American Idol has been on for how many years now? I remember the first season with Ms. Clarkson. My, has she come a long way or what? Eh, maybe she hasn’t, but that first season was something to remember. Then again, first seasons always are since they tend to make or break an entire series.

But that’s all beside the point. I won’t bore you with my view on television politics. I will, however, share with you some pretty interesting information I stumbled upon during my morning surf (on the Web. Wish I could say in the ocean, but then again, I’d probably end up in the hospital or something. Ah, and I digress). Michelle Bell, Counselor magazine’s senior editor, blogged back in November about “Rollabanas.” Rollabanas are nifty self-rolling mini banners that can be printed with full-color images or just words advertising and promoting your organization’s name. Besides being portable, the Rollabana has optional suction cups on its ends allowing you to stick the Rollabana to your car window or somewhere in your home or office. These promotional banners are an accessory and advertisement rolled into one. Absorbent, Ink. is now offering this unique product (currently ON SALE!) for you and your recipients to enjoy.

I bet you’re wondering what the American Idol punch line is gonna be, aren’t you? Two words: Justin Guarini. Memory not working for you? He was the curly-haired runner-up during season one. Still not ringing a bell? He also starred in the smash cinema hit (not so much) From Justin to Kelly alongside his former competitor, Kelly Clarkson herself! Really, the point is that Guarini is the spokesperson for Rollabanas. That’s right. He’s gonna stick these little banners all over his car windows and maybe even sing a tune about it (if we’re lucky).

Order these creative and out-of-the-ordinary banners for your organization today and remind your clients that the only time you suck is when it’s on their windows.

Justin Guarini 4ever,

Abby Ink

I just read an article that talked about promotional products that businesses can hand out. It was an interesting read, but the items discussed were quite generic and lacked the oomph a product needs to really get your message “carried away.” It’s summertime! Give them something they can use right now!

You’ll want your recipients to appreciate your promotional products and remember your business (that’s what it’s all about, right?). To achieve this, there are two things you absolutely have to remember: be timely and topical. Recipients should be able to use the products as soon as they receive them. For that to happen, it is essential to tie your products in with current events or seasonal trends.

For starters, since summer has finally arrived, your customers are going to start dusting off their barbecue grills and picnic paraphernalia. Why not dish out some folding chairs or insulated coolers (imprinted with your logo, of course) that they can use right now! And don’t be afraid to bend the rules a little; maybe your message would be better imprinted on an ice scraper if you are trying to keep it cool.

If you would like to give something that is more affordable, but useful all the same, then products that might suit you include water jugs, sunglasses, sunscreen lotions…. Whatever your budget, Absorbent, Ink. has something to suit you and your recipients during any season.

The Sales department at the economist laid out a well-done presentation on why marketers should be increasing their budgets during a recession.

I just filled up my gas tank for a little over $15 bucks yesterday.  Great for me but experts say its a sign of how bad the economy is right now.  Oil is selling at 43 dollars a barrel!  Nobody is spending money.

Here are a few tips for your business to help increase awareness and sales:

-Emphasize the value of your product or service to your customers. With budgets being tight, people want to know how a product or service will benefit them.

-Offer coupons and sales. Everyone is looking for a good bargain right now.  Show you care by giving them one.

-Studies have shown that companies that keep or increase their spending on marketing during a recession end up in better shape at the end of a recession. The average cost-per-impression of a promotional product is $.0004, according to a recent ASI study.  Of the surveyed respondents, 84% remembered the advertisers of the promotional product they received.

Calendars are creeping toward April 15, which means federal and state tax returns are due very soon. We know filing a tax return can sometimes be a daunting task. That’s why tax preparers are always encouraging workers to file early before the deadline catches anyone by surprise. Whether you are a tax preparer or employer, it is important to remind workers to file their taxes before April 15. Promotional products and corporate gifts can serve as great reminder tools.

Tax preparers looking to attract customers can hand out Patriotic Stress Balls with an imprinted brand logo and message. Stress balls shaped as the Statue of Liberty or painted like the American flag are fun, reusable items. They remind workers that tax preparation can be a lot less stressful with a little help.

Employers can hand out Calculators to remind employees about the April 15 deadline. It’s a practical item that everyone will need to prepare taxes.

A Coffee Mug is also an effective year-round reminder. Full color mugs are highly noticeable and are versatile items than can be used in the office and at home.