The Stanley (Tumbler) Cup -- Cool Cup, Hot Promo

When it comes to promotional products, some things are just about universally loved. Take custom tumblers and water bottles, for example. As environmental awareness has grown, many people are rejecting single-use plastic water bottles for reusable alternatives.

With a wide variety of products available, several have become “it” brands in the eyes of consumers over the years, especially among younger buyers. The most recent beneficiary of this phenomenon is the Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler. Limited editions have even reached collectible status, selling for hundreds of dollars over their retail price of $45.

Why Are Stanley Tumblers So Popular Right Now?

The current Stanley tumbler craze started after a Maryland woman retrieved a tumbler from her burned-out car, and it still had ice in it. The TikTok video went viral, creating interest. 

Stanley also offered unique custom colors and imprints in limited editions through retailers such as Target and Starbucks. After the video went viral, interest in the rare colors spiked. 

Others Have Gone Before

Stanley’s cup is hardly the first to be seen as a status symbol. Other brands, including Nalgene, Hydro Flask, S’well and CamelBak, all have enjoyed time in the spotlight as the must-have accessory for gym, beach or travel. But Stanley’s tumbler seems to have taken things to a higher level.

Recently, some buyers camped overnight outside Target stores to be first in line when a limited-edition “Starbucks x Stanley” version went on sale. Both the Washington Post and NPR did stories on the cup’s popularity.

The Secret No One Mentions

The popularity of the Stanley tumblers has even gone viral among the pre-teen set. One Ohio mother took to TikTok to lament that her daughter had been teased and harassed for having a tumbler that wasn’t genuine Stanley. It truly has become a status item for the elementary-school set. (Much like Converse high-top sneakers were back in my day. I was really popular in my brown Earth Shoes.)

There’s no question that the Stanley tumbler is top quality. The company has been in business for more than 100 years. We offer the Stanley tumbler as an option.

Of course, Stanley isn’t the only tumbler brand out there, nor is it the only one that commands a loyal audience. Many people swear by Yeti, Artic and other brands.

But that doesn’t account for the whims of influencers on Instagram, TikTok, and other social media outlets. In a world where image is everything, the brand matters. Many people have filmed themselves waiting in line for hours before store openings, just to be able to get one of the coveted tumblers.

Others have shown scenes of frenzied grappling inside stores at display racks. One man even reportedly jumped over a store counter to steal a box of the Stanley Quenchers.

The secret nobody mentions is that, Ohio 9-year-olds notwithstanding, people often can’t tell the difference between tumbler brands. Especially with a custom imprint, it’s often impossible to differentiate tumblers from one producer or another without a very close inspection.

Most quality tumblers sold today feature double-wall, vacuum insulated construction. The Stanley version specifies that it’s made from recycled stainless steel, which is even more of a plus to eco-conscious customers. But any quality tumbler helps reduce the number of single-use plastic bottles being tossed away.

And most good tumblers are likely to perform similarly, maintaining drink temperatures for many hours without difficulty.

Opportunity Calling

So what does that mean for you, the marketer? A golden opportunity! Custom tumblers are hot right now, having their moment in the product sun.

Get your brand or logo onto custom tumblers and you’ll be giving prospective customers something they want and will appreciate. That will give them positive feelings about your brand and serve as a mobile billboard for your logo.

Tumblers and Water Bottles Keep Your Brand Hot

Custom tumblers such as the Stanley cup (not to be confused with the Stanley Cup hockey trophy) are a fantastic way to get your logo or brand out into the public eye. As the popularity of the brands mentioned show, people love these things!

That’s because they’re perfect for the gym, the beach, the car, anywhere people want to stay hydrated. Multiple studies have long demonstrated the importance of hydration for good health. Custom tumblers are one of the most convenient ways to promote getting enough water during exercise or on long trips.

From a marketing standpoint, they’re hard to beat too. Your brand goes wherever the cup goes. The more active the owner, the more people will see your logo. If they ask the cup’s owner about it, that’s an opportunity for positive word of mouth as well.

Custom tumblers such as the Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState can boost office morale as well. They’re an excellent reward for outstanding performance, and when imprinted with your logo, help create a sense of teamwork and camaraderie among the staff.

Customizing Your Tumblers

There are two common ways to customize tumblers and water bottles – screen printing or laser engraving. Screen printing offers bold colors. Laser engraving costs a bit more, but gives a more timeless, upscale look that won’t fade. The choice is up to you.

And the Trends Keep Moving On…

Even today, as the Stanley cup is ascendant, others are waiting in the wings. Today’s influencers are a fickle lot, always looking for the next big thing. In December, New York magazine reported that the Owala Free Sip is becoming popular. Could it be the next hot trend in custom tumblers? Maybe.

If you’re looking for ways to market your brand, remember this: fads fade, trends die, and the cool kids always jump ship eventually. After all, Nike and Adidas replaced those Converse All-Stars. But if you offer a top quality, custom logoed tumbler – of any brand – you’ll still benefit from the added visibility and promotion they give your logo.

At TJM Promos, we’re dedicated to fulfilling all your custom promotional product needs. Whether you need custom tumblers, coffee mugs, t-shirts, pens or virtually any other kind of promo item, we’re here for you. Our experienced team can help you choose the perfect products to boost your brand, and your bottom line.

Count on TJM for the best promotional products, the best prices and the finest customer service you’ll find anywhere. We’re committed to your total satisfaction with everything you purchase from us. Call or email us today to find out how we can help you integrate the best custom products in the world into your marketing plan.