have become, especially in a fastmoving industry like ours. But that opacity comes with risk – human rights violations, unsafe working conditions and labor exploitation often happen in the hidden corners of those supply chains. For PPAI members, increasing transparency isn’t about boxchecking or compliance theater. It’s about building a healthier, more resilient industry – one where we can stand behind our products not just because they look great or deliver ROI, but because they were made in ways that respect and protect people. Moving From Product Specs To People Specs The promotional products industry has always been about delivering meaningful, memorable experiences. But behind every branded hoodie, tote bag or notebook is a person (often several) whose story rarely gets told. As buying decisions increasingly incorporate environmental impact, there’s an opportunity – and a responsibility – to give equal weight to human impact. What if our industry started viewing worker well-being as a core product attribute? That doesn’t mean every PPAI member needs to become a labor rights expert. But it does mean that asking different questions about working conditions, wages, freedom of association or recruitment practices should become as routine as inquiring about turnaround times or print quality. Learning From Leaders Outside Our Industry Organizations like the Fair Labor Association have spent decades developing frameworks for traceability, ethical sourcing and responsible purchasing. While they may not have originated in our space, their tools and approaches offer valuable guidance as we confront shared challenges across global industries. That’s why PPAI is exploring collaborative conversations with groups like the FLA to learn, to adapt what works and to bring those insights to our members. Not because we expect small businesses or independent distributors to overhaul their operations overnight, but because change is easier (and more effective) when we move together. As a distributor or supplier, you might be wondering what practical steps you can take, especially if you don’t control manufacturing directly. Here are a few starting points: 1. Get curious. Start mapping your supply chain, even if it’s just one product at a time. Ask your suppliers where goods are made and who’s making them. 2. Talk to your clients. More end buyers are asking about responsible sourcing. Use this moment to educate them – and yourself – on the social impact of what they buy. 3. Engage your partners. Work with suppliers and decorators who are open to conversations about workers’ rights and transparent practices. 4. Use the tools PPAI is developing. As we expand our resources on human rights, due diligence, labor transparency and responsible sourcing, these will be available to help you meet your clients’ expectations and your own standards. Building An Industry We Can Be Proud Of The reality is, our industry isn’t immune to the global challenges facing supply chains. But we’re also not powerless. By making transparency and workers’ rights part of how we define value, we have the chance to elevate the entire industry – building trust, futureproofing our businesses and aligning with a growing wave of clients and consumers who care about the stories behind the stuff. It’s not about perfection. It’s about progress and about ensuring that as our industry evolves, we bring everyone along, especially the people who make it all possible. Wimbush is the director of sustainability and responsibility at PPAI. For PPAI members, increasing transparency isn’t about box-checking or compliance theater. It’s about building a healthier, more resilient industry – one where we can stand behind our products not just because they look great or deliver ROI, but because they were made in ways that respect and protect people. PPAI • MAY 2025 • 31 Responsibility | Voices
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzU4OQ==