Findings indicate that K-12 institutions with inconsistent merch offerings see weaker fundraising and community engagement.

Schools with a consistent spiritwear program often see high attendance numbers at their events and stronger community engagement.

Data from the new 2026 School Spirit Gap Survey, conducted by Counselor Top 40 distributor Custom Ink (asi/173232), shows that 33% of schools’ community event organizers with recurring branded product offerings reported higher-than-expected turnout at their most recent event. Among those with no program at all, that number dropped to 14%.

Among those surveyed, more than 60% of schools with a regular merch program strongly agree that spiritwear is key to community engagement and school pride. Meanwhile, 43% of organizers say their programs are inconsistent year-to-year, even though nearly half (48%) say merchandise is a primary fundraiser that’s often more effective than candy sales and coupon books.

The survey was completed by 447 K-12 PTA coordinators, booster club leads, athletic directors, teachers and administrators across the U.S., and shows that schools without consistent swag programs are leaving money and community pride on the table. Organizers should consider building a recurring spiritwear program – same process, same timeline, every year – as a useful lever for improving community outcomes.

Whether at small businesses or large-scale events, these vibrant banners and flags are ideal for making client branding stand out in a crowd.

Convention centers across the U.S. host thousands of trade shows and conferences throughout the year for every industry under the sun. The largest shows draw hundreds of thousands of attendees – meaning equally as many opportunities for exhibitor branding to make an impression. A vibrant branded banner or flag is an ideal option for showcasing logos, images or other artwork to draw in visitors.

Go big or go home with this branded adjustable fabric backdrop, available in 8’ x 8’ or 8’ x 10’ sizes. Includes adjustable telescoping poles, a 9-ounce wrinkle-free polyester fabric banner and a carry bag. Ideal for sponsorships at events or photo shoots.

This 31.5” wide retractor kit has a double-footed lightweight aluminum base and a snap rail banner attachment for easy swaps. Printed on no-curl opaque fabric. Includes carry case and one-year hardware warranty. Think trade shows and fundraiser signage.

Enhance any promotional display with this tabletop mini-retractable banner. Crafted from vinyl fabric, it measures 11.5” x 16.5” and takes decoration on one side of the panel. Well-suited for hostess stands, banks or retail stores. Hardware included.

Perfect for the college and sports markets, this 3’ x 5’ double-sided knit polyester promotional flag showcases full-color logos, photographs and more. Finished with a canvas heading, they’re appropriate for indoor or outdoor use.

Help clients prepare for their first trade show with a full branded display setup, including a 10’ x 10’ vinyl backdrop, retractable banner and poly poplin table cover. A must for any company tabling at an event.

This lightweight banner excels in high-traffic areas thanks to its durable vinyl fabric. With a single-sided anti-curl design, it offers custom sizing and various color options. Select from hem-only, grommet or pole pocket finishing options. Great for school gymnasiums or event advertising.