Specially designed campaign materials ready for sale at a shop in Kozhikode before the local body elections. | Photo credit: K. Ragesh
As local body election fever heats up across Kerala, local traders in Kozhikode district are cashing in on the momentum, releasing a diverse range of bespoke campaign goods designed to woo voters and party activists alike. From chic paper posters to bespoke key chains and colorful headwear, shops are buzzing with activity as creative entrepreneurs try to capitalize on the growing demand.
“This election season brings an eco-friendly twist as buyers want to follow the green protocol everywhere. After the ban on outdoor advertising materials based on flexible and plastic materials, we have started promoting corrugated signboards made entirely of paper,” says Sajid Mohammed, one of the wholesalers in the district. There is a lot of interest in these pieces because they mimic the look and durability of plastic while offering a polished finish, he notes.
T-shirts printed with party symbols in various shades and sizes continue to steal the show in many exclusive clothing stores. As most buyers place bulk orders for such customized t-shirts to attend rallies and road shows, retailers are gearing up to meet the increased demand. They reveal that local design and sewing units will start working in collaboration with skilled workers, including migrants.
“Local markets have also started flooding with headbands, wristbands, trendy caps in party colors and flags representing various political outfits. One of the latest additions is affordable key chains that can carry photos and emblems of the candidate as per requirements,” says CS Thankachan, owner of a local shop in Kozhikode. He believes that personalized articles can add an intimate touch to candidates’ voter outreach programs.
Basheer Panakkadan, owner of one of the exclusive merchandising units at Mukkom, says he has already put together a wide range of campaign items ranging in price from ₹7 to ₹400. “We have the support of 14 workers as we run our own production unit which now produces novelties such as photo balloons, chest badges, scarves and themed umbrellas,” he adds.
The campaign leaders of the major political parties also responded well to the market trend and bought most of the new entrants in time to launch their campaign programs with a new twist. In addition to existing products, some activists have come up with their own inventive suggestions to add an edge to campaigning, they say.
Adding to the buzz, apparel manufacturers in the industry have launched various online platforms in an attempt to compete with brick-and-mortar marketplaces. As with brick-and-mortar retail, bulk orders continue to attract significant price reductions online, attracting activists looking for cost-effective options. Some automakers are also waiting their turn to wrap competition cars in election-themed designs — an idea that has proved a hit in previous polls.
Published – 14 Nov 2025 19:12 IST
