What to expect and how we’re keeping you ahead with your merch.
As we look ahead to 2025, the global trading landscape is poised for significant changes. Proposed tariff increases and trade barriers are expected to impact a wide range of industries, including the US and Canadian promotional products sectors. Here's what to expect, how these changes will affect the industry, and how Score Promotions is adapting so you don’t skip a beat.
We’re not just ready for what’s coming, we’re ahead of it. From domestic production and expert decorating to smart importing and exporting strategies, our team is fully equipped to ensure you continue receiving the high-quality branded merch you rely on.
The Proposed Policies and Their Scope
The U.S. government is considering significant adjustments to tariffs on goods imported from several key trading partners. This includes a reevaluation of trade agreements with countries such as China, Mexico, and Vietnam — key players in the promotional products supply chain. Similarly, Canada is preparing for trade adjustments of its own, with stricter labeling requirements and a renewed emphasis on environmentally sustainable imports. Specific areas of focus include:
1. Higher tariffs on textiles and plastics
Materials frequently used in promotional items like tote bags, apparel, and drinkware.
2. Import restrictions from certain regions
This may result in longer lead times and higher costs for sourcing popular merchandise. It could also affect the availability and exclusivity of custom items, such as PMS-matched apparel and branded character stuffed animals.
3. Enhanced “Made in Canada” incentives
Partnering with domestic manufacturers to produce branded merchandise domestically, to avoid import tariffs may challenge cost-efficiency and production capacity in the short term.
4. Canada’s new sustainability mandates
For businesses sourcing swag in North America, eco-friendliness will be more important than ever.
All things considered- you need a thoughtful approach to sourcing and distributing your branded merch.
What This Means for Your Swag Strategy?
Procrastination is not your friend! You may have struck gold in the past with some last-minute-merch-miracles, but with rising costs and longer lead times, getting a good understanding of your quarterly and annual needs for your brand is going to keep your creative options open.
Imported materials and products will likely become pricier and take longer to arrive due to tariffs and new regulations. This means planning ahead is key to ensuring your branded merch arrives on time and on budget.
The focus on local production is growing, offering opportunities for high-quality, promotional products. While some price adjustments may occur, domestic swag offers a reliable, tariff-free solution. Partnering with our numerous North American-based custom manufacturing partners in U.S. and Canada, Score Promotions can continue curating and designing custom merchandise without the worry of missing deadlines, your order sitting in customs, or draining your budget into tariffs.
With Canada tightening regulations around eco-friendliness, the shift toward sustainable swag is far beyond “a trend” — it’s a necessary factor of doing business. Brands that prioritize eco-conscious branded merchandise will not only meet regulatory requirements but also align with the growing values of environmentally aware consumers. By offering a wide range of innovative and sustainable products, we ensure that your promotional items reflect your commitment to responsible business practices while keeping your brand at the top of everyone’s mind.
How We’re Preparing for You
We understand the value of dependable, innovative branded merch. That’s why we’re taking steps to keep your swag strategy strong, no matter what shifts in global trade:
1. Domestic Production That Shines
We’ve expanded our partnerships with top-notch North American manufacturers and decorators to ensure your swag meets the highest standards. From design to delivery, we’ll help you find products that feel right at home.
2. Expert Importing and Exporting
For items that make the most sense to source internationally, we’re leveraging our expertise in global trade, and our exclusive, trusted manufacturing partnerships. Our careful curation ensures compliance with tariffs and regulations while maintaining quality and value.
3. Sustainable Swag Solutions
Whether you’re looking for reusable drinkware, organic cotton totes, or other eco-friendly options, we’ve got you covered. Our product line is evolving to keep your branded merch aligned with the latest environmental standards.
4. Planning for the Future
At Score, we geek out over strategic planning for your brand, and our team is here to help you navigate lead times, manage budgets, and plan your brand’s most impactful campaigns. By getting ahead of potential supply chain hurdles, we’ll make sure your branded merchandise is designed to impress and arrives exactly when you need it.
We know changes to trade and tariffs might feel overwhelming, but we see them as an opportunity to innovate and grow with you. With our focus on continuing to expand domestic production, deliberate global trade and manufacturing, smart sourcing, and sustainable practices, we’re here to ensure your branded merch continues to exceed expectations.
When you partner with Score Promotions, you’re choosing a team who understands your needs, anticipates challenges, and delivers solutions. Whether it’s custom swag for a big event, corporate gifting and uniform programs, or a custom branded merchandise line for your brand’s fans, we’ll make sure your products stand out for all the right reasons.
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