IT’S OFTEN SAID that promo is a people industry. OK, it’s a product industry, too, but the people in it, and their relationships with each other and their communities, are the field’s lifeblood. It’s a business of connections and relationships that attracts some really distinct, very individual personalities. And there’s a fascinating story behind each and every one of them. Here are nine of the most engaging, creative and coolest voices in promo today. Coolest Promo Pro Who Should Be On Your Playlist When David Forsyth at OrderMyGear isn’t helping clients make their businesses sing, he’s blending classic country and indie rock on stages both local and abroad to a toe-tapping beat. Coolest Canadian Rich Patterson with PBJ Custom Merch Co. is a shining example of how our industry is built on connections. PPAI Director of Sustainability and Responsibility Elizabeth Wimbush, a fellow Canadian, notes that not only would Patterson give you the shirt off his back if he could, he’s the sort of person who can help you find anyone or anything. Coolest End Buyer That Just Gets It B2B tax software company Avalara has earned the praises of one of promo’s all-time advocates and good guys, Danny Rosin, CAS, of distributor Brand Fuel. Rosin says, “Avalara pushes us, and they let us challenge them. They understand that branding does not mean spraying a logo all over everything. They are thoughtful about distribution methods, the messaging, the audience, the consideration for quality and sustainability, the feeling they want a recipient to have when they receive branded Avalara merch. There are three responses to a branded merch campaign: No, Yes or WOW. WOW is the one Avalara aims for every time.” Must Read | The Coolest Stuff In Promo Coolest Advocate On Capitol Hill Angie Morelli, owner of Las Vegas distributor Customistic, started her company while serving in the U.S. Marines, and since then she has become a prolific and knowledgeable industry volunteer. Currently a member of PPAI’s Government Relations Advisory Council, she’s getting promo’s message heard – and more importantly, understood – in Washington. 48 • MAY 2024 • PPAI
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