Every intense decision and debate regarding the pandemic has been reflected in the education market. Schools this year swapped back and forth between virtual and in-person learning while regularly changing quarantine rules and masking guidelines. In a way, it made things even more difficult when everyone was comfortable with being remote and learned how to successfully pivot their promo.

Now, though, students are fimly on campus and buying is on the upswing. “I have definitely had an increase in orders for schools across the board. They are all finally returning to in-person events and are wanting items for events and activities,” says Kaylee Shields, business development specialist at Image Masters (asi/230071).

Scott Carr, vice president of Sunline Products (asi/339392), is in Texas, where most schools have been open throughout the school year. His business is booming with uniforms and event shirts. “Being an approved vendor,” he says, “is paying off well for me.”

Ethix Merch (asi/189731) too has found that the market has largely recovered. “Schools can be intensely bureaucratic,” says CEO Daniel Cardozo, which is why Ethix relies on internal advocates who can connect them with decision-makers. “It’s better,” he says, “to nibble around the edges rather than endeavoring to win the majority of a school’s business in one meeting.”

Product Picks

Tried & True: Apparel

If there’s one thing students will always need, it’s clothes, and apparel is an obvious win for the education market, whether it’s dad caps, standard school uniforms, or printed T-shirts for school clubs. “Per school district, my numbers are 80% apparel, 20% promotional,” Carr says.

Made-in-USA brushed cotton camper hat (CBCUWO01) with supplied printed custom fabric from Unionwear (asi/73775)

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Product Picks

Shiny & New: Bento Boxes

Students and staff are clamoring for bento boxes – but for different reasons. Students see them on TikTok with preciously organized meals and want that, and staff aims for more use from one product. “It allows for you to have your own food and also create more sustainable practices,” Shields says.

Wheat straw bento box (H458) from High Caliber Line (asi/43442)

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Three Hot Sales Opportunities

Sustainability

Students are educating themselves about climate change and want to be part of the solution, both at school and home. “That is the future,” Cardozo says. “Fewer throwaway items, more natural fibers, and more products that are durable and sustainably made with great style and a story that sets them apart.”

Student Enrollment

Particularly with colleges and universities, potential students need to be wooed to come to the school. “Some universities experienced a drop in enrollment [during the pandemic] but many stayed consistent,” Shields says. “They’re trying to increase and maintain student numbers.” Think anything that will boost it, like spirit wear.

Sports

Athletic departments buy an enormous amount – everything from wristbands and hats to blankets and jackets. The items aren’t just for student athletes; fans want team swag, too. Be sure to target the right buyer. “It’s the athletic assistant or the athletic secretary who’s the grease that keeps everything moving,” Carr says.