An energy crisis comes when there is a rise in cost for the supply of energy resources to an economy.  Usually, it refers to the shortage of oil, electricity or other natural resources.  A lot of talk has been made of the energy crisis currently facing our world.  We have heard President Barack Obama on many occasions talk about different ways we as a country and world could begin to produce and utilize alternate sources of energy.  The president has stated that it is his plan to shift our energy dependency from fossil fuels to green energy sources, developing alternate power/fuel resources such as bio-diesel, solar, and wind energy.  In the long run this will help our world, protecting our climate and saving energy.  As consumers, we help our planet by purchasing eco-friendly products.  When we buy energy friendly products this has a direct effect on our money because we save using less energy.  Environmentally friendly promotional products would be a good idea for any company that is looking to market their business as being environmentally responsive, for in recent years, consumer behavior has shifted towards the use of eco-friendly products.

Leeds Hydro (Water Powered Clock)  

With Memorial Day on the horizon, I am reminded that summer is also near.  Every business owner out there knows that the summer season is primetime for marketing.  The value of a summer promotional product can not be underestimated.  When the weather is hot most people will engage in more outdoor activities with the family, which may include going to the beach and hanging outside for picnics and barbecues.  Of course this opens the flood gates for promotional products!  Just think of your brand on a baseball cap being seen by thousands upon thousands on one family's day trip to the museum or see your logo on a beach towel or t-shirt that will be visible throughout the summer months.  And, you know every weekend someone is having a cookout, right?  So your brand on a promotional frisbee or foam football would take care of business for you even while you are at play.  Once again, the summer is primetime for marketing and promotional products.   

Shady 1/2oz. Carabiner Bottle - SPF15   

In times like these, we recognize that our clients have smaller budgets this year as opposed to what they may have had a short time ago and we understand their need to save money wherever possible.  So with that in mind, by a one to nothing majority, say thank you Ken, we have approval on a new stimulus package for all of the promotional product shoppers of the world; free shipping and free setup charges on select promotional products.  The same great products in many categories, including mugs, water bottles, pens, bags, key chains, and notebooks, just to name a few, with the added advantage of free shipping and setup charges.  What a wonderful proposition for all of the small businesses out there who depend on promotional products as a means to market their business.           

Leed's PolyPro Big Grocery Tote Bag 

With the state of the economy an increase in crime is a concern.  Along with the unscrupulous, we must be aware that there are some who are feeling financial pressures and unfortunately have resorted to criminal means as a way of escape.  A common way which one commits check fraud is by check washing; what happens is the perpetrator erases the ink on the check with chemicals found in everyday household cleaning products, then increases the dollar amount of the check, and re-writes it to him or herself.  Motivators' has a promotional pen that helps to eliminate this practice.  The Uni-ball 207 Gel Clear Barrel is filled with waterproof ink which prevents check washing.  I believe this is the perfect promotional item for banks and other financial service companies who are looking to do a promotion which emphasizes protection against banking fraud.

We are approaching the month of May so I thought I would take the opportunity to talk about one of my favorite times of the year, barbecue season, which happens to of course coincide with summer.  Traditionally, the season begins with National Barbecue Month in May and continues through the summer, coming to a conclusion on Labor Day.  It is a time and season for family and friends, good food, good times, and lots of promotional products.  I am talking family reunions and company picnics, Memorial Day, Father's Day, and Independence Day.  The opportunity is there to get a lot of business, not only because of seasonal needs, but also because, it is a fact that people are now looking for less expensive ways to enjoy themselves.  In these tough economic times at-home activities and family gatherings will be the entertainment of choice.  We can expect to see many orders for not only bbq & picnic products, but, beach balls, frisbees, and other sport and outdoor products.      

BBQ Master Grill Set 

The other day, as I was coming into my home late, I was standing there trying to sort through my keys to open the door and I thought to myself I could really use one of those key-lights.  For if by chance I was ever trying to elude a murderer or some creepy character trying to do me harm, I would be in serious trouble.  I would be murdered three times before I could figure out what key opens my front door!  Although, I know what keys open what lock it does not really help me in the dark.  So, a key-light would be very helpful, especially, if God forbid I ever do find myself in the situation I just described.  With this thought in mind I believe that promotional key-lights would be a great product for safety events and woman's groups that speak on different ways in which women can protect themselves.  I also believe that key-lights can be a very nice tradeshow item.   

You know, there are times in the course of life's journey when things can become a little hectic and the day to day situations we face can become more then a little stressful at times.  Living my own life, I am reminded through circumstances the meaning of Murphy's Law, the adage which says, "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong."  Well, in my experience, I have learned the power of prayer mixed with positive thinking can be the conduit to good health, happiness, and success.  You may have said to someone, as it is a common thing to say to someone that is going through a difficult time, to "think positively!"  However, many of the people we try to encourage do not take that kind of word seriously, as they either can not see how it is helpful to their situation or do not consider what you have said to be useful at all.  But, a positive outlook has a mystical effect on you and the world around you.  Ever consider why most people like to hangout with positive people?  Because just like "bad company corrupts good manners", negativity has a way of being equally contagious.  Stress relievers can be very helpful in maintaining and restoring positive energy for you and the world around you.  Many companies provide stress relievers to their employees to cultivate a more pleasant working environment.  A good attitude and positive thinking is a key ingredient to achieving success in any part of life, even in the corporate world.

Smiley face Stress Reliever 

Tradeshow season is here once again and aside from flashing lights and fancy decoration it is important that your booth has fresh new tradeshow products that will get the attention of the attendees.  You have the opportunity of reaching many people and a great selection of products, along with that unique new item, can make a huge difference in getting the attention of both present and prospective clients.  A well organized booth along with the right promotional products can help your business achieve greater success. 

Mini Scented Highlighters   

Holidays are a great time for promotional products and St. Patrick's Day promotional products are an especially good idea for business in New York City because the Irish community is one of the larger ethnic groups in the city.  With over 150,000 participants annually, the New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade is the largest in the United States and no pun intended the possibility is great that you can find a pot of gold...  I'm Sorry, I could not resist! :-( 

Shamrock Pillow Boxes with Chocolate Shamrocks