The Hottest Promo Trends to Watch for in 2025

The promotional products industry continues to reflect the shifting demands and preferences of consumers, with trends that redefine utility, sustainability, and wellness. As we look ahead, we’re noticing certain trends gaining ground and shaping how brands approach promo. From advanced eco-conscious promo to nostalgic designs with a modern twist, here are some of the hottest promo trends and themes that we’re seeing emerge in 2025.

Advanced Sustainability

Eco-friendly products remain a major focal point, with more brands prioritizing craftmanship, transparency, and longevity in their “green” promo. As a result, recycling and upcycling are taking center stage, ensuring products maintain a lasting, positive impact while reducing waste. There’s also a noticeable emphasis on biodegradable, ethically sourced, and eco-conscious materials, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainable practices and smarter product choices.

While consumer expectations around sustainability seem to be influencing these shifts, brands are responding with more thoughtful, greener solutions.

Next-level Utility

Functionality and practicality are also remaining a major factor in promo design. Workwear-inspired apparel and everyday items are being designed with usability in mind, blending seamlessly into consumers’ lives. Rather than prioritizing flashiness, brands are opting for muted, neutral tones and rugged, rubberized finishes, heavyweight fabrics, and even more durable materials.

This growing focus on utility-driven fashion suggests an interest in adaptable products that offer style and function built for an on-the-go lifestyle.

Color of the Year

Speaking of neutral tones, the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year, Mocha Mousse, is setting the tone for a shift towards warm and inviting colors. This rich, warm color evokes feelings of comfort, harmony,

and taste. Reminding people to practice self-care and find joy in smaller moments by eliciting the delicious flavors of coffee or chocolate. We’re seeing it make waves across the promo industry, as brands are offered a sophisticated and versatile palette to work with. And, this reflects a consumer demand for timeless appeal and elevated aesthetics in promo.

Nostalgia Meets Modernity

Continuing the same trend of prioritizing muted palettes, the past is making a stylish return—but with a modernized perspective. Nostalgia continues to influence promotional product design, blending retro looks with fresh functionality. As a result, brands are infusing delightful “old” elements into everyday essentials, creating a unique fusion of throwback charm and contemporary flair that resonates with a wider audience.

Emphasizing Wellness

Wellness remains a driving force in promo, especially with an even greater emphasis on self-care and active lifestyles. Outdoor-friendly products, athleisure apparel, and self-care essentials (such as lotions and body washes) are continuing to be all the rage. Consumers are looking for products that support a healthy, active lifestyle, and the industry is responding even stronger with items that encourage a fresh approach towards health and wellness.

Looking Ahead

While it’s still early in the year, sustainability, functionality, and nostalgia appear to be shaping the future of promo in bold, new ways. We’ll be watching to see how brands continue to respond to these trends in the coming months, and we’ll be ready to help you stay ahead and stand out.

Are you ready to capitalize on these big promo trends? Reach out to orders@onehum.com, or visit onehum.com/contact-us/, to take your promotional products to the next level.