When I was in the H.E.B. grocery store in Texas, I was surprised by a large display of branded merchandise prominently featuring the H.E.B. logo as if it were Nike, Ralph Lauren, or some other status symbol. But then my Aldi advertising flyer came, and one-quarter of the page showcases Aldi apparel for sale: Aldi sneakers, sweatshirts, socks, hats, tumblers, and even pet sweatshirts. Huh?
I am not on board with the latest trend requiring me to pay to advertise a business’s brand. It used to be that such items were given out free — as promotional items — not sold as regular merchandise. Then it was popular to have branded items from niche stores (dot #4067). Now it just seems like a blatant mainstream money grab.
It’s great for team members and those close to the organization to show their pride with logo merchandise but I’d prefer you treat your advertising as promotion, not as products for sale.
