It is not a secret that digital media plays such a massive part in the economy now. Because of this, it might seem like physical merchandise is a relic of the past. Well, if you are still considering merch for your business or like the idea of it, there is no need to worry! It is still very much alive, kicking, and more relevant than ever.
From t-shirts to hats, posters to water bottles, and even lightsticks, which are very popular amongst K-Pop fans (and you can learn more about KPop lightsticks here if this is the first time you have heard of these), merch has repeatedly proven that it’s not just about having a material item but about creating a deeper connection between fans and their favorite brands, bands, and franchises.
So, with this in mind, this piece is going to take a look at why merch still matters and how you can benefit from getting your hands on it!
Let’s get into it.
A Tangible Connection in a Digital World
There are some great things about the internet and the connection that it offers. You can stream an artist’s entire discography online or binge-watch an entire TV series with just a few clicks. However, in the outside world, when people are looking up from their phones, you need a different approach to catch someone’s attention. This is one of the great things about merch. When a fan proudly wears a t-shirt emblazoned with their favorite band’s logo or sip coffee from a mug showcasing some of their most loved movie characters, it is not just a display of preference – they are also opening themselves up for a conversation.
Merch is a way to bond with like-minded enthusiasts in the real world – which can feel more special!
Identity and Expression
Merch have a magical ability to help fans express their identity. Whether someone is a die-hard surfer dude or a genuine follower of a niche indie band, merch is a way for people to shout out about what they love to the world. Providing customers, clients, and fans with merch is a crucial part of business for this reason. If you are looking for a trustworthy brand to make your merch with, take a look at anthembranding.com for more information.
Supporting the Cause
Merch is not just about helping people sport a cool design, it is also a way that directly support artists, brands, creators, and franchises that have brought joy into someone’s life. When someone buys that concert ticket, they are gaining entry to a show and contributing to the livelihood of the musicians they love. Similarly, purchasing a movie-themed hoodie isn’t just about getting cozy; it is also about making sure that the movies and characters you love continue to thrive. When someone wears merch for brands they love, they essentially showcase their loyalty.
While the digital world will, of course, take up a large portion of marketing, it is imperative that physical marketing remains. Especially as digital advertising continues to become completely overwhelming, the value will likely remain on physical marketing and stay special when seen out “in the wild” by other people and other places!