When choosing promotional polo shirts, you are faced with a fairly extensive range of options, and if you are a newcomer to the world of promotional merchandise, and promotional apparel in particular, it can be difficult to know where to start, and how to narrow down your options to the shirts that will complement your company image and the types of uses you intend for your items. Here's a quick run-down of some important factors that should be considered when making your decision.

?Who will wear your shirts, and when?

These are perhaps the most important questions to ask, because the answers will determine the basic types of shirts you will need. Shirts that are intended for one-off events such as trade shows or company picnics, for example, do not necessarily need to be of high quality. On the other hand, if you are buying shirts that your employees will wear on a daily basis-for example as work uniforms-you'll be better served with shirts made of more durable high quality fabric.

If you are buying shirts for promotional giveaways or purchase incentives, quality should be an important consideration. You do not want to get a reputation for giving away low quality products, as that can carry over into people thinking that the products you sell are also low quality. When you're giving items to customers and clients, quality is of paramount importance.

?How much can you afford to spend?

In general, you should buy the best quality you can afford, but you should also let the intended use of the items dictate how much you will spend. This ties into the previous question of the uses the shirts will be put to-you'll be able to spend less per item when the shirts do not have to be of high quality.

In most cases, the price per item includes the cost of a single color, single position printed design, however note that most companies also charge a setup cost for each printing color.

?What colors and designs will complement your business the best?

The variety of color options available varies depending on the style of the shirt you choose. In general you can expect anywhere from four to over a dozen color choices. When selecting colors, make sure that those you choose colors that complement any company colors or logos that you intend to add. Additionally, consider choosing colors and printed designs that reflect your company image, and say something about the products or services you offer.

You'll also need to choose a design location in addition to the design itself. There are three commonly-used locations-on the left breast, on the left or right sleeve, or on the back at around shoulder height. You'll usually be able to fit a larger design on the back of the shirt than you would on the front. It's possible to buy shirts with designs printed in more than one position; however these will typically incur an extra charge.

When considering your design, note that some polo shirt styles offer the option of having your design embroidered rather than printed. Embroidered designs are particularly attractive and durable; however they usually add a considerable amount to the cost per item.

We at YesGifts.co.uk are happy to help you with your promotional products requirements. Our Promotional Team is extremely qualified and can provide you with the committed expert service you would look forward to from a major company. Call us on 0870 933 0085.