Parasols, Maraschino Cherries and Green Olives

Get physical

Besides visual embellishments, standing out via touch is another avenue for drinkware to establish a distinct identity. Ramos mentioned a 3-D imprinting that Berney-Karp offers which works similarly to embossing, creating an image that the end-user can actually feel while holding the mug, as opposed to the normal one- or four-color flat imprints.

Along with a distinct feel, Merkin highlighted the importance of physical toughness. “We’re using the heavy-gauge steels with our steel mugs and the heavy-gauge aluminums,” said Merkin. “That’s one of the things you want to make sure of with the drinkware, because you can put two items up against each other that look exactly alike, yet, if the item is made with a thinner-gauge steel, it’s going to dent easier, you can almost squeeze it and dent it with your hand,” he said. Merkin also recommended knowing the quality of any stainless-steel products, as they may actually contain imperfections that will cause the product to rust, and making sure all drinkware is tested for lead and other contaminants.