We may live in a world of cloud storage, shared docs and seventeen open tabs, but have you noticed? You’ve still got a favourite notebook.
There's just something about a good pen or notebook that has survived the digital revolution.
- The nostalgia of writing the date at the top of the page.
- The satisfaction of finishing a book (could never be me).
- The excitement of finding the perfect jotter for the project/to-do list/hobby that you can’t wait to begin.
Tapping a screen just doesn’t have the same appeal.
Whatever it is, stationery is one of the best-loved categories in branded merchandise: a staple of desks, meeting rooms and conference goodie bags everywhere.
Which is exactly why co-branding with the right stationery names could be so good for your merch strategy - and we’re here to tell you about our three favourites.
Need more inspiration?
Check out our full range of brandable stationery to find the perfect fit for your brand.
In short…
- Stationery remains one of the most-loved (and most-used) categories in branded merch.
- Co-branding with the right names borrows credibility instantly - Karst for sustainability, Prodir for Swiss precision, Waterman for Parisian prestige.
- Each brand suits a different moment: conference kits, everyday desk essentials, or VIP client gifts.
- The result: a tactile but subtle signal you mean business (no digital squiggle required).
Why co-branding works for stationery
What do you look for when ordering stationery?
Whether it be longevity, quality, or look of the piece, we understand better than most that a pen can’t just be any pen.
It has to be one that’ll stand up to the last-minute notes, the impromptu meeting requests, the “Have you got a pen?” requests.
And that’s why co-branding with stationery brands is a shortcut to credibility.
From sustainability to engineering (and even Parisian heritage) - their brand story becomes yours, too.
And you’ll know that pens always, ALWAYS get used.
For repeated brand exposure you’ll want to write home about.
1. Karst
Sustainability guides everything that Karst does. From their beautiful, high-quality, recycled stone paper notebooks and journals to their woodless pencils, creativity and conscious choices sit side by side at Karst.
Karst's story
- Karst asked: Does a notebook need to be made from paper?
- Instead, they looked at creating notebooks from recycled stone rather than wood pulp.
- Meaning no bleaches, no acids, no trees felled in the process.
Karst's mission
- Karst loves challenging an assumption, and then building something better.
- Sustainability guides everything they do.
Why you'll love Karst
- Their paper is waterproof, tear-resistant and smooth to write on
- They're B Corp certified
- They’re carbon neutral
- They plant a tree with every website order (just like us!)
Co-branding with Karst
- Ideal for: brands with sustainability at the heart of their story.
- Great for: conference goodie bags, onboarding kits and client gifting.
2. Prodir
Timeless, functional, sustainable. Known for its innovative design and Swiss craftsmanship, Prodir produces writing instruments you won't want to lose.
Prodir's story
- Prodir was originally founded in 1961 as Premec.
- The Prodir brand itself was created in the 1980s.
- They have continued to craft high-quality Swiss pens.
Prodir's mission
- Taking precision pen engineering and applying it to the promotional pen market.
- Sustainability: In 2013, they became the first manufacturer to offer only refillable ballpoint pens.
Why you'll love Prodir
- High-quality design: every pen is manufactured, moulded, and finished in Switzerland.
- Their ranges include pens made from recycled and regenerated ABS plastics, and plastic-free biopolymer pens.
Co-branding with Prodir
- Ideal for: audiences who love subtle call-outs rather than big branding.
- Great for: premium onboarding kits, client thank-yous, and everyday desk essentials
3. Waterman
Inspired by Paris, chosen by you, Waterman is world-renowned for its precision pen craftsmanship. Discover timeless elegance in the palm of your hand with its beautifully designed collection.
Waterman's story
- In 1883, insurance salesman Lewis Waterman lost a contract to a leaking pen.
- Rather than sulk about it, he went off and invented a solution.
- The brand is based in Paris (and has been since the 1920s).
- And so French heritage runs through every pen it makes.
Waterman's mission
- Masterful craftsmanship with defining elegance, pen after pen.
- Every Waterman is hand-assembled and hand-tested in France.
Why you'll love Waterman
- Instant sophistication
- From Albert Einstein to Stephen King, Waterman pens have turned up in the pockets of those who know pens.
Co-branding with Waterman
- Ideal for: luxurious and premium brands.
- Great for: VIP client gifts, executive leaving presents, and award ceremonies.
Ready to sign?
Everything may be digital now, but that makes using classic, high-quality stationery even more prestigious.
And a pen you’d hate to lose? That’s something special.
That's why co-branding with exclusive stationery brands can be a subtle tell to your clients that you mean business (more so than a digital squiggle on an iPad).
Ready to get started on your co-branding journey? Get in touch with the team, and we'll talk you through what's possible - or browse the full co-branding range below to see where your logo could be irreplaceable.
