to search for your keys when you need them. This bag also features two side-zip pockets perfect for water bottles. Its mesh back expands to reveal a trolley pass-through so you are not weighted down during long travel days. Sternum straps keep the pack locked in place. This UBT pack also comes with a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.

Laptop Sleeve: 17”

Dimensions: 20" H X 8" W X 13.5" D

Have something in mind not on the list?

No problem, we can find the perfect fit for you. Contact Threds to start your custom backpack order today!

The Ultimate Tech Promotional Guide for 2020

TECH HAD A HUGE YEAR IN 2019.

As our world becomes increasingly more tech-driven, promotional products in the tech category will also continue to be among the most popular ASI category.

What are the hottest promotional tech offerings this year? We’ve broken down the top 20 picks for ‘20 so you can ensure that while consumers are connected to their devices, your brand stays top of mind.

““There’s little doubt that nearly everyone who comes in contact with the Internet has difficulty disconnecting: People everywhere are glued to their devices.” ”

— TechCrunch

1. Branded power banks

This highly functional tech piece is sure to strike a chord with employees and clients alike. For the business traveler, it’s the perfect way to charge up while constantly on the go. According to an ASI study, power banks make at least 900 impressions over their lifespan, which generates more brand awareness for you. With price points that work with any budget, make sure your promotional offerings include this tech necessity.

2. Battery Pack Phone Cases

Looking for a hassle-free way to charge your phone? Threds has you covered! Check out our favorite battery pack by Mophie that’s built right into your phone's case! There's no cord to keep and no outlet dependency for charging.

3. Wireless Phone Chargers

Wireless chargers are really popular and often serve a dual purpose like a charger + mouse pad. Whether in your office for personal use or serving as a charging station in a waiting room or guest services area, wireless chargers are an easy way to refresh a device or multiple devices simultaneously. Most wireless chargers offer a sizable imprint area which is great news for your brand. Show off your logo in a way that demands attention.

4. Wireless Headphones and ‘EarPods’

With the rise of new ‘pod’ branded devices, wireless ear technology is more influential than ever before. In addition to being a must-have item for most workout enthusiasts, wireless ear technology has become a fashion statement for just about everyone. With plenty of options to choose from at a variety of price points, now’s the time to get your branded ear buds in the hands of your clients. With so many functional usage options, branded ears buds are the perfect promotional product for any occasion.

5. Wifi Speaker with Amazon Alexa

Alexa provides a great entry into the world of smart devices through the ability to play music, track events, answer questions and more. This speaker is a great gift that is packed full of smart features that are sure to score points with clients and prospects alike.

6. World Travel Adapters

Many people - for work and leisure - travel abroad . Help your team be prepared to charge up their devices no matter what country they may be visiting. Whether a board meeting in Beijing or a vacation to Paris, sharing the gift of a world travel adapter allows for hassle-free charging anywhere. These small, affordable accessories are the perfect tech gadget for any tourist.

7. Bluetooth Speakers

Bluetooth speakers make awesome gifts that are always ready to make a great impression. While there are tons of speakers to choose from, we’ve selected the best options that won’t break your budget. The Roxbox is a versatile speaker perfect for the office, a day at the beach, tailgating and much more. It’s compact size doesn’t compromise its ability to perform and produce a great quality sound.

8. Metal Webcam Covers

Cyber companies and IT providers— This is for YOU! With increasing concerns about consumer privacy, webcam covers are the perfect way to let your customers know their Web safety is top of mind for your business. With no harm to the camera, these small products offer a big peace of mind.

9. Virtual Reality Devices

VR devices can be surprisingly inexpensive. There are several Virtual Reality options ranging from all shapes and sizes to full-blown headsets and collapsible versions not much larger than an iPhone. Make an impression at your next next event with VR and give potential customers a “reality” check of just how powerful your brand is.

10. Data Blocking USB Chargers

Data blocking USB chargers are one of our favorite tech accessories and an affordable promotional item that everyone can appreciate. If you have employees or clients that travel and use smart devices, chances are, they spend a lot of time charging those devices on public portals. Data blocking chargers make for a great gift because they keep phones protected from unwanted malware and data exchange that comes from using a foreign computer or device to charge a phone. They’re a great way to stay safe on the go!

11. Encrypted USB Flash Drives

Encrypted flash drives are a unique offering that features your logo on one side, and an integrated keypad on the other. Perfect for those who are vigilant in keeping their data secure, flash drives have long been popular promotional offerings. Be sure to crack the code this trade show season and provide key attendees with this popular tech gadget.

12. Tumbler with Removable Bluetooth Speaker

We’ve already touched on Bluetooth speakers and their utility, so we’ll get right to the point on this one. Tumblers and other drinkwear products have always been great promotional offerings. We’re taking things up a notch with this 2-in-1tumbler and removable Bluetooth speaker. Now you can enjoy your favorite drink and your favorite song together. What’s not to like?

13. UV Light Phone Sanitizer

Germs are everywhere and people touch a lot of things, especially our phones. Whether it’s Flu season or other viral germs are in the air, use the power of UV light to sanitize your phone. And, if a germ-free phone isn’t enough to spike your interest, this compact case also serves as a charging station. Consider this the powder room for your phone!

14. POP Sockets

No, they’re not going away. Pop sockets continue to be super popular. Stamp your logo on this affordable device companion and increase your brand’s exposure. Pop sockets are fantastic for trade show giveaways or a creative leave-behind idea.

15. Mobile Accessory Kits

Mobile accessory packs come in many shapes and sizes from full-blown travel kits, to clip-on devices that act as phone holders and cable storage. There happen to be a ton of options in this established category. Everyone loves to have a back-up when they need it, which makes this item a great client gift. Let your branded mobile accessory kit serve as a gentle reminder that you’ve got their back when they need a boost.

16. USB Drive + Bottle Opener

This is a truly unique promotional item. Perfect for brewery conventions or anyone who wants a multi-purpose USB. This product holds up to 8GB of data while also opening your favorite drink. Stand out at your next event or wherever cold beverages are served. Please save your work responsibly.

17. Automotive Phone Mounts

People spend a lot of time on the road. Recently, in many states, a hands-free law was passed that now prohibits drivers from texting as well as holding devices to talk while driving. With the passing of this new safety law, the popularity of promotional phone mounts has increased. Threds offers a variety of mounts at different price points. Share the item that is not only convenient, but a necessity for drivers.

18. Selfie Lights

If you work for a university and want some great swag for move-in day, you can stop right here and just contact us about purchasing options. The mirror LED Selfie Flashlight will enhance any selfie. Simply add to any smartphone or tablet to provide supplemental or side lighting and smile your best smile.

19. Branded Laptop Sleeves

Equip your sales team with branded laptop sleeves and let the presentation speak for itself. Sleeves come in a variety of color options and sizes to accomodate almost any laptop. These items not only offer a professional look, but keep your laptop safe and dry. Offering a large imprint area, laptop sleeves make a big impression for your brand.

20. 3-in-1 USB charging cable lanyard

When you need to keep your cell phone charging cable ready to go at all times, look no further than this 3-in-1 charging cable. This practical top 20 pick is compatible with both Android and iOS phones and won’t end up in a forgotten drawer or get thrown away. It will promote your brand long after the event is over.

Are you ready to start your next project?

Threds is a trusted industry leader with over 25 years of experience. Let us show you how We Do More. Start your custom order today!

Hottest headwear trends for 2020

Hats seem to always add the perfect finish to an outfit. On a cold day, there is nothing better than a warm beanie. Like any other apparel, it’s always important to know what’s trending. Here’s a look at the hottest Fall headwear trends that are sure to be popular well into Spring 2020.

It’s no surprise that trucker hats and flat bills are super popular. This trend, along with unstructured fits are expected to continue in popularity into 2020. Dark colors like black, blues and shades of gray are trending as the must have colors while camo is proving to be a favorite, both with traditional and fractal distribution patterns. Additionally, Earth tone colors and hats made from sustainable materials continue to be a consumer demand. Other hot trends making an impactful comeback is the return of corduroy and tie-dye. Now that you know the headwear scoop— check out some of Threds’ top picks.

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Corduroy Cap

• Low profile six panel unstructured cap

• Corduroy fabric

• Fabric strap with antique brass sliding buckle

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Low Profile Trucker with Modified Flat Bill Cap

• Low profile six panel structured cap

• Chino twill front with trucker mesh back

• Adjustable plastic snap tab

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Knit Beanie

• Pro rib Tompkin knit cap

• Made in USA in stock knit

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Camo Cap

• Low Crown

• Weathered Cotton/Polyester Front Panels

• Mesh Back Panels

• Cotton/Polyester Canvas Visor

• Lightly Structured

• Plastic Snap

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Unstructured Performance Camo

• Hi-tech camo patterns

• Adjustable hook-and-loop backstrap

• Lightweight

• Offers sizing versatility

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Low Pro Trucker

• Built with the Richardson quality you’ve come to expect

• Inspired by the best-selling style

• Lower profile and adjustable snapback with two sizes

• Perfect for those who like a more tailored fit

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Hand Dipped Tie-Dye

• A tie-dyed take on our "dad hat"

• Made with a heavyweight chino twill and an adjustable backstrap

• Please note that due to the hand-dipping process, color patterns will vary at random from cap to cap and will not exactly match the display image

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Patches are more popular than ever. Embellishments are an important factor when it comes to producing popular headwear. Popular options such as leather, woven label, sublimated, rubber, and foam patches are dominating the headwear space. Below we've curated examples of each type of patch so that you can start thinking about what type of statement you want to make with your custom headwear. Threds is ready to start your custom order today.

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With so many headwear options to choose from, Threds can work with you to find the perfect solution for your needs. Call us and start your custom project today! We do more for your brand so you can focus on the big picture.

Service Tips, Top Picks, and a Trip Down Memory Lane.

August is our birthday month here at Threds and we are celebrating 25 years of service by sharing a timeline of how far we have come since 1994.

Rooted in humble beginnings, Threds officially launched in August of 1994 as a retail clothing store selling restored vintage jeans. Screen printing followed shortly two years later in 1996. To highlight our screen printing origins, we've provided a few tips on how to brand on a budget utilizing our services.

When planning a custom T-shirt order on a small budget, consider the following:

1. Select a simple 1-2 color design that will reduce the cost of your overall spend while still being able to maximize your logo or message. 

2. Utilize a one-print location verse multiple print areas on the garment. You can maximize brand visibility with a single front or left chest print option, like the examples below.

3. Comfort over brand name. Consider using a cheaper brand of shirt that can provide the same level of comfort. You’ll save on costs, but not at the expense of quality.

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In 1997, Threds included promotional offerings into our business portfolio. This allowed us to expand our overall custom branding capabilities and garner more corporate business. Check out our pick of the top 5 go-to promotional items for any occasion:

1.    Drinkware 

2.    Tote bags

3.    Writing instruments

4.    Koozies

5.    Notebooks

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Embroidery joined the family of offerings in 1999 to service clients who wanted a more formal branded apparel look and feel. Check out our list of items that are the best fit for embroidery services:

1.    Polo shirts

2.    Fleece 

3.    Hats

4.    Jackets (non-waterproof)

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Finally, in 2003 Threds introduced a fulfillment and e-commerce division, making us a full-service branding powerhouse with a national footprint. What does this service do for customers?

1. It provides an entire team of creative thinkers, committed to developing branded merchandise that resonates with your customers.

2. We have a dedicated account & design team that understands your brand.

3. Customer Service needs are handled in-house.

4. Our e-commerce division provides fast, affordable shipping options and tracking.

5. Design, production, inventory and order fulfillment all under one roof.

6. We provide accurate product sales and inventory reports.

Let Threds be a part of your brand’s story. We’ll do more than produce it; we’ll help you tell it. Start your custom apparel or promotional project today! 

What are the benefits of an Online Uniform Program?

 

#1. Uniforms at a touch of a button

The internet is a beautiful and easily accessible thing, so why not take advantage of it? Online shopping is incredibly relaxed and convenient for many consumers and in this case, employees, franchise owners, and store managers. An online store features custom uniform garments for employees to order and pay for whenever needed. By creating an online ordering platform, it helps managers and franchise owners simply click to order.

#2.Complete customization

An online uniform program is a customized store that is designed to fit your unique set of needs. It is important to feature quality items that are stylish, functional and offers a flexible fit. Online stores provide your company the opportunity to feature custom apparel unique to all of your store locations and is readily accessible for all store managers and employees.

#3. Supports all franchise locations 

An online platform is ideal for those that have multiple locations but want to keep all locations brand consistent. A consistent employee appearance is vital when creating a unified image for your company.

#4.Hands free

When producing a uniform program, many efforts come with it. When choosing to partner with an online uniform program consultant, all the work is done for you— hassle-free. The consultant will (or should) build and manage your online store, develop apparel and promotional products, process orders/returns, warehouse and ship the products all in-house. Add customer service and a customer inquiries team to the mix and you will have one less thing to worry about! Sounds like a win, win to us.

#5.cost effective

Partnering with an online uniform program provider can help a growing business. Your partner should provide an in-depth analysis of your current fulfillment and shipping methods. Having a fulfillment partner create an analysis of your current inventory, labor, shipping and packaging options can open many opportunities for cutting costs and save you a lot of time. A true fulfillment partner will offer you cost-savings along with guaranteed, on-time shipping and accurately fulfilled orders. You also benefit from cost savings and the satisfaction of having a one-stop-shop for all your transport, production, and order processing needs for your employees.

The Takeaway

Finding a well established online uniform program partner is ultimately the best route to take for your business and employees. In addition to value-added services, the convenience of connecting with an online fulfillment consultant takes all the burdens out of uniform programs out of your hands and into theirs. All the work is done for you, with a touch of a button!

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If you are interested in starting your own online uniform program, we can help develop a custom e-commerce platform to support your needs. Find out why we are the perfect partner for you here.