Online company stores are a simple way for companies and organizations to distribute branded merchandise and other items to various audiences, like employees and customers. However, long before the emergence of the internet, people found a way to buy and distribute branded merchandise.
In fact, company stores, and branded merchandise have a rich history dating back hundreds of years.
Here is a look at what an online company store is, who can use it, and how it’s changed over the years.
An Overview of Company Online Stores
Online company stores in business offer a convenient platform for employees and other authorized users to purchase branded merchandise. This can include anything from apparel to stationery and everything in between. Think of it as a private, branded e-commerce experience tailored specifically to your organization’s needs.
How Do Company Brand Stores Work?
Here’s a quick breakdown of how they work:
- Setup and Customization: The company works with a provider like Coggins Promo to design and set up the store, including branding, product selection, and payment options.
- Inventory Management: The platform syncs with inventory systems to keep stock info accurate and streamline ordering.
- User Access: Employees or authorized users get personalized accounts to access the store.
- Ordering and Fulfillment: Users can browse the catalog, pick what they need, and place orders directly. The system handles processing, shipping, and tracking.
This streamlined process eliminates the headaches of manual orders, spreadsheets, and logistical challenges, making it easier for organizations to manage branded merchandise programs.
Who Can Use an Online Company Store?
Company stores for promotional products can be designed to support multiple audiences:
- Employees: Boost morale and build a sense of belonging by giving employees easy access to company swag.
- Customers: Reward loyal customers with exclusive merch or set up a brand store to strengthen engagement.
- Partners and Distributors: Simplify the distribution of branded materials to partners and maintain consistent branding across your network.
The History of Online Company Stores and Branded Merchandise
Promotional items and other branded merchandise have been around for hundreds of years. Since 1789, the type, usage, and way these items are purchased have evolved.
Here’s a glimpse into the evolution of this fascinating industry:
- 1789: Commemorative buttons were distributed after George Washington was elected. This was one of the first examples of modern-day branded merchandise.
- Early 19th Century: Local shops throughout the United States sold advertising calendars, rulers, and wooden carvings. This is one of the earliest examples of monetizing branded merchandise.
- Late 1800s: Jasper Meek, considered a pioneer of the promotional item industry, convinced a local shoe store to supply branded book bags to nearby schools in Ohio.
- 1904: The Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) is founded, formalizing the industry.
- 1950s: Promotional items began to grow in popularity, but items were limited and difficult to order.
- 1980s: Product catalogs emerged, making it easier for companies to buy products to brand as their own. The catalogs listed items available for branding purposes. Marketers or other representatives would select items from these catalogs, fill out a form with their contact and order information, and mail it in.
- 1990s: The World Wide Web revolutionized shopping, leading to the development of online marketplaces and the first e-commerce sites for promotional products.
- 2008:Almost every major distributor in the PPAI had a website with their available promotional products. Individual companies began creating their online company stores outside of distributors in this era as well.
- Today: Modern offer sophisticated features, including personalized storefronts, diverse payment options, and seamless integration with inventory management systems.
Get Started
From catalogs to online company stores, people have found a way to create, order, and distribute branded merchandise. If you’re ready to create your online company store, request a demo today.
We can help you create a branded merchandise program that elevates your brand and engages your audience.
