Today, companies aren’t just talking about diversity they’re showing it in thoughtful ways. One surprisingly effective method? You guessed it: company swag.
Whether you’re welcoming a new hire or hosting a team event, corporate swag is more than just merch. It can be a reflection of your company’s values, a celebration of identity, and a powerful way to build connection. Especially when it embraces cultural diversity.
So let’s talk about how you can level up your employee swag kits and make your brand more inclusive—while still keeping things fresh and on-brand.
Corporate Swag That Actually Means Something
Let’s face it no one’s getting excited over another branded pen. Today’s custom company swag is smarter, more sustainable, and way more personal.
When you start thinking about swag as a chance to reflect who your employees are—not just where they work—you shift from giving stuff to giving something that actually sticks.
Why It Matters:
- Cultural representation goes a long way. Something as simple as a design, symbol, or quote from someone’s culture can make swag kits for employees feel deeply personal.
- It builds connection. Everyone loves being seen and appreciated especially when working remotely or across different time zones.
- Your brand walks the talk. It’s one thing to say you’re all about inclusion. It’s another to put it into your company culture. through things like thoughtful employee swag.
What Swag Looks Like in Different Cities
If your team’s spread out from New York to LA to Chicago you have an amazing chance to bring local culture into your corporate swag kits.
New York: Bold, Busy, Beautiful
- Swag Idea: Include items designed by NYC based artists or small businesses. Think Harlem-themed notebooks or Little Italy espresso mugs.
- Why It Works: The city thrives on diversity. So should your swag.
Los Angeles: Diverse, Eco-Forward, Trendy
- Swag Idea: Eco-friendly bamboo lunch kits, locally sourced candles, or vibrant tote bags with Chicano or Korean-inspired designs.
- Bonus: If it’s sustainable and Instagrammable, you’ve nailed the LA vibe.
Chicago: Proud Neighborhoods, Local Flavor
- Swag Idea: Custom socks with neighborhood maps, locally roasted coffee, or jazz-inspired notebook covers.
- Why It Works: Chicagoans love their roots and your swag can help honor that.
Employee Swag Kits That People Actually Want
Let’s talk about the kind of swag kits that people will not only use but actually get excited about.
1. Sustainable & Ethical Picks
Modern teams care about the planet. Add in recycled notebooks, reusable water bottles, or biodegradable phone cases. Many corporate swag stores now offer eco-friendly bundles that align with both style and values.
2. Personalization Wins
One-size-fits-all doesn’t cut it anymore. Offering custom company swag menus where employees can choose items based on their preferences or cultural background shows you care.
3. Culture-Inspired Themes
Celebrate international holidays like Lunar New Year, Diwali, or Hispanic Heritage Month through curated employee swag kits with stories and local artistry included.
Real Companies Doing Swag Right
🌟 A Chicago-Based Tech Startup
They started including multicultural cookbooks, spice mixes, and recipe cards in their new hire swag kits all sourced from employee recommendations.
🌟 A West Coast Creative Agency
They partnered with indigenous and minority-owned businesses to create limited edition custom company swag drops with designs inspired by employee roots.
How to Start Building More Inclusive Swag Kits
- Ask your team. A quick Slack poll or anonymous survey can give you loads of ideas for culturally meaningful company swag.
- Tap into local makers. Support small businesses from different cultures. It’s good for your brand and even better for the community.
- Make it a story. When sending out swag kits for employees, include a short note or QR code that explains the cultural story or meaning behind the item.
- Refresh often. Swap out items quarterly or for key cultural holidays to keep things fresh.
Quick FAQs
What’s the difference between company swag and corporate swag?
Basically, nothing! It’s just two ways to say branded gear from your company. But when done right, corporate swag goes beyond just slapping on a logo.
What should go in employee swag kits?
Think practical and personal: water bottles, notebooks, tech accessories, snacks, or cultural goodies. Bonus points for including options people can pick from.
Where can I find good corporate swag stores?
There are tons online, but look for those that offer personalization, sustainability, and inclusive sourcing. Don’t be afraid to work with small, diverse vendors too!
Final Thoughts
Great swag kits aren’t just about merch. They’re about meaning. When you take the time to create employee swag that reflects your team’s diverse cultures and voices, you’re not just giving away stuff you’re giving a sense of belonging. So whether you’re rebranding your corporate swag kits, building out swag kits for employees, or just refreshing your onboarding gifts, take a moment to think: Does this reflect who we are as a team?
If not—now you know how to fix it.
