1. Brand Visibility and Awareness

• Promotional products such as branded pens, keychains, hats, or tote bags help increase visibility. Consumers who receive these items will often use them in public, effectively turning them into walking billboards.
• 83% of people like receiving promotional items, and 55% of people use them at least once a week, according to the Advertising Specialty Institute. This increases the chance of potential customers remembering the dealership.
• 91% of people can recall the branding on a promotional product they received in the past two years, and 83% can remember the name of the advertiser, according to the Global Ad Impressions Study by the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI). This makes it an effective tool for dealerships looking to keep their brand top of mind.

2. Increased Customer Engagement and Loyalty

• Promotional items can enhance customer loyalty. 77% of consumers can recall a company’s name after receiving a promotional product, and 83% of people like receiving items with their logo (source: Promotional Products Association International).
• Offering branded giveaways such as car air fresheners, keychains, or water bottles at car purchases or service visits can keep your dealership’s name front and center in the customer’s daily life, fostering long-term engagement.
• 45% of consumers are more likely to do business with a company again after receiving a promotional product (source: PPAI). For car dealerships, this means a higher likelihood of repeat visits for maintenance, upgrades, or future purchases.

3. Increased Foot Traffic to Dealerships

• Physical promotional items can encourage customers to visit the dealership. For instance, 40% of consumers are more likely to enter a store that gives away free items, as reported by the American Marketing Association.
• Car dealerships that distribute useful items (like branded car cleaning kits, first-aid kits, or tire pressure gauges) can see higher foot traffic and more inquiries about their services and products.
• A study from PPAI showed that 58% of consumers who received a promotional item visited the store where they got the item within the next 12 months.

4. Positive Perception and Trust

• Offering quality promotional products can create a positive impression of the dealership. According to the Advertising Specialty Institute, 72% of consumers associate promotional products with the credibility of the brand, which is especially important in industries like automotive sales where trust is key.
• Items like branded keychains or car mats can make customers feel appreciated, building goodwill and trust. This emotional connection often leads to increased satisfaction and loyalty, which can turn into referrals and repeat business.

5. High Retention Rates and Longevity

• Promotional products often have a long lifespan, meaning the item continues to serve as a reminder of the dealership long after it is given out. For instance, 60% of consumers say they keep promotional products for up to two years or more, according to PPAI. Items like branded calendars, magnets, or vehicle accessories are particularly good at offering extended brand exposure.
• Personalized items also help create a stronger connection with the customer. For example, a personalized car mat or a customized keychain with the dealership’s logo can create a unique bond with the customer, making them more likely to return for future business.

6. Event Marketing and Community Engagement

• Promotional products are an effective tool for events, whether a dealership is hosting a grand opening, car show, test drive event, or community charity fundraiser.
• Items like branded umbrellas, tote bags, hats, or balloons can be handed out at events to increase brand exposure and drive attendance. 45% of consumers at promotional events will keep the items for more than a year, making them a long-term marketing tool (source: PPAI).

7. Incentivizing Purchases or Referrals

• Many dealerships use promotional items as part of a sales incentive program. Offering items like gas cards, branded merchandise, or even free accessories for customers who refer friends or family can motivate them to bring in new business.
• Customers who receive a free gift during the purchase process are more likely to recommend the dealership to others. A study by PPAI found that 53% of people would recommend a business after receiving a promotional product from them.

8. Unique Promotional Items

• For dealerships, unique promotional items like branded tire pressure gauges, car care kits, windshield cleaners, or even car chargers can resonate with customers and set the dealership apart from competitors. Offering practical products related to car ownership increases their utility and desirability.
• Items that can be used directly in the car, like custom seatbelt covers or branded sunglasses, ensure that customers will regularly encounter the dealership’s branding, reinforcing brand awareness and association.

Conclusion

Promotional products and advertising goods are powerful tools for car dealerships. They enhance brand visibility, create positive customer experiences, drive repeat business, and encourage referrals. Whether it's through useful items like branded keychains and car kits or event giveaways, these products serve as constant reminders of the dealership, increasing engagement and improving the overall customer experience. Plus, with their low cost-per-impression and long-lasting impact, promotional items offer an excellent return on investment compared to many traditional advertising methods. We have everything you need at Meridian West Specialties.