Top 6 Eco-Merch Trends from AIME 2026 That Make Brands Look Brilliant

Plantable Seed Pens

Sustainable Branding Takes Centre Stage at AIME 2026

Sustainability continues to reshape the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector, and one of the standout trends at AIME 2026 was eco-friendly branded merchandise. Australian merchandise specialist Look Brilliant showcased a thoughtful collection of environmentally responsible products designed to help organisations reduce waste while strengthening brand impact.

From plantable stationery to recycled textiles, these innovative items demonstrate how businesses can align promotional strategies with sustainability goals while delivering practical value to recipients.

Below are six standout eco-merch ideas that captured attention on the exhibition floor.

1. Plantable Seed Pens: Write, Plant, Grow

Plantable seed pens merge functionality with environmental responsibility. Crafted from eco-friendly materials, each pen delivers a smooth writing experience capable of producing up to 1100 metres of ink.

Once finished, the seeded end can be planted in soil to grow flowers, herbs or vegetables, reducing landfill waste by approximately six grams per pen. Organic, fair-trade plant materials reinforce the sustainability story, making these pens ideal for conferences, offices and environmentally conscious campaigns.

2. RPET Lens Cloth: Clean Screens, Cleaner Planet

RPET lens cloth

Made from 200gsm recycled PET material, the RPET lens cloth offers a practical everyday solution for cleaning eyewear, phones and screens. The 15cm microfibre cloth is presented in a recyclable cardboard pouch and can be customised with vibrant sublimation printing.

With a minimum order of 250 units and air-freight delivery in approximately three weeks, it provides a functional and sustainable giveaway suitable for corporate events and technology-focused audiences.

3. Roma Recycled Pen: Modern Design Meets Reclaimed Materials

Roma Recycled Pen

The Roma Recycled Pen combines recycled aluminium with a natural bamboo push button, demonstrating how reclaimed materials can deliver a premium look and feel.

This stylish writing instrument is laser engraved with your logo, offering a refined branding option while supporting circular economy principles. It is an excellent choice for organisations wanting a professional yet environmentally responsible promotional item.

4. Seed Paper Bookmarks: A Gift That Blossoms

Seed paper bookmarks

Seed paper bookmarks provide a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper giveaways. Embedded with native wildflower, herb or vegetable seeds, they can be planted after use to grow living plants.

These bookmarks are ideal for literary events, educational institutions and conferences seeking meaningful keepsakes that leave a lasting impression without leaving waste behind.

5. Recycled Apple JournalBook 

Mela Recycled A5 Apple JournalBook

The Mela Recycled A5 Apple JournalBook features a uniquely crafted hardcover incorporating apple components and recycled materials. It includes 80 sheets of white lined 100 percent recycled paper, a ribbon page marker, elastic closure, pen loop and a back document pocket.

This distinctive notebook combines functionality with forward-thinking design, making it ideal for conferences, corporate gifts and eco-conscious workplaces.

6. Premium Canvas Tote: Sustainable Everyday Essentials

Made from heavy-duty 16oz recycled cotton canvas, this premium tote bag is designed for durability and everyday use. Available in a range of colours, it features debossed branding on both handles and embroidered logo detailing on one side for a refined, high-impact finish.

With generous dimensions of 50cm x 50cm x 5cm, a large internal zip compartment and a smaller pocket for organisation, the tote is perfect for events, retail use and premium brand activations. Sea freight delivery to major Australian cities takes approximately eight weeks.

Merchandise That Reflects Modern Values

premium tote bag

Eco-friendly merchandise is no longer a niche choice; it is becoming a core component of responsible brand storytelling. By choosing sustainable products, organisations demonstrate environmental commitment while providing recipients with useful items that reinforce positive brand perception.

Businesses seeking tailored recommendations can connect directly with the Look Brilliant team for expert guidance.

Contact Look Brilliant

General enquiries: hello@lookbrilliant.com.au

Colin: colin@lookbrilliant.com.au

Glen: glen@lookbrilliant.com.au
Jenna: jenna@lookbrilliant.com.au
Kate: kate.johnson@lookbrilliant.com.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/