Suppliers | Must Read and through legislation, having a partner in PF Concept creates the advantage of foresight on this continent. “By exchanging experiences and ideas, we’re not only improving our own practices but also pushing the industry forward as a whole,” Oster says. “Collaboration like this shows the power of sharing knowledge and resources across borders. … While our operational environments may differ, our overarching commitment to sustainability and leadership remains unwavering.” Whereas PCNA is angling toward a Gold EcoVadis rating with future improvements, PF Concept is already Platinum – the highest possible rating. “They by far have led the way for us as a company,” Ringel says. “Frankly, they were inspiration in us doing what we did here in North America.” Leading The Way During the interview with PCNA leadership, I express admiration for the branding thought that went into the development of ProudPath. The name itself tells the story that the company is on a journey. On responsibility, things are in better shape than they were five years ago, and they’ll surely be better tomorrow with continued focus. There is no end point to the progress that can be made. Maybe most encouraging for the overall prospects of the promotional products market is that a company like PCNA – one that is a corporate behemoth and does have an equity partner that expects profitability and growth – is willing to deal with intermediate setbacks for the greater long-term good. Did PCNA’s sales drop from 2022 to 2023 because distributors and their customers weren’t fully ready for a product lineup that is more focused on being better for the planet? PCNA certainly wouldn’t admit that, but we all know there is such a thing in business as being early. Ringel gives an example of plush toys, which PCNA has removed from its line because the stuffing inside does not align with sustainability goals. He’s comfortable with sacrificing those orders to other suppliers. This takes some getting used to for a sales department, Brown admits. “Of course it’s hard,” she says. “But we have so much to offer.” No one in this business or any other is seeking to be a martyr. But the industry – in fact, the planet – cannot make the necessary progress on responsibility fronts without sacrifice. We must choose to lead. Ellis is the publisher and editor-in-chief of PPAI Media. PPAI • JUNE 2024 • 45
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