Australian-Owned
At Good Things, we only create good things. That said, some custom products this year didn’t just perform well; they took off. We’re talking warehouse-team-having-Groundhog-Day levels of demand.
In 2025, we invested more than ever in custom product development with our socially audited, ethically approved factory partners and in-house team. We built countless bespoke pieces from scratch and, along the way, spotted patterns: what resonated, what brands kept reordering, and which ideas became true success stories.
This list isn’t just the products with the best ROI – it’s a breakdown of the custom products that genuinely moved the needle, plus the patterns worth repeating.
So, here’s the custom products that worked really, really well in 2025.
The Top Custom Branded Product Picks of 2025
1. Got It in the Bag: Custom Paper Bags
We’ve been busy working on a LOT of custom paper bags this year. Our guess as to why?
There are simply so many possibilities for branding across paper bags, both in look and feel, while remaining eco-friendly through our FSC-certified partners. With endless options in size, finish, handle types, and print techniques, brands leaned into paper bags as a sustainable, aesthetic, high-impact pick.
The trend: We don’t see the paper-bag bandwagon slowing down anytime soon, so if you haven’t jumped on, now’s the time.
2. Pull Up a Chair: Custom Camping Chairs
Next up, premium custom camping chairs. They’re all about connection, sitting down with family and friends, ideally around a campfire. Wholesome, practical, and ridiculously comfortable.
Beyond full-brand customisation, there’s also a huge scope for product innovation. For example, Coopers’ custom camping chair included cooler pockets for their icy beverages, a small detail with the customer in mind.
The trend: Intentional merch is on the rise. Products people actually use (not shelf) outperform everything else.
3. Bucket Loads of Fun: KFC’s Custom Product Suite
One of our favourite projects of the year: KFC’s custom products range. The success came from seamless collaboration with their team, and, of course, from how fun the brand is. We also implemented new technology to deliver 3D mockups faster than ever.
The hero piece? A custom denim jacket embroidered with key brand symbols: bold, confident, and full of southern charm.
The trend: Big brands are leaning into statement apparel with personality, texture, and a collector’s-item feel.
4. The Plush Toy That Became a Collector’s Item
A cult-favourite frozen yoghurt chain turning their mascot into a plush toy? Instant hit.
The Yo-Chi Bear Mascot proves what’s possible when there are no design restrictions, complete freedom in size, branding, materials, and printing, powered by the latest 3D design tech.
The result? Kids begging for the plush. Adults collecting them. A product that became part of the Yo-Chi universe.
From the Yo-Chi Team:
“It was great working with Nelson and Good Things to bring our Yo-Chi Bear Mascot to life. We didn’t have any specifications or drawings to give Good Things to work with, but their design team still nailed the bear. It’s pretty easy to find kids in Yo-Chi venues across the country begging their parents for these Yo-Chi Plush Bears, and I’ve heard they’re now a collector’s item!”
How We Create Cult-Favourite Custom Products
What separates standout custom products from typical branded merchandise?
Design and quality matter, but the ideation, exploration, and collaboration process is where the magic actually happens.
Here’s what sets our approach apart:
- In-house product designers, so your product ideas have no bounds
- 3D mockup technology that speeds up decision-making
- A team that scours the earth for the best materials and products
- A dedicated warehouse facility so partners have more control over logistics and distribution
- Sustainable partnerships that never compromise on quality
The Power of In-House Product Designers
We’d be remiss not to mention the creative minds behind our custom product designs.
This year, we welcomed two full-time product designers, giving us a complete in-house suite of creatives, account managers, and logistics specialists, all under the Good Things roof across our three offices and warehouse.
When designers understand branding and product development, the results speak for themselves: faster turnarounds, clearer problem-solving, and products that genuinely capture your brand’s essence.
What’s Next for Custom Products in 2026
We predict bold colour blocking and rich, layered textures will define branded products in 2026. Colour blocking is shifting from a fun addition to a core brand tool, helping products stand out in fast-scrolling feeds. Paired with tactile elements like matte/gloss finishes, embossed details, and mixed materials, brands will create merch people want to pick up and interact with.
You can follow the trends, but what’s essential is simple: strong design, quality materials, and a team that can bring your ideas to life.
Ready to Create Custom Products That Move the Needle?
Our team is ready to collaborate on brandable products built with creativity, intention, and sustainability. Whether you’re after custom paper bags, premium camping chairs, statement apparel, or a completely bespoke idea, we’ll take you from concept to delivery with care.
Let’s build something unforgettable in 2026!
