Recently, a study surveyed 5,000 full-time U.S. employees and found a compelling link between receiving promotional merchandise and longer employment tenure. The findings revealed that employees who receive branded items from their employer stick around on average 1.5 years longer than those who don’t. 

The data showed that higher retention aligns with stronger feelings of belonging: 73?% of employees said that receiving branded goods increases their sense of pride and connection with the company.  For example, among workers who had received company-branded merchandise, 88?% had been with their employer for 15 years or more—highlighting the loyalty effect of meaningful swag. 

When employees feel appreciated via tangible, branded items like apparel, drinkware, or desk accessories, the result isn’t just a nice perk—it’s a measurable retention boost.  For companies investing in talent and culture, adding quality promotional products to onboarding, anniversaries, or recognition programs can be a cost-effective lever for long-term workforce stability.