Psi 2008 - Show Review
Well here we are, fresh back from our annual visit to PSI 08 in Germany, the largest European-wide trade event within the Promotional Merchandise industry. Following three jam-packed days viewing and discussing the very latest products and services on offer, we're pleased to advise that innovation remains strong within the industry, with more unusual and effective items being presented than the last couple of years have shown.
Environmental and ethical products saw a large increase, in both competitiveness and range of products which was good to see.
 (No... it's a banana carrier!) | There were also the usual smattering of 'quirky' ideas that will raise a smile, but probably not your bottom line! We've previously been amused by a company devoted purely to Ear Bags, and this year had the promotional Banana Carrier amongst others. Some of the more useful items can be seen below: |
Flash Drives Re-invented
Undoubtedly the best concept I've seen for years in terms of adding true value to the ubiquitous USB Flash Drive. The concept is this, a fully branded piece of software is burnt onto the USB drive, popping up automatically when the drive is inserted. The software not only allows easy management of the drive contents - drag 'n drop audio files, text search documents etc - but will poll back to a remote server for dynamic content on every use. This means YOU control the user's experience each time they use the device (think time-sensitive or topical content, continually updated brochures etc). Contact us for further information on this... it's better than it sounds.
Organic Leather
According to our sources from overseas, a UK manufacturer is shortly due to release a full range of 'Organic Leather' products. Not only does the hide come from free-roaming non-battery cows, they're actually reared on certified organic farms!!! We'll keep you posted with more info.
WiFi Photo Frames
One for the Technofiles this, but surely a sign of the way things are heading. It's a development on the Digital Photo Frames that came to prominence last year, in that you can control the images (wirelessly) via your computer. All very clever - it can also handle movie files and audio - and with touch screen buttons it hits the right style-notes too. To help you stay bang up to date, you can even link it to your email account to inform you when emails have arrived from a nominated address.
Combination-Lock Luggage Straps
This nifty device keeps the baggage handlers out of your smalls, leaving you to relax in the knowledge that your bags are safe and sound. It also proves useful for identifying your bags on the conveyor belt when you land. It can be printed with your brand along the outside of the strap.
Earth Positive
This is a unique achievement - Climate Neutral Clothing - with a "genuine, measurable and dramatic reduction in the emission of carbon dioxide". Every stage in the supply chain has been examined - from Agriculture, Processing, Packaging and Transportation. All energy consumption is supplied with green electricity (from renewable resources such as wind turbines). The remaining naturally ocurring emissions during cultivation and transportation are offset by surplus green energy production. All sounds pretty positive then!!
Fluid Branding Goes Carbon Zero
Business promotions specialist, Fluid Branding is taking action on climate change and has offset its carbon emissions to become an official “Carbon Zero” company. Along with its sister company Eco Incentives, which is dedicated to sourcing and supplying environmentally friendly businesses promoti...more
Bottle Opener puts Fizz in Promotions
Fluid Branding has really lived up to its name this time, with an innovative new twist on the promotional Bottle Openers. The unusual Bottle Openers slips over the finger of the wearer, with the metal ridge underneath effortlessly levering the lid off the bottle being held. With good branding sp...more
Far East Review – April 08
The vast majority of goods these days are supplied from China and India, it is therefore more important than ever for us to invest in personally visiting Trade Fairs and Factories in order to keep updated with latest trends and products. The trade shows in Hong Kong and China offer the largest an...more
Fluid Expansion
Due to sustained growth over the last two years, Fluid Branding have moved to larger (award winning!) offices; purpose built to be environmentally friendly. The new building includes design features such as earth energy, rainwater harvesting and passive ventilation. These environmental benefits ...more
Have a Tipple on Fluid / 3M
Working with the 3M, we are delighted to present a Special Offer on all 3M Index Pens. 3M are respected around the globe for the quality and integrity of their office products. For every order of personalised Index Pens received until 5th May 08, we will give you £15 worth of Threshers vouchers....more
