What Makes Gen Z Tick – Swag Edition
Who is Gen Z? (Born 1997–2012)
First things first—let’s get clear on who we’re talking about:
Gen Z (also known as Zoomers) was born between 1997 and 2012, making them fully digital natives who were raised on smartphones, social media, and fast-paced technology. This means they are 13 to 28 years old, and the majority were born post-9/11.
Social media and constant internet access have been a part of their lives since a very young age, directly influencing how they spend their money and what they spend it on. This group is often referred to as the TikTok generation.
They grew up through defining events—the Great Recession, climate awareness movements, and the COVID-19 pandemic—which shaped their socially conscious and pragmatic worldview.
Today, the oldest are entering adulthood and careers, while the youngest are in their early teens, and everywhere in between is shaping a generation that values diversity, authenticity, and global citizenship
How is Gen Z different than Millennials?
Gen Zers don’t appreciate being conflated with Millennials, and it’s essential to note the significant differences from a marketing perspective.
While Millennials respond to influencer marketing and the direct-to-consumer model popularized by companies like Warby Parker and Dollar Shave Club, Generation Z views itself as an altruistic and informed consumer, responding to green messaging and value-driven campaigns. They prefer to patronize brands that reflect their values and the values they want to be perceived as having. With a large portion of the generation being below voting age, they like to vote with their wallets.
The SWAG finds in this post match to Gen Z’s values
📱 Digital Natives Who Expect Shareability (3)
🌿 Sustainability Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential (9)
🎨 Hyper-Personalization & Identity Expression (6)
💡 High-Tech Essentials Gen Z Actually Uses (6)
🤳 Marrying Physical Swag with Digital Experience (3)
🤝 Authenticity, Inclusivity & Values Alignment (1)
📱 Digital Natives Who Expect Shareability -3
Gen Z lives online—TikTok, Reels, and micro-influencers dominate their attention. They want snappy, interactive, and socially shareable items. They’re skeptical of traditional ads—53% trust influencers more than brands. Gen Z lives online, with TikTok, Reels, and micro-influencers dominating their attention. They want snappy, interactive, and socially shareable items.
They’re skeptical of traditional ads—53% trust influencers more than brands.
Swag Pick →
Custom Enamel Pins or Stickers
Affordable, perfect for laptops, bottles, or bags—and designed for “chaotic customization.” Stickers and decals are seen as “cost-effective” and highly appreciated among young adults.
Lapel Pins - Die Struck Brass Soft Enamel (1")
Make your mark with Die Struck Brass Soft Enamel Lapel Pins! Perfect for branding or recognition, these vibrant, durable pins offer timeless style at a budget-friendly price. Choose from butterfly or rubber clutch backs, with other options available. Small in size, big on impact—pin your pride with flair!
Select Your Sticker Sheet
Stick with style using the Select Your Sticker Sheet (7" x 11")! Made from ultra-removable white vinyl, these full-color decals let you personalize laptops, phones, tablets, and more—without sticky residue. Fun, durable, and easy to peel off when you're ready to switch it up. Customize your tech your way!
Circle Sticker
Stick on some fun with our 3" x 3" Circle Sticker! Made from white BOPP material, it’s non-toxic, super durable, and moisture-resistant—perfect for bottles, laptops, or gear. The strong adhesive keeps it put on almost any surface. Bold, bright, and built to last—your message sticks wherever it lands!
🌿 Sustainability Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential
Ninety-one percent of Gen Z prefer sustainable brands, and 77% are willing to pay more for eco-friendly products—but only up to 10% more.
They scrutinize brand practices and avoid those with unethical supply chains.
Swag Picks →
Recycled Tote Bags
Durable, campus-ready, and necessary.Bamboo Pens & Compostable Utensils
Small, valued, and aligned with their eco-standards.
Recycled Cotton Grocery Tote Bag
Shop smart and sustainably with the Recycled Cotton Grocery Tote! Made from a recycled cotton and polyester blend, it’s sturdy, stylish, and reusable. Plus, 1% of sales go to planet-loving nonprofits. Carry your groceries and your values, all in one eco-chic tote!
Reborn Designer Softy Recycled Aluminum Pen
Meet the Reborn Designer Softy Pen—where sustainability meets style! Crafted from recycled aluminum with a comfy rubber finish, it features natural bamboo accents and a sleek gunmetal clip. This pen makes every word feel effortlessly elegant and eco-smart.
Alamo Eco Pen
Go big and go green with the Alamo Eco Pen! Featuring a massive 300° imprint area, this bold writer is made with 20% recycled ABS and reclaimed wheat stalk. Choose from three eco-friendly colors and make a sustainable statement—because your brand (and the planet) deserves the spotlight!
Wheat Straw Bento Box
Lunch just got a sustainable upgrade with the Wheat Straw Bento Box! Featuring two 20-oz compartments made from eco-friendly wheat straw and plastic, this stackable set comes with a bamboo lid, utensil trio, and secure elastic strap. It’s microwave and dishwasher-safe.
Sona 22oz RPET Reusable Bottle
Sip sustainably with the Sona 22oz RPET Bottle! Made from 100% recycled plastic and topped with a sleek FSC®-certified bamboo lid, it’s a stylish way to stay hydrated. Plus, 1% of every sale supports environmental nonprofits. Eco-chic, reusable, and planet-friendly—this bottle’s got heart and hydration.
Wheat Straw Lunch Box Set
Pack lunch the eco-friendly way with our Wheat Straw Lunch Box Set! Made from sustainable wheat straw and BPA-free plastic, it includes a built-in fork and spoon for easy meals on the go. Compact, reusable, and perfect for work or school—just add your logo!
Natureware Wheat Straw Cutlery Set
Reduce pollution by bringing your own straw and utensils and opting for reusable options with the Natureware Cutlery set. Conveniently contained in a branded case, your silverware stays clean before use and doesn't leave residue on your belongings when packed away after use.
Savory Lunch Box Set
Lunch just got an upgrade with the Savory Lunch Box Set! This eco-friendly bento-style box features two stackable compartments, built-in wheat straw cutlery, and a bamboo lid that doubles as a cutting board or plate. Stylish, sustainable, and perfect for meals on the go.
Bamboo Toothbrush In Cotton Pouch
An eco-smart swap for single-use plastic. The smooth, renewable bamboo handle pairs with soft, BPA-free bristles, then tucks neatly into a natural, unbleached-cotton drawstring pouch. Drawstring Closure. Meets FDA Requirements. Complies with Prop 65.
🎨 Hyper-Personalization & Identity Expression
Gen Z wants swag that reflects them. Personalization isn’t optional—it’s foundational. They embrace “chaotic customization”—bag charms, stickers, and enamel pins serve as identity statements.
Swag Picks →
Custom Hoodies/Y2K Tees:
Oversized, retro-inspired, available in colorway/name customization.Bucket & Trucker Hats: Patches, embroidery, and selfie-ready aesthetics.
District® V.I.T.™ Fleece Hoodie
8.3-oz cotton-rich fleece with a roomy, street-style cut and smooth face that loves screen-print or embroidery. Dyed-to-match drawcords and a rainbow of on-trend brights (plus core neutrals) make it the easy, retail-look choice for campus kits and budget-smart swag drops.
Berkley Bucket Hat
Top off your look with the Berkley Bucket Hat! Made from 100% cotton twill, it’s the perfect blend of fashion and function. Lightweight, foldable, and travel-ready, this unisex hat fits most and goes anywhere in style. Whether you're beach-bound or city-strolling, it’s your new go-to for sun-smart flair!
Comfort Colors® Heavyweight Ring Spun Tee
Give your promo lineup that coveted “lived-in” vibe. Each shirt is garment-dyed and soft-washed for a broken-in feel from day one, while the hefty cotton knit holds prints and embroidery like a dream. Perfect for campus giveaways and merch drops.
Poly/Cotton Trucker Mesh Back Cap
Turn heads with the Poly/Cotton Trucker Mesh Back Cap! This stylish snapback blends classic vibes with modern edge, featuring a six-panel structured design, mesh back, and comfy poly/cotton fabric. The adjustable fit and flat visor make it a go-to for casual cool
THREADFAST Unisex Ultimate NFC Tap T-Shirt
Premium 4.5-oz ring-spun blend with a discreet, washable NFC chip sewn into the hem—just tap a phone to launch a custom landing page, playlist, coupon, or event check-in. Smooth retail fabric takes DTG or screen print flawlessly, turning every wear into an interactive brand touchpoint.
Richardson® Five-Panel Trucker Cap
Turn up the style with the Richardson® Five-Panel Trucker Cap! Made from a 60/40 poly-cotton blend, this structured, mid-profile cap features a breathable mesh back and pre-curved visor. With an adjustable snapback, it’s the perfect fit and classic trucker cool.
Marry Genz Values
💡 High-Tech Essentials Gen Z Actually Uses
Gen Z is always plugged in—they expect swag that enhances their digital lives. For this generation, having the latest tech is a status symbol. However, you can’t just pick any tech product. Make sure to choose something hot, new, and unique. Products like wireless Bluetooth headphones, wireless chargers, portable speakers, or tech items with funky and uncommon features are sure to catch their eye.
Swag Picks →
Branded Wireless Power Banks
Portable charging solutions are a must-have for staying connected on the go, and Gen Z uses them constantly.Wireless Charging Pads or Multi‑Device Hubs
Sleek accessories that reduce clutter and showcase your brand in a visible, practical wayBluetooth Speakers & Earbuds
Whether for virtual meetups, workouts, or social moments, these audio gadgets deliver both enjoyment and brand visibility
SoSoft Qi Wireless Charger + Power Bank
Charge in comfort with the SoSoft Qi Wireless Charger + Power Bank! This 4000 mAh fabric-covered pad powers up your Qi-enabled phone—no cables needed. Just place your device on the soft-touch surface for instant, hassle-free charging. Sleek, stylish, andconvenient, it's your go-to power boost on the move!
Kronies™ True Wireless Earbuds
True wireless earbuds. Listen to your favorite jams or call your friends with crisp, clear sound from the built-in microphone. Lightweight & portable, these follow you wherever you go while
keeping you connected along the way.
Popl Digital Business Card
Say goodbye to paper cards—meet the Popl Digital Business Card! This sleek, tap-to-share card instantly connects others to your contact info, socials, websites, and more. With built-in Popl tech and a QR code, networking has never been easier—or cooler. One tap, endless connections, all in your pocket!
Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Enjoy your favorite music from anywhere. The Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker easily clips to your favorite bag, allowing you to bring it to the pool, the park, or your next house party.
Tilt High Density 5000 mAh Power Bank
Power up anywhere. Compact yet mighty, it packs enough juice to keep your devices charged on the go. With dual outputs and a Type-C input, plus a USB-C cable included, it’s travel-ready, bag-friendly, and perfect for your next adventure!
Dual Input Bamboo Hub
Expand Available USB Ports On Your Computer For Additional Peripherals (Mouse, Keyboard, Printer, Etc.) 2 High Speed USB-A Ports And 2 Type-C Ports For Charging Or Data Transfer Features Dual Input USB-A Or Type-C (Built-In Cord). 0.5" D x 11" W x 1" H.
🤳 Marrying Physical Swag with Digital Experience
Gen Z loves interactive, tech-integrated items—56% have scanned QR codes or tried AR—and brands can leverage this.
Swag Picks →
AR/QR-Enabled Accessories
A T-shirt with a QR code unlocking playlists; sticker packs triggering digital filters.PopSockets or Wireless Chargers
Practical tech that’s also photo-ready for unboxing.
THREADFAST Unisex Ultimate NFC Tap T-Shirt
Premium 4.5-oz ring-spun blend with a discreet, washable NFC chip sewn into the hem—just tap a phone to launch a custom landing page, playlist, coupon, or event check-in. Smooth retail fabric takes DTG or screen print flawlessly, turning every wear into an interactive brand touchpoint.
Jupiter 3 - Ultra Compact Magnetic Charger
Meet the Jupiter 3! With 15W MagSafe-style snap-on wireless charging and 20W USB-C fast charge, it powers up your phone to 50% in under 30 minutes. Sleek, slim, and seriously efficient, it’s the perfect fusion of speed, style, and on-the-go convenience.
PopSocket® & Phone Tech Tattoo
Give your PopSocket® a fresh new look with Phone Tech Tattoos™! This 4.5" x 3.5" white vinyl sheet includes two ultra-removable circle decals—perfect for switching up your style anytime. Fun, easy, and residue-free, it’s the ultimate way to personalize your phone’s favorite accessory!
🤝 Authenticity, Inclusivity & Values Alignment
Gen Z expects brands to align with their values. They demand authenticity, visible diversity, mental health awareness, and DEI initiatives—no lip service
Swag Pick →
Custom Kits
Think curated bundles—e.g., eco tote + bamboo pen —packaged with messaging that reflects a cause or community. Bundles demonstrate effort, purpose, and alignment with Gen Z values.
Eco-Lifestyle Welcome Kit/ Eco-Lifestyle New Hire Kit
Welcome a valued employee with this Eco-Lifestyle New Hire Kit. The lunch sack and cooler is made from durable 600D polyester with a two-tone grey denim finish on top and black base and trim. It features a separate upper and lower insulated zippered compartments with PEVA lining and padded foam insulation.
🔚 Final Thoughts
Tech-forward swag—like branded power banks, wireless chargers, and Bluetooth accessories—isn’t just a gift; it’s a constant companion in Gen Z’s daily life. Offering these tools ensures your brand isn’t just seen—it’s carried, shared, and used—making it a true part of their routine.
✨ Want More Ideas?
📞 Schedule a Discovery Call via FineDirect – Talk one-on-one with our promo specialists (15–30 min) to craft a swag plan that stands out.
🧠 Complete the IdeaBox Form – Share a few campaign details and receive a curated Inspiration Kit with mockups, pricing, and product recommendations.
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