I’m super excited to reconnect with my out-of-state suppliers who I haven’t seen in two years, and to thank suppliers that helped us survive and thrive during the pandemic. They turned on a dime to provide face masks, sanitizer, etc. I’d like to shake their hands. Tomi Campbell President 8554MyLogo.com Houston, Texas I’m looking forward to getting back to normal. Getting back to long walks past an absurdly overcrowded Starbucks to get to the show floor. Getting back to walking 10 miles a day on carpeted concrete, in hopes that I’ll find that one “what’s cool” item for a client back home that I really want to stand out. Getting back to seeing, touching and feeling products, even if I have to apply insane amounts of hand sanitizer to do so. Getting back to spending endless hours in casinos, bars and restaurants to make and foster industry connections. Getting back to seeing my peers—no, my friends, that I’ve missed incredibly over the past two years. If I’d have known on January 16, 2020, that the world would be flipping upside down and coming to a standstill a mere two months later, I might have looked and listened a little harder. I might have been a little more patient with long lines at booths and overpriced food court restaurants. I might have shaken hands and hugged necks a little longer with my friends. But I’m looking forward to making up for all of that very soon. Chris Clark, MAS Founder Radius Marketing Solutions Perry, Georgia I am looking forward to tired feet because I want to see everything that is offered. I want to be well informed for my clients. Lori Lechner Kasberg Owner Promotional Concepts Unlimited, LLC Columbus, Ohio This event was my first introduction to this industry and was the catalyst for my decision to join the party. There is no replacement for personal interaction with people who I rely on to support my growing business, and with the opportunity to learn and grow from the people I meet. This will be a celebration for all who attend, and also a lot of fun. Scott Cappel, MAS President Sorento Mesa Promo San Diego, California Tina Berres Filipski is editor of PPB. Be A Part Of This Industry Homecoming: Register Today Find all the details about The PPAI Expo, including hotel and airline discounts, the full schedule and the registration link at expo.ppai.org. Re-experience All That’s The PPAI Expo—Virtually For those who can’t make it to The PPAI Expo, and also for those who attend the show but want a second chance to visit with exhibitors and see new products, PPAI will again produce Expo Direct-2-You, a virtual show experience coming to a computer near you. “Historically, Expo has been on the calendar and the place where everyone goes. This year is a little different,” says Peterson. “People are making personal choices that might be budget-related or health-related and we understand that and are prepared for that, both in terms of making attendees comfortable on-site and offering an alternative if health, safety and travel concerns keep them from attending.” He adds that Expo Direct2-You also gives an opportunity to attendees and those who can’t attend to stay engaged in the industry, especially for industry workers who typically wouldn’t attend the show to participate in the February virtual event. Mark your calendar to login on February 22-24, 2022, for two days of virtual exhibits, online education and creative networking events. Be notified when registration opens for this one-of-a-kind experience by submitting the interest form at expo.ppai.org/direct-2you-experience. FEATURE | The PPAI Expo 2022 Preview 30 | DECEMBER 2021 |
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