Event season is nearly here, and with it comes the last-minute scramble for giveaways.

But before you panic-buy a box of stress balls or plastic pens, let’s think about where these freebies often end up. 

When we attend events and conferences, we usually leave pretty dismayed at the sheer amount of plastic water bottles, keyrings, and car stickers (!) being handed out – all stamped with oversized logos.

Most of it is left behind at the end of the day or destined for landfill. Is that really what your clients and contacts want? 

The plastic problem 

The UK throws away around 1.7 billion pieces of plastic every week – that’s 90 billion a year. Plastic pollution on UK beaches increased by nearly 10% last year, with plastic caps, lids, and bottles among the worst offenders.

Most of these giveaways end up in landfill (or the ocean!), harming wildlife and adding to the growing plastic problem. Plastic is not the enemy here. It’s actually a great material. It’s the life expectancy of what we produce with it that’s the problem.

Why stress balls are not the answer 

Stress balls, mugs and plastic keyrings are easy to source – but rarely kept. Most people either leave them behind or throw them away at the end of the event.

Worse still, these items are typically made from plastic or non-recyclable materials, adding to the growing pile of waste polluting our planet. 

Keep it simple

If you’re stuck for ideas, choose a good old-fashioned notebook! It’s practical, useful, and way more likely to stick around than a plastic keyring. But don’t just print your logo all over it. Brand it thoughtfully so it’s something your clients will actually want to use. Subtle design, quality materials, and a focus on what your audience values will go a long way. 

Work with local businesses for gifts that make an impression 

Wouldn’t you rather receive a beautifully made gift or food item from a local business with a story behind it, rather than a generic, forgettable one that means nothing?

Choosing thoughtful gifts that reflect your organisation’s values – and support local makers will leave a far better impression than plastic clutter. 

What makes a better giveaway? 

People are far more likely to hold onto an item that’s useful, high quality, and aligned with your organisation’s values. Here’s what to consider when choosing a giveaway: 

• Make it useful
• Make it sustainable
• Make it meaningful
• Make it about the recipient

How we can help 

We know it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options. At Ginger and Tall, we help charities and purpose-driven businesses find creative, sustainable ways to make an impression. From eco-friendly materials to engaging design, we handle the whole process – from concept to delivery – to make your life easier.

Get in touch to talk about cooler, more sustainable giveaways that won’t cost the earth.