In the custom medals industry, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) services play a crucial role. These two manufacturing models provide unique advantages, catering to different business needs. OEM focuses on producing products based on a client’s existing design, while ODM involves designing and manufacturing products from scratch. Both approaches offer flexibility and customization, which are essential for brands looking to stand out in competitive markets.
This article explores the definitions, industry applications, and core values of OEM and ODM in the custom medals sector. We’ll also examine China’s dominance in the global medal manufacturing market and highlight how Global Art Gifts leverages OEM/ODM services to deliver top-notch custom awards.
What Are OEM and ODM Medals? Definition and Industry Application
OEM and ODM services are essential components of the custom medal manufacturing process. In the realm of custom medals, these services are vital for businesses looking to offer personalized awards, trophies, and recognition items. By utilizing OEM and ODM services, companies can focus on branding and marketing while ensuring high-quality production.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) in Medal Manufacturing
OEM refers to the production of medals based on a client’s existing design specifications. In this model, the design and branding come from the client, while the manufacturer is responsible for producing the medals according to these requirements. This approach is ideal for organizations that already have a design concept but lack the manufacturing capacity.
OEM services in the medal manufacturing process operate on a straightforward principle: brands provide their designs, and manufacturers produce the medals under the brand’s name. This model allows businesses to introduce custom awards without the overhead costs associated with setting up a manufacturing facility.
In the custom medals industry, OEM services allow brands to maintain complete control over their design and branding. They can provide detailed guidelines, such as color schemes, logo placement, and specific materials. OEM medal suppliers follow these instructions to deliver high-quality products that reflect the client’s brand identity.
The efficiency of OEM production is particularly beneficial for businesses that require large quantities of medals, such as sports organizations or corporate events. By outsourcing production, companies can maintain quality and consistency while focusing on their core competencies.

ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) Empowering Brand Differentiation
ODM, involves the manufacturer designing and producing medals from scratch. This model is beneficial for companies looking to launch unique products without investing heavily in R&D. In the ODM approach, the manufacturer is responsible for creating the design, developing prototypes, and handling mass production.
ODM services enable brands to stand out in a crowded marketplace. An ODM manufacturer can provide a company with professional design services that enable them to create innovative and unique customized medals. This service is especially valuable for brands looking to establish a unique identity or target a specific market.
On the other hand, ODM services are valuable for brands seeking to differentiate themselves. By partnering with an experienced ODM medal manufacturer, companies can benefit from innovative designs that resonate with their target audience. This approach is especially effective for event organizers aiming to create memorable custom medals for marathons, corporate anniversaries, or sporting events.
For instance, an ODM medal manufacturer can work closely with a client to develop a one-of-a-kind medal that reflects the event’s theme or the brand’s values. This level of customization not only enhances brand recognition but also fosters a deeper connection with the target audience.

China’s Dominance in the Global Medal Manufacturing Industry
Capturing 70% of the Global Market: A Data-Driven Insight
China is the world leader in medal manufacturing, capturing approximately 70% of the global market share. This dominance is due to its well-established industrial infrastructure, cost-effective labor, and extensive supply chain networks. Chinese medal factories can efficiently produce a wide range of custom awards, from sports medals to corporate recognition plaques.
Leading OEM and ODM medal manufacturers in China, such as Global Art Gifts, leverage advanced production technologies, including die-casting, laser engraving, and UV printing. These capabilities enable them to deliver high-quality custom medals at competitive prices, catering to international markets across North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
Global Art Gifts’ OEM and ODM Service Advantages
15 Years of Industry Experience and BSCI Certification
With over 15 years of experience, Global Art Gifts stands out as a reliable OEM and ODM medal manufacturer. The company holds BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) certification, ensuring ethical manufacturing practices and high workplace standards. This certification boosts clients’ confidence, knowing their custom medals are produced under strict quality and ethical guidelines.
Quality Control Under Disney Audit Standards
Global Art Gifts is among the few medal factories that adhere to Disney’s rigorous audit standards. This quality control system ensures every custom medal meets international standards for safety, durability, and aesthetics. From raw material inspection to final product packaging, each step undergoes stringent quality checks. This commitment to excellence makes Global Art Gifts a trusted partner for OEM and ODM medal manufacturing.

Complete Custom Medal Production Process Explained
Six Key Steps from Design Draft to Finished Product
To deliver high-quality custom medals, Global Art Gifts follows a comprehensive six-step production process:
- Concept Design: Collaborating with clients to create unique designs.
- 3D Modeling: Using advanced software for accurate prototypes.
- Mold Creation: Crafting precise molds for mass production.
- Material Selection: Choosing suitable materials like zinc alloy or crystal glass.
- Finishing Touches: Applying plating, coloring, and transparent lacquer.
- Quality Control and Packaging: Ensuring defect-free medals with secure packaging.
Efficiency Optimization in 3D Modeling and Sample Prototyping
Global Art Gifts uses state-of-the-art 3D modeling technology to expedite the prototyping process. This approach reduces lead times, allowing clients to review and approve designs quickly. Additionally, the factory offers free design and sample services, minimizing upfront costs for custom medal design projects.
How OEM and ODM Services Reduce Business Costs
Cost Efficiency Analysis
OEM and ODM services provide significant cost advantages by streamlining the production process. Clients save on R&D expenses by leveraging the manufacturer’s existing capabilities. Furthermore, Global Art Gifts benefits from economies of scale, passing on cost savings to clients.
Labor-Intensive Efficiency and Localized Material Supply
China’s competitive labor market enables efficient, high-volume medal production. Additionally, localized sourcing of materials like zinc alloy and crystal glass further reduces manufacturing costs. These advantages make China an ideal location for OEM and ODM medal manufacturing.
Cost Comparison: Mass Production vs. Small Batch Customization
Global Art Gifts offers flexible production options, from large-scale orders to small-batch customization. This adaptability helps clients balance budget constraints with branding requirements, making it an ideal choice for both startups and established brands.
Supply Chain Optimization Strategies
The company’s integrated supply chain management optimizes raw material procurement, reducing lead times and costs. By maintaining long-term partnerships with trusted suppliers, Global Art Gifts ensures consistent quality and competitive pricing.

Global Art Gifts’ International Service Capabilities
Free Design and Sample Service Mechanism
Global Art Gifts provides free design and sample services, allowing clients to visualize their custom awards before committing to bulk orders. This risk-free approach enhances customer satisfaction and reduces potential design errors.
Multilingual Business Support and EXW Trade Terms
To cater to a global clientele, Global Art Gifts offers multilingual support, including English, Spanish, and French. The company also operates on EXW (Ex Works) trade terms, giving clients the flexibility to manage their own logistics.
15-Day Fast Delivery with Streamlined Supply Chain
Through efficient supply chain management, Global Art Gifts ensures rapid delivery within 15 days. This quick turnaround time is ideal for event organizers and corporate clients with tight deadlines.
Case Studies: International Success Stories
Custom Medals for North American Sports Events
Global Art Gifts has successfully delivered custom medals for major North American sports events, including marathons and triathlons. By utilizing OEM and ODM services, the company provided bespoke medal designs that enhanced event branding.
Corporate Commemorative Medals for Middle Eastern Clients
For Middle Eastern enterprises, Global Art Gifts created commemorative medals for corporate anniversaries. These awards featured intricate designs that reflected cultural significance, showcasing the company’s capability in custom medal design.
FAQs: Common Misconceptions About OEM and ODM
“Is Contract Manufacturing Low Quality?” Debunking Industry Myths
Many clients mistakenly believe that OEM and ODM products are of lower quality. However, Global Art Gifts’ strict quality control measures ensure that all custom medals meet international standards. The company’s reputation for excellence dispels this misconception.
الخاتمة
OEM and ODM services play a pivotal role in the custom medals industry by offering flexibility, cost efficiency, and brand differentiation. As a leading OEM and ODM medal manufacturer, Global Art Gifts provides comprehensive solutions backed by 15 years of experience, BSCI certification, and international quality standards. Whether you’re looking to launch a new product line or enhance your event branding, partnering with a reliable OEM medal supplier like Global Art Gifts guarantees success.
Ready to explore custom medal design solutions? Contact us today to get started with our free design and sample service.