Community | PPPC Communiqué Sumacom’s Tommy Roy Awarded PPPC’s 2024 Humanitarian Of The Year After an injury sidelined his career with Cirque du Soleil, Roy turned to the family business and embraced the promotional products industry. By Margaret Williamson Batuszkin TOMMY ROY, owner of Quebec-based distributor Sumacom (PPAI 746809), was named the Promotional Product Professionals of Canada’s 2024 Humanitarian of the Year during the awards ceremony during the association’s national convention in Toronto in September. Roy was recognized for his significant contributions to the promotional products community, industry and for his impressive philanthropic work. He received his award from last year’s winner, Brianna Mazze of St Regis – PPAI 100’s No. 22 supplier – and delivered a thought-provoking and meaningful acceptance speech citing how he was inspired by the entrepreneurship of his parents, who founded Sumacom. Roy said he learned at a young age to promote the participation of others to achieve greater results, which shaped the person he is today, a man with a strong humanitarian sense and a devotion to doing better. As a child, he wanted to help his dad, Marco Roy, with enhanced decorating techniques on medals, trophies, plates and more. He attributes his success and overall drive to working closely with his father. During that time, he cultivated two passions: business management and the École du Cirque du Québec, which resulted in him getting a spot with Cirque du Soleil. According to Roy, it gave him one of his first chances to make individuals smile and spark the imagination of those who crossed his path. “Humans need humans to learn, grow and realize their full potential,” he added. Roy also said that a challenge equals opportunities. He applied this motto when an injury sadly sidelined his career with Cirque du Soleil. By turning to business, his other passion, he was able to take Sumacom to where it is today. In 2022, he officially became the full owner of the company. His work and dedication to the family business fueled his devotion to serve others by delivering high-quality products with a keen eye to sustainability. Roy is focused on taking Sumacom to the next level through acquisitions, increased points of service and ongoing sales growth. His goal is to expand its reach and develop innovative ideas to continue to meet customers’ needs. Recently, he added the division Le Magasin Sumacom to offer workwear and protective gear, such as boots. This online boutique now serves over 1 million Canadian customers. Through his ongoing humanitarian efforts, Roy also secured a partnership with CASIRA, an international organization dedicated to supporting disadvantaged communities in developing countries. The organization recruits Canadians for volunteer work abroad. For a full list of the PPPC’s 2024 award winners, visit pppc.ca/awards online. Williamson Batuszkin is PPPC’s marketing and communications manager. 74 • DECEMBER 2024 • PPAI
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