Introduction: Why Remote Teams Love Swag
Working from home has plenty of perks, but it can also feel a little isolating at times. You don’t bump into colleagues in the office kitchen or share a laugh on the way to a meeting. That’s one reason many companies have started using an employee swag store as a simple way to keep their teams feeling connected.
Instead of mailing the same T-shirt to every person on the payroll, a digital swag shop lets employees choose items they’ll actually use. It could be a hoodie, a water bottle, or even something for their desk. The point isn’t the product itself, it’s the feeling of being included and recognised, no matter where you’re based.
What Is an Employee Swag Store?
Think of it as a mini online shop filled with company-branded items. Employees can browse, pick what they like, and get it shipped directly to them. The beauty of a swag store is choice.
For years, companies handed out the same mugs, pens, or lanyards. Half of it ended up in drawers, and the rest was forgotten. A digital swag store changes that. It makes the process personal, staff can select what fits their lifestyle. For remote teams, this matters even more, because it helps bridge that physical distance.
Step 1: Clarify Your Goals and Budget
Before jumping into suppliers and product catalogues, pause and ask: Why are we creating this store?
Some companies launch a swag store to make onboarding more exciting. Others want a platform to reward employees for milestones like work anniversaries or team achievements. Some even set it up as a year-round perk.
Once you’ve clarified the “why,” set a realistic budget. For example:
- Do you want to give every new hire £30 credit when they join?
- Will you send holiday swag kits to all staff once a year?
- Do you want managers to have codes they can share for recognition?
A clear budget keeps you from overspending and helps you filter providers that fit your needs.
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Step 2: Choose a Platform That Works for You
Not all swag platforms are created equal. Some offer a ready-made online store that you can brand with your logo and colours. Others give you more flexibility but require extra management.
When comparing platforms, look for:
Ease of use: The store should be intuitive for employees.
Branding flexibility: Your store should reflect your company’s identity, not look like a generic template.
Global fulfilment: If your team is spread across different countries, international shipping is non-negotiable.
Integration options: Some platforms link directly with HR systems, making onboarding swag fully automated.
Step 3: Pick Products Employees Will Actually Use
The success of your swag store depends on the product mix. If you just offer a generic T-shirt, don’t be surprised if enthusiasm fades quickly. Instead, think about everyday items remote employees really value.
Some favourites include:
- Soft hoodies or T-shirts for working comfortably at home
- Laptop sleeves, wireless chargers, or desk organisers
- Reusable drinkware like bottles or coffee mugs
- Wellness items such as yoga mats or stress-relief kits
- Fun seasonal items like beanies in winter or sunglasses in summer
A mix of practical and fun options gives employees a sense of freedom, and makes them more likely to use the swag.
Step 4: Decide How Ordering and Shipping Will Work
Here’s where logistics come in. There are a few different approaches:
Credits or allowances: Employees get a set number of points to spend in the swag shop.
Occasion-based access: People gain access for work anniversaries, team wins, or seasonal celebrations.
One-time codes: Great for new hires receiving their first welcome package.
Shipping is equally important. If your team is global, pick a provider that handles international fulfilment and customs smoothly. Nothing kills excitement like waiting months for a hoodie to arrive.
Step 5: Keep Your Brand Consistent
Swag isn’t just about freebies, it’s an extension of your brand identity. Every product an employee picks is also something they might use in public, so consistency matters.
Work with your design team to ensure logos, colours, and fonts follow your brand guidelines. That way, whether someone is wearing a hoodie on a Zoom call or carrying a tote bag to the supermarket, the design looks polished and professional.
Step 6: Launch and Promote the Store
Don’t just quietly drop the link to your swag store in an email. Make it an event.
Announce the launch with a fun teaser campaign.
Share it in company meetings or all-hands calls.
Encourage employees to post their swag unboxing in your team chat.
Create a hashtag for social media if you want employees to share their gear externally.
The more excitement you create, the more your team will engage with the store.
Step 7: Keep Improving Over Time
Once the store is live, keep an eye on what’s working. Are employees going crazy for tech gear while mugs gather dust? Are seasonal items popular? Use the data to adjust your catalogue. Adding fresh items every few months keeps the store from going stale.
The Benefits of an Employee Swag Store for Remote Teams
Done right, your swag store delivers more than just merchandise. It can:
- Boost morale and engagement among remote staff
- Spread brand visibility beyond the company (employees use items in public)
- Save HR and admin teams hours by automating fulfilment
- Give people freedom to pick what suits them best
It’s a simple but powerful way to keep culture alive when your team isn’t physically together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best ideas can backfire if you’re not careful. Here are some traps to steer clear of:
- Offering too few product options
- Ignoring international shipping challenges
- Letting the catalogue sit unchanged for years
- Forgetting eco-friendly or inclusive options
Avoid these, and your swag store will stay relevant and appreciated.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of an employee swag store?
It gives staff access to branded items they actually want, helping strengthen engagement and company culture.
How much does it cost to set one up?
Budgets vary. Small teams may spend £20–£50 per person, while larger setups need more planning.
Can a swag store ship globally?
Yes, many providers offer worldwide fulfilment. Just confirm shipping times and customs policies.
How do I keep it engaging for employees?
Refresh products regularly, add seasonal items, and ask for employee feedback when adding new options.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just Freebies
At its heart, an employee swag store isn’t really about T-shirts or water bottles. It’s about connection. For remote teams, it creates a shared sense of belonging, even when people are working thousands of miles apart.
If you put thought into your goals, pick the right platform, and keep the store fresh, it becomes more than a perk, it becomes part of your culture. A simple hoodie or mug, chosen by the employee themselves, can go a long way in showing that they matter.
