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THE SITUATION

Every ten years, the U.S. Census undertakes one of the largest public engagement efforts in the country: collecting data that shapes everything from congressional representation to community funding.

To reach as many people as possible across all communities, the Census Bureau recognized that promotional products would be a key tool in driving awareness and participation.

From the Statistics in Schools program for children to local grassroots outreach, each Census initiative needed culturally relevant, highly visible branded merchandise to connect with diverse audiences and encourage involvement. 

CTR-9180 Case Study Imagery-US Census

THE CHALLENGE

As a federally funded program, the Census required that every product be made entirely in the United States, from raw materials to final assembly. As the branded promo industry has had a complex, longstanding relationship with international manufacturers, this requirement was a challenge, especially at high volumes and across dozens of initiatives.

Add to that a fast-changing organization built largely with temporary teams, and the program needed a partner who could deliver with agility, accuracy, and scale. 

CTR-9180 Case Study Imagery-US Census_The Challenge

THE SOLUTION

Stran assembled a team with deep expertise in U.S.-based sourcing and large-scale logistics. We streamlined the entire process, ensuring full compliance and accessibility at every level.  

  • Fully U.S.-Made Assortment: Curated a catalog of promotional items produced entirely in the U.S., in partnership with 29 domestic factories. 
  • Localized Access: Launched a dedicated Amazon e-commerce storefront for field teams to easily order pre-approved branded merchandise. 
  • Cultural Relevance: Developed products in 15 languages to connect with diverse communities and maximize reach. 
  • Agile Operations: Adapted fulfillment and logistics strategies to support a decentralized, fast-moving organization made up of temporary teams. 
  • Brand Consistency at Scale: Enabled reliable, on-demand access to compliant merch across more than 50 distribution centers nationwide. 
CTR-9180 Case Study Imagery-US Census_The Solution

THE RESULTS

By meeting people where they are, with language, cultural awareness, and physical visibility, the US Census team was able to engage diverse communities across the country.

Promotional products weren’t just a tactic; they were a strategic channel for equity, access, and civic participation. 

  • 16 million+ promotional products delivered 
  • 50+ distribution centers served nationwide 
  • 29 U.S. factories involved 
  • Products produced in 15 languages to ensure broad cultural relevance 
  • Ongoing fulfillment through the Census’ branded Amazon storefront 
CTR-9180 Case Study Imagery-US Census_The Results

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