At #28, we’re looking at a staple. No trends, no gimmicks—just a product that continues to put in the work. The branded mug has been around forever, but in 2025, it’s still one of the most useful, appreciated, and visible physical marketing tools in the lineup.
☕ #28 – Branded Mugs
Last Year: Same (#28) | Desk Visibility: ☕☕☕☕ | Retention Rate: Excellent | Brand Familiarity: Strong
Everyone has a favorite mug. And when your brand is printed on it? You’re part of their daily ritual. Coffee, tea, hot cocoa, ramen—whatever’s going in it, your logo is coming out front and center.
Where Mugs Are Still Winning
- Corporate offices and remote teams use mugs in onboarding kits and internal culture drops.
- Universities and nonprofits sell or give away mugs during fundraising drives and alumni events.
- Financial advisors, law firms, and consultants send mugs as simple “thanks for your business” touches.
- Local businesses and cafés offer them as merch with gift cards or in holiday bundles.
- SaaS and tech companies pair mugs with branded coffee or snacks in client care kits.
Mugs may not be revolutionary—but that’s the point. They work.
Designed to Be Kept (Not Tossed)
The difference between “junk drawer” and “daily driver” is quality and design:
- Clean logos, good color contrast, and bold inside/outside combos
- Custom shapes, speckled glazes, or matte finishes
- Subtle messages that make the mug feel more personal than promotional
Want to level up? Pair it with coffee, cocoa packets, or a branded spoon for an easy bundled experience.
Used Every. Single. Day.
The best part of a mug? Frequency. It’s one of the few branded items that gets touched and seen 365 days a year—without anyone needing to think about it.
That’s long-tail visibility for pennies per impression.
The Final Word:
At #28, mugs may be old school—but they’re still putting up numbers. They’re simple, dependable, and deliver repeat brand exposure without trying too hard.
Your brand in someone’s hand every morning? That’s a win.
