Go Beyond the Basics: Boost Promo Sales With Lanyards

By Aileen Flaherty 

Let’s be honest – lanyards aren’t the flashiest promotional item in the world, but for promo products distributors, they’re one of the most reliable money-makers. Versatile, affordable and high-impact, they’re a go-to choice. They fit nearly any event, budget or brand message. But selling them effectively requires more than just showing samples. To really maximize sales, you need to understand the uses, highlight the features that matter most to end-buyers, and suggest accessories that turn a simple product into a revenue-building package.

Why End-Buyers Choose Lanyards

Custom lanyards may look simple, but they check a lot of boxes for buyers. They solve practical problems and quietly keep a brand front and center. Think about it – every trade show, school campus or hospital you’ve walked into, what’s hanging around people’s necks? A lanyard.

They’re popular across industries because they:

• Keep IDs, key cards and badges visible and secure (no more digging through pockets or bags).
• Offer easy branding at trade shows, conferences and sporting events – your client’s logo gets seen all day and is captured in every selfie.
• Provide a cost-effective giveaway that works for any audience.
• Deliver ongoing impressions since recipients often use them long after the event is over; some people collect lanyards from all the events they’ve been to.

It’s that mix of usefulness and visibility that makes custom lanyards one of the hardest-working branded merchandise options in the promo world.

Popular Uses for Lanyards

Strengthen your sales pitch by matching lanyards to real-world situations. Some of the most common include:

• Events and trade shows: Attendees need badges, and companies want their brand visible all day.
• Schools and universities: IDs stay secure while showing school spirit.
• Healthcare and workplaces: Staff can display ID cards or access passes safely.
• Sports and recreation: Teams, volunteers and fans use them for tickets, passes or keys.

By pointing out these everyday applications, you’ll demonstrate value beyond price and show why custom lanyards are a smart buy.

Features That Matter to Buyers

When presenting lanyards, focus on features that align with your buyer’s needs. Some details that influence purchasing decisions include:

• Material choices: Polyester for affordability, woven for durability, eco-friendly options for sustainability-minded clients.
• Imprint methods: Screen printing for simple logos, dye-sublimation for full-color artwork.
• Safety features: Breakaway clasps for schools, hospitals or safety-conscious workplaces.
• Attachment styles: Bulldog clips, split rings, swivel hooks or carabiners depending on what needs to be carried.

Pointing out how these features match an end-buyer’s audience or environment helps you stand out from competitors who only pitch on price.

Add-On Accessories To Increase Sales

If you really want to level up a basic lanyard, start talking about lanyard accessories. These little extras are like the sidekicks that make the hero look even better. They add function, boost perceived value and give you a natural way to grow margins without pushing too hard.
Some distributor favorites include:

• Badge holders for trade shows and offices. Nobody wants a crumpled name badge by noon.
• Retractable badge reels for workplaces with frequent scanning. A lifesaver for anyone swiping in and out all day.
• Safety whistles for schools and youth programs. Peace of mind built right into the product.
• Phone or USB attachments for tech giveaways. Because who doesn’t need their gadgets handy?

When you package custom lanyards with these extras, you stop being just a product seller and start looking like a problem-solver. And the best part? Every accessory is an easy add-on that bumps up order value – no need to chase new clients to increase your sales.

Final Takeaway for Distributors

At the end of the day, lanyards may look simple, but promo products distributors who market them right find they’re one of the hardest-working promo products. Success comes from showing how they solve problems, explaining the features that matter to end-buyers and suggesting lanyard accessories that elevate the purchase. By framing the conversation around value and function, you’ll turn this everyday item into a consistent, profitable sales driver. Shop for lanyards in ESP+ today.