Summer 2025 Merch Trends: What Aussie Brands Are Giving Away

Summer in Australia isn’t just about beach days and barbecues, it’s also one of the busiest seasons for brand promotions. With the sun out and events in full swing, companies, communities, and clubs are already planning their summer promotional products for 2025.

From custom golf umbrellas to eco-friendly tote bags, this year’s merch forecast is all about practicality, sustainability, and style. Whether you’re a business owner, part of a community organization, or managing a sports club, here’s what you can expect to see (and give away) this summer.

Table of Contents:

1. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #1: Functional and Weather-Smart Giveaways
2. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #2: Branded Accessories That Keep It Cool
3. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #3: Eco-Friendly Beach Essentials
4. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #4: Gift Sets and Custom Packs
5. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #5: Sports and Community Merchandise
6. Design Trends for 2025: Minimalism Meets Bold Branding
7. Why Early Planning Matters for Summer Promotions
8. Final Thoughts: The Smart Way to Promote Your Brand This Summer
9. Ready to Create Your 2025 Summer Merchandise?

1. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #1: Functional and Weather-Smart Giveaways

Australian summers can be unpredictable, one minute it’s blazing hot, the next it’s a sudden downpour. That’s why functional merchandise is topping the charts for 2025.

Custom golf umbrellas are emerging as one of the most in-demand promotional items this season. They’re practical, premium-looking, and versatile enough to be used at corporate events, golf tournaments, or even by employees on the go.

Brands are customizing these umbrellas with vibrant colors, subtle branding, and high-quality materials that withstand both heat and rain. It’s a smart investment for companies that want their logo to be seen often, and in style.

Pro tip: When designing a branded golf umbrella, choose strong fiberglass frames and UV-resistant canopies. They’re durable, and Aussies love items that last more than one season.

2. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #2: Branded Accessories That Keep It Cool

No Aussie summer is complete without outdoor activities, from beach cricket to corporate BBQs. That’s why lightweight, wearable, and cooling accessories will dominate 2025’s promotional scene.

Expect to see more custom bucket hats, embroidered caps, and branded sunglasses as go-to giveaways. These items are not only affordable for bulk orders but also highly visible, making them perfect for brand exposure during outdoor events or festivals.

Companies are getting creative with designs, think pastel tones, earthy hues, and minimalist embroidery instead of loud logos. It’s branding that fits seamlessly into people’s lifestyles.

Bonus idea: Pair a custom hat with a printed towel or cooler bag to create a stylish summer promo kit. It’s an easy way to impress customers or staff with something they’ll actually use.

3. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #3: Eco-Friendly Beach Essentials

Sustainability continues to shape the promotional industry in Australia, and 2025 is no exception. Businesses are swapping out plastic giveaways for eco-conscious items that reflect their green values.

Branded beach towels, RPET umbrellas, recycled cotton tote bags, and bamboo drinkware are leading the eco-trend this year. These products not only look great but also tell a story, that your brand cares about the environment.

Aussie consumers appreciate authenticity, so choosing sustainable materials can make your brand more relatable and trustworthy.

Pro tip: When ordering eco-friendly merchandise, highlight the material in your branding. For example: “Made from 100% recycled PET bottles” or “Organic cotton for a lighter footprint.” Small details like these can boost your credibility and brand value.

4. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #4: Gift Sets and Custom Packs

Gift packs are no longer just for Christmas. In 2025, summer-themed promotional bundles will become a favorite for both corporate clients and event giveaways.

Imagine handing out a Summer Essentials Pack, a tote bag filled with a branded water bottle, bucket hat, sunscreen, and a mini umbrella. It’s thoughtful, cohesive, and instantly useful.

Many Australian brands are using this approach to create a lasting impression with clients or team members. Instead of one-off items, they’re curating a whole experience that reflects the company’s identity.

Pro tip: If you’re gifting to employees or VIP clients, consider adding a custom golf umbrella to the pack. It elevates the look and adds a premium touch that feels personal and practical.

5. Summer 2025 Merch Trend #5: Sports and Community Merchandise

Sport is a massive part of Aussie culture. And summer is packed with tournaments, charity events, and local club activities. That’s why sports-themed promotional products are expected to boom in 2025.

From custom team shirts and branded towels to personalized golf umbrellas, sports merchandise is a powerful way to build team identity and brand recognition.

Golf, in particular, continues to attract corporate audiences and club members alike. A custom golf umbrella featuring your club or sponsor’s logo not only looks professional on the green but also gives your brand a sense of prestige.

Pro tip: For sports clubs or events, use matching color schemes across all merchandise, shirts, umbrellas, caps, and banners. To create a unified, eye-catching brand presence.

6. Design Trends for 2025: Minimalism Meets Bold Branding

In 2025, the design direction for promotional products is shifting toward clean, minimalist aesthetics with bold accents. Aussie brands are leaning into earthy tones, subtle gradients, and soft neutrals, a move inspired by nature and sustainability.

Logos are becoming more refined, with embroidery and tonal printing taking center stage. The goal is to make branded items feel like lifestyle accessories, not just giveaways.

Pro tip: If you’re designing custom umbrellas, try using contrasting inner linings or patterned panels for a premium finish that grabs attention without shouting your brand name.

7. Why Early Planning Matters for Summer Promotions

With so many brands jumping on the promotional bandwagon, early planning is the key to standing out. Ordering custom merchandise in bulk, especially for summer. Can take weeks due to production and shipping times.

Starting now allows your brand to:

• Get better pricing on bulk orders

• Ensure stock availability for popular items (like golf umbrellas and towels)

• Allow time for quality checks and design revisions

Plus, launching your merch campaign early means your brand will be visible before competitors even get started.

Final Thoughts: The Smart Way to Promote Your Brand This Summer

The 2025 summer merch forecast shows one clear pattern, Aussies want branded items that are useful, stylish, and sustainable. Whether it’s a custom golf umbrella for your company’s golf day, eco-friendly tote bags for a community event, or branded hats for your sports club, the best promotional products are the ones people actually use and love.

By choosing the right mix of practicality, creativity, and sustainability, your brand won’t just survive the summer, it’ll shine.

Ready to Create Your 2025 Summer Merchandise?

At Kiss Promotions, we help Australian brands design and produce high-quality custom merchandise that gets noticed. From golf umbrellas to eco tote bags, we’ve got the gear to keep your brand looking cool all summer long.

Explore our full range of custom promotional products here and get a free quote today!