Frigid Conditions

For distributors, picking the right "oversize" is easy, just look to the activity. "A trim fit depends selecting a size that works best with the activity chosen," Klein said. He also noted that workwear and uniforms are less "style-dependent" than everyday wear. If you are looking for outerwear to be worn on off time, try a bomber jacket. "A leather jacket is highly regarded for functional luxury," remarked Walther.

Bundled
Every sale is an opportunity to bundle multiple products together. Jackets are typically worn with scarves, gloves, hats and other cold-weather necessities. Use that common knowledge to your advantage. "Our jackets are typically sold alone but with the addition of lambskin leather gloves to our inventory, we expect to see more packages put together," said Walther. "We can deboss the gloves with a smaller version of a left chest or yoke logo," he added.

In addition, you also want to make sure you:

Know Where to Look for Business
Though all markets can benefit from a warm coat, uniform-wearing markets are mostly likely to purchase jackets. Walther listed automotive, banking, manufacturing, transportation, tournaments and aerospace as possibilities, as well as safety and incentive programs. Davis added colleges and universities, high schools, landscaping, car dealerships and resorts. He also mentioned corporate golf outings and team events as good places for jackets.

Remember the Ladies
Originally most jackets in the promotional products industry were targeted toward men, but now suppliers are expanding their lines to include female styles. "Lately, there has been an increased demand for a leather jacket solution for women," noted Walther. "We currently have nine jacket styles designed specifically for women and a dozen more that can be comfortably worn by both men and women."

Fix Incorrect Embroidery
An added benefit of embroidery: It can be mistake-free. "Mistakes can oftentimes be repaired with ease, and fine lettering and details tend to run and look smoother than when run on items such as loose knit, or textured garments," explained Davis.