Is swag still worth it—or just landfill with a logo? In this Talk, the Convene editors debate whether business events need giveaways at all, and what actually delivers value when they do. From “no-swag” charitable gifting and local-maker gift cards to consumables, thoughtful keepsakes, and scent-driven memories, the group shares smart ideas for reducing waste while deepening attendee connection. If you’re rethinking bags, bottles, and branded pens, this episode gives practical alternatives and guardrails.

Links:

·       7 Wellness-Themed Gifting Ideas: https://meetings.skift.com/2025/10/13/7-wellness-themed-gifting-ideas/

·       Rethinking Swag at Events: https://www.pcma.org/rethinking-swag-events/

·       Cowbells and Woolen Slippers — Cherished Handmade Gifts From Events: https://www.pcma.org/cowbells-woolen-slippers-cherished-handmade-gifts-from-events/

·       Responsible Swag: Rethinking Giving and Receiving at Events: https://www.pcma.org/rethinking-giving-receiving-events/  

·       Helping the Earth and Creating Community One Tree at a Time: https://www.pcma.org/treedom-tree-planting-climate-change-events/

·       An Immersive Three Days in Victoria, B.C.: https://www.pcma.org/immersive-three-days-in-victoria-bc/

Get News Junkie: https://www.pcma.org/campaign/news-junkie/ 

Meet the Convene Editors: https://www.pcma.org/contact/ 

·      Michelle Russell, Editor in Chief

·      Barbara Palmer, Deputy Editor

·      Jennifer N. Dienst, Senior Editor

·      Kate Mulcrone, Managing Digital Editor

·      Magdalina Atanassova, Digital Media Editor

Follow Convene:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/pcma-convene/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcmaconvene/ 

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@pcmaconvene 

Medium: https://medium.com/@convenemagazine 

X: https://x.com/pcmaconvene  

Contact Information: For any questions, reach out to Magdalina Atanassova, matanassova(at)pcma(dot)org.

Sponsorships and Partnerships: Reach 36,000 qualified meeting organizers with Convene, the multi-award-winning magazine for the business events industry. Contact our sales team: https://www.pcma.org/advertise-sponsorship/

Music: Inspirational Cinematic Piano with Orchestra