EOFY isn’t just about closing the books. It’s a window to make smarter marketing decisions.
For teams with budget remaining, it’s a chance to invest in branded merchandise that delivers value well beyond June 30.
Why EOFY is the Smartest Time to Buy Merch
EOFY is more than a financial deadline. It’s a strategic opportunity to plan ahead, secure better options, and reduce pressure later in the year.
Research shows promotional products generate around 3,400 impressions over their lifetime (ASI) – making them one of the most cost-effective brand touchpoints available.
Lock in Before Price Rises
With production and freight costs on the rise, planning ahead means you can avoid the July 1 price increases that many suppliers implement.
Avoid Product Shortages
The later you wait, the more limited your options become. EOFY orders beat the rush on high-demand items, giving you the best selection and faster turnaround.
Set Yourself Up for Q4
From Christmas gifting to summer campaigns, onboarding, and conference season — buying now means less stress later.
Show Strategic Foresight
Smart budget use sets a professional tone with leadership teams. It shows you’re planning, not panic-buying.
Quick Guide: Making the Most of Your EOFY Budget
If you’re planning how to use remaining marketing budget, focus on these four principles:
- Plan ahead, not last minute – secure stock, avoid price rises, and reduce pressure on your team
- Choose items with longevity – practical products that stay in use deliver more impressions over time
- Match the moment – team rewards, client gifting, events and onboarding all call for different approaches
- Think beyond the product – packaging, presentation and personalisation elevate perceived value
When done well, EOFY merch isn’t a spend – it’s a head start on the year ahead.
Where Merch Delivers Real ROI
Unlike digital ads that disappear in seconds, branded merchandise stays in circulation – on desks, in bags, and out in the real world.
75% of people say they prefer receiving a promotional product over other forms of advertising (APPA/ASI).
That’s because the best merch doesn’t interrupt, it integrates into daily life.
Studies also show 83% of people can recall the brand on a promotional product they’ve received (ASI).
Merch that gets used keeps your brand in circulation – long after campaigns end.
What to Order Now for Year-Round Impact
EOFY is the ideal time to restock staples, invest in future campaigns, and upgrade your team or client experience.
Buy once. Use all year.
Reward Your Team Mid-Year
The halfway point is the ideal time to show appreciation to your hardworking team. Recognising their efforts not only boosts morale but can also enhance productivity for the months ahead.
Consider ordering practical and desirable branded items like:
- Updated corporate apparel
- Branded coffee mugs
- Backpacks or tote bags
- Quality umbrellas (essential for the cooler months)
- Tech accessories (mouse pads, wireless chargers, earbuds)
- Stationery essentials: pens, post-it notes, notebooks, desk calendars
Strengthen Client Relationships with Better Gifting
Client gifting remains one of the most effective ways to reinforce loyalty and appreciation. Use your remaining budget to restock popular branded gifts or introduce new options.
Popular EOFY client gifts include:
- Personalised embossed journals
- Premium laptop bags
- Tech gifts like USB hubs
- Wine accessories for corporate hospitality
- Outdoor coolers and picnic sets
Useful beats disposable.
Plan Now, Stay Ahead Later
Ordering early isn’t just smart, it’s strategic. Getting in ahead of the crowd means you secure the best options for your campaign, without the stress of last-minute delays or compromises.
By planning now, you can get ahead and secure stock for:
- Corporate Christmas Gifts
Finalise your gifting early so your branded items arrive in time to celebrate and show appreciation to clients, partners, and team members. - End-of-Year Awards
Ensure you have customised trophies, plaques, or premium merch ready to reward and recognise your team’s achievements. - Summer Campaigns
Secure high-demand seasonal products like beach towels, drinkware, and picnic gear before stock runs low during peak summer. - 2026 Event Activations
Planning ahead for conferences, launches, or expos gives you time to design standout, custom merchandise that makes a lasting impression. - Charity Events & Awareness Campaigns
Whether it’s R U OK? Day, Pink October, or a local fundraiser, having branded items ready in advance ensures your message lands at the right moment.
Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches
The presentation of your merchandise can be just as important as the product itself. Boost the impact of your gift or campaign with:
- Tissue paper, ribbon, and seals
- Stickers or sleeve wraps
- Handwritten-style thank-you cards
- Pre-packed kits for staff onboarding or client welcome boxes
These details show extra care and polish, and they elevate the unboxing experience for both staff and clients.
Make Your EOFY Budget Work Harder
EOFY doesn’t need to be a last-minute scramble to use what’s left.
Done well, it’s a chance to set your team, your campaigns, and your brand up for what’s next.
Whether you’re planning ahead for events, refreshing your merch range, or pulling together meaningful gifts, the right approach now can carry through the entire year.
Need Tailored Ideas for your Brand?
At Honeycomb, we help you choose what will actually work. What will be used. What will be remembered. What will represent your brand properly.
If you’ve got budget left and want to make it count, now’s the time.
Get in touch with our team and make the most of your remaining marketing budget.
FAQs
Is EOFY a good time to buy promotional merchandise?
Yes, it’s one of the most strategic times. You can use remaining budget before it resets, lock in current pricing, and secure stock ahead of peak periods like Christmas and conference season.
What kind of merch works best for EOFY?
Focus on practical, high-use items like apparel, drinkware, bags and tech accessories. These are more likely to be kept and used regularly, increasing brand visibility.
Should EOFY merch be for staff or clients?
Both. EOFY is ideal for recognising your team mid-year while also strengthening client relationships with thoughtful, well-timed gifts.
Is it too late to organise EOFY merch?
Not necessarily. Many items can still be turned around quickly, but moving sooner gives you more choice and flexibility.
How do I make EOFY merch feel more premium?
It often comes down to the finishing touches - personalisation, curated packs and thoughtful packaging can completely change how your merch is perceived.