Simon Dutton

As one of the UK’s leading brand and sales experts, Simon Dutton knows a thing or two about people and what motivates them to act. He started his own business, Gloweasy Promotions, in 2000 after working in business development, branding, sales and marketing. On the back of this experience, Simon harnessed his understanding of what drives customers to become a pioneer in connecting businesses to people through bespoke branded products.

For Simon, branded products represent far more than their functional purpose. The team at Gloweasy Promotions design and manufacture a wide range of small promotional items, embracing the power of pens, mugs, bags and the like to create a positive experience for customers or potential customers. "Useful products are tangible items that delight people, at the time they receive them and every time they use them," explains Simon, adding, "A quirky promotion can allow your humour to be shared."

Branded gifts stay with the customer

Just like the excitement of finding the free gift in a box of cereal, receiving a fun promotional gift can trigger an emotional response that leaves a lasting impression. Promotional products can also provide a longer-lived experience than the usual marketing tools. Customers might not necessarily open emails, and leaflets and brochures are often quickly consigned to the bin, but Simon says people are much less inclined to throw away a useful product. These days, everybody needs USBs and power banks and no one turns up their nose at a handy new umbrella.

"A relevant promotional gift will stay in sight and in mind much longer. I have a stress cricket ball on my desk with a drinks company’s branding on it and I play with it constantly. The subliminal advertising value is priceless."

Exceptional customer service is the key to success

Gloweasy Promotions helps businesses grow by getting their customers to associate their brands with quality, professional services and products. It’s something Simon and his team have been able to do for some major clients, including Jamie Oliver, the Daily Mirror and British Swimming. While Simon certainly enjoys the opportunities to collaborate with big brands, he says his team is just as enthusiastic about helping smaller businesses build a great reputation. "We’re passionate about really getting to know our clients and what will work for them," he says.

Simon feels strongly that his own business has been successful because he’s been able to provide an exceptional service. With expert advice, he guides his clients through the process of understanding what they need to achieve results and delivers high quality products on time with no hidden costs.

"You can’t buy our products online because we believe our free advice service is what sets us apart. We don’t charge for sourcing, design or consultation," he says.

The Gloweasy team goes the extra mile

This service extends beyond a consultation on what sort of product might work for the brand. Gloweasy Promotions assists with the branding itself. Simon believes that a high quality logo is crucial to conveying professionalism. For businesses just starting out, Simon and his team help to make sure their logo is as clear and crisp as it can be, offering a basic re draw and other services to ensure an effective product. "Our love for what we do runs a lot deeper than the products we sell," says Simon. "We’re a passionate team that is focused on the service we provide."

He credits this attitude for the fact that 90% of Gloweasy’s sales are made through repeat service and referrals. He says, "Put simply it is the personal touch. It’s important to make real connections with your customers and prospective clients, by reaching out and letting them know that you are there and they are valued."