Making Waves: How Brands Are Using Summer Merch to Stand Out in 2025
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As temperatures rise, so does the opportunity for companies and brands to make a splash. From rooftop events to team offsites and seasonal campaigns, summer swag has become a go-to strategy for companies looking to engage employees, impress clients, and drive brand visibility in a more relaxed, lifestyle-forward season.
In 2025, the best summer merchandise is more than just seasonal swag—it’s an extension of company culture, values, and creativity. Here’s how top brands are leaning into custom summer swag to break through the noise, stay top of mind, and build lasting connections.
What’s Trending in Summer Merch for 2025
1. Function-First Outdoor Gear
Reversible All Over Print Bucket Hat
Brands are investing in useful, high-quality summer swag that people actually want to bring to the beach, pool, or park. Think branded cooler bags, sun-blocking bucket hats, Bluetooth speakers, and quick-dry towels—all designed for fun in the sun.
2. Eco-Friendly and Travel-Ready Swag
Eco-Friendly Wooden Barrel Speaker
With sustainability still top-of-mind, brands are opting for eco-conscious summer kits that include items like eco-friendly gear, reusable drinkware, and organic cotton totes. Many are also packaging summer swag in ready-to-ship kits that support hybrid teams or traveling employees.
3. Bold Colors, Retro Prints, and Summer-First Design
Tommy Bahama® Santiago Paradise Polo
Design trends in 2025 are leaning into vibrant palettes, throwback prints, and playful fonts that scream summer. Brands are working with artists and merch partners to create custom graphics that reflect their personality—not just their logo.
4. Work-Leisure Crossover Items
Quartet Dry-Erase Desktop Computer Pad
The lines between work and life continue to blur, and so does the merch. Companies are sending elevated summer gear that blends leisure with light utility: branded hammocks, portable laptop pads, sunshades for digital nomads, and picnic kits with foldable seating.
5. Curated Summer Experience Kits
Fun In The Sun Summer Essentials Kit
Instead of sending one-off items, more brands are building cohesive experience-driven kits. Examples include:
- “Out of Office” kits with SPF lip balm, branded sunglasses, and beach towels.
- Summer Fridays packs with cold brew tumblers and branded bucket hats.
- Backyard BBQ kits with aprons, grilling tools, and picnic blankets.
How Brands Are Standing Out with Summer Merch in 2025
Some standout strategies from brands this year include:
- Surprise drops sent to remote teams on the first official day of summer
- Limited-edition collabs with local artists or influencers for seasonal gear
- Pop-up swag stations at company offsites or outdoor events
- Employee referral rewards built around branded beach kits or travel gear
Across the board, the most effective merch isn’t just functional—it’s shareable, experience-driven, and designed to spark connection.
Tips for Creating Summer Merch That Lands
- Start early: Summer moves fast, and the best kits take time to plan, design, and deliver.
- Think beyond logos: Incorporate color, story, and style—not just branding.
- Know your audience: Choose items your recipients will actually use (and love).
- Bundle for impact: Coordinated kits are more memorable than one-off items.
- Make it shippable: Remote-friendly kits ensure everyone can join in the fun.
One Last Thing: Summer Swag That Makes an Impression
Summer is a season for connection, celebration, and creativity. The right merch strategy helps your brand show up in ways that are thoughtful, relevant, and unforgettable. Whether it’s a custom cooler for the team retreat or a bold beach towel for client gifting, summer swag is your chance to say, “We see you—and we’re here for the fun.”
Ready to start building your summer merch pack? Download the Summer Catalog to explore customizable products, curated kits, and easy fulfillment—all designed to help your brand shine this season.
