IN THIS ISSUE Icon Award Winners p. 42 Elite Client Campaigns p. 46 Digital Buying Research p. 64 P PA I . ORG/ MED I A 03.25 pg. 32
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4 From PPAI Advocating For You, With You 7 Creative Calendar Essentials 10 In Style Best of Expo 2025 14 Use Case Best of Expo 2025 Voices 20 Innovation AI And Automation 22 Responsibility 5 Signs Of Progress At The PPAI Expo 2025 28 Your Business Diversified Revenue Must Read 38 Feature New Board Members 46 Feature PPAI’s Pyramid Awards for Client Promotions 72 Promotional Products Work Co-Working Spaces Community 80 Buzzworthy 82 Book Club 84 PPPC Communiqué 87 Inside PPAI 91 New Members 95 Datebook 100 Perfect Promo CONTENTS 03.25 VOLUME 49, ISSUE 02 42 64 32 PPAI Icon Award Winners In addition to honoring the newest inductees to the PPAI Hall of Fame, the Association also recognized this year’s recipients of PPAI’s Distinguished Service Award and the H. Ted Olson Humanitarian Award. 42 Modernizing Merch: Merging Physical Promotions With Digital Demands End buyers want their promotional products to have more digital aspects, according to the latest consumer study by PPAI Research. 64 Best Of The PPAI Expo 2025 Promo’s No. 1 trade show kicked off the year in grand fashion with highly sought-after education, elite networking opportunities and more than 16,000 attendees primed for growth. 32 PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 3
From PPAI Josh Ellis Publisher & Editor-in-Chief 03.25 PPAI members have joined in our efforts to push back against policies that would negatively impact the industry, and we’re grateful for your support. Advocating For You, With You IT’S BEEN A WHIRLWIND START to 2025 for the branded merchandise industry, and I’m proud to say that the entire PPAI staff is going above and beyond to position you for success. For my teams, this has meant coverage of the excitement and delight at The PPAI Expo, recapped throughout this issue of the magazine, online at PPAI.org/ media and across our social channels. It’s meant new and dependable research projects defining the scope of the industry in the U.S. and abroad. And as part of our enhanced public affairs engagement, it’s meant helping you navigate an altered business landscape amid the flurry of actions taken by new leadership in Washington. This has been one of the most significant efforts during my time at PPAI, and I’m thrilled with the work this team is doing on your behalf. In early February, when President Donald Trump announced tariffs against China, Canada and Mexico, then quickly paused the levies against our North American neighbors, PPAI Media provided live updates to a fluid situation, on par with any news organization in the country for its quality and timeliness. And behind the scenes in recent months, our advocacy team has worked closely with lobbying partners in Washington to share the industry’s concerns with elected representatives. We have played a role, alongside like-minded business interests in the U.S., in staving off the most consequential actions the new administration considered, including Chinese tariffs more than seven times as large as what the president ultimately put in place. Tariffs at the levels previously suggested would have caused dramatic inflationary prices for a wide swath of promotional products sold in the U.S., likely diverting more advertising spend to competitive mediums. PPAI members have joined in our efforts to push back against policies that would negatively impact the industry, and we’re grateful for your support. Many of you personalized outreach that we prepared and used it to correspond with your representatives and senators. When Iowa’s Joni Ernst, leader of the Senate DOGE Caucus, targeted merch spending by government institutions, promo leaders in the state co-signed a letter to the entire Iowa delegation advocating for the ways promotional products create positive impacts for vital institutions. Credit is due to our research and public affairs lead, Alok Bhat, for embracing this message, along with our research and public affairs editor, Rachel Zoch. They will continue working alongside you and on your behalf, and they truly are just getting started after taking on the advocacy challenge last summer. As you read this, PPAI is hard at work to make sure our annual, member-driven advocacy visit to Capitol Hill (April 7-8) is more impactful than ever. Legislative Education and Action Day is one of the most important events on the industry calendar, and if you didn’t apply to join us this year, I hope you will do so in the future. PPAI staff and members are working together because we all believe – and our research has always shown – that promotional products work. They work for nonprofits researching cures for disease. They work for our armed forces in recruitment. They work for an untold number or businesses employing the American workforce, creating livelihoods that put food on the table and send kids to school. Promotional products create joy for the recipient. But there’s more to them. Our products serve a purpose in advancing the positive missions of end-buyer clients – the government agencies, organizations and companies doing all the good and necessary things. Merch matters. 4 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI
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PPAI® PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Josh Ellis JoshE@ppai.org DEPUTY EDITOR John Corrigan JohnC@ppai.org NEWS EDITORS Jonny Auping JonnyA@ppai.org Arianna Johnson AriannaJ@ppai.org MARKET ECONOMIST & SENIOR MANAGER, RESEARCH Alok Bhat AlokB@ppai.org PUBLIC AFFAIRS & RESEARCH EDITOR Rachel Zoch RachelZ@ppai.org RESEARCH COORDINATOR Shiella Aparis ShiellaA@ppai.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER Rowel Cristobal RowelC@ppai.org ART DIRECTION SPARK Publications SPARKpublications.com 704-844-6080 ADVERTISING MANAGEMENT ACCOUNT MANAGERS Connie Brazil Heather Mangold Sandy Mendoza Mark Rykojc PPAI.org/account-managers ADVERTISING CONTACT Amy Weisman 972-258-3080 AmyW@ppai.org PRESIDENT & CEO Drew Holmgreen 888-I-AM-PPAI DIRECTOR OF SALES & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Lindsey Davis, MAS VICE PRESIDENT, REVENUE AND EXPOSITIONS Ellen Tucker, MAS, CAE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE Renae Ward CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Troy Naef DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES Nicole Rhooms DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY Elizabeth Wimbush BOARD OFFICERS CHAIR OF THE BOARD Denise Taschereau Fairware IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Andrew Spellman, CAS Therabody CHAIR-ELECT OF THE BOARD Danny Rosin, CAS BrandFuel VICE CHAIR, FINANCE SERVICES Zack Ottenstein The Image Group BOARD MEMBERS REGIONAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE DELEGATE TERM EXPIRING 2026 Kara Keister, MAS Social Good Promotions TERMS EXPIRING 2026 Chris Anderson HPG AT LARGE DIRECTOR Lori Bauer iPROMOTEu TERMS EXPIRING 2027 Dan Pantano alphabroder TERMS EXPIRING 2028 Zack Ottenstein The Image Group Erin Reilly Pop! Promos Danny Rosin, CAS Brand Fuel TERMS EXPIRING 2029 Mark Gammon Cap America Kate Alavez PromoShop PPAI HEADQUARTERS 3125 Skyway Circle North, Irving, Texas 75038-3526 Phone: 888-IAM-PPAI (426-7724) www.ppai.org, pubs.ppai.org READER RESOURCES SUBSCRIBE TO PPAI MAGAZINE: Subscribe online at pubs.ppai.org or send your name, title, company name and mailing address, along with phone and fax, to PPB Subscriptions, 3125 Skyway Circle North, Irving, Texas 75038. Or phone in your subscription to 972-258-3019. Include payment with your order. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted, along with checks. Additional member subscriptions are $58 for PPAI member companies (U.S.), $70 (Canada and Mexico) and $75 (international). Nonmember subscriptions are $72 (U.S.), $82 (Canada and Mexico) and $92 (international). Please allow four to six weeks for start of subscription. ADVERTISE IN PPAI MAGAZINE: Download a media kit with rates and specs for all PPAI print and digital publications at media.ppai.org, or call 972-258-3019 or email mediasales@ppai.org. WRITE FOR PPAI MAGAZINE: The magazine regularly accepts articles from both professional writers and industry experts – like yourself. Find out everything you need to know about submitting an article or an idea by reading PPAI’s Writer’s Guidelines available at media.ppai.org/submit-content. Promotional Products Association International 6 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI
If this calendar is helpful or if you have ideas for ways that we can better provide this information, email the editors at magazine@ppai.org APRIL 2 NATIONAL WALKING DAY 7 NATIONAL BEER DAY 16 NATIONAL WEAR YOUR PAJAMAS TO WORK DAY MAY 4 NATIONAL STAR WARS DAY 5 NATIONAL PIZZA PARTY DAY 25 NATIONAL TOWEL DAY JUNE Exceptional Promotions SPECIAL OBSERVANCES CALL FOR NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH Product idea: Branded Fly’n Aviator Sunglasses make a practical and stylish giveaway for any spring or summer event. Recipients will appreciate the timeless aviator frames, while your clients will love the imprint space on the legs for their company name, logo or message. These sunglasses, available in a variety of colors, feature dark lenses with a UV 400 rating to shield eyes from the bright sun. They’re perfect for both event days and year-round wear, offering ongoing branding opportunities. Evans / PPAI 110747, Platinum / evans-mfg.com Use these special occasions to ignite your imagination for relevant – and distinct – client promotions. Compiled by Nicole Rollender NATIONAL PICKLEBALL MONTH Product idea: Whether serving up drinks at a bar, a restaurant or at home, the 16-oz. Dubliner Stainless Steel Pint Glass is always ready to toast the occasion. Tough enough to handle camping trips and stylish enough for the kitchen, it’s a go-to choice for beer lovers and cold drink enthusiasts and features a large imprint area for your client’s company name and logo. STOPNGO Line / PPAI 112044, Silver stopngoline.com NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH Product idea: A branded beach towel is a great way to say thank you to employees or clients, or to make a splash at an event with a fun, practical giveaway they’ll actually use. Jewel Collection Beach Towels, available in lots of colors (including purple, orange, blue and lime green) are made of soft, heavyweight 100% cotton terry velour. The 30-inch-by-60-inch towel offers a large imprint area for your client’s name, logo or message. Pro Towels / PPAI 112755, Gold / protowels.com 10 NATIONAL BALLPOINT PEN DAY 15 NATIONAL MARTINI DAY 27 NATIONAL SUNGLASSES DAY PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 7
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PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS TO BE UNIVERSALLY VALUED Essentials 03.25 BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF FAVORITE FINDS AT THE PPAI EXPO 2025 Distributors share promo products that caught their attention on the show floor, from can coolers with NFC technology to collapsible water bottles. page 14 IN STYLE p. 10 USE CASE PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 9
Exhibitors were eager to showcase the latest styles and trends in apparel on the trade show floor at The PPAI Expo 2025. By Hanna Brookshire BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF Fashion Finds At The PPAI Expo 2025 WHEN IT COMES TO FASHION, whether it’s a classic tee or something as novel as a doggy hat, The PPAI Expo 2025 had it all. Attendees saw many classic and retro pieces alongside trendier apparel items. One trend that isn’t going anywhere is sustainability. As consumer demand has dictated, promotional products that preserve the environment are a must. “We’re actually emphasizing our eco-friendly line,” says Peggy Hsu, business development and marketing manager at Mega Cap. She explains that “you need to provide the options because eco-friendly is in demand right now.” Another important trend is the resurgence of older styles. After all, nostalgia is all the rage these days. The Y2K and ’90s revivals are still going strong, and Old Hollywood glam continues to be a red carpet staple. But along with this trend, the idea of timeless basics is something all generations can agree upon, making it a great choice to please a broader audience. With these trends in mind, here are just a few of the many apparel products that The PPAI Expo 2025 had to offer. 10 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI Essentials | In Style
The Lightweight EVA Clog Full Print from Ubix Now is one of the supplier’s most popular items, and for good reason. These EVA clogs are lightweight and comfortable with a flippable back strap. Shoes are notoriously hard to produce, but Ubix Now does it all. “Six years ago, we started with slides and slippers, now we do all kinds of footwear,” explains Jan Maes, CEO of Ubix Now. And if the style of the shoe isn’t enough, there are “no minimums, no set-up fees and everything delivers in three weeks.” Ubix Now / PPAI 755474, Standard-Base ubixnow.com The aforementioned classic tee was none other than Hanes’ Beefy-T, which celebrated its 50th anniversary at The PPAI Expo this year. The Beefy-T comes in sizes for everyone, is available in 46 colors and is made to be printed on. With a storied past, the Beefy-T’s future is full of exciting things, including the potential for expansion. “We think the Beefy-T can be a brand that lives on its own. We’ll keep paying attention to what consumer trends are and what customers demand from us, and go from there,” says Chris Guard, director of product management at Hanes. Hanes / PPAI 191138, Gold hanesprintwear.com The Insulated Pullover from Hexa Custom offers a comfortable and stylish option for anyone. There are endless options for customization, with 26 colors you can apply to different panels, as well as an add-on insulated hood. This pullover follows style trends and can be updated to an eco-friendly option. “The insulated pullover is one of our trendier pieces – it’s great streetwear that’s also weather-resistant and durable,” says Jenna Dilsaver, creative director at Hexa Custom. “You can do 100% recycled insulation for sustainability purposes, which we know is really important right now.” Hexa Custom / PPAI 767010, Standard-Base hexacustompromo.com PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 11 In Style | Essentials
The Women’s Santa Fe Shredder Snow Jacket from Tipsy Elves brings together fashion and function with a vintage flair. This jacket is outfitted with everything you need to stay warm on the slopes or for a walk in the frosty weather. Tipsy Elves is known best for its sweaters but features many other options. “We’re really open to helping customers find the best item for them,” says Liz Campbell, senior director of wholesale at Tipsy Elves. Tipsy Elves / PPAI 721141, Standard-Plus tipsyelves.com Sock Club’s Athletic Quarter Crew is the perfect sock for any occasion. According to Kara Boatner, content strategist at Sock Club, it’s the supplier’s best seller, “especially for people who are going for a nostalgic vibe or retro feel.” These made-in-the-USA socks are great for everyday wear or for activities such as pickleball, Pilates or golf and offer a low minimum of 30 pairs, shipping times starting around three days and free design services. Generation Z recently declared ankle socks “dead,” so these quarter crews will be especially appealing to a younger demographic while bringing out nostalgia for others. Sock Club / PPAI 692671, Standard-Base / custom.sockclub.com Mega Cap’s Recycled Cuff Beanie is a classic hat made of 50% recycled polyester. It comes in four neutral colorways, allowing any logo to pop. Mega Cap offers eco-friendly versions of many of its hats, including trending styles like bucket hats. The supplier also provides “domestic decoration,” according to Hsu, as well as the ability to do quick turnaround with a low quantity. Mega Cap / PPAI 223859, Standard-Plus megacapinc.com The Red Kap Men’s Long Sleeve Performance Plus Shop Shirt from Workwear Outfitters is incredibly durable. The shirt is made with patented OilBlok technology. According to Brandon Iverson, senior director of U.S. distribution sales at Workwear Outfitters, “If we had a gallon of motor oil that we poured over this garment, it would run right off and not absorb into the fabric.” Additionally, the fabric is “very breathable [and] adds about 80% more durability than a traditional poplin fabric.” It comes in eight two-tone colorways and is sure to last for years. Workwear Outfitters / PPAI 110728, Standard-Base / wwof.com Brookshire is a freelance writer and former PPAI Media intern. 12 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI Essentials | In Style
BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF Favorite Finds At The PPAI Expo 2025 Distributors share promo products that caught their attention on the show floor, from can coolers with NFC technology to collapsible water bottles. By Nicole Rollender SUZAN BOLSKI Owner Anything Goes Promotions PPAI 259731, Standard-Base San Tan Valley, Arizona At The PPAI Expo 2025, Bolski met Smith A. Baggett, CEO and founder of FlaminGO Pre-Charged Phone Chargers, a cattle rancher who created flaminGO Chargers to pay for hay for his herd. She loved the lightweight flaminGO, a pocket-sized, pre-charged power bank with a universal 3-in-1 tip, designed so you’re never stuck without a power source for your phone or tablet. “It’s such a great product idea for concerts, trade shows, sporting events and beyond,” Bolski says. “With a QR code, this product can link to a venue map, event schedule or a client’s website. You can also package this rechargeable item as a POP item.” FlaminGO Pre-Charged Phone Chargers PPAI 815575, Standard-Base flamingocharger.com Bolski was also excited to see that the NFC Connect Coolie wasn’t just another can cooler made of highdensity foam. Besides keeping drinks cold, “this coolie seamlessly connects to smartphones for instant access to exclusive content,” she says. A programmed NFC chip is embedded behind an icon integrated into the fully customizable artwork. “You can program each insulator with your client’s custom URL,” Bolski says. 14 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI Essentials | Use Case
A great giveaway at festivals, sports games and trade shows, this unique coolie allows end users to access exclusive digital content with a tap of a compatible smart device. HPG Brands / PPAI 110772, Platinum hpgbrands.com Bolski was also drawn to the sturdy Coastal Threads Repreve Tech Organizer Notebook. “I like that this has organization on the inside cover, so there’s less to carry in a purse or tote bag,” she says. On the left, you’ll find two durable elastic bands to hold devices or other essentials and a card pocket. The center has a pen loop, and the right holds a refillable legal pad and a hook-and-loop strip for a detachable mouse pad. “This would be great for a conference giveaway, a gift for a sales team or a graduation gift,” Bolski says. Goldstar / PPAI 110772, Platinum simplygoldstar.com NICOLE WOLFRUM Account Manager Campus Stop PPAI 667875, Silver Mount Kisco, New York Wolfrum, a proponent of high-quality, sustainable promo products, loved the new Trace & Carry line of reusable bags, including the 12-Oz. Shops style with a large front pocket and 28-inch handles. This versatile tote, made from 70% recycled cotton and 30% recycled polyester canvas, is perfect for groceries, books or gym gear. The interior features the inspiring words: “Tomorrow depends on what we do today.” “All of the bags are part of the Aware Trace & Carry program, which allows the end user to scan a QR code to track the sustainable materials from beginning to end to see how much of an impact a single bag makes,” Wolfrum says. “These are also the softest recycled bags I’ve ever felt. The Shops style will appeal to end users with its interior water bottle pocket, softness and retail-inspired color options.” Gordon Sinclair / PPAI 111537, Standard-Plus / gordonsinclair.com Another sustainable headturner for Wolfrum, the unique H2fOld Collapsible Bottle saves space by shrinking to less than half its size when not in use. “The retail look caught my eye, but the portability stood out,” she says. “I love that you can collapse this down and stash it in your carry-on while traveling through the airport and quickly expand the bottle before hopping on your flight to stay hydrated.” Made from BPA-free silicone with a wide mouth and secure lid, the H2fOld is lightweight and leakproof. It’s a great travel, hiking or commuting companion. iClick / PPAI 254537, Gold / iClick.com PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 15 Use Case | Essentials
Wolfrum also liked the compact, water-resistant H2O Mag-N-Stand, a portable speaker with True Wireless Stereo functionality that pairs wireless earbuds or speakers for high-quality stereo sound. “This speaker is super versatile and adorable for golfing or other outdoor activities,” she says. “I love that you can take it anywhere without fear of damaging it with water or losing it since it’s magnetic.” TwinTech Industry / PPAI 261545, Silver / twintechpromo.com MARY-SUE MOYER Account Manager Campus Stop PPAI 667875, Silver Mount Kisco, New York Moyer gravitated to the Awesome Mixtape 2.0 Wireless Speaker on the show floor because it brought back memories of playing cassette tapes and exchanging mixtapes. “Retro items are very in right now,” she says. “I love that you can brand both sides of the speaker and the case with full-color printing. This newer version is not only a wireless speaker but now it’s also a 2,000 mAh power bank.” TwinTech Industry / PPAI 261545, Silver / twintechpromo.com 10% OFF thru 4.30.25 10% off current website prices, does not apply to freight or additional charges Must have Promo Code PP0325 on your PO Made in USA To See All 53 Styles Visit WarwickPublishing.com Looking for a Folder Sale? ....Lucky You! PPAI/114154 SAGE/57590 or Ink Printed Foil Stamped 16 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI Essentials | Use Case
Rollender is an award-winning writer and heads up STRANDWritingServices.com. The Snugible is a cozy 2-in-1 plush pillow and oversized hooded blanket, packing ultra-soft comfort and team spirit in one customizable, machine-washable product. Choose from different colleges and team mascots, or request a custom design. “This item combines an oversized hoodie and pillow all in one,” Moyer says. “Perfect for colleges, it makes a great tailgating outfit! I was drawn to these items and then realized the hoodie folded into the pillow.” You Got My Attention / PPAI 816116, Standard-Base yougotmyattention.com The Airplane Clip might look simple, but it has a practical use and solves a universal travel pain point. This made-in-the-USA clip — also a phone or tablet stand — hooks onto airplane tray tables, closed window shades or car seat pockets to hold a to-go cup. “I love that this product solves a real-life problem that people have when they fly,” Moyer says. “This cup holder makes the perfect travel accessory that people will actually use.” A portion of the proceeds from this product goes to supporting the next generation of minority and women leaders. FLYGA / PPAI 824144, Standard-Base / upflyga.com Waiting for a Tent Sale? Lucky You! Below EQP Tent Sale! PPAI/582106 SAGE/50398 10ft Hex Aluminum Frame as low as $593(C) 10ft Steel Frame as low as $584(C) Rugged Steel or Hex Aluminum Frames FREE Wheeled Carry Bag FREE PMS Matches No Minimums, No Set Up Charges Full Color, Full Coverage Imprint Sale Prices Include: Sale Tent Sizes 5’x 5’ 6.5’x 6.5’ 10’x 10’ 13’x 20’ 13’x 26’ 20’x 20’ 10’x 20’ 13’x 13’ 10’x 15’ NEW LOWER PRICES! Click to See All Sale Styles PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 17 Use Case | Essentials
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IDEAS TO ADVANCE THE MARKETPLACE Voices 03.25 BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF 5 SIGNS OF PROGRESS AT THE PPAI EXPO 2025 Promo’s No. 1 trade show illustrated that sustainability has become a core part of the branded merchandise industry. page 22 INNOVATION p. 20 YOUR BUSINESS p. 28 RESPONSIBILITY PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 19
BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF AI And Automation Sessions Draw Massive Crowds At Expo Conference It was standing room only for sessions focusing on technology and digital transformation during The PPAI Expo Conference. By Ariana Johnson TECHNOLOGY AND DIGITAL transformation sessions, particularly those focusing on AI, drew standing room only crowds at The PPAI Expo Conference in January. Here are some key takeaways from those presentations: AI Tools For Distributors For small distributors, time is the most valuable resource. But with the explosion of AI tools, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of options. What’s helpful? What’s hype? This session cut through the noise and provided a clear roadmap for small distributors to navigate the world of AI. The session started with the basics – understanding what AI is and what it isn’t – before diving into the potential risks of using these tools without a clear strategy. Attendees left with actionable insights on how to incorporate AI into their workflow, and more importantly, what to avoid. The session highlighted free or low-cost AI tools that can help streamline your operations, making you more efficient and focused on what matters most. 20 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI Voices | Innovation
Innovation | Voices “As a smaller distributor, if you don’t start using AI for the efficiencies that these larger organizations are gaining, that gap between large distributors and small distributors is only going to continue to widen,” says Angela Taylor, vice president of customer engagement & digital solutions for AIM Smarter, PPAI 100’s No. 15 distributor. Streamlining Success: Automation Solutions For Distributors Every business handles tasks like sending welcome emails, managing leads and following up with clients. While essential, these tasks can drain your time and attention. In this session, attendees discovered how accessible automation tools can handle the busy work for them, simplifying complex processes and minimizing mistakes. They learned practical ways to take back their time, focus on what matters most and drive meaningful growth – no tech expertise needed. Although AI can simplify many aspects of your business, Eric Granata, CAS, founder of business services provider PromoPilot, told attendees that these four things shouldn’t be automated: • Tasks requiring human judgment. • Low-volume tasks. • Unpredictable tasks. • Problems that don’t exist. Connecting Your Workflow: Unleashing The Power Of Your Business This session, led by Aaron Kucherawy, vice president of customer success at commonsku, was packed with valuable insights to empower attendees to use commonsku to its fullest potential. Those who weren’t commonsku customers got a comprehensive overview of the firm’s powerful features. Attendees discovered how the platform creates a fully connected workflow, enhances collaboration and streamlines processes, ensuring that every team member works seamlessly together. Charlie Moscoe, vice president of product management, also shared exciting highlights from commonsku’s latest developments. Plus, attendees got an exclusive look at the innovative updates that have recently launched and gained insights into commonsku’s immediate and future roadmap for 2025. Industry Integration: A PromoStandards & PDX Conversation The backbone of exceptional customer experiences and stable markets is streamlined order management. When orders flow smoothly, customers stay happy, businesses thrive, and the ripple effect builds a stronger industry. But it’s not magic – it’s systems, standards and collaboration. This session included an insightful panel discussion, where experts from SAGE – PPAI’s technology partner – and PromoStandards shared the stage. Moderated by Chris Anderson of HPG, PPAI 100’s No. 6 supplier, this conversation featured Dana Porter, MAS; Amy Rabideau, MAS, and Joe Hoffmann as they delved into the tools and strategies shaping the future of order management. It was a rare chance to explore how seamless processes aren’t just operational perks – they’re the foundation of trust, loyalty and long-term success. Johnson is a news editor at PPAI. PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 21
BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF BEST OF 5 Signs Of Progress At The PPAI Expo 2025 Voices | Responsibility Promo’s No. 1 trade show illustrated that sustainability has become a core part of the branded merchandise industry. By Elizabeth Wimbush AS PPAI’S DIRECTOR of sustainability and responsibility, I left The PPAI Expo 2025 inspired and invigorated. It was evident at every corner of the event that sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in our industry – it’s becoming a core part of how we operate and innovate. Here are five standout signs of progress I witnessed at what many consider to be the promotional products Super Bowl: 1Sustainability Fully Integrated By Exhibitors Exhibitors embraced sustainability in meaningful ways, from booth design and material selection to product displays that prioritized certifications and social good initiatives. Several fully cardboard booths showcased thoughtfulness in their reuse potential and end-of-life planning, as well as reduced carbon impact through significantly lighter freight. Products with clear documentation of their environmental and social Several fully cardboard booths showcased thoughtfulness in their reuse potential and end-of-life planning, as well as reduced carbon impact through significantly lighter freight. 22 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI
Responsibility | Voices impact, including third-party validated certifications, stood front and center, signaling a collective push toward transparency and responsibility. 2Record Engagement With Sustainability Education The enthusiasm for sustainability-related education sessions was palpable. Our 7:30 a.m. workshop with Brianna Mazze of SRG drew an engaged crowd, proving that We’re not just talking about sustainability – we’re living it, modeling it and inspiring it. The journey is far from over, but this year’s Expo proved that we’re on the right path, and we’re moving forward together. commitment to learning about sustainability transcends convenience (or even a good sleep in some cases). The fully booked behind-the-scenes tour with Kristen Royal, MGM Resorts’ director of sustainable operations, further highlighted the partnership between PPAI and Mandalay Bay to create a waste-free event. Seeing attendees eager to learn about The PPAI Expo’s waste diversion efforts was a clear reminder of the appetite for action in our industry. 3Sustainability Takes Center Stage During The Pitch Sustainability took the spotlight during The Pitch, where judges declared it a must-have consideration, and every contestant spoke to it in their product reviews. Rupt, the winner of this year’s competition, exemplified the industry’s evolution: The supplier prioritizes transparency with products featuring detailed carbon footprints, comprehensive material lists and packaging designed for a second life as an additional product. It was a defining moment that underscored how far we’ve come in making sustainability a nonnegotiable criterion for success in promo. PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 23 PPAI/113818 SAGE/56440 Pentelimprint.com Below EQP Sale on Budget Gel Ink Retractable! EnerGel® liquid gel ink dries so fast even left handers love it! No smears No smudges No globs! SCREEN PRINT Includes a one-color imprint Minimum order 300 pcs. Imprint: 1 1/2”w x 5/8”h $1.49(C) EQP Sale Below 1 Color Screen Translucent Barrels Black Ink Refillable BL107 Translucent Barrels Scan to see all details on this style
4A Holistic Approach To Sustainability This year, sustainability at The PPAI Expo wasn’t just about the environmental impact – it encompassed the social and governance aspects as well. The Inclusive Meetup was absolutely packed, and DEI-focused sessions were well attended, showcasing a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of these principles. Our multilingual welcome and farewell sign surveys also saw enthusiastic participation, demonstrating an embrace of inclusivity and accessibility across our global audience. 5Conversations That Pierced Through The Surface This year, the conversations around sustainability at The PPAI Expo reached new depths, focusing not only on eventlevel initiatives, but also on fostering meaningful partnerships. Attendees and exhibitors were eager to discuss PPAI’s efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of the event, from using FSC-certified paper for show guides to employing biodegradable coffee cups and reusable dishes wherever possible. At the same time, the tone of discussions on the show floor shifted noticeably from “What’s new and exciting?” to “How can we best align as partners?” This dual focus on operational sustainability and collaborative alignment signals a maturing commitment across our industry to address sustainability holistically and work together toward shared goals. These five signs of progress remind me why I’m so optimistic about the future of our industry. We’re not just talking about sustainability – we’re living it, modeling it and inspiring it. The journey is far from over, but this year’s Expo proved that we’re on the right path, and we’re moving forward together. If you attended The PPAI Expo 2025 and have your own observations or ideas on how our industry is progressing in this area, I’d love to hear them. Together, we can continue driving meaningful change in our industry. Wimbush is the director of sustainability and responsibility at PPAI. 24 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI Voices | Responsibility Thank You for Visiting Us In Brand During PPAI Expo 2025 CORPORATE SALES AND INCENTIVES 800.545.2783 | specialmarkets@seikousa.com © 2025 Seiko Watch of America. SSC813
The ASSOCIATION OF PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS SALESPEOPLE is the ONLY organization in the promotional products industry that focuses EXCLUSIVELY on serving and supporting distributor SALESPEOPLE. “Finally! An organization to help SALESPEOPLE achieve THEIR personal, professional and financial GOALS.” Visit our website to learn more and become a member today! www.appscommunity.org | info@appscommunity.org
Our Mission To engage, educate and empower promotional products salespeople within a uniquely supportive professional community, and to provide its member salespeople with the knowledge, support and confidence they need to pursue and achieve their personal, professional and financial goals. Visit our website to learn more and become a member today! www.appscommunity.org | info@appscommunity.org Distributor Salespeople constitute the largest group of individuals working in the promotional products industry. Distributor Salespeople are responsible for the majority of annual promotional products sales. The financial success of (a) suppliers, (b) distributors with salespeople, and (c) other organizations that do business in the promotional products industry, is largely dependent on the sales generated by Distributor Salespeople. Distributor Salespeople support the livelihood of most individuals who work in the promotional products industry. Distributor Salespeople are essential contributors to the general welfare of the promotional products industry and are vital for a healthy and vibrant industry. Knowledgeable, professional and successful Distributor Salespeople (a) improve the reputation of the promotional products industry, (b) strengthen the industry’s financial performance, and (c) enhance the industry’s overall success.
How To Diversify Your Revenue Here are some practical strategies for offering value to a larger, more varied customer base. By Lindsey Davis, MAS AS A PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS DISTRIBUTOR, spreading your revenue across more customers is essential for sustainable growth and long-term stability, especially in 2025. Whether you want to focus on mitigating risk, driving sales, growing with existing clients or tapping into underutilized revenue streams, you need to start thinking about how you can offer value to a larger, more diverse customer base. Here are some practical strategies to do just that: Tap Into Niche Markets Many people focus heavily on corporate clients, sometimes creating unnecessary risk by allowing one big customer to dominate their time and their revenue stream. However, there are also opportunities in smaller local businesses. Every market has unique needs and often requires tailored promotional products to meet them. By homing in on one or two segments, you can provide highly specialized products that speak directly to your customers’ goals. This doesn’t have to mean focusing on one industry, either. A distributor that specializes in sustainable promotional items, for example, can appeal to eco-conscious brands across a variety of industries. The key is to identify emerging trends and new markets that may be underserved by larger, more generalized companies. Consider Strategic Partnerships We talk a lot about forming strong relationships with your suppliers, but we don’t often talk about forming strong relationships with companies in adjacent fields that offer complementary products and services. For instance, collaborating with an event planning company could allow you to offer a complete branding experience for your clients’ event, or aligning with a supply company may allow you to become part of a company’s annual office investment. If you want to explore this idea but don’t know where to start, consider reaching out to marketing agencies that handle digital advertising or social media to collaborate and offer referrals to new clients. These agencies often need promotional products to complete their campaigns, and building strategic relationships with them can open doors to The key is to identify emerging trends and new markets that may be underserved by larger, more generalized companies. 28 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI Voices | Your Business
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STORIES TO KEEP AND USE Must Read 03.25 page 64 FEATURE MODERNIZING MERCH Merging Physical Promotions With Digital Demands BEST OF THE PPAI EXPO 2025 p. 32 PPAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS p. 38 PPAI ICON AWARD WINNERS p. 42 PPAI PYRAMID AWARD WINNERS p. 46 PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS WORK p. 72 PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 31
Must Read | Decoration Best Of The PPAI EXPO 2025 32 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI
Promo’s No. 1 trade show kicked off the year in grand fashion with highly sought-after education, elite networking opportunities and more than 16,000 attendees primed for growth. By John Corrigan The four-day event drew over 16,000 in professional attendance, counting exhibitors and attendees, with nearly 10,000 distributors taking advantage of The PPAI Expo Conference, The PPAI Expo show floor and other networking festivities. Best Of The PPAI EXPO 2025 | Must Read The PPAI Expo 2025 has come and gone, kicking off the promotional products industry’s year with endless opportunities to drive new business. The four-day event drew over 16,000 in professional attendance, counting exhibitors and attendees, with nearly 10,000 distributors taking advantage of The PPAI Expo Conference, The PPAI Expo show floor and other networking festivities. Covering roughly 1 million square feet in scope, the trade floor featured more than 2,600 booths and nearly 1,000 exhibitors, offering the latest products in every category. Nearly 75 international promo pros made the trek to The PPAI Expo 2025, too, with members from Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Italy, Ireland, India, Brazil, Spain, Turkey, South Africa and more experiencing the excitement. From exhibitors and attendees alike, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighted by innovation from suppliers and the professionalism of distributors at the show. “Over the past few years, PPAI has put a focus on elevating The PPAI Expo,” says Ellen Tucker, CAE, MAS, vice president of revenue and expositions at PPAI. “We’ve focused on bringing the right audience together and driving engagement, so it’s rewarding to have heard from so many in our community that the energy at The PPAI Expo 2025 was unprecedented and electric. This has everyone looking forward to a strong 2025, which reaffirms that The PPAI Expo is the place to kickstart your business year.” Additionally, 22 credentials were assigned to working media members seeking to cover the largest and longest-running trade show in branded merchandise. PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 33
New Leadership The PPAI Expo 2025 also symbolized a new chapter for the Association, as Drew Holmgreen, PPAI’s new president and CEO, was introduced to the industry in whirlwind fashion. “I came into my first week with PPAI having a general scale of The PPAI Expo experience, yet knowing fully the importance of it to our community,” Holmgreen says. “What I discovered was validation of my expectations around the energy, vibe and mood of our attendees, volunteers and staff – joy. This community has been incredibly welcoming and shared so many of their moments of joy with me.” Kicking off The PPAI Expo Conference, Holmgreen shared preliminary numbers pointing to promo experiencing a range of sales growth between 2.6% and 3.2% in the U.S. last year. The industry climbed past $26 billion in 2023, and PPAI Research’s latest data points to the promo market nearing $27 billion in 2024. “As a critical component of any brand strategy, promotional products spread joy globally because the people who make it happen bring joy to their work and the people they work with,” Holmgreen says. “I was impressed with the engagement the PPAI team built, and their success is evident by the hugs and smiling faces observed in Las Vegas. It was a great way to kick off 2025 for the promotional merch community.” Must Read | Best Of The PPAI EXPO 2025 Learning To Adapt The PPAI Expo Conference drew its largest attendee participation since the pandemic and the highest percentage of registered show attendees in memory, leading to packed halls as the demand for education reset expectations for industry professionalism. As promo’s experts in responsibility, innovation and sales shared strategies for growing one’s business, several educational sessions and panel discussions were standing room only. For any attendee disappointed to have missed a particular session, PPAI has promised to make the entire educational lineup accessible via PPAI’s online education portal once the video material is processed. “Success at The PPAI Expo is not just about what you achieve; it’s about the knowledge you gain and the connections you make,” says Andrew Spellman, CAS, whose term as PPAI Board Chair ended at the conclusion of the show. “A great 34 • MARCH 2025 • PPAI
Best Of The PPAI EXPO 2025 | Must Read Full Circle At The Pitch The Pitch, promo’s version Shark Tank crossed with The Voice, returned for the third year in front of a packed audience full of promo professionals. Seven contestants were given three minutes each to pitch their product to a panel of distributor judges. It’s perhaps only fitting that The Pitch winner for 2025 was a former Shark Tank contestant. Jason Lucash, CEO and co-founder of Rupt, won both the audience vote and impressed the panel of judges. The Austin, Texas-based supplier triumphed with “Trinifty,” a product with a removable charger power bank that can charge three wireless devices at once. The Trinifty folds easily, making it a travel accessory for anyone who doesn’t want a tangle of wires in their bag. “I was more nervous for this than Shark Tank,” Lucash says. “I think because it was more people I know, and it was a live audience. I wrote my pitch, and I practiced it with my wife and kids. My kids actually practiced the pitch, too, which was really cute.” Other exhibitors in the contest included HPG, SRG, AZX Sport, Charles River Apparel, City Bonfires and HIRSCH. trade show is an opportunity to learn, share and inspire, and The PPAI Expo 2025 was everything and more for me.” Kicking off The PPAI Expo Conference’s education slate, business growth strategist Tiffani Bova delivered insights on how promo firms can unlock their full potential. The following day, Kristen Cavallo, a leader in the advertising space, commenced the opening of The PPAI Expo 2025 show floor by laying out the best strategies for attendees to set themselves apart in marketing. Throughout The PPAI Expo Conference, PPAI also celebrated its 2025 Icon Award winners: PPAI Hall of Fame inductees Jonathan Isaacson, MAS, and Mark Jenkins, MAS+; PPAI Distinguished Service Award recipients Danny Sirmon, MAS, and D’Anna Zimmer, CAS; and H. Ted Olson Humanitarian Award recipient Joy Smith, MAS. PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 35
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Giving Back Taking a quick break from the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, 100 golfers from dozens of promo companies hit the links for a great cause, raising more than $47,000 for the Promotional Products Education Foundation during the Glen Holt & Fran Ford Memorial Golf Tournament at Bali Hai Golf Club in Las Vegas. The foundation’s largest annual fundraiser saw a nearly 20% growth in proceeds over 2024, with donations supporting scholarships for industry families. Since 1989, PPEF has donated more than $3.6 million to more than 2,000 students. The late Holt, MAS, was a former PPAI board member and Hall of Fame inductee who passed away in 2010, and Fran Ford Jr., CAS, was president of supplier Castelli, a division of The Magnet Group, and PPAI Hall of Fame inductee who passed away in 2018. As a dedicated supporter of PPEF, Ford launched the PPEF Glen Holt Scholarship Golf invitational in 2014. The tournament celebrates their lasting legacies with PPEF scholarships named in their honor. Par-tee Time Once again the hottest ticket in town, The PPAI Expo Party took over Swingers Las Vegas to wrap up the week. Promo pros packed the cutting-edge, indoor mini-golf haven (which opened in November) inside Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino for a raucous time. As the drinks flowed and the music blared, attendees let loose on the dance floor for the “Cupid Shuffle,” “Wobble Baby” and more hits. The party of the year, hosted by PPAI and SAGE, had everything: an open bar, plenty of food, carnival games and even a cotton candy machine. The PPAI Expo Party, held Wednesday night, ahead of The PPAI Expo’s final day, was a fitting, celebratory exclamation point that ushered attendees toward a successful year ahead. The Future The PPAI Expo 2025 was a roaring success, and the Association is already getting started on next year’s event. The PPAI Expo 2026 is headed back to Las Vegas, January 12-15, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. Best Of The PPAI EXPO 2025 | Must Read Corrigan is deputy editor at PPAI. PPAI • MARCH 2025 • 37
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