One of the best ways to lure someone into a store is the promise of free samples or swag if that person comes into the store to browse items. As most retailers know, a potential customer's chance to buy an item goes up significantly when fun items like imprinted pens and t-shirts are offered as an incentive to come in and shop. And even if a promotional item doesn't actually result in a purchase, the increase in brand awareness is a great positive aspect to providing free items to customers. Items like a pen last for a very long time.