PPB October 2017

Real-World Solutions Jen Alexander is associate editor for PPB. Re t a i l I ndus t r y Outfitted For Culinary Success A new restaurant serving modern Vietnamese cuisine was the winner of a competition to occupy space in the Washington Square district of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and needed apparel for its staff. Kalamazoo-based supplier Edwards Garment offered to sponsor the start-up’s uniforms. Kate Geshay, merchandise manager for Edwards Garment, worked with the team at Pho on the Block to provide uniforms that were fashionable, comfortable and functional, says Gary Schultz, president and CEO of Edwards. A number of uniform options were discussed to determine what garments would work best to convey the brand. Based on the restaurant design and type of service (i.e., counter and table service) it was determined that decorated chef apparel would be perfect for the team. “Decoration was critical to create their brand, and Edwards was able to decorate and deliver the uniforms in less than three days,” says Schultz. Tote-ally Appreciated A retail association was holding a fashion show and offering a limited number of VIP tickets. The VIP attendees were given front row seats and a free gift, a leather Harper Canyon Tote from supplier Beacon Promotions that was filled with a fashion scarf, necklace, tissue packets, perfume samples, and other small tokens of appreciation, which the local retail stores donated. The recipients enjoyed the items and could purchase more at the local retail stores that provided the items. Source: Beacon Promotions Computer Repair At Your Fuzzy Fingertips A computer repair store attended a local home show and wanted something useful but unique to attract attendees to their booth. They also wanted something that would keep their name top of mind when the recipient needed computer repair- work done. The Frizzy Finger Duster fromsupplier Beacon Promotions filled the bill. The 100-percentmicrofibermaterial is efficient for cleaning computermonitors, keyboards, telephones, etc., and is reusable andwashable. The recipients loved the fun but useful product and kept it handy, and it served as a great reminder to them when they needed work done on their electronic devices. Custom cookies are a sweet way to welcome guests at a grand opening celebration. These sweet grahams are decorated with an image of your client’s choosing and finished off with custom-color non-pareils and confetti. Order these individually wrapped with a bow for the ultimate touch. Good Fortunes / PPAI 228504 www.goodfortunes.com Shoppers can stash their treasures in this nonwoven drawstring tote featuring two reflective stripes; it comes in five eye-catching colors. The easy-grip handles lets users carry it as a tote, and the bag is made from 20-percent recycled material. Add a full-color digital imprint for memorable brand awareness. Aakron Line / PPAI 111082 www.aakronline.com Case studies from the industry Photo provided by Edwards Garment 50 | OCTOBER 2017 | GROW