The Ultimate Guide to Using Custom Keyrings for Business Growth
Think keyrings are outdated? Think again. In a world obsessed with digital impressions, tactile marketing tools like custom keyrings punch above their weight - offering brand visibility, daily utility, and serious ROI.
Whether you’re launching a startup, running a promotion, or just tired of pens no one uses, custom keyrings are the overlooked MVP of branded merchandise.
Why Keyrings Work – Branding That Sticks
- Retention: A keyring goes everywhere - your customer sees your brand multiple times a day.
- Utility: Unlike a flyer or sticker, people use keyrings.
- Versatility: Fits every industry, from estate agents to student unions.
- Cost-effective: Affordable to produce at scale, even with customisation.
Fun fact: Branded items with daily utility are 2x more likely to be kept for over a year. (Source: BPMA)
Best Types of Keyrings for Different Industries
| Industry | Recommended Keyring | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Estate Agents | Acrylic keyrings for property branding | Shop Acrylic Keyrings |
| Automotive | Bottle opener keyrings with logo insert | Bottle Opener Range |
| Universities/Colleges | Insert keyrings for student events | Student Promo Ideas |
| Creative Businesses | Clear photo keyrings for art/print | Grow Your Creative Business |
| Hospitality | Custom engraved keyrings | Contact Us for Bulk Orders |
How to Design the Perfect Keyring
Choose the Right Material
- Acrylic – Durable, lightweight, budget-friendly.
- Metal – Premium feel, best for professional services.
- Recycled plastic – Eco-conscious branding (coming soon?).
Maximise the Insert Design
- Use bold brand colours
- Include a call-to-action or QR code
- Make it memorable – humour, local landmarks, mascots
Check out blank insert sizes & templates
Campaign Ideas That Actually Work
- Estate Agent Welcome Packs – Include a branded keyring when handing over keys.
- Event Giveaways – Trade shows, open days, or conferences—always a hit.
- Customer Loyalty Programs – Send a custom keyring after a 2nd or 3rd purchase.
- Charity Fundraising – Create collectable or cause-related designs.
- Ecommerce Freebies – Drop a keyring into every shipped order for extra delight.
Real-World Success Story
Irish School Wins a National Award
Students at Shountrade National School in Limerick, Ireland, turned blank photo rulers into a national award-winning project. As part of the Junior Entrepreneur Programme, they designed and assembled rulers featuring Irish presidents—starting with just 50 units and scaling to over 500.
They even set up a full production line in school, presented their work to the Taoiseach, and clinched a national award on 20 May 2025.
“The rulers have been a great success … Thanks again to Ann and the team.” — Nancy White, parent
Budget & ROI – The Numbers Game
- Cost per keyring: As low as £0.10 when ordered in bulk
- Visibility: 5–10 impressions per day, per keyring
- Lifespan: 6–18 months average
That’s thousands of impressions for pennies - try getting that from Instagram ads.
FAQs
Q: What’s the minimum order?
A: Orders start from as little as 50 units depending on the product.
Q: Can I customise both sides of the insert?
A: Absolutely. Most acrylic keyrings support double-sided inserts.
Q: Do you offer design help?
A: Yes, check out our design template guide or contact us for assistance.
Ready to Get Started?
Custom keyrings are more than just merch - they’re marketing with a keychain.
- Affordable
- Highly visible
- Easy to personalise
- Massively effective
Author’s Note:
This post is part of our ongoing series on how to maximise the power of promotional products. Coming up next week: 5 Creative Campaigns Using Bottle-Opener Keyrings—don’t miss it.