Inside PPAI | Community size and importance of the promo industry, which represents a $26 billion sales market in the United States and employs roughly half a million Americans. Also important – of the industry’s 38,000 promo companies in the U.S., some 98% are considered small businesses. Austin Moody, account director at Lenexa, Kansas-based distributor Grapevine Designs, has sat on many committees and boards through PPAI but this year was his first attending L.E.A.D. “It's so important for us to be advocating for not only the industry, but also how we, as small business owners, operate on a daily basis. Having a voice to represent the promotional products industry in Washington, D.C. is a huge honor that I'm proud to be a part of.” Loren Richardson, outside account executive at alphabroder, says, “This is my third time attending L.E.A.D., and I am reminded every time that the people that we meet with, whether it’s a staffer or an elected official, are genuinely interested in whatever concerns we bring to the table.” “They are also amazed at not only how big our industry is but how many small businesses and employees it is made up of. Considering how politics are often portrayed, it’s refreshing to see, talk and hear from those on the Hill and have our voices heard. I am honored to have been involved again in PPAI L.E.A.D.” Bill Petrie, founder and creative director at brandivate and recipient of PPAI’s 2024 Distinguished Service Award, adds, “This is my ninth L.E.A.D. and was easily the most impactful one. The legislators and staff I was fortunate enough to meet with were very receptive to our asks – especially regarding the need to clarify the Department of Labor rules regarding how to classify independent contractors in the promotional products industry,” he says. “Plus, to a person, they see the value of branded merchandise and how our shared industry is comprised of small businesses.” L.E.A.D. represents an ongoing conversation between the promotional products industry and Washington lawmakers. “Putting members of our promo community in a room with legislators and their aides gives them a chance to do what we already know they’re great at: speak on the topic of promo,” says Dale Denham, MAS, president and CEO of PPAI. “Advocating for the industry in person keeps promo top of mind not only with the issues that might affect the community, but also the size and reach it represents in the economy.” PPAI • JULY 2024 • 79
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