The Challenge
Smith Optics was looking for a way to make their holiday sales campaign stand out. They wanted to offer a gift-with-purchase that didn’t feel cheap or disposable, something their customers would actually use, keep, and associate with the brand. The challenge was to create products that felt cohesive with Smith’s identity while offering real value to the customer, all within tight seasonal timelines.
They needed a partner who could handle design, sourcing, and fulfillment from end to end. More than that, they wanted merchandise that felt thoughtful and elevated, something that would enhance the buying experience without distracting from their core product offering.
Our Approach
We collaborated with the Smith Optics team to understand their audience and aesthetic. We pulled references from their product line and visual identity to inform the look and feel of the gift items. The goal was to make the gift-with-purchase feel like an extension of the brand, not an afterthought.
We focused on versatile, wearable items that would see regular use: products that customers would take with them on ski trips, outdoor excursions, or just around town. We paid close attention to material quality, fit, and custom graphics, making sure every piece looked and felt like a Smith product.
The Solution
We developed a collection of premium giveaways that included:
- Custom-knit socks with branded patterns and soft, durable materials
- Tote bags built for daily use, featuring clean design and subtle branding
- Cold-weather beanies and hats that aligned with the season and the Smith aesthetic
Each item was built to add value, not clutter, to the customer’s purchase experience. We managed production and delivery timelines to ensure everything landed on schedule ahead of the holiday rush.
The Results
The program had a noticeable impact. Holiday sales improved, and customers responded positively to the quality and usefulness of the giveaways. More importantly, the products lived on well after the transaction, offering extended brand visibility in the real world.
This project reinforced a key idea that drives a lot of our work: branded merchandise should never feel like filler. When done right, it becomes part of your brand story. For Smith Optics, it was a small campaign with long-term impact.
