Custom printed tote bags for businesses have definitely become a popular promotional item, and there are a few reasons why they might feel a bit overdone:

1. Ubiquity: Tote bags are everywhere. They're a common giveaway at events, a standard item in promotional merchandise, and a frequent choice for companies wanting to boost their visibility. Because they're so widespread, they can sometimes lack originality.
2. Saturation: With so many businesses using tote bags as part of their marketing strategy, the market can feel saturated. This means your branded tote might blend in with many others and not stand out as much as you’d like.
3. Environmental Impact: Despite the intention to promote sustainability, the mass production of tote bags—especially when they're used only once or twice—can sometimes contradict the eco-friendly message. If not made from sustainable materials, they can end up contributing to waste.

However, there are ways to make custom tote bags stand out:

1. Unique Designs: Invest in creative, eye-catching designs that reflect your brand’s personality or connect with your audience in a meaningful way.
2. High-Quality Materials: Opt for durable, eco-friendly materials that will make the bag more valuable and likely to be used repeatedly.
3. Added Functionality: Incorporate useful features like insulated compartments, additional pockets, or foldability to make the tote more practical.
4. Personal Touch: Customize bags in ways that personalize the experience for your customers, such as adding a custom message or including a special offer.
5. Collaborations: Partner with artists or influencers to create limited-edition designs that create a buzz and offer something unique.

The key is to approach them with a fresh perspective and a focus on quality and uniqueness.

Custom printed tote bags remain relevant for several compelling reasons, despite their popularity:

1. Practicality: Tote bags are incredibly useful. They’re versatile for carrying groceries, books, gym gear, and everyday items. Their practicality ensures that people will use them frequently, which means your brand gets consistent exposure.
2. Eco-Friendly Appeal: When made from sustainable materials, tote bags can align with environmental values. As consumers become more eco-conscious, they appreciate products that reduce single-use plastic and promote sustainability.
3. Brand Visibility: Tote bags offer a large surface area for your logo or message, making them effective for brand visibility. They’re often used in public spaces, amplifying your brand’s reach.
4. Cost-Effective: Compared to other promotional items, tote bags are relatively affordable. They offer a good return on investment, especially if they’re designed to be durable and used often.
5. Customization Flexibility: The design possibilities are vast. You can create bags that reflect your brand’s identity through colors, patterns, and messages. This flexibility allows you to tailor the product to specific events, audiences, or themes.
6. Longevity: High-quality tote bags can last for years, which means your brand’s message is carried long after the initial giveaway. This longevity adds to the value of the promotional item.
7. Community Building: Giving out tote bags can foster a sense of community. For example, if you’re a local business, distributing tote bags can help strengthen local ties and build customer loyalty.
8. Event and Trade Show Effectiveness: At events or trade shows, tote bags are practical for carrying other promotional materials and merchandise. They become a functional part of the experience, increasing their perceived value.

The enduring relevance of custom printed tote bags lies in their practicality, environmental appeal, cost-effectiveness, and the customization options they offer. When done right, they continue to be a valuable tool for businesses looking to promote their brand and connect with their audience.