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You’re not alone – thousands of South African businesses are asking the same thing:
“What branded items are working right now?”
Whether you’re placing your first order or refreshing your marketing materials, you want to know what’s popular, practical, and proven to work.
That’s exactly what this list is.
We’ve rounded up the top 10 best-selling branded items across industries – from events and government departments to small business owners and schools.
These aren’t just “trendy” – they’re the products that move fast, get used, and make brands memorable.
The Most Ordered Branded Products in South Africa (2025 Edition)
These are the items flying off the shelves right now – selected based on actual client orders, repeat purchases, and nationwide campaign popularity.
If you’re not sure what to brand, start here.
1. 🖊️ Metal Pens with Pouch
Why it sells:
Metal pens offer a high-end look at a low cost, making them perfect for events, HR welcome packs, or client thank-yous.
Their sleek design makes recipients feel valued, and they’re less likely to be discarded compared to cheaper plastic pens.
Pro Tip: Upgrade to laser engraving for a premium, tactile finish that lasts longer and impresses more.
2. ☕ Thermal Travel Mugs
Why it sells:
Thermal mugs get used daily – during commutes, at the office, or on Zoom calls.
Their practicality ensures your logo stays in hand and top of mind for longer.
Best Use: Ideal as staff gifts, year-end giveaways, or welcome packs for new clients, providing a useful branded product everyone appreciates
3. 🔋 Power Banks
Why it sells:
Mobile-first teams love power banks. Perfect for tech firms, insurance agents, or NGOs operating in the field, these gifts combine utility with modern tech appeal, making your brand indispensable on the go.
Tip: Adding branded packaging enhances the perceived value and creates a memorable unboxing experience.
4. 🎧 Bluetooth Mini Speakers
Why it sells:
Mini speakers feel like a “real gift” rather than a typical promo item.
Popular at conferences and executive events, they combine quality sound with portability, offering a tech-forward gifting solution.
Customisation: Use domed stickers or full-wrap branding for maximum visibility and impact.
5. 📓 A5 Notebooks with Elastic Band
Why it sells:
A classic corporate staple, A5 notebooks are perfect for training sessions, school events, and internal communications.
Adding foil printing or branded belly bands creates an intentional, premium feel.
Great For: Educational programs, staff development, and giveaways that get used repeatedly.
6. 🛍️ Reusable Shopper Bags
Why it sells:
Eco-friendly, practical, and highly visible, reusable shopper bags are seen everywhere – in taxis, gyms, and grocery aisles. They turn everyday errands into valuable brand impressions.
Print Tip: Opt for full-side logo coverage to maximise visual impact on the move.
7. 👕 Branded T-Shirts
Why it sells:
T-shirts are easy to wear, versatile, and perfect for campaigns, staff days, and sponsored events. They help build team spirit and promote your brand wherever your staff go.
Recommended Print: Screen printing or vinyl heat press deliver bold, durable results that stand out.
8. 🧢 Branded 6-Panel Caps
Why it sells:
Loved by schools, outdoor crews, and sports sponsors, these caps are lightweight and offer flexible colour matching.
They’re great for outdoor branding where headwear visibility is key.
9. 🖥️ Mouse Pads
Why it sells:
Used daily at desks, mouse pads offer large, visible space for your logo and messaging.
They’re practical gifts that keep your brand front and center in work and home offices.
Add-On: Consider branding with QR codes or WhatsApp links to make the experience interactive.
10. 🎁 Gift Sets (Combo Packs)
Why it sells:
Combos like notebook + pen or mug + coaster feel more generous and memorable than single items.
Popular for executive gifts, wellness bundles, and tech kits, these sets make a big impression.
Popular Picks: Executive gift sets, wellness packages, and branded tech kits.
Why These Items Work
When handing out gifts at a school event, packing welcome kits for new hires, or promoting your brand in busy malls – these products deliver.
They’re easy to store, simple to hand out, and seen often in everyday settings like offices, taxis, kitchens, and classrooms. Most importantly, they make your brand look prepared and professional – without overcomplicating your budget or your logistics.
- Easy to store, stock, and ship
- Universally useful across multiple industries and demographics
- Large branding areas for maximum visibility
- Balance price and impact effectively
Available in low or no minimums – great for SMEs and startups
🏁 Ready to Place Your Order?
If you’ve made it this far, you’re likely ready to order. Here’s what you need to know:
- All items listed above are in high demand
- Dee Lanie offers no minimum orders on most products
- Artwork help, sample previews, and same-day delivery available in Johannesburg and Pretoria
💬 Whether you’re ordering 10 units or 1,000 – your brand deserves to look its best.
Don’t hesitate – choose what’s proven and trusted by hundreds of South African businesses, and let us help you customise it.
Deelanie Branding
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