How to Improve Brand Awareness with Gen Z: Effective Strategies for 2025
Apr 2, 2025
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Educational
Introduction
When it comes to boosting brand awareness with Gen Z, understanding their unique preferences and values is essential. As the largest generation globally and a growing economic force, brands need to tap into what resonates most with this audience. From embracing social responsibility to offering stylish, high-quality merch, here's how you can effectively improve brand awareness with Gen Z.
Why Gen Z Loves Merch
According to recent studies from ASI End Buyer Research, 90% of Gen Z end-buyers view promotional products and apparel as a more effective medium for improving brand awareness compared to other markets surveyed. The term "merch" is preferred by Gen Z over traditional terms like "promotional products"; it’s essential to align your language with their preferences.
Gen Z’s love for merch isn't just superficial. They tend to keep promotional items for practical reasons:
Utility: 84% keep promo items because they’re useful.
Attractiveness: 60% hold onto them for their aesthetic appeal (more than other generations).
Quality: 54% appreciate well-made items.
Point of Reference: 24% keep items for sentimental or nostalgic reasons.
The Power of Branded Apparel
Brand name promotional apparel can have a significant impact on Gen Z’s perception of your brand. 84% of Gen Z end-buyers would have a more positive view of an advertiser if they received high-quality branded apparel, according to ASI End Buyer Research. Comfortable hoodies, customized Nike shoes, and food and beverage kits are among their favorites. Prioritizing quality and style is key to making a lasting impression.
Best Promotional Products for Gen Z
To capture Gen Z’s attention and improve brand awareness, you need to deliver products that speak to their interests and lifestyle. Their favorite promotional items include:
Comfortable Hoodies
Stanley Cups
Device Cleaning Wipes
Customized Nike Shoes
Food and Beverage Kits
Color-Changing Cups
Pop-It Stress Balls
Make Social Responsibility a Priority
Social responsibility matters to Gen Z. In fact, 84% of Gen Z end-buyers say it’s important that promotional products they receive are socially responsible, a higher percentage than other generations surveyed. Environmentally friendly products are also valued, with 74% expressing a preference for sustainability. While 58% prefer items made in the USA, this is the lowest preference rate among the generations surveyed.
The Rise of E-Commerce and AI Acceptance
E-commerce is a massive factor in how Gen Z interacts with brands. A striking 64% of Gen Z end-buyers have purchased promotional products or apparel from an e-commerce site, according to ASI End Buyer Research. Ensuring your brand’s online presence is optimized for mobile devices and offers a seamless user experience is essential.
Additionally, 50% of Gen Z end-buyers view artificial intelligence positively, and nearly half (48%) believe AI will significantly impact their day-to-day lives within the next three years. Incorporating AI into your marketing strategies—whether through personalized shopping experiences or AI-driven design tools can help capture their interest.
Tips for Boosting Gen Z Brand Awareness
Speak Their Language: Use the term “merch” instead of “promotional products” to resonate better with Gen Z consumers.
Prioritize Quality and Style: Invest in attractive, high-quality items like hoodies, Stanley cups, and customized Nike shoes.
Embrace E-commerce: Ensure your brand’s online presence is seamless and mobile-optimized for effective Gen Z brand awareness.
Focus on Social Responsibility: Choose eco-friendly, socially responsible products to resonate with their values.
Leverage AI Tools: Offer innovative experiences that reflect their comfort and curiosity about AI.
Understand Gen Z Marketing Trends: Stay updated on what's popular with Gen Z, such as stylish merch, sustainability, and AI integration.
Conclusion
Improving brand awareness with Gen Z requires understanding their values, preferences, and habits. Whether it's through stylish merch, eco-consciousness, or a smooth online shopping experience, brands that cater to these priorities will earn loyalty from this influential generation.
Start connecting with Gen Z now by offering high-quality, stylish, and socially responsible merch. Need ideas? Brand+Aid® has you covered.
