PPB April 2020

FEATURE | Best Multi-Line Reps Hats off to eight of the best multi-line reps: the industry’s unsung heroes. by Tina Berres Filipski T he finest multi-line reps make it look easy, but they probably have the toughest job in the promotional products industry. On the road for weeks at a time, many of them cover more than 30,000 miles annually, crisscrossing their regions to represent their suppliers and solve problems for distributors. To be the best, they must expertly be able to discuss hundreds of products within different product lines for a variety of suppliers and stay on top of new products coming into the market. They must swiftly respond to requests, remain unflappable when tested, maintain their sense of humor and manage their business with the accuracy of a tight-rope walker. Despite the pace, workload and complexity, most multi-line reps are hugely passionate about their work and admit this gig has them hooked for life. This month, PPB spotlights eight of the best multi-line reps in the business, chosen from 30 nominations submitted by PPAI members from across the industry. Since 2011, PPB has conducted this annual recognition program to highlight these pros who often fly under the radar but fill an indispensable role in sales and communication between suppliers and distributors. 50 | APRIL 2020 |