SPONSORED CONTENT O ce BeaconExpands Global Talent Footprint To Empower The Promo Industry By Tim Lawson FOR NEARLY 25 YEARS, Of ice Beacon has helped promotional product suppliers and distributors streamline operations and scale smarter by providing cost-effective, offshore staf ing solutions. Our early impact came through supporting industry leaders, like PPAI 100 supplier PCNA, by building out their art departments using expert talent based in India. That talent pool enabled suppliers to offer low-cost (or even free) art proofs to distributor clients, while setting the standard for outsourcing creative and back-of ice roles. As the industry’s needs evolved, so did we. Of ice Beacon expanded services to include e-commerce support, order entry, customer service, order management and bookkeeping, leveraging the high education levels and tech-savvy workforce in the Philippines. This move proved game-changing for distributors who realized they could outsource vital admin functions to skilled, dedicated professionals and stay focused on revenue-generating activities. Fast-forward to 2025: We’re breaking new ground again – this time in South Africa. With new of ices in Johannesburg and Cape Town, Of ice Beacon is activating a new growth engine: English- irst talent in South Africa, uniquely aligned with U.S. needs. While the Philippines continues to offer immense value, South Africa adds a new layer of competitive advantage, particularly around communication. In the promo industry, where accuracy and timelines are everything, luent conversational English isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. Our South African staff are already thriving in high-touch roles like Distributor Order Management, Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable – where clear, con ident dialogue with clients and vendors is non negotiable. Beyond language, South African professionals bring a strong understanding of American pop culture, shared time zones that reduce overnight shifts, and a healthier work-life balance that promotes job satisfaction and retention. It’s a win-win for both our clients and their teams. South Africa also opens the door to client-facing roles like Sales Assistants and Account Managers. Imagine suppliers with customer service staff who can communicate seamlessly with distributors or distributors hiring Account Managers who can con idently manage a book of business. It’s not a dream – it’s already happening. Need proo ? South Africa is the promo hub of Africa, home to a branded merch supplier with over 1,100 employees serving over 6,000 distributors across the continent. Industry sales in Africa and the Middle East recently surpassed $500 million, and South African talent is driving that growth. At Of ice Beacon, we’re not just responding to industry shifts but anticipating them. Whether it’s artists in India, back-of ice teams in the Philippines or English- irst professionals in South Africa, we’re expanding what’s possible for promo companies ready to grow. The world of work has changed. We’re here to help you change with it – smartly, affordably and globally. Scan to contact Tim: Peter Titmuss / Shutterstock.com PPAI • JUNE 2025 • 89
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