Among those who have launched pop-ups, 80% said it was a success and 58% said they would do another pop-up, according to a survey of more than 600 professionals in the global retail industry. After hosting a pop-up store, these retailers reported improved market visibility and increased sales and social media buzz.

For online-only retailers, pop-up stores are especially appealing. They give shoppers a chance to interact more directly with products, and because pop-up stores are temporary by design, they also create a sense of urgency to buy now. These “here today, gone tomorrow” shops allow brands to connect with consumers in fun, fresh ways without committing to a brick-and-mortar location. They also don’t require a huge financial investment. About half (44%) of retailers who host pop-up shops spend less than $5,000.

Brands with established physical locations also benefit from pop-up stores. By popping up in different locations, they can drive traffic and sales while reaching a new customer base. Businesses can also set up pop-in stores, which are simply stores within a store. Nordstrom has used this strategy since 2013 with its Pop-In @Nordstrom concept. Every four to six weeks, the retailer features a new themed pop-up from brands like Everlane, The North Face and Warby Parker.

Pop-up stores can pop up anywhere – festivals, local boutiques, mall concourses. Busch Beer even launched a “pop-up schop” bar in a national forest to benefit the National Forest Foundation. Organizations can turn to promotional products to not only build buzz and attract foot traffic, but to keep their brand top of mind in the long term. Try one of these pop-up ideas:

Seasonal pop-up shop: To take advantage of crisp fall weather, brands can set up a pop-up shop at football tailgating events, homecoming parades and pumpkin patches. Local businesses can get in front of fans and attendees with all kinds of logoed items, from rally towels to sunscreen.

Nonprofit pop-up shop: Pop-ups can also be great fundraising opportunities for local nonprofits, churches and schools. Offer branded products for sale to raise money while spreading the word about a specific cause. Promo items like tumblers and bags are perpetually useful.

Local up-and-comer pop-up: Community festivals provide prime real estate for pop-up shops, and not just for brands. Individuals like authors and chefs can set up a shop to let the community know about their new book or catering service. Branded merch like bookmarks and kitchen tools get the professional’s name added exposure.

Food Trucks: The First Pop-Up Stores: Not all pop-up shops sell merch – some sell food. Since the iconic Wienermobile (now the Frankmobile) first appeared in the 1930s, food trucks have continued to grow in popularity. The U.S. is home to more than 35,000 food trucks, which is up from 24,000 in 2020. California boasts the most food trucks, followed by Texas and Florida. Whether food trucks are rolling into street food markets, music festivals or business districts, owners can dole out promos to connect with customers and keep them coming back for more.

In a world where most people prefer online shopping, promotional products can help draw people away from their screens and into a pop-up store to shop. Here are some promo ideas to make pop-up shops a success.