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Your Brand is Our Business!

The physiological change of state that results from being handed a branded promotional product combined with a powerful creative message can be defined as Sudden Impact.

What Is Chaos Packaging & How Can You Use It in Your Next Promo Campaign

It’s time to literally think outside the box (or can, or bottle).

One of the oldest tricks in the book, or joke shop, is getting someone to open a jar of some antiquated treat like peanut brittle only to find spring-loaded snakes whizzing out of the jar. It scares the daylights out of the mark, and we all have a good laugh over it.

Society has mostly evolved past the old snakes-in-the-peanut-brittle can trick, but the idea of putting products into vessels where they might not “belong” is gaining steam in a trend that one marketing strategist is calling “Chaos Packaging.”

In short, the idea is to take a consumer product like, say, coffee, and put it into a package that instead of looking like a bag or jar of coffee looks like, say, a VHS tape in a paper sleeve.

That’s a real example, by the way.

You might’ve also seen it at the grocery store, where products like olive oil are packaged in aluminum cans with openers at the top just like a soda can.

There’s just something about the “something’s not right here” design aspect that appeals to consumers’ sense of whimsy and curiosity. For the brands, it’s a way to stand out on the shelf among the competition.

“Investing in design is even more important now that other forms of storytelling and awareness building have become not just expensive, but very crowded, so if the algorithm doesn’t find you, you’re in big trouble,” Craig Dubitsky, a former chief innovation strategist at Colgate-Palmolive and now co-founder of the coffee company Happy, told the Wall Street Journal. “But the shelf is curated.”

Happy, for another example of what coffee companies can do, packages its individual packs of beans in a plastic case that looks sort of like a mints container.

It’s a simple way for product designers to quite literally think outside of the box. You can look around at other forms of packaging or containers and think, “Does my product fit in there? Can I make it fit in there somehow?” With a bit of imagination and some clever engineering, the product could take on new life and become a conversation starter.

In the digital age, that’s crucial for brand awareness. When a product sparks conversation, the brand gets an extended lifespan through word of mouth and social media.

Lach Hall, co-founder of the sunscreen brand Vacation, which packages its products in cans that look like whipped cream, told the Wall Street Journal that this fun packaging idea made it so the company barely had to do any real marketing of its product.

“Classic Whip has done an extraordinary job for us in earned media,” Hall said. “We don’t necessarily have to do any paid promotion for it — just by having this product out in the world, it generates around 5 million views a week on TikTok [during the summer months].”

In the promotional space, creating clever packaging for a product enhances the first impression. The end-user is already smitten by the brand on display before it’s even in their hands or they’ve opened it up. Using a bit of imagination and taking the time to think about what a product could look like instead of relying on simply what it “should” or usually looks like can be enough to bring a promotional campaign to another level.

It might be as simple as changing the shape of the container to look like something else, or it might take more intricate product design and printing to use different artwork and motifs to evoke something else, playing on emotions like nostalgia or even taste to entice the end-user to your product.

Heck, I’m already thinking about which VHS coffee I want.

Helpful House & Home Items

House and home items are surefire bets as promo products for their widespread daily use.

The diverse range of options in the house and home promo category presents a unique opportunity for gifting items that end-buyers can use every day, thereby enhancing clients’ brand reach. With the global home décor market on the rise, as noted by Allied Market Research, consumers are keen on stocking their homes with interesting but practical items. Use these picks as a starting point to make a lasting impression.

succulent plant in a branded ceramic pot

End-users can beautify their workspace with this succulent plant in a branded ceramic pot. Measuring about 2.5 inches, the potted succulents present a blend of gratitude and growth for your clients’ next promo campaign.

charcuterie knife set

Crafted from recycled polyester, stainless steel, and ABS plastic, this charcuterie knife set is designed to complement any charcuterie board or serving platter. Includes a cleaver knife for meats, a cheese knife and a spreader for cheeses and jams, plus a convenient storage pouch for easy carrying.

brushed black steel 5” x 7” frame

This timeless keepsake brushed black steel 5” x 7” frame offers a blend of simplicity and sophistication, allowing recipients to personalize and cherish it for a lifetime. A great gift for clients or donors when paired with photos from a recent event, fundraiser or campaign.

essential oil room sprays

Create an unforgettable sensory experience with these alcohol-free, naturally derived essential oil room sprays. Available in three curated options – lavender, citrus or cinnamon – these pocket-sized 0.33 oz. sprays are perfect for hospitality and real estate events.

multifunction brush

This multifunction brush will be the recipient’s new cleaning companion. This three-in-one tool is ideal for cleaning all types of drinkware, from reusable bottles to tumblers to lids. Makes a spot-on gift for new renters and homeowners.

diffuser

Infuse home or office space with 100% pure essential oils while enjoying a soft, ambient glow from the Vitruvi Glow Diffuser. With an eight-hour run time and coverage for rooms up to 300 square feet, this diffuser ensures long-lasting fragrance and a serene atmosphere throughout the day.

double-walled thermal mug

Morning coffee rituals just get better with the Corkcicle coffee set. Crafted for the coffee connoisseur, this kit includes everything needed for the perfect pour-over experience: a precision-engineered dripper and a double-walled thermal mug. Just add coffee grounds.

natural wax candle

These natural wax candles are inspired by each of the 50 U.S. states and designed to enrich home or office décor. The Texas candle, for example, exudes leather, smoke and vanilla scents. Available in 16 oz. and 8 oz. sizes.

electric salt and pepper grinder set

Home cooks and foodies will appreciate this electric salt and pepper grinder set. This countertop promo item features two refillable electric grinders and a fitted stand, ensuring your client’s brand captures plenty of logo impressions. Great as a unique gift or for restaurants to use tableside.

cutting board

Advertisers will make a lasting impression with this cutting board. Crafted from rich medium-endgrain North American maple, this practical and memorable promotional item can feature messages either on a metal plate or engraved into the board.

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    - Adam Knipfel, Design Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd.

  • Sudden Impact's service is phenomenal. A dynamic company with out standing service. By far the best promotional company I have had contact with in the twenty years I have been ordering promotional goods.

    - Maureen Bzowy, Vice President, Marketing, E.B. Horsman & Son

  • We have been dealing with Warren Kindellan and Sudden Impact since August 2005 and have been completely satisfied. Warren's enthusiasm for his customers makes the whole experience enjoyable. They have helped us set up an extensive Safety Program for our 100 employees, complete with laminated posters and rewards, including name brand clothing and the latest handy gadgets. We would definitely recommend Warren and Sudden Impact to anyone looking for promotional products.

    - Kelley & Trish, Kingston Construction Ltd.

  • When dealing with Warren & Sudden Impact, I know that I will be dealing with friendly and knowledgeable staff, which is always willing to go the extra mile. They make sure that the customer, whom ever they might be, gets what they need, when they need it. When I mostly have my staff looking after everything these days, Warren & Sudden Impact is the one business that I like to be continually involved with, and feel confident in doing so. That speaks loudly about how easy Warren & his team make it to deal with Sudden Impact.

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  • Even though my orders are late; Sudden Impact always meets my deadlines and make me look great.

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  • Team Sudden Impact has been providing Pazzo Racing with promotional items for 3 years now. In this short time period, Warren and his team have helped us achieve brand recognition on a global scale. Fast, reliable and friendly service is the norm at Sudden Impact. We here at Pazzo Racing appreciate all the hard work they have done for us. Sudden Impact is our sole promotional product supplier and will continue to be just that. No one else even comes close.

    - Markus Selje, President, Pazzo Racing Inc.

  • Warren has always found the perfect items for my business and my volunteer organization. Whether it’s beach balls for 8,000 for a Girl Guide sleepover, or branded flash drives for my business, the customer service and product quality from Sudden Impact have been excellent. Warren is very knowledgeable about available products and always comes up with great suggestions.

    - Cathy Cook, Executive Director, BC Municipal Safety Association

  • The items I ordered have arrived and they look great. Thank you for the fantastic service. Even though I put this order in very late you bailed me out and were able to get the order to me in time for my trade show. Anyone I come across that needs help with their promo items will get your name. Thank You.

    - Al Romeyn, Tri Tech Information Systems

  • Recently I placed a T-shirt order with Sudden Impact for a Girl Guide Camp of just over 400 people. Because I live miles away, I had to do all the ordering online. Michelle was great. She helped with the sizing, cresting, ordering and even packaging of the shirts. She answered emails promptly and made the extra effort to change the order to comply with the last minute camp changes. The t-shirts were correct for numbers and quality. They were a big hit at camp. I wouldn't hesitate to place an order with Sudden Impact again. Thanks everyone for all your help!

    - Joy

  • Warren, THANK YOU for everything you've done. I have never received such a wonderful response from a crew. They LOVED the jackets. Every person. Your efforts won't be forgotten. We'll be doing business for a long time!

    - Micah Gardener, True Justice

  • We have been working with Shannon at Sudden Impact since December and she has always gone above and beyond for our company! They are always quick to respond to our orders and happy to answer any questions we have. Whether it's t-shirts, hoodies, or safety clothing, they have always been on time and professional!

    - Savannah at WaterTec Irrigation LTD

  • We love working with Sudden Impact at Old Yale Brewing! Their systems and offerings have made developing and maintaining our Craft Beer Merchandise program in our Tasting Room and through our Online Store easy and effective. Whether we’re outfitting our team or looking for the next best Crewneck or unique merch item, Shannon Roth and her team at Sudden Impact are always willing to “shop” for us to find the best item to suit our needs and we’re always thrilled with the finished product and their quick timelines. We highly recommend Sudden Impact to any business that is looking for branded materials and apparel!

    - Marketing Manager, Heather Perdue at Old Yale Brewing in Chilliwack

  • Our organization has been working with Sudden Impact for many years now and have always been so great to work with. The variety of items they have is amazing, and the quality is always top notch. The best thing about Sudden Impact is the Customer Service – Shannon is so great to work with, she responds immediately to any requests we have and provides such great input and suggestions, she makes me look like a star to my organization!

    - Renee at Roofing Contractors Association of BC

  • The Sudden Impact Team is amazing, from their personal friendly service, to order management. Prompt responses, timely invoice turn around and fantastic quality products. They ensure their customers are treated as priority 1, with great communication and updates. Shannon Roth is brilliant, she really listens and gains an understanding of what you are looking for, and goes above and beyond to pair you with the items that fit your needs. The SI team works together so well to make things appear smooth & effortless from the client’s perspective.

    - Crystal at ESC Automation

  • After many years, the level of service we are provided by Shannon at Sudden Impact is always second to none. Her and the team’s response to ensure that our orders are delivered on time and under budget is always professional and timely, and if problem resolution is required we know we can count on Shannon to correct it and look after us. The whole process from the beginning of an idea to receiving the final product is always seamless and stress-free, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with Sudden Impact for years to come!

    - Petcurean Pet Nutrition

  • Sudden Impact has been our “go to” supplier whenever we need any promotional giveaways or apparel for customers and employees. Whenever we have ideas for possible items, Shannon Roth is the first person we contact to see what is available and to get the latest insight on what is trending. We here at BD Diesel sell all across North America which Shannon has a clear understanding of our needs to meet international customs regulations, and, is able to offer us the right product to meet our requirements to efficiently ship to our customers in the USA. We are always pleased with the selection and quality of product that Sudden Impact has to offer.

    - Ron at BD Diesel Performance

  • Sudden Impact has some of the best customer service we have ever encountered with customizable swag items. Shannon Roth has been an incredible help numerous times in sourcing all of our product needs, she will answer any and all questions in a timely manner and ensure everything is shipped properly and on time! I highly recommend them to other businesses.

    - Emily Bucyk at Delta Controls

  • After bouncing around trying a variety of different promotional goods companies over the years and never being overly satisfied in our dealings with any of them, we decided to try Sudden Impact. From the initial meeting With Shannon, it became almost immediately clear that this was going to be a very different experience. The time spent in the Showroom was invaluable. Shannon showed us what we asked to see but also outlined several additional ideas and products that we had not even thought about. Since working with the team at Sudden Impact, our costs have come down on promo goods as their team has consistently been able to leverage their years of experience in relationships in the industry to drive our costs down. They have been able to work within and hit extremely tight deadlines for us and always provide a high-level of customer service. Anytime we call, nights and weekends included, they are always there to take our call and more impressively, get right to work for us. Perhaps the most important factor is that they have taken the stress out of what previously had always felt like an incredibly stressful experience. I highly recommend Sudden Impact to anyone needing promotional materials, you will not be disappointed.

    - Mark, COO at Green Planet Wholesale