Win the Marketing Game: Lessons from Squid Game Merchandise to Boost Your Brand
In the ruthless game of business, you either captivate your audience - or lose them to the competition. When Netflix’s Squid Game took the world by storm, it didn’t just dominate the screen; it mastered the art of branding with jaw-dropping merchandise.
Ready to play? Let’s uncover how your brand can turn everyday products into marketing gold, just like Squid Game turned green jumpsuits and creepy dolls into global icons.
Why Squid Game Merchandise Was a Masterpiece
Squid Game didn’t just sell merch - it sold emotions, stories, and connections. Here’s how it hit the jackpot:
· Bold Colors: The green uniforms screamed vulnerability and competition, while the magenta guard suits radiated power and control.
· Symbolic Shapes: Circles, triangles, and squares weren’t just pretty—they reflected hierarchy and structure.
· Everyday Objects, Elevated: The iconic piggy bank wasn’t just a prop—it became a symbol of ambition, greed, and hope.
The result? Fans didn’t just watch the show; they lived it. They wore it. They drank from it. And they wanted more.
Your takeaway? Every product tells a story.
Ready to make your merch iconic? Let’s break it down.
Branded Merchandise: Your Brand’s Golden Ticket
Just like Squid Game transformed everyday props into cultural icons, your business can turn simple products into powerful marketing tools.
Promotional products aren’t just freebies; they’re tools of influence - it’s about creating connections, starting conversations, and standing out in the competition. Just like Squid Game fans wore “001” T-shirts or sipped from mugs featuring the terrifying red-light-green-light doll, branded merch helps your customers connect with your story. It’s not just a T-shirt—it’s a walking billboard. It’s not just a bag—it’s your brand on the go.
When done right, merchandise isn’t just functional. It’s unforgettable. And the best part? You don’t have to survive a deadly competition to make it happen.
8 Ways to Win the Merchandise Game
Ready to take a page out of Squid Game’s playbook? Here’s how you can turn everyday items into branding gold:
1. Custom Hoodies: Cosy Up to Your Brand
Hoodies are like Squid Game’s player uniforms—instantly recognisable and impossible to ignore. Customise with your bold designs and make them a cosy staple for customers and employees alike. Like Squid Game’s uniforms, your custom hoodies can make your audience feel part of something bigger.
· Marketing Power: Hoodies are walking billboards that scream comfort and cool.
· Pro Tip: Offer them as limited-edition giveaways, employee gifts, or exclusive merchandise at events. Bold graphics or slogans will make them irresistible.
2. Customised Tee-Shirts: Your Brand’s Walking Billboard
T-shirts are promotional classics for a reason. Just like Squid Game’s numbers and symbols became fashion statements, T-shirts are your blank canvas to get creative. Your vibrant designs, catchy slogans or your logo can create instant recognition.
· Marketing Power: Eye-catching T-shirts spark conversations and spread awareness effortlessly.
· Pro Tip: Hand them out at trade shows, use them as uniforms, or launch them as part of a loyalty campaign.
3. Embroidery Caps: Small But Mighty
Caps are your brand’s secret weapon. Think of them as Squid Game’s guard masks. Customise with embroidered logos or unique designs to grab attention.
· Marketing Power: Perfect for outdoor events, caps keep your brand front and centre.
· Pro Tip: Pair them with hoodies or tees for a coordinated look at promotional events.
4. Drinkware: Sips with a Story
From mugs to custom printed water bottles, drink-ware is the perfect way to keep your brand in sight and in use. Whether it’s morning coffee or post-gym hydration, your logo is there for every sip.
· Marketing Power: Drink-ware offers daily visibility for your brand, just like Squid Game kept us hooked every episode.
· Pro Tip: Design a collectible drink-ware series for events or loyalty programs.
5. Personalised Stubby holders : Cool Branding for Hot Campaigns
Stubby coolers (aka stubby holders) are the unsung heroes of outdoor branding. They keep drinks cool and your brand even cooler!
· Marketing Power: Perfect for BBQs, festivals, and sports events, stubby coolers are always in demand.
· Pro Tip: Use bold, eye-catching designs to make them the star of any gathering.
6. Bags: Your Brand in Motion
Whether it’s a tote or a drawstring bag, branded bags are everywhere—shops, gyms, schools, you name it. Like Squid Game’s iconic satchels, bags are universally appealing and endlessly practical.
· Marketing Power: Whether it’s a tote, backpack, or laptop bag, your brand goes wherever your customers do.
· Pro Tip: Offer reusable bags with purchases to highlight your eco-conscious values.
7. Mouse Pads: Desk-Worthy Branding
Mouse pads might not seem flashy, but they’re your brand’s daily desk companion. Think of them as the low-key genius of your merch lineup.
· Marketing Power: Mouse pads ensure consistent visibility in professional settings.
· Pro Tip: Include mouse pads in corporate gift sets or event giveaways for tech-savvy audiences.
8. Tea Towels: The Unexpected Hero
Personalised Tea towels may not scream Squid Game, but they’re the ultimate underdog in your merch arsenal. Practical, quirky, and memorable, they’re a fun twist on traditional branding.
· Marketing Power: Tea towels are reusable and eco-friendly, aligning with sustainable branding trends.
· Pro Tip: Use them in home-themed gift sets or food-related promotions.
Why Squid Game Merchandise Was a Masterpiece
The genius of Squid Game’s merchandise isn’t just the designs - it was the meaning. Every product told a story. The green uniforms reminded fans of the characters’ struggles. The piggy bank symbolised the stakes. The shapes on the guards’ masks hinted at hierarchy and control.
For your brand, this means every item you create should have purpose. A hoodie isn’t just apparel—it’s part of your narrative. A mug isn’t just for coffee—it’s a daily touchpoint with your story. For businesses, this translates into merchandise that’s not just functional but also emotionally resonant.
Pro Tips to Win the Branding Game
To ensure your merchandise becomes iconic, follow these golden rules:
1. Be Bold: Subtle is out; striking is in. Think bright colors, bold logos, and memorable designs.
2. Stay Functional: Create products people will actually use - hoodies, drink-ware, and bags are always winners.
3. Focus on Quality: Cheap knockoffs? No thanks. High-quality merch reflects positively on your brand.
4. Tell a Story: Every item should connect back to your brand’s narrative.
From Ordinary to Iconic: Transform Your Brand
Imagine your brand as the mastermind behind the next cultural phenomenon. Whether it’s hoodies that your audience lives in or drink-ware they can’t stop using, the right promotional products can elevate your business from ordinary to iconic.
The key? Make every item unforgettable.
Play the Branding Game With Us!
In the game of marketing, only the bold win—and we’re here to help you play to win! For over 25 years, we’ve been crafting killer promotional merchandise that grabs attention and keeps your brand in the spotlight. With over 10,000 products to choose from - T-shirts, hoodies, drink-ware, bags, and more - we’ll transform your logo and design into iconic gear your customers won’t forget.
Lowest prices? Check.
Rewards program? Double-check.
But wait, there’s more! Just like the Squid Game piggy bank overflowing with cash, we promise the lowest prices in the industry. Plus, we’re upping the stakes with our rewards program—because when you play with us, everyone is a winner.
Here’s why you’ll love working with us:
• Guaranteed lowest prices.
• Custom designs tailored to your brand.
• A rewards program to thank loyal customers.
So, are you ready to take your brand to the next level? Let’s create custom merchandise that dominates the marketing game. Don’t wait - get in touch with us today and let the games begin!
This blog draws inspiration from the Netflix Shop. Be sure to explore their website for more creative ideas! https://www.netflix.shop/en-au/collections/squid-game
FAQs: Ready to Win the Merch Game?
Q: Why is merchandise important for marketing a business?
A: Think of merchandise as your winning strategy! Just like in Squid Game, where every prop told a story, custom merch turns your brand into something people want to wear, carry, and flaunt. It’s not just marketing—it’s a connection!
Q: What are the most effective promotional products for branding?
A: From “001” T-shirts to drink-ware that gets noticed, the possibilities are endless. Fan-favorite items like T-shirts, caps, hoodies, and bags are your golden ticket - they grab attention while staying functional and stylish.
Q: How can promotional T-shirts help my business?
A: T-shirts are like walking billboards but way cooler! Slap your logo or design on them, and you’ve got people showing off your brand wherever they go. It’s all about spreading the word in style!
Q: Why are caps a good promotional product?
A: Caps are your brand’s MVP - stylish, practical, and always in play. Whether at a concert or a sports event, they scream “Look at me!” while keeping your brand top of mind.
Q: What makes drink-ware an ideal merchandise?
A: Drink-ware is like the piggy bank in Squid Game - every sip counts! Whether it’s coffee in the morning or water at the gym, your logo is front and center all day long.
Q: How can I use stubby holders to promote my brand?
A: Stubby coolers are the VIPs of outdoor events. They keep drinks cold and your logo hot! Perfect for barbecues, festivals, and sporting events, they’re a crowd favorite.
Q: What are some unique promotional products I can use?
A: Want to stand out? Go beyond the usual. Try tea towels (yes, they’re fun!), reusable bags, or mouse pads. They’re quirky, practical, and totally memorable—like a Squid Game plot twist!
Q: How does branded merchandise differ from generic giveaways?
A: Generic giveaways are like background players. Promo products? That’s the main character energy! It tells your story, connects emotionally, and makes your audience feel something.
Q: How can I ensure my merchandise aligns with my brand?
A: Easy—focus on quality, creativity, and what makes your brand unique. Think bold designs, trending colors, and products your audience will love using every day.
Q: Can promotional products work for all industries?
A: Absolutely! Whether you’re running a tech startup, a retail empire, or a cozy café, there’s merch that fits your vibe. From hoodies for casual branding to drink-ware for daily use, the options are limitless.
Your Game, Your Rules
In the world of branding, only the bold survive. So, are you ready to play? Let’s create merchandise that captivates your audience and leaves a lasting impression.
Game on!