Legislative Education and Action Day | Must Read value our products bring to businesses and the economy.” As part of our “promotional products work” message to leaders on Capitol Hill, we’ll be sharing several case studies of successful real-world promo projects for federal and state agencies. These stories will help illustrate for lawmakers why promotional products work, as well as show how promo distributors and suppliers drive growth, create jobs and support local economies. “Branded merchandise brings joy, creates lasting connections, and plays a critical role in the brand ecosystem, driving engagement in ways no other medium can,” says Holmgreen. “At PPAI, our mission is to advance, protect and grow this industry, and that means championing the businesses and professionals who make it thrive. LEAD allows us to share our story, demonstrate our economic impact, and ensure our voices are heard where it matters most.” Protecting The Industry’s Interests PPAI will also speak up against proposed legislation that directly targets our industry. Not for the first time, Iowa Senator Joni Ernst has filed the Stop Wasteful Advertising by the Government (SWAG) Act “to end unnecessary spending on government propaganda, taxpayer-funded trinkets, and mascots.” In February, a dozen PPAI member companies in Iowa signed a group letter to their senator expressing the value of promotional products and the importance of the industry in the Iowan and American economies. Lamond and Thorn Run Partners have been following up with personal visits to her office, and these conversations will continue with a visit from PPAI member constituents during LEAD. “LEAD is such an important event for the industry,” says Brian Deissroth, senior director of sales for Edwards Garment, PPAI 100’s No. 19 supplier, and a GRAC member. “It’s our opportunity to educate and act on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of folks who choose this industry as their career. Personally, I can’t think of an event more impactful and powerful event to attend.” The targeted campaign to educate Ernst illustrates that while LEAD is a major component of PPAI’s advocacy strategy, it’s just one piece of a broader, ongoing effort that includes year-round engagement, grassroots initiatives and coalition-building. “The promotional products industry can end up being included in bills or policies that legislators aren’t fully aware of, and those decisions can have a real, negative impact on us,” says Porter. “That’s why being present in D.C., building relationships and establishing direct contacts with key decision-makers is so crucial. Having those connections is invaluable, because when something comes up, it’s those relationships that allow us to have a voice and make sure our industry’s concerns are heard.” Zoch is research and public affairs editor at PPAI. “As a small business owner and distributor, this event has given me a unique chance to engage directly with my state lawmakers to help them understand the real value our products bring to businesses and the economy.” —Carroll Hanley Goggin, MAS PPAI • APRIL 2025 • 41
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