From Souvenirs to Staff Gear — Why Tourism Organizations Need an Online Company Store

From Souvenirs to Staff Gear — Why Tourism Organizations Need an Online Company Store

Picture this: A family just finished an incredible day exploring your museum. As they head to the gift shop, their 8-year-old spots the perfect dinosaur t-shirt — but it’s not in her size. Disappointed, they leave empty-handed. Three weeks later, back home, she’s still talking about those “awesome dinosaurs” but has nothing to show her friends.

What if that story had a different ending?

The $4.2 Billion Opportunity Tourism Businesses Are Missing

American tourists spend over $4.2 billion annually on souvenirs and keepsakes. Yet most attractions struggle with inventory headaches, inconsistent branding across locations, and lost sales when popular items sell out.

The solution isn’t bigger gift shops — it’s smarter ones. A branded online company store transforms how tourism organizations connect with guests, turning a single visit into ongoing engagement and revenue.

Beyond Souvenirs: 5 Game-Changing Ways Tourism Companies Use Online Stores

1. Extend the Shopping Experience Beyond Closing Time

Your visitors don’t stop wanting that perfect memento when they leave your gates. An online store captures those “I wish I had bought that” moments, letting guests order from home while the memories are still fresh. Plus, parents can surprise kids with that sold-out t-shirt as a special delivery.

Extend the Shopping Experience

2. Create a Professional, Cohesive Team Presence

Nothing says “amateur operation” like mismatched staff uniforms. Centralized ordering ensures every tour guide, from your flagship location to satellite sites, represents your brand consistently. Your team looks professional, visitors notice, and staff feel pride in their appearance.

3. Master Seasonal Events Without the Chaos

Festival season coming up? Instead of scrambling with last-minute vendors and inventory guesswork, pre-launch your event merchandise online. Accept pre-orders, gauge demand accurately, and have happy customers picking up their gear instead of discovering everything’s sold out.

4. Reward Your VIPs (And Make Them Feel Special)

Annual pass holders and membership program participants want recognition. Exclusive merchandise access makes them feel valued while encouraging renewals. “Members Only” items become conversation starters that naturally promote your organization.

Reward your VIPS

5. Support Local While Standing Out

Partner with regional artists and craftspeople for co-branded items that communicate “you can only get this here.” Visitors get truly unique souvenirs, local businesses gain exposure, and you differentiate from generic, forgettable merchandise.

The Real Win: Turning Tourists Into Brand Ambassadors

Here’s what happens when you get this right: That family from our opening story? The daughter gets her dinosaur shirt delivered two weeks later. She wears it to school, tells friends about her amazing museum adventure, and suddenly you’re reaching potential visitors you never could have advertised to.

Every purchase becomes marketing. Every satisfied customer becomes a conversation starter. Your brand travels the world, one happy visitor at a time.

Ready to Transform Your Tourism Business?

The question isn’t whether you need a branded company store — it’s how quickly you can launch one. While your competitors wrestle with inventory spreadsheets and disappointed customers, you could be building lasting connections that drive repeat visits and referrals.

Discover how a customized company store can boost your visitor engagement and revenue. Contact us today to explore solutions tailored specifically for tourism and attraction businesses.

 

The ROI of an Online Company Store: Why Financial Institutions Are Buying In

The ROI of an Online Company Store: Why Financial Institutions Are Buying In

Let’s face it: the financial industry isn’t exactly known for being flashy. But in a world where brand experience and employee engagement matter more than ever, even banks, credit unions, and wealth management firms are realizing that how you show up — internally and externally — makes a big impact.

That’s where the online company store comes in.

More than just a hub for branded swag, a thoughtfully designed online store can become a strategic asset — streamlining logistics, strengthening culture, and reinforcing your brand in ways you might not expect.

Here’s how financial institutions are putting their online company stores to work:

1. Branch Branding: Consistency You Can See

In finance, trust is everything — and consistency builds trust. Whether a client walks into a branch in Chicago or chats with a rep from your Denver office, the look, feel, and professionalism should be the same. That means matching branded polos, professional name tags, and cohesive desk signage.

An online company store lets you distribute these essentials to every branch, without playing phone tag between departments or chasing down suppliers. Marketing can ensure everything is brand-approved, while branch managers get exactly what they need — when they need it.

No more mismatched logos or DIY desk signs. Just clean, cohesive branding that quietly says, “You’re in good hands.”

Consistency You Can See

2. Client Gifts: Make “Wow” Moments Happen (Without the Hassle)

In a relationship-driven business like finance, the little things go a long way. A thoughtful, well-timed gift can turn a good relationship into a loyal one.

But coordinating gifts — especially for high-value clients or top prospects — can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare.

With an online store, your client-facing teams can quickly send branded gifts like mugs, tech accessories, or notebooks — without ordering from scratch or dealing with shipping themselves. Want to make it even easier? Set up pre-approved gift bundles that reps can send with just a few clicks.

Need ideas for impactful, industry-relevant gifts? Check out our curated selection of financial promotional products designed specifically for client engagement in the finance world.

It’s a smarter, more scalable way to show appreciation — and keep your brand top of mind with the people who matter most.

Make WOW Moments Happen

3. New Hire Kits: Welcome with Style

First impressions aren’t just for clients. The way you welcome new employees can shape how they feel about your company long-term.

Whether you’re hiring remote analysts or in-office loan officers, an online company store helps you create and send onboarding kits that actually feel special — think branded notebooks, quality apparel, and sleek tech tools.

You can automate it, customize it, or even give new hires credit to pick their own items. It’s easy for HR, exciting for new employees, and totally on-brand.

Pro tip: Include a welcome note and some company values to make it personal.

4. Internal Culture: Recognize, Reward, Repeat

Here’s the truth: when employees feel appreciated, they perform better. But recognition doesn’t have to mean cash bonuses or formal awards.

With an online company store, you can turn internal challenges, milestones, or team wins into something tangible — like reward points or credits employees can use to choose their own swag.

It’s perfect for wellness challenges, anniversary celebrations, peer shout-outs —you name it. Best part? They get something they actually want, and your brand stays front and center.

Everyone loves rewards. Even better when they’re wrapped in your company’s values and identity.

Not Just a Company Store — A Strategy

Financial institutions are evolving. You’re already investing in digital transformation, customer experience, and employee engagement — so why not have a tool that supports all three?

An online company store makes it easier to show up the right way, every time —whether you’re serving clients, welcoming new talent, or celebrating your team.

Because in a world where relationships matter more than ever, the little details aren’t little at all.

 

Why an Online Company Store Might Be the Smartest Move You Make This Year

Why an Online Company Store Might Be the Smartest Move You Make This Yea

An online company store isn’t just a convenient way to hand out branded merchandise — it can be the behind-the-scenes engine that boosts your brand, keeps operations running smoothly, and makes your employees, customers, and supporters feel more connected to your mission.

Whether you’re running a business, nonprofit, school, or community group, the right store setup can deliver benefits you might not have even considered. Here’s how.

1. Consistent Branding and Stronger Recognition

When all your merchandise — from cozy hoodies to branded drinkware — comes from one place, you get full control over quality, design, and messaging. That means every piece matches your logo, colors, and vibe. Over time, those items become mini billboards out in the world.

Tip: Choose a few “evergreen” best-sellers for your store that showcase your brand at its best. This ensures people always have access to your most recognizable items.

Consistent Branding and Stronger Recognition

2. Streamlined Ordering and Cost Savings

Coordinating with multiple vendors for every T-shirt order or pen restock? That’s time you could be spending elsewhere. A company store centralizes everything — one ordering system, one inventory tracker, fewer headaches. You’ll always know what’s in stock, and you can avoid paying rush fees or ordering extras you don’t need.

Tip: Set up automatic low-stock alerts so popular items never run out during key events or busy seasons.

3. Boosted Employee Engagement and Morale

A store isn’t just about merch, but about moments. Give team members the chance to “shop” for rewards after hitting milestones — or let them pick their own welcome gift on day one. Wearing or using branded gear builds a shared sense of pride and belonging.

Tip: Rotate in seasonal or event-specific items to keep the selection fresh and fun for employees.

Tip: Rotate in seasonal or event-specific items to keep the selection fresh and fun for employees.

4. Revenue and Marketing Opportunities

Your store can double as a marketing tool. Launch a new product? Create a limited-edition tee to go with it. Planning a fundraiser? Offer exclusive merch for donors. Fans and supporters will love the chance to get something special — and you’ll strengthen your connection with them in the process.

Tip: Use your store’s analytics to see which items are most popular and plan future campaigns around those hits.

5. Quality Control and Brand Protection

By sourcing all items through one approved channel, you can guarantee consistent quality and make sure everything aligns with your brand guidelines. No off-brand colors, no awkward logo placement — just the polished, professional look you want.

Tip: Review your store’s product line at least once a year to retire dated designs and keep your offerings current.

Turn Branded Merch into a Strategic Asset

An online company store is more than a place to buy swag — it’s a way to unify your brand, reward your people, reach your audience, and even generate new revenue. With the right setup and a few smart strategies, it can become one of the most valuable tools in your business toolkit.

Need help getting started? Check out our Company Store Launch Checklist and contact us today!

Your step-by-step guide to getting started:

  • Define Your Goals: Determine if your store will be for employees, customers, fundraising, or all of the above.
  • Pick Your Product Mix: Choose a balance of “evergreen” staples and seasonal or event-specific items.
  • Set Branding Guidelines: Lock in logo versions, brand colors, and approved design styles before launch.
  • Plan Your Ordering Rules: Decide who can order, payment options, and how orders will be approved or fulfilled.
  • Organize Your Inventory System: Use built-in tracking to set low-stock alerts and plan restocks in advance.
  • Create a Launch Campaign: Announce your store with email, social media, and internal communications (and include a special promo or freebie for early shoppers).
  • Track, Review, and Refresh: Review store analytics every few months to update popular products and retire slow movers.

How Financial Institutions Can Use Branded Items to Build Trust with Clients and Communities

How Financial Institutions Can Use Branded Items to Build Trust with Clients and Communities

In today’s competitive, digital-first world, financial institutions face a unique challenge: building trust with customers they may rarely see in person. While transparency, security, and ethical business practices are essential, branded merchandise offers an often-overlooked way to reinforce that trust — through tangible, everyday interactions that quietly but effectively build brand familiarity and goodwill.

Why Branded Items Work in Financial Services

Branded items go far beyond the traditional notion of “freebies.” When used strategically, they help create stronger emotional connections with clients, employees, and communities. Here’s how:

  • Boosting Brand Recognition
    Custom pens, notepads, calendars, and sticky notes used in homes and offices serve as subtle, daily reminders of your brand. This kind of passive visibility helps establish a sense of dependability and presence.
  • Demonstrating Thoughtfulness and Reliability
    A well-made tumbler or power bank can be more than a gift — it’s a statement. High-quality branded items reflect the professionalism and attention to detail customers expect from their financial institution. When useful and long-lasting, these items convey stability and care.
  • Enhancing Internal Culture
    Employees are key ambassadors of your brand. Offering them branded apparel, backpacks, or caps not only builds pride, but also creates a cohesive, community-focused workplace culture that extends to client interactions.
  • Extending Reach in the Community
    Giveaways like tote bags and umbrellas at local events or financial literacy workshops are a smart way to connect with the public and increase visibility—all while showing commitment to community engagement.

Smart Strategies for Branded Gifting

To make the most of branded merchandise, financial institutions should:

  • Choose practical, high-use items that align with clients’ day-to-day routines
  • Invest in quality to reflect the standards of your brand
  • Stay on-brand with colors, fonts, and messaging that reinforce your institution’s identity
  • Distribute intentionally, such as client onboarding, milestone celebrations, event giveaways, and employee recognition
  • Integrate into loyalty programs to encourage retention and deepen customer relationships.

Branded Items That Build Connection and Confidence

These thoughtfully selected categories are ideal for financial institutions looking to reinforce their reputation, reward loyalty, and stay top-of-mind in everyday moments.

  • Essential Desk Staples
    Keep your brand in front of clients with tools they reach for daily. Custom pens, notepads, calendars, and sticky notes are not only practical — they position your institution as organized, accessible, and reliable.

Desk staples

  • Client-Focused Favorites
    Gifts like branded mugs, tumblers, and tech accessories such as power banks add value to the client experience. These items are ideal for welcome kits, thank-you gifts, or rewards for long-term loyalty — each one reinforcing that your clients are seen and appreciated.

Client focused

  • Community-Ready Giveaways
    For financial institutions active in outreach or community events, items like tote bags and umbrellas serve as useful, highly visible giveaways. These pieces are functional, brand-forward, and make a strong impression during sponsorships, local fairs, or school partnerships.

Community giveaways

  • Recognition That Resonates
    Build morale and strengthen your internal culture with branded apparel. From jackets and hats to backpacks, these pieces foster team pride and give employees a sense of ownership in your brand — something that naturally carries over into client relationships.

Recognition that Resonates

Bank Promotional Items That Do More Than Promote

Trust isn’t built overnight — and in a world of screens and apps, it’s the little physical touchpoints that can make the biggest impact. Branded items help financial institutions stay present in their clients’ lives in subtle, meaningful ways. When chosen with care and purpose, these items go from giveaways to relationship builders.

Top 6 Reasons Your Business Needs an Online Company Store

Top 6 Reasons Your Business Needs an Online Company Store

If you’ve ever juggled T-shirt sizes over email or scrambled to find last-minute swag for an event, you know how chaotic managing branded merchandise can be. Enter the online company store — more than just a place to order polos and mugs, it’s a smart, scalable solution that strengthens your brand, simplifies operations, and helps your team feel more connected.

Whether you’re building culture, rolling out uniforms, or simply making ordering easier, a company store can transform the way your business operates. At Amsterdam, we specialize in creating stores that actually work — for your team and your brand.

Here are the top six reasons every company should consider one:

1. Boost Team Spirit and Engagement

Branded gear does more than look good — it makes people feel like they belong. An online company store gives your team easy access to items that showcase your brand and foster pride. From onboarding kits for new hires to rewards for a job well done, your store becomes a hub for recognition, celebration, and shared identity.

Boost Team Spirit and Engagement

2. Lock in Brand Control

One of the biggest challenges for growing companies is inconsistent branding — off-colors, pixelated logos, or off-brand swag from random vendors. An online store locks down your brand standards. You pick the products, approve the designs, and control the experience. No more rogue merch — just consistent, polished branding every time.

3. Make Uniform and Merchandise Distribution Effortless

Managing uniforms, event swag, or promotional items across teams and locations can quickly become overwhelming. A centralized online company store turns that chaos into simplicity. Employees can log in, choose what they need, and have it shipped directly — no spreadsheets, no confusion, just a smooth, consistent system.

Make Uniform and Merchandise Distribution Effortless

4. Expand Your Brand Reach

Every branded hoodie, water bottle, or tote is an opportunity to tell your company’s story. An online company store ensures your team, clients, and event attendees have access to high-quality, on-brand merchandise, creating visibility and recognition wherever your brand goes.

5. Simplify Purchasing and Inventory Management

Email orders, multiple vendors, and last-minute requests often lead to headaches and mistakes. An online company store consolidates everything in one easy-to-manage platform. Track inventory, control budgets, generate reports, and streamline operations. It’s not just convenient — it’s smarter business.

6. Create a Personalized Experience

Your team is unique, and your store should reflect that. Tailor product offerings based on role, location, or department. Offer special drops for milestones, holidays, or events. A well-designed online store ensures personalization is simple and everyone feels recognized.

Create a Personalized Expereience

How Amsterdam Helps You Build a Store That Works

A great online store is more than just products — it’s a complete experience. Here’s how we make it happen:

  • Custom-Built Just for You
    Every business is different, so why settle for one-size-fits-all? We design stores that reflect your brand, goals, and budget — from storefront layout to product selection — so every detail embodies your company’s unique culture.
  • Quality That Speaks for Itself
    Your merch should represent your brand with pride represent your brand with pride. We focus on high-quality, durable products your team will actually use — from employee apparel and office essentials to eye-catching swag.
  • Easy-to-Use Platform
    Ordering should never be complicated. Our intuitive company store platform makes it simple for employees to find what they need, with features like bulk ordering to save time and reduce errors.
  • Seamless System Integration
    Your online company store should work with your existing systems, not against them. We handle setup, integration, and ongoing maintenance, so you can focus on running your business.
  • Friendly, Reliable Support
    We don’t just launch your online company store and disappear. Our team is here to help every step of the way — from adding new products to troubleshooting or running promotions.

Let’s Build Something Great Together

An online company store isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a strategic asset that supports your brand, your team, and your business goals. If you’re ready to simplify operations, engage employees, and maximize your merch, Amsterdam is here to help.

For a step-by-step guide to building an online company store that works for your team and brand, check out our comprehensive guide.

Ready to see it in action?

Request a free consult or connect with our team at 1-800-833-6231 — we’re here to help!

Happier, More Efficient Healthcare Teams Start with Online Company Stores

Happier, More Efficient Healthcare Teams Start with Online Company Stores

In healthcare, precision and teamwork are everything. To keep teams connected and operations running smoothly, more healthcare organizations are embracing online company stores as their go-to solution for managing promotional products and branded gear.

What Is an Online Company Store?

An online company store is a secure, custom-branded website where staff can easily access and order approved healthcare promotional products and work essentials — from scrubs and lab coats to branded water bottles, notebooks, and tech gadgets. Access is customizable by role, team, or location, ensuring the right items reach the right people.

By centralizing ordering and inventory, healthcare organizations can:

  • Simplify logistics
  • Control branding consistency
  • Reduce waste and overstock
  • Increase employee engagement

Online company stores offer a smart, scalable way to manage all your healthcare promotional products and uniforms in one place. If you want to learn more, check out our comprehensive guide to online company stores for in-depth insights and best practices.

Why More Healthcare Organizations Are Making the Switch

There’s a reason more healthcare providers — from small clinics to major hospitals — are adopting online company stores. They provide a faster, more organized way to support operations and people. Here’s how:

  • Personalized Gifting — Let’s face it: not everyone wants the same coffee mug or T-shirt. With an online company store, employees get to choose what suits their style or needs. Personalized rewards are more meaningful — and more likely to be used.
  • Quick Launch — Many providers think an online company store will take months to set up — but today’s platforms can go live in just a few days. With the right partner, launching is fast, secure, and surprisingly easy.
  • Centralized Oversight — Instead of working with multiple vendors, tracking spreadsheets, and juggling inventory by hand, your team can manage everything from one simple dashboard. This saves time, reduces errors, and gives you better visibility into usage and budget.
  • Smarter Ordering — Traditional bulk orders often lead to excess inventory, waste, and outdated items. Online stores operate on demand — meaning you only order what you need, when you need it. No more closets full of last year’s T-shirts.

Practical Use Cases for Healthcare Teams

Let’s look at a few common ways healthcare organizations are using online company stores today:

  • Uniform Management — Managing uniforms across departments can be complex. With an online store, staff can order exactly what they need — whether it’s scrubs, lab coats, safety gear, or branded apparel — based on their role. Admins can assign permissions by job function or location, helping ensure the right items get to the right people.

uniforms

  • New Hire Welcome Kits — A great first impression goes a long way. Online company stores make it easy to send welcome packages to new team members — including branded jackets, badge reels, notebooks, or water bottles — delivered directly to their home or desk. It’s a thoughtful touch that starts their experience on a positive note.

new hire kits

  • Recognition & Rewards Programs — Recognizing and rewarding great work is key to maintaining morale, especially in high-stress environments. Online stores allow managers to grant points or stipends that staff can redeem for branded gear they actually want — whether it’s a cozy fleece, a wellness bundle, or a branded backpack. It’s a flexible, personal way to say thanks.

recognition gifts

  • Event & Awareness Campaign Support — Healthcare facilities often organize events like Hospital Week, health fairs, or awareness campaigns. Online stores can host temporary, themed sections where teams can easily access approved merchandise like T-shirts, pins, or patient giveaways. It’s simple, organized, and helps your events run more smoothly.

event giveaways

A Modern Tool for a People-First Mission

At its heart, healthcare is about people — and your internal teams deserve the same level of care you give your patients. From onboarding and uniforms to recognition and rewards, an online company store helps you support your workforce while streamlining operations behind the scenes.

It’s more than a convenience — it’s a smart investment in your team, your brand, and your mission.

Ready to See It in Action?

Explore what an online company store can do for your organization. Contact us or connect with our team at 1-800-833-6231 — we’re here to help you get started.

 

 

 

 

 

Beyond Swag: 15 Creative Ways to Use an Online Company Store

Beyond Swag: 15 Creative Ways to Use an Online Company Store

Think your online company store is just for t-shirts and pens? Think again.

From strengthening team culture to surprising your top clients, a branded company store opens all kinds of possibilities. Whether you’re a business, nonprofit, school, or community organization, your store can do way more than just deliver swag — it can become a powerful tool for connection, recognition, and even fundraising.

Here are 15 creative ways to put your company store to work:

For Employees & Internal Culture

1. Welcome & Onboarding Kits
Make new hires feel at home with curated welcome boxes straight from your store. Include branded apparel, tech accessories, notebooks, mugs — or even a local snack or two — to create a warm first impression and a sense of belonging.

2. Employee Recognition & Rewards
Tired of one-size-fits-all trophies? Let employees choose their own reward. Whether it’s a high-quality backpack or cozy hoodie, store credit lets you recognize performance, milestones, or service anniversaries in a more personal and meaningful way.

Employee Recognition Gifts

3. Wellness & Self-Care Initiatives
Your store can support employee wellness, too. Stock it with yoga mats, water bottles, mindfulness tools, and more. Then tie rewards to fitness challenges, wellness goals, or participation in health-focused programs.

4. Work-From-Home & Remote Work Perks
Support your remote and hybrid teams with branded essentials like laptop stands, soft sweatshirts, or even ring lights. A company store makes it easy to deliver practical and morale-boosting items, wherever your team logs in.

5. Team Building & Culture Events
Planning a virtual trivia night or charity fun run? Use your store to distribute matching t-shirts, accessories, or event kits so everyone feels part of the action — even from afar.

6. Milestone & Birthday Celebrations
Birthdays, work anniversaries, and team wins are the perfect chance to surprise employees with personalized gifts — or simply let them pick something they’ll actually use from the store.

Employee Milestone Gifts

7. Professional Development & Learning Incentives
Turn growth into a win-win. Offer store credit for completing trainings, earning certifications, or participating in leadership development. Learning feels even more rewarding when it comes with branded goodies.

8. Gamification & Challenges
Launch fun internal contests — like innovation challenges, referral drives, or wellness goals — and let the winners redeem points for merchandise. Your store becomes the prize table.

9. Sustainable Living Incentives
Encourage eco-friendly habits by offering reusable items, sustainable apparel, or plant-based kits. You can even set up a “green points” system to reward choices that support your organization’s sustainability goals.

10. Support for Hobbies & Family Life
Show employees you care about life outside work. Stock hobby-related items like journals, fitness gear, or branded goods for kids and pets. It’s a simple way to support the whole person — not just the professional.

Gifts that support hobbies

For Clients, Partners & External Audiences

11. Client Gifting & Appreciation
Say thank you with style. Offer curated gift options through your store for client milestones, end-of-year appreciation, or big project wins. You can even let them choose the gift that suits them best.

Holiday Gifts

12. Customer Loyalty Programs
Turn your store into a loyalty destination. Offer exclusive merch or limited-edition items to your most loyal customers — or send surprise thank-you gifts that keep your brand top of mind.

13. Promotional Events & Marketing Campaigns
Simplify your trade show planning and marketing rollouts. Pre-stock your store with giveaway items, branded kits, and promotional gear so everything’s ready to ship and share when you need it.

14. Partner & Channel Support
Make it easy for resellers, affiliates, or franchise locations to access approved merchandise. With a centralized store, you can ensure your brand stays consistent across campaigns, channels, and geographies.

Operations, Uniforms & Merch Sales

15. Uniforms, Supplies & Merchandise Sales
Keep staff looking sharp with consistent uniforms ordered through your store. Need to distribute office supplies or branded gear to multiple locations? Your store can handle that, too. And for nonprofits, schools, and clubs — it’s also a great tool for fundraising or offering exclusive merch to supporters.

One Store. Endless Possibilities

With your very own branded company store, the opportunities go far beyond swag. You’ll simplify operations, boost morale, strengthen relationships, and maybe even generate a little buzz along the way.

Ready to see what your store can do?
Explore Company Promo Stores by Amsterdam Printing