In January, we headed to Merchandise World 2026 with one mission: filter the noise and bring back the ideas that genuinely deserve a place in your 2026 plans.
There’s always a lot to see. Some of it is fun. Some of it is fleeting. And some of it quietly signals where promotional merchandise trends 2026 are really heading in the UK.
Here’s our run-down of the ten products and branded merchandise trends UK marketers should actually be paying attention to.
1. Canned Water – A Sustainable Swap That Makes Sense
From Promo Water, canned water stood out as one of the smartest sustainable switches on the show floor.
Aluminium is infinitely recyclable and far more likely to be recycled than plastic. For exhibitions, sporting events, university open days and corporate activations, this feels like a practical, visible commitment to better choices.
It’s a small change that communicates a bigger sustainability message, exactly the kind of sustainable promo trends we expect to grow in 2026.
2. Foldable Cap – Practical Merch is Winning
The foldable cap from Laltex is lightweight, packable and genuinely useful.
We’re seeing a move towards adaptable products that travel well and don’t end up at the back of a drawer. Think festivals, charity runs, outdoor events and summer campaigns. Practicality is back in style and we’re here for it.
3. PopSockets – Still Going Strong
From Xoopar, branded PopSockets remain a solid performer.
With phones still glued to hands, this is everyday brand visibility. The difference in 2026? Cleaner branding, smarter materials and a focus on longevity over gimmicks.
4. Chocolate Message Boxes – Personalisation at Scale
The chocolate message boxes from Eat My Logo combine creativity with shareability.
They’re brilliant for product launches, internal campaigns, and thank-you moments. We’re seeing more brands lean into fully personalised edible gifting rather than generic seasonal giveaways and it feels far more thoughtful.
5. The Magnolia 12oz Canvas Bag – Elevated Everyday
The Magnolia canvas bag from EasyPrint proves that tote bags aren’t going anywhere, they’re just getting better.
Heavier weight cotton, smarter silhouettes and design-led branding are dominating marketing and merchandise ideas for retail, education and lifestyle brands.
6. Circular Travel Mugs – Sustainability with Credibility
The reusable coffee cups from Circular&Co stood out for all the right reasons.
Made using recycled materials and designed for longevity, this is the type of product that aligns with real sustainability goals, not just marketing spin.
In 2026, brands are asking better questions about materials, lifespan and end-of-life. That’s exactly the direction we want to see sustainable promo trends heading.
7. Customisable Ice Cube Trays – Small Budget, Big Creativity
The Chill customisable ice cube tray from PF Concept is playful but clever.
Perfect for beverage brands, hospitality launches or summer activations, it proves that creativity doesn’t need to mean high cost.
Expect more interactive, at-home engagement pieces to feature in branded merchandise trends UK this year.
8. Easter Eco Mini Share Pack – Seasonal, But Smarter
The Easter eco mini share pack from The Sweet People caught our eye because it balances seasonal fun with conscious packaging.
Seasonal gifting is evolving. It’s less about novelty-led one-offs and more about well-designed, considered treats that feel premium and responsible.
9. Arena Tumbler – Bold, High-Impact Drinkware
Another strong find from Laltex, the Arena tumbler taps into the latest drinkware trends.
500ml capacity, double walled, BPA free and statement branding make this AS plastic tumbler with matching straw and screw on lid ideal for summer events, festivals and university audiences. Drinkware continues to dominate promotional merchandise trends 2026, but with a focus on fashionable and standout design.
10. Customisable Monopoly – Experiential Merch
From Lanyard Planet, fully customisable Monopoly boards are all about immersion.
For recruitment campaigns, company anniversaries or brand storytelling, this is experiential merchandise at its best.
We’re seeing more brands move towards merchandise that creates a moment, not just an impression.
The Big Trends We’re Recommending in 2026
Across the board, these themes stood out:
- Sustainability with substance, not surface-level claims
- Practical products that earn their place
- Personalisation at scale
- Experience-led merchandise
- Elevated everyday items
The days of filler freebies are fading. The brands that win in 2026 will choose merchandise that aligns with their values, supports their campaign objectives, and feels considered.
A Little Incentive…
If you’re planning to join us at MERCH MINDSET: The AI Edition on 11th June 2026, you might just find some of these products available to take away with you on the day.
It’s our annual event where creative marketeers explore how smarter thinking (and smarter tools) are shaping the future of branded merchandise.
You can secure your place here 👉 https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/merch-mindset-the-ai-edition-tickets-1974968514993
Want a Shortlist Built Around Your Brand?
Trends are helpful. But relevance is better.
Want a short, relevant trends shortlist for your brand? We’ll happily curate one.
Book a call with us here or email sales@marketing-merchandise.co.uk.
Because in 2026, the smartest merch isn’t about what’s new. It’s about what works.
