Branded merchandise for C-suite executives needs to strike a very fine balance: luxurious, useful, tasteful — and never cheap-looking.

It’s about reinforcing brand value, not slapping a logo on a keychain and calling it a day.

Remember: company branded promotional merchandise or 'merch' (or branded SWAG...) can have a sustained and positive impact on your brand when it is done right. The opposite is also true! 

Here’s a breakdown of what works (and what to avoid!) when it comes to Branded merchandise for C-suite executives

🔝 Top-Tier Branded Merchandise Ideas for C-Suite Execs

1. Luxury Personalised Writing Instruments

Examples: Custom-engraved Montblanc pens, Cross or Lamy pens

Why it works: Functional status symbol that suggests thoughtfulness and detail

2. Premium Company Branded Tech Accessories

Examples: Branded Apple AirPods Pro with logo subtly engraved, high-end wireless chargers, leather cable organizers

Pro tip: Go minimalist with the branding — emboss, don’t emblazon

3. Executive Leather Goods

Examples: Branded leather folios, passport holders, wallets, or briefcases

Must have: High-quality full-grain leather only. If it smells like plastic, it will not hit the mark for an executive who is accustomed to received a lot of 'things'.

4. Custom Company Branded Apparel (Subtle Branding Only!)

Examples: Cashmere scarves, merino wool quarter-zips, or custom-tailored dress shirts

Caveat: The logo should be whispering, not screaming — inside collar, cuff, etc. Match the embroidery thread colour with the product for a understated look.

5. Premium Branded Drinkware & Barware

Examples: YETI tumblers, Riedel wine glasses, or custom crystal decanters

Elegant touch: Monogramming over full branding if you want them to be used and loved for years to come.

6. Branded Timepieces or Desk Clocks

Examples: Subtle branded analog desk clocks or watches (done with taste)

Best for: Retirements, anniversaries, or special achievements

7. Custom Art or Limited Edition Prints

Examples: Commissioned artwork, tasteful branded pieces, or local artist collaborations

Impact: Uniquely memorable and doesn’t scream “promo gift”

8. Sustainable Luxury Items

Examples: Upcycled leather goods, carbon-neutral bags, solar-powered gadgets

Bonus: In this day and age, there is no excuse to purchase anything that is not made to last. Things that last are inherently more sustainable! Aligns with ESG goals and forward-thinking leadership

9. High-End Travel Kits

Examples: Branded Bellroy-style travel cases, TSA-approved amenity kits

Works well: For execs constantly in the air

10. Digital Perks

Examples: Personalized NFT collectibles (tasteful), curated subscription boxes, exclusive digital event access

Modern twist: For tech-savvy or future-forward execs

❌ Avoid these Branded Merchandise Fails for C Suite Executives at All Costs ❌

• Cheap, pre-landfill branded t-shirts (unless ironically amazing and for a very specific occasion)
• Flash drives (it’s 2025...)
• Cheap branded mugs and water bottles
• Anything that smells like a trade show giveaway
• Obnoxiously loud logos