Top 10 Promotional Products for Back-to-School 2025

As September approaches, businesses and educational institutions across the UK prepare for the back-to-school season, one of the best opportunities for a brand to get visibility. Whether you’re a council welcoming new pupils or a business looking to give branded school supplies, We At EverythingPromoUK offer cost-effective products. Branded Promotional products are not just about giving out free items; they’re a strategic way to boost visibility, build brand loyalty, and increase sales. School items are used daily, shared among peers, and often kept for a long time once given, when schools are opened. Now you understand that School items can be a game changer for your business, but the question arises, what products have to be given to obtain maximum promotional benefits? Well, to tackle this issue, we came up with a list of the top 10 promotional products for back-to-school 2025.

1. Branded Pens

Apart from being affordable and versatile, these pens are always in demand. Whether it’s for jotting down lecture notes or completing homework, promotional pens are used daily across all ages. Available in a wide range of styles, materials, budgets, and colours, these pens are ideal for bulk orders and can be fully customised with logos.

Why they work: Low cost per unit, easy to distribute, and constant brand visibility.

2. Custom Notebooks

Custom Notebooks are ideal for personal uses and a perfect Back-to-school item to give away, Here you can choose different options such as spiral-bound, hardcover, eco-friendly or pocket-sized versions to match the needs of your target audience and at the same time, you can also match your budget.

Tip: Add inspirational quotes or timetables inside the cover to provide added value.

3. Printed Lunch Box

Packing school meals is a daily routine task, and custom lunch box are an excellent canvas for your branding. You can easily add your brand’s logo and tagline to lunch box, It is always recommended to choose a bold colour and fun prints to stand out in the lunchroom.

Bonus: Reusable lunch bags also promote sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.

4. Reusable Water Bottles

Custom Branded water bottles tick all the boxes, they are useful, eco-friendly, and perfect for school sports activities. In recent years, many schools have been promoting plastic-free initiatives, and reusable bottles offer a high-value solution to tackle this issue.

Popular choices include: Stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and collapsable styles.

5. Logo Backpacks

If you’re aiming for maximum brand exposure, then look no further, as custom backpacks offer a wide space to display your brand’s logo and tagline. Your logo will proudly be displayed on the back of every student, and your brand will travel everywhere, from classrooms, buses, to after-school clubs.

Pro tip: Choose durable materials and ergonomic designs for longevity and comfort.

6. Pencil Cases with Branding

Keep your brand’s logo on every desk with custom pencil cases, These cases work great when they are paired with other stationery items such as pens, pencils, erasers and sharpeners. You can opt for clear styles for exam use or colourful zip cases for everyday usage.

Perfect for: Back-to-school kits, new student welcome packs, or open day giveaways.

7. Promotional USB Drives

With digital learning in schools rising, branded USB sticks come into play, especially in secondary schools, colleges, or universities. These USBS play an important role in studies. You can pre-load them with helpful resources or digital coupons to enhance engagement.

Custom shapes and colours help these stand out from standard tech giveaways.

8. Custom Tech Accessories

In 2025 and beyond, tech is not optional but a necessity. Branded tech accessories like wireless earbuds, laptop sleeves, phone holders and much more are increasing their popularity among students day by day. When combined with useful items with high perceived value, these items make them ideal for fresher fairs and university welcome events.

Tip: Choose items that are compatible across devices to increase usability.

9. Eco-Friendly School Supplies

We already know that sustainability is no longer just a trend, but a necessity. Government and schools are turning into items such as bamboo pens, recycled paper notebooks or reused water bottles to minimise the wastage. These products not only serve a purpose but also align with green initiatives and corporate responsibility values.

10. Branded Tote Bags

Apart from being lightweight and easy to carry, Branded bags are a firm favourite for open days, fresher’s fairs and book fairs. These bags are reusable and offer a large print area, so you can easily print your logo and slogan on these bags.

Extra value: Add a leaflet or sample product inside to boost engagement and awareness.

Why Promotional Products Matter for Back-to-School Campaigns

Branded school supplies UK buyers rely on aren’t just items—they’re long-lasting marketing tools. Each product becomes a part of a student’s daily routine, ensuring repeat exposure in classrooms, cafeterias, and commutes. When designed well, these products build emotional connections, boost recall, and support positive brand perception.
Whether you’re handing out water bottles, notebooks during induction week or sponsoring pencil cases for primary schools, every item you provide makes a chance for your brand to be a part of someone’s educational journey.

Need Custom Back-to-School Items? Let’s Talk!

We offer a wide range of promotional school products perfect for PTAs, academies, colleges, and local councils. Our team can help with everything from choosing the right items to managing fulfilment and delivery. Get in touch today to start planning your back-to-school campaign and make 2025 your most memorable year yet.