In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby dig into a bold sensory marketing move from Subway — a scratch-and-sniff billboard designed to stop attention and create real connection.

From there, Jade introduces her new Merch Pyramid, a simple framework for evaluating branded merchandise based on Utility, Aesthetic, and Connection — and why the top of the pyramid is where real impact happens.

We wrap things up by getting practical, talking through the branded merch we’re packing for our upcoming trip to PPAI Expo in Las Vegas, and how those items fit into the Merch Pyramid.

If you’re looking for smarter merch ideas, creative marketing inspiration, and real-world takeaways, this one’s for you.