PPB March 2018

Best Of Expo | FEATURE Dohan, CEO of The Allen Company. This year, all of PPAI’s company award categories were rebranded under the Pyramid umbrella, and 160 awards were presented in a fresh, fast-moving format during an evening networking event. Recognized were some of the best examples of supplier decorating, technology, marketing programs and client programs, along with 22 supplier companies named as Supplier Stars. See the full list of award winners on page 53. Education Along with the trade show and networking, professional development completed the third side of the experience triangle, with more than 125 education sessions that were taught by industry experts, professional speakers and business insiders. More than 9,200 seats were filled during the five-day run. Programs began on Sunday and packed a full day on Monday, punctuated by the Power Keynotes offered that afternoon. In a highly successful format, attendees listened to opening pitches from three exceptional speakers—Seth Mattison, David Avrin and Rita Davenport—then chose one to attend. The highlight for many attendees was the powerful opening general session presented on Tuesday by advertising executive Roy Spence, who inspired his audience with his personal support of promotional products and shared advice on how listeners and their medium can become more impactful. Above: Recent Certified Advertising Specialist and Master Advertising Specialist designees are recognized for their achievement during Expo. Right: Four of the more than 60 young professionals who attended SPARK After Dark exchange industry best practices during roundtable discussions. Below: Speakers at this year’s show entertained as well as educated their listeners. Above: Team members from supplier Ariel Premium Supply revel in their two gold wins during the Walk Of Fame. | MARCH 2018 | 29