New year, new goals, new hires, new… coffee dependency. Just kidding, caffeine-addiction has been our tried-and-true buddy since forever. But still, January corporate kickoffs are basically the Super Bowl of employee energy, and branded merch is your halftime show. The right swag can turn “back to work” into “back and better than ever.”
We’ve curated six fresh branded merch ideas to power up 2026 kickoffs and events, boost engagement, and keep your brand front and center long after the confetti settles. Bonus: they’re practical, easy to love, and ready to be customized.
In January, employees are naturally in reset mode. That’s why kickoff swag works extra hard: it’s a tangible “we’ve got you” that builds momentum and belonging from day one. Think of it as culture you can hold.
Use these ideas for:
When it’s January, it’s basically hoodie season’s championship parade. A heavyweight hoodie feels premium, gets worn constantly, and turns every hallway into a mini brand impression runway. This trending style is oversized, durable, and versatile, which is exactly the vibe you want for kickoff comfort.
Why it wins for 2026 kickoffs:
Want something layer friendly and event ready? A full zip hoodie is the ultimate “on and off” piece for travel days, venue temps, and all those kickoff photo moments. This one is a cotton poly fleece blend with a two-ply hood, front pockets, and a YKK metal zipper.
Why it wins for employee engagement:
If your kickoff includes goal setting, planning, or a consensus that “we’re totally going to use our planners this year,” this is your hero item. The Rocketbook Core Executive Notebook Set includes 36 lined reusable pages designed to connect with cloud services, so notes can go from page to pixel without the messy paper pileup.
Why it wins for kickoff meetings:
Kickoff season means travel, open office noise, and a calendar full of “quick syncs” that are never quick. Headphones are the gift that says, “we support your focus era.” The Icon 180 is built for everyday use with comfort and durability.
Why it wins for team energy:
Want kickoff swag that says “we mean business” and “we mean sustainability”? Ocean Bottle is a strong pick. This 500ml option is made from 65% recycled materials (including 90% recycled stainless steel) and keeps drinks cold for 18 hours and hot for 6 hours.
Why it wins for 2026 events:
This one is basically a cheerleader for drinking water. HidrateSpark’s PRO 2 smart tumbler uses SipSense to track and remind you to take sips (because let’s be honest, when the going gets busy, the busy forget to hydrate) with a customizable 360-degree glow plus optional sound alerts. It is also made from recycled stainless steel and keeps drinks cold up to 24 hours.
Why it wins for January momentum:
Kickoff swag is more than a cheap freebie. It’s a morale booster, a culture builder, and a daily reminder that your team is part of something bigger than their inbox.
So start 2026 strong with branded gear that motivates. Shop branded swag or contact us for ideas to build a kickoff kit your team will actually use (and brag about).