Best Of The PPAI Expo 2026 2026 BEST OF THE p. 44 IN THIS ISSUE P PA I . ORG/ MED I A 03.26 Expo Fashion p. 16 New PPAI Board p. 28 Research: Distributor Sales p. 34
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4 From PPAI A Defining Moment 7 Creative Calendar Essentials 10 Use Case Distributor Faves From The PPAI Expo 2026 14 Solutions Spotlight Credit Services 16 In Style Fashion Finds From The PPAI Expo 2026 Voices 20 Responsibility From Momentum To Maturity 24 Your Business The Discipline Of ‘Not This Year’ Must Read 52 Promotional Products Work Summer Camps 58 PPAI Pyramid Awards Inspiring Client Promotions Community 72 Buzzworthy 75 PPPC Communiqué 77 New Members 83 Datebook 90 Perfect Promo CONTENTS 03.26 VOLUME 50, ISSUE 02 Changing Of The Guard 2026 brought several fresh faces to the PPAI Board of Directors. The latest arrivals bring new perspectives, along with plenty of experience and expertise to guide the Association into the future. 28 Best Of The PPAI Expo 2026 At the industry’s annual kickoff bonanza in Las Vegas, a sharper sense of direction powered connection, creativity and community. 44 2 2026 2026 2026 BEST OF THE BEST OF THE BEST OFTHE 44 34 28 PPAI Sales Volume Estimate Promo Reaches New Height But Hampered By External Volatility The annual report reveals industry insights concerning company size, sustainability, AI, retail brands, online sales and distributors using suppliers outside the industry. 34 Samantha Kates Joseph Sommer Frank Myers Bruce Barnet PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 3
From PPAI Drew Holmgreen, CAS President & CEO, PPAI 03.26 A Defining Moment THE PPAI EXPO 2026 delivered what makes this event so essential to our industry: meaningful connection, powerful education and a collective focus on advancing merch into its next era. For decades, this has been the place where our community comes together, but this year carried a deeper sense of intention. The design of The PPAI Expo 2026 was deliberate, ensuring that every room, every conversation and every moment sought to elevate branded merch. It felt like a reflection of who we are today and a preview of who we’re becoming. Standing in that environment, I found myself thinking back a year to The PPAI Expo 2025. It was my very first week not only as CEO but my first week in merch, too. I was told, with a knowing smile, that this is an industry where you should “expect hugs.” And it was true. Those early welcomes were my introduction to a community built on connection, continuity and a kind of shared understanding you rarely find elsewhere. Over the past year, as I listened, learned and traveled across this community, what stood out most was how deeply our longterm success is rooted in a generational legacy paired with entrepreneurial grit. Whether it’s a firsttime solopreneur or a centuryold family company, the throughline is the same: People here build, rebuild, collaborate and help each other rise. Competitive collaboration isn’t a catchphrase in merch – it’s a lived reality. And it’s one of the reasons this industry continues to endure and evolve. But 2025 was also a year of navigating challenges and reestablishing norms. We had to regain our footing in places, redefine expectations and recalibrate around new realities. Yet the strength of this community showed itself. The optimism and appetite for growth was apparent, and it’s carrying into 2026. Still, we know the pattern. Our industry has seen steady, moderate growth for years. Steady is respectable. Steady is reliable. But steady won’t get us where we’re going next. To truly elevate merch to the role it deserves, as a marketing channel core to every brand strategy, we need bold positioning and a unified vision. That’s why the debut of PPAI’s 2026-2030 Strategic Plan at The PPAI Expo was such a defining moment. This plan was built with insights from our members, our Board and our staff. It reflects truths, data and desires from across our community. It’s informed by lived experience, grounded in realworld needs and designed to guide the industry through its next great leap. At its heart, the plan centers on a clear direction – repositioning merch from a supporting tactic to a premier driver of brand connection and marketing impact. And as the industry’s largest notforprofit, PPAI is uniquely equipped to lead that shift. Our mission isn’t to generate profit but to invest resources into the success of our members and the advancement of this industry. With the talent of our staff, the vision of our Board and the unwavering dedication of our volunteers, we are prepared to ignite the momentum already underway. The PPAI Expo 2026 showed us what happens when intention meets opportunity. Now it’s time to accelerate. So … let’s go! To truly elevate merch to the role it deserves, as a marketing channel core to every brand strategy, we need bold positioning and a unified vision. 4 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI
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PPAI® PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Josh Ellis JoshE@ppai.org DEPUTY EDITOR John Corrigan JohnC@ppai.org SENIOR NEWS EDITOR Jonny Auping JonnyA@ppai.org MARKETING COPYWRITER Sarah Luna sarahl@ppai.org MARKET ECONOMIST & SENIOR MANAGER, RESEARCH Alok Bhat AlokB@ppai.org PUBLIC AFFAIRS MANAGER Rachel Zoch, CAS RachelZ@ppai.org RESEARCH COORDINATOR Shiella Aparis ShiellaA@ppai.org ART DIRECTION SPARK Publications SPARKpublications.com 704-844-6080 ADVERTISING MANAGEMENT ACCOUNT MANAGERS Connie Brazil Nick DiNicola Luke Huebsch Heather Mangold Mark Rykojc PPAI.org/account-managers ADVERTISING CONTACT Danah Dean 972-258-3031 DanahD@ppai.org PRESIDENT & CEO Drew Holmgreen, CAS 888-I-AM-PPAI CHIEF REVENUE & EXPERIENCE OFFICER Ellen Tucker, MAS, CAE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE Renae Ward CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Melissa Ralston CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Christopher Cheney DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES Nicole Rhooms DIRECTOR OF SALES Michele Schwartz, CAS DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY Elizabeth Wimbush, CAS BOARD OFFICERS CHAIR OF THE BOARD Danny Rosin, CAS Brand Fuel IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Denise Taschereau, CAS Fairware CHAIR-ELECT OF THE BOARD Zack Ottenstein The Image Group VICE CHAIR, FINANCE SERVICES Mark Gammon PCNA BOARD MEMBERS REGIONAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE DELEGATE TERM EXPIRING 2027 Kara Keister, MAS Social Good Promotions AT LARGE DIRECTOR Samantha Kates Spector TERMS EXPIRING 2027 Frank Myers S&S Activewear TERMS EXPIRING 2028 Erin Reilly Pop! Promos TERMS EXPIRING 2029 Mark Gammon PCNA Kate Alavez PromoShop TERMS EXPIRING 2030 Joseph Sommer Whitestone Bruce Barnet Charles River Apparel PPAI HEADQUARTERS 3125 Skyway Circle North, Irving, Texas 75038-3526 Phone: 888-IAM-PPAI (426-7724) www.ppai.org, pubs.ppai.org READER RESOURCES SUBSCRIBE TO PPAI MAGAZINE: Subscribe online at pubs.ppai.org or send your name, title, company name and mailing address, along with phone and fax, to PPB Subscriptions, 3125 Skyway Circle North, Irving, Texas 75038. Or phone in your subscription to 972-258-3019. Include payment with your order. Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted, along with checks. Additional member subscriptions are $58 for PPAI member companies (U.S.), $70 (Canada and Mexico) and $75 (international). Nonmember subscriptions are $72 (U.S.), $82 (Canada and Mexico) and $92 (international). Please allow four to six weeks for start of subscription. ADVERTISE IN PPAI MAGAZINE: Download a media kit with rates and specs for all PPAI print and digital publications at media.ppai.org, or call 972-258-3019 or email mediasales@ppai.org. Promotional Products Association International 6 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI
If this calendar is helpful or if you have ideas for ways that we can better provide this information, email the editors at magazine@ppai.org. Exceptional Promotions SPECIAL OBSERVANCES CALL FOR Use these key dates and seasonal celebrations to spark creative campaigns your clients will love. Compiled by Sarah Luna April NATIONAL STRESS AWARENESS MONTH Product Idea: The Portable Insulated Cooler Fanny Pack keeps the good stuff cold while keeping hands free. Made from durable oxford fabric with a PEVA lining, it’s lightweight and sturdy enough for tailgates, festivals and everything in between. The adjustable waist strap makes it comfortable, and the front pocket provides room for stashing essentials like a phone, keys and even snacks. The insulated main compartment fits up to three cans, so refills are never far away. FNC International Limited / PPAI 671683, Standard-Base fncintl.ca 7 NATIONAL BEER DAY 14 NATIONAL GARDENING DAY 26 NATIONAL PRETZEL DAY 16 NATIONAL CLASSIC MOVIE DAY 15 NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CHIP DAY 31 NATIONAL SMILE DAY 1 NATIONAL SAY SOMETHING NICE DAY 2 NATIONAL LEAVE THE OFFICE EARLY DAY 15 NATIONAL SMILE POWER DAY May June NATIONAL SALSA MONTH Product Idea: Classic movies call for a timeless cinema snack. The Silicone Popcorn Bowl makes it easy to pop kernels right in your microwave, with no oil or extras needed. The lid keeps rogue kernels from flying, and the built-in measuring line takes the guesswork out of portioning. Made from durable, BPA-free silicone, it’s safe for both the microwave and dishwasher, and the collapsible design allows for compact storage between flicks. If popcorn isn’t your thing, the bowl also works perfectly for chips or other snacks. Souvenir Matters / PPAI 769755, Standard-Base souvenirmatters.com NATIONAL CANDY MONTH Product Idea: Retro is on the rise, and disposable cameras are back in the spotlight with the FlashEnabled 27-Shot Disposable Camera. Each single-use camera features a fixed focal distance, built-in flash and a single AA battery, making it quick and easy to capture the moment. With options for 12, 18 or 27 shots, the fun keeps going, and so will the conversations about your brand. When prints are picked up days later, the experience returns, and so does your name. LRZ Supply / PPAI 891575, Standard-Base / lrzspy.com PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 7
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PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS TO BE UNIVERSALLY VALUED Essentials 03.26 USE CASE p. 10 IN STYLE p. 16 CREDIT SERVICES These verified PPAI-member business services partners help take the guesswork out of complicated financial systems. page 14 SOLUTION SPOTLIGHT TarikVision / Shutterstock.com PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 9
Distributor Faves From The PPAI Expo 2026 Distributors were on the lookout for products that were unique versions of branded items their clients might love. By John Corrigan SOME 10,000 DISTRIBUTORS flooded the aisles of the trade floor at The PPAI Expo 2026, the largest and longest-running trade show in the promotional products industry. Covering roughly 1 million square feet in scope, the trade floor featured more than 2,500 booths and nearly 1,000 exhibitors, offering the latest products in every category. The PPAI Expo 2026 MOLLY HALPIN Senior Account Manager HALO PPAI 106462, Platinum Sterling, Illinois Halpin is still raving about RiteLine’s Plainview Pens, specifically the Plainview Prime B160A (white barrel with color grip and clip) and Plainview Vivid B160D (color barrel and grip with white clip). “The surprise extra logo location on the RiteLine pen was fun and something I haven’t seen before,” Halpin says. “It was a very smart design on a simple pen. The other samples at the booth incorporated QR codes into the third imprint space.” RiteLine / PPAI 622626, Silver / ritelineusa.com Halpin was also dazzled by California Tattoos’ newest offering: Reveal Custom Temporary Tattoos, which show a different design once you apply them. “It seemed really fun and would be great for a company rebrand, revealing the new logo,” Halpin says. California Tattoos / PPAI 111028, Standard-Plus californiatattoos.com Rawpixel.com / Shutterstock.com 10 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Essentials | Use Case
BRANDON KENNEDY CEO BrandCo Marketing PPAI 105922, Standard-Plus Bakersfield, California Of all the headwear suppliers at The PPAI Expo 2026, ANYROPE by Strike, which offers 500 stock hat and rope combinations, stood out to Kennedy. “The ANYROPE customization will allow for users who want that extra level of branding to really customize their hats,” Kennedy says. “And for those of us who aren’t exactly fans of the ropes, it’s removeable, which is a nice option to provide.” ANYROPE by Strike / PPAI 667009, StandardPlus / strikepromo.com KATHY COLEY-RYAN Branding Specialist LogoBranders PPAI 197204, Gold Montgomery, Alabama The Chair Blanket, which now also comes in the form of full-color, dye-sublimated beach towels, caught the eye of Coley-Ryan. “Its price point targets many of my clients and reimagines a familiar giveaway in a more unique, premium, functional way while combining comfort, portability and long-term ROI,” Coley-Ryan says. ”It’s what we need in the industry to represent a branding piece that recipients will keep, use and remember.” City Bonfires / PPAI 814515, Standard-Base / citybonfires.com After racking up the steps along the trade show floor, PARKIT’s Eclipse Recliner Outdoor Chair is a sight for sore feet. “I like the ability to really customize these chairs with the client’s colors as opposed to just an imprint color to match,” Kennedy says. “Plus, the quality is really good with a retail presence.” PARKIT / PPAI 827363, Standard-Base / parkitmovement.com Twintech’s new tech items were all spot-on for trends and popularity, says Kennedy, who loved the nostalgic vibe of the Cinemaflex Retro Digital Camera. “It’s all the rage right now,” he says. “Plus, pricing is incredible for the quality of the decoration and products themselves.” Twintech Industry / PPAI 261545, Silver / twintechpromo.com “It’s what we need in the industry to represent a branding piece that recipients will keep, use and remember.” — KATHY COLEY-RYAN PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 11 Use Case | Essentials
Another product Coley-Ryan is eager to show her customers is the Charcuterie To Go Snack Tray, which is a fishing tackle box converted for carrying an assortment of treats. “This one is totally on trend,” she says. “It’s clever, practical and reuseable, making it a high-impact branded piece perfect for a variety of uses.” HPG / PPAI 110772, Platinum hpgbrands.com Distributors are always seeking out the latest bags, which remain a staple of the branded merchandise market. Coley-Ryan says that Hit’s Farm Stand 14 Oz. Cotton Canvas Dual Handle Tote Bag is “durable and stylish with retail quality while still being practical for everyday use. It’s a long-lasting promo piece with high perceived value.” Hit Promotional Products / PPAI 113910, Platinum / hitpromo.net “It’s a long-lasting promo piece with high perceived value.” — KATHY COLEY-RYAN 12 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Essentials | Use Case
CATHY VALENZUELA Owner/Manager Tuxedo Ranch PPAI 192419, Standard-Plus Pueblo, Colorado As anyone can tell from the lines just to get to the booths, the exhibitors who present an experience draw far more attention than those just telling you about their products, according to Valenzuela. That’s why Numo’s Pen Bar Experience In A Box is a win-win, she says. “Whether it’s something I can share with a university admission team that goes to college fairs or a tire manufacturer that wants to attract new distributors to their trade show booth, the pen box looks like it could be a big deal in the coming year.” Numo / PPAI 112597, Gold / numomfg.com Corrigan is deputy editor at PPAI. New Arched Tradeshow Displays PPAI/582106 SAGE/50398 Full Color, Full Coverage Free PMS Color Matches Over 1,000 Display Products at www.discountmp.com Free Set-Up RAD01100 - 10’ Round Arch Display Full Kit - Full Color Imprint $1,235(C) for one piece DAD01101 - 15’ Arch Display Full Kit - Full Color Imprint $1,507(C) for one piece PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 13 Use Case | Essentials
TarikVision / Shutterstock.com Credit Services These verified PPAI-member business services partners help take the guesswork out of complicated financial systems. CREDIT SERVICES MEMBERS play an important role in the promotional products industry by helping businesses operate with fewer payment delays. They give companies a clearer picture of how accounts manage payments and how support systems move money from one stage of a project to the next. Most of this work happens behind the scenes, but it is essential for everyday operations. Distributors and suppliers both benefit from credit services by making payments easier and gaining a clearer view of who they’re working with. These companies offer secure system solutions that handle credit card transactions through mobile tools and websites so teams don’t have to rely on manual billing or complicated steps. They also provide credit reports built for the promotional products industry, helping businesses understand how accounts have been paid in the past. With simple steps, these systems let companies focus on their work instead of chasing paperwork. When suppliers and distributors have reliable credit tools, they can make decisions with confidence. This not only strengthens working relationships but also helps the promotional products industry operate with fewer disruptions. See more on these business services providers and many more. Visit PPAI.org/solutions. 14 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Essentials | Solutions Spotlight
The Provider The Solution SAGE PPAI 100001, Diamond Empower your business with the dynamic SAGE and PPAI partnership, offering a comprehensive suite of tools and benefits for distributors to thrive in the promotional products industry. PPAI Credit Services, Powered By Forius PPAI 204390, Diamond" An Affinity Partner, PPAI Credit Services powered by Forius provides objective, comprehensive credit reports for the promotional products industry. It supports suppliers seeking better customer credit management and distributors needing a more efficient way to approve credit orders Fortis Payment Systems PPAI 880800, Standard-Plus Fortis is built for NetSuite and other ERP systems. Its embedded platform provides tools to increase sales, drive revenue and lower costs while improving operational efficiency within NetSuite. Because it is embedded in NetSuite, activation is simple — no programming or added costs are required to begin processing payments quickly. EBizCharge PPAI 820419, Standard-Base EBizCharge is a secure payment solution that accelerates cash flow by integrating with more than 100 ERP, accounting and e-commerce systems, including Odoo, QuickBooks, Zoho Books and SAGE. With enterprisegrade security and a focus on reducing payment friction, EBizCharge helps businesses get paid faster, lower processing costs and streamline operations. Vivid. Vibrant. Unmatched. 815-585-8888 sales@samedaytees.com Our advanced decorating techniques are like no other. Let the full-color experts bring your most vibrant visions to life. • POLARIS™ DTG • DIGITAL SQUEEGEE • SCREEN PRINT • DTF (Direct to Film) • EMBROIDERY • DIGITAL EMBROIDERY We’d Love to Partner with You. PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 15 Solutions Spotlight | Essentials
Fashion Finds From The PPAI Expo 2026 Exhibitors were eager to showcase the latest styles and trends in apparel on the trade show floor. By Hanna Brookshire ALONG WITH NEW drinkware and technology, the latest apparel offerings never cease to disappoint at The PPAI Expo. Fashion finds on the show floor reflected the promotional products industry’s shift toward retailinspired clothing and elevated everyday wear, with suppliers showcasing modern silhouettes, high-quality fabrics and trend-forward colorways that go well beyond basic branded T-shirts. Attendees spotted an emphasis on “everyday luxury” in garments that feel more like lifestyle pieces than traditional swag, along with interactive booth activations that let distributors personalize hoodies, polos and jackets on the spot – from pressing custom patches to choosing logo placement in real time. This year’s fashion highlights also leaned into subtle sophistication, with textured patterns, refined fits and versatile layers that appeal to a wide range of end buyers, signaling that promotional apparel is increasingly blending functional branding with retail appeal. From fashion-forward outerwear and relaxed athleisure to reimagined classics like elevated polos and heavyweight tees, exhibitors leaned into pieces people would choose to wear outside of work. Earth-tone palettes, softened neutrals and pops of unexpected color gave collections a modern edge, while sustainability remained baked into the story through recycled fabrics and responsible production claims. With these trends in mind, here are just a few of the many apparel products that The PPAI Expo 2026 had to offer. JINIYA AKTER JOSNA / Shutterstock.com The Athletic Quarter Crew Socks from Sock Club are a classic style with lots of potential. Sock Club is known for their highquality custom socks with full-color knitted designs. These socks, made in the USA with 75% U.S.-grown cotton, are in the trendy quarter crew cut with extra cushioning in the sole and heel, which gives them a luxurious feel that won’t break the bank. For a thoughtful finishing touch, you can also get customized packaging. Sock Club / PPAI 692671, Silver / custom.sockclub.com For a thoughtful finishing touch, you can also get customized packaging. 16 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Essentials | In Style
Next Level Apparel’s 1810 Ideal Tubular T-Shirt is the ideal elevated basic that will quickly become a wardrobe staple due to its classic cut and super-soft feel. This unisex 100% cotton tee comes in sizes XS-4XL, making it both sustainable and inclusive. It comes in 21 colors, including classic neutrals and trendy bright hues, and is ready to print. Next Level Apparel takes responsible and ethical sourcing and manufacturing seriously, working with the Fair Labor Association and other compliance programs and partners. Next Level Apparel / PPAI 272027, Silver nextlevelapparel.com The Hanes Ultimate Men’s Heavyweight Fleece Hoodie is sure to keep you warm and cozy. This hoodie, made with a heavyweight cotton-rich fleece blend designed to avoid pilling and provide extra warmth, features a drawstring hood, a kangaroo pocket and ribbed cuffs and waistband. It comes in 13 colors and sizes S-3XL. It’s a classic style that’s great for layering, and it’s made from 65-90% cotton depending on the colorway. Hanes / PPAI 191138, Gold hanesprintwear.com The Big Bang Lite JUNK Headband from Outdoor Cap is designed to keep you cool and comfy whether you are out jogging or playing for the major leagues. This headband is making waves in the sports world, with the Phillies’ Bryce Harper wearing one despite being fined since the headbands aren’t league-sponsored. If that doesn’t convince you of its quality, consider these details: It’s made of a moisture-wicking fabric designed to keep you cool while having a comfy T-shirt feel and can be fully customized with a design. One size fits most. Outdoor Cap / PPAI 213485, Platinum outdoorcap.com Brookshire is a freelance writer and former PPAI Media intern. This headband is making waves in the sports world, with the Phillies’ Bryce Harper wearing one despite being fined since the headbands aren’t league-sponsored. Attendees spotted an emphasis on “everyday luxury” in garments that feel more like lifestyle pieces than traditional swag PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 17 In Style | Essentials
IDEAS TO ADVANCE THE MARKETPLACE Voices 03.26 RESPONSIBILITY p. 20 YOUR BUSINESS THE DISCIPLINE OF ‘NOT THIS YEAR’ Successful management is knowing when to focus on what is attainable now vs. what can wait. page 24 PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 19 Na_Studio / Shutterstock.com
From Momentum The industry’s increasingly sustainable direction makes a strong showing at The PPAI Expo. By Elizabeth Wimbush, CAS LAST YEAR’S SIGNS of progress at The PPAI Expo captured something important: Responsibility had moved out of the margins. It wasn’t hidden in one or two sessions or relegated to the “sustainability nerds” (yours truly included). It was visible, expected and increasingly part of the conversation. Booths looked different. Rooms were full. Attendees lingered longer asking questions about environmental impact. Even better, The PPAI Expo 2026 didn’t feel like a sequel. It felt like what comes next. The most noticeable shift wasn’t volume, it was restraint – fewer sweeping claims and less narrative filler. More matterof-fact explanations of what’s actually happening inside companies and across supply chains. Not dramatic and grandiose, just grounded. That kind of change doesn’t usually grab headlines, but it is the kind that usually sticks. Validated data showed up more consistently, and not as a special feature. Certifications, documentation and defined metrics were treated as normal reference points rather than value-adds. When gaps existed, they were often acknowledged plainly. No panicked gymnastics to justify. That alone says something about where the merch industry is. There’s a growing comfort with saying, “This is where we are and what we plan to do to To Maturity 20 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Voices | Responsibility
move forward” instead of rushing to say, “Here’s where we’re going.” The language has tightened, too. Terms that once floated freely are increasingly tied to shared definitions and recognizable standards. Conversations felt clearer, less interpretive. There were fewer moments of polite nodding while everyone silently translated or made a mental note to Google that acronym later. It’s easier to move forward when people are actually talking about the same thing. Shocking, I know. There was also less fluff. Not none, but noticeably less. Big promises gave way to smaller, more specific explanations for what’s in place, what’s being tested and even what’s not yet solved. All were discussed pretty honestly and pragmatically. Attendees asked sharper questions and didn’t rush past the answers. It was practical over performative, with a drop in buzzwords used per minute. That same tone showed up in how the event itself operated. Sustainability efforts in Las Vegas weren’t framed as aspirational experiments or “nice-to-haves,” but rather treated as standard operating practice. The three water refill stations on the show floor recorded more than 6,700 water fills by the end of the show, representing thousands of single-use plastic bottles avoided The three water refill stations on the show floor recorded more than 6,700 water fills by the end of the show, representing thousands of single-use plastic bottles avoided without announcements, signage overload or moral pressure. Zero-Waste Event Behind the scenes at The PPAI Expo 2026, the sustainability results were even more telling. Based on the final commodity report, the event achieved a 90% waste diversion rate, meeting the threshold required to qualify as a ZeroWaste Event. Cardboard, wood, mixed paper, metals, food waste, carpet and pad material streams were separated, tracked and managed. YOUR Brand YOUR Scent YOUR Story rob@inluro.com inluro.com/pages/wholesale Increase Revenue Increase Brand Recognition Strengthen Loyalty PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 21 Responsibility | Voices
without announcements, signage overload or moral pressure. It worked precisely because it didn’t require enthusiasm to participate. It simply made the better option the easier one. Standardization came up often across sessions and conversations, but not as a philosophical debate – more as infrastructure. Shared frameworks and benchmarks weren’t framed as constraints. They were treated as tools that make progress easier to repeat. There’s a growing recognition that consistency doesn’t limit innovation, it enables it. We’ve collectively decided not to reinvent the wheel, just improve it – which I love for us. Education felt different this year as well. Sessions leaned less on awareness-building and more on application. People weren’t just listening. They were stress-testing ideas against their own constraints, timelines and internal realities. Questions were practical. Followups were specific. Awareness has largely done its job. Integration is where the work is now. Taken together, this doesn’t look like sustainability going away or even taking up less space. It looks like it’s settling in for the long haul. That’s also why the timing of the newly released PPAI 20262030 Strategic Plan feels aligned. Sustainability and responsibility are positioned as a priority lane – not a standalone initiative or side project, but something woven through the foundation and all three strategic pillars. That framing mirrors what showed up in Las Vegas and is present in the industry more broadly. When responsibility is treated as a priority, it stops being optional. It shows up in sourcing and design decisions, in what’s put in front of clients more often and in the questions companies are willing to ask of themselves and their partners. The PPAI Expo 2026 didn’t announce this shift. It reflected it. If last year was about momentum, this year was about muscle memory. It’s unspectacular but repeatable. It doesn’t rely on enthusiasm, novelty or perfect conditions to function. Ours is an industry learning how to make responsibility part of how it does business day to day – not just how it talks about it. Wimbush is the director of sustainability and responsibility at PPAI. 22 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Voices | Responsibility Welcome Gifts! Thank You Recognition Retail! Full Color Packaging for Any Event! Premium White Corrugated Full Color 1 or 2 Sides Full Coverage Imprint Custom Sizes Available 16 Stock Sizes NO TARIFFS NO WORRIES MADE PPAI/114154 SAGE/57590
Na_Studio / Shutterstock.com EVERY JANUARY, The PPAI Expo shows us what’s working – smart products, thoughtful partnerships, creative approaches to old problems. It’s a concentrated dose of possibility, and that’s part of its value. But possibility, left unchecked, has a way of turning into pressure. Pressure to act quickly. Pressure to say yes. Pressure to bring something new back home, even if you’re not sure where it fits. After enough years around this industry, I’ve learned that one of the most useful responses you can have after the big Vegas trip is also one of the least flashy: “Not this year.” That phrase doesn’t mean disinterest. It doesn’t mean fear. More often than not, it means you’re paying attention. The hard part isn’t finding something worth pursuing. The hard part is deciding whether you’re actually in a position to pursue it well. Every organization has limits, even healthy ones. Time gets allocated before it gets measured. Attention is finite. Energy runs out faster than most of us would like to admit. When you layer new initiatives on top of existing commitments without adjusting anything else, something eventually gives. We’re a few weeks removed from the show now. For the good of your business, let’s take a look at those lingering ideas you’ve yet to fully act on, and decide which ones may be better off paused. Choosing Doesn’t Mean Settling There’s a tendency to treat restraint as a lack of ambition. In reality, the opposite is often true. Clear choices require confidence – confidence in what you’re already doing and confidence in the direction you’ve set. In my work leading PPAI’s distributor accounts, communities and partnerships, I’ve seen how quickly momentum can stall when focus slips. Organizations say yes to opportunities that make sense in isolation but don’t add up collectively. Six months later, everyone’s busy and no one’s quite sure why progress feels slower than it should. Successful management is knowing when to focus on what is attainable now vs. what can wait. By Mason Linn, CAS The Discipline Of ‘Not This Year’ 24 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Voices | Your Business
Saying “not this year” creates room to finish what you’ve started. It protects the things you’ve already decided matter. The Cost Of Overcommitment There’s also a practical side to restraint that doesn’t get much attention. When you say yes too often, you don’t just strain your own resources. You create expectations for others. Partners assume follow-up. Teams assume support. Timelines get implied even when they aren’t stated outright. Walking those expectations back later is far harder than setting clear boundaries early. A thoughtful “not this year” respects everyone’s time. It leaves the door open without pretending you’re ready to walk through it. Moving The Needle The organizations that tend to get the most out of their Expo adventure aren’t the ones that come back with the longest list of ideas. They’re the ones that come back with a short list and a plan. That may just be two or three things chosen deliberately and supported properly. Give them enough time to show whether they work. That kind of follow-through doesn’t generate much buzz. It doesn’t photograph well. But it’s where real progress usually happens. By March, the pace has usually normalized. The conversations have been logged. The notes are still there, even if they’re a little less exciting than they were in the moment. This is actually the best time to decide what stays and what goes. Some ideas will still feel right. Others won’t. A few may land squarely in the “not this year” category, and that’s not a failure. It’s information. Expo gives us exposure. What we do with it is where judgment comes in. And sometimes, the most disciplined decision you can make is to acknowledge that a good idea deserves the right timing – even if that timing isn’t now. That’s not hesitation. It’s how you make sure the things you do choose to pursue have a real chance to succeed. And remember: There’s always next year. Linn is the senior manager of communities and strategic partnerships at PPAI. PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 25 Your Business | Voices
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PPAI SALES VOLUME ESTIMATE PROMO REACHES NEW HEIGHT BUT HAMPERED BY EXTERNAL VOLATILITY The annual report reveals industry insights concerning company size, sustainability, AI, retail brands, online sales and distributors using suppliers outside the industry. page 34 FEATURE CHANGING OF THE GUARD p. 28 BEST OF THE PPAI EXPO 2026 p. 44 PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS WORK p. 52 INSPIRING CLIENT PROMOTIONS p. 58 STORIES TO KEEP AND USE Must Read 03.26 Ljupco Smokovski / Sergey-Nivens / Sanit Fuangnakhon / Shutterstock.com PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 27
Samantha Kates Joseph Sommer Frank Myers Bruce Barnet 28 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Must Read | Board of Directors
Changing Of The Guard 2026 brought several fresh faces to the PPAI Board of Directors. The latest arrivals bring new perspectives, along with plenty of experience and expertise to guide the Association into the future. By John Corrigan 2026 sees a major shakeup for the PPAI Board of Directors. After several volunteer Board members have finished their service to the Association, their replacements are ready to step up and begin their terms. Departing the Board following The PPAI Expo 2026 in January were several leaders who helped guide PPAI with deep promo experience through years that saw the industry grow while facing uncertain political and economic landscapes. PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 29 Board of Directors | Must Read
Andrew Spellman, CAS, vice president of corporate markets at Therabody, was named to the Board in 2021 and served as Board chair in 2024. Chris Anderson, CEO of HPG, was elected to the Board in 2022 and saw his term expire in January. The term of Lori Bauer, CEO of iPROMOTEu – the No. 6 distributor in the 2025 PPAI 100 – has also expired. Bauer had served in the Board’s atlarge seat, a two-year appointment. Their absence will be felt, but the Board will carry on with plenty of expertise. Remaining in place to lead the Association is Board Chair Danny Rosin, CAS, president and co-owner of Brand Fuel, who will receive counsel from Immediate Past Chair Denise Taschereau of Fairware Promotional Products. Zack Ottenstein, president of The Image Group, has become the incoming chair, and, Mark Gammon, senior vice president of sales at PCNA, is serving as vice chair, financial services. Also returning are Erin Reilly, founder of Pop! Promos, and Kate Alavez, president of PromoShop. Kara Keister, MAS, of Social Good Promotions continues to serve as Regional Relations Committee liaison. The PPAI Board’s newest members are Joseph Sommer, founder and CEO of Whitestone; Bruce Barnet, COO of Charles River Apparel; Samantha Kates, president of Spector; and Frank Myers, CEO of S&S Activewear. The terms of Sommer and Barnet expire in 2030. Meanwhile, Kates’ tenure ends in 2028, and Myers’ term ends next year. Get to know all of the new Board members here: Sommer Brings ‘Deep Empathy’ To PPAI Board Joseph Sommer, whose term on the PPAI Board of Directors began in January, has never been one to follow the traditional path. While still in his 20s, he launched Whitestone from his one-bedroom Manhattan apartment in 2013 with little more than a bold vision and relentless drive. Today, the fully remote branded merch agency ranks No. 34 on the 2025 PPAI 100. It employs more than 75 people across four countries and serves some of the world’s most influential brands. “I’ve been a solo salesperson grinding it out,” Sommer says. “I’ve grown a team. I’ve landed major accounts and lost them, too. I’ve acquired companies and even shut one down. That mix of wins and failures gave me resilience, perspective and a deep empathy for distributors at every stage. Whether you’re just starting out, running a small-but-mighty shop or scaling into the millions, I’ve lived in your world and I know the challenges – and opportunities – that come with it.” “I’ve been a solo salesperson grinding it out, I’ve grown a team. I’ve landed major accounts and lost them, too. I’ve acquired companies and even shut one down." "I’m passionate about sharing these experiences and collaborating with suppliers across all levels to address their needs and help position our industry for long-term success.” Joseph Sommer Bruce Barnet 30 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Must Read | Board of Directors
Under Sommer’s leadership, Whitestone has grown rapidly, expanding through acquisitions in the U.S. and Canada. The firm is committed to ambitious sustainability goals through its RISE Initiative, which includes 1% for the Planet membership, EcoVadis certification and validated science-based emissions reduction targets. Sommer is known as a “classic entrepreneur,” but also a leader who cultivates a people-first culture, embraces a techforward approach and champions a more inclusive, innovative industry. Barnet To Highlight Innovation, Growth And Resilience Bruce Barnet has built his career on blending strategy with operational precision – and he’ll continue to do that as part of the PPAI Board of Directors. As chief operating officer of Charles River Apparel – supplier No. 39 on the 2025 PPAI 100 – Barnet has spent the past 13 years helping to shape the third-generation, family-owned Massachusetts firm into a stalwart of sustainable growth and operational excellence. He joined the company as CFO before moving into the COO role, where he has driven transformative changes in global supply chain management, technology adoption and corporate culture through the Charles River Cares social impact initiative. With more than 30 years of financial and operational leadership experience, Barnet’s background spans executive roles in both public and private companies, the founding and sale of a supply chain business and extensive volunteer service to the promotional products community – including leading roles with the Promotional Products Education Foundation, PPAI’s Investment Committee and the Supplier and Strategic Foresight committees. “I’ve navigated both growth and disruption – driving sales and profitability, embracing technology, fostering product innovation, streamlining operations and strengthening our supply chain,” Barnet says. “I’ve also led initiatives in sustainability and corporate social responsibility. I’m passionate about sharing these experiences and collaborating with suppliers across all levels to address their needs and help position our industry for longterm success.” Kates Sees Opportunity In Industry Challenges Samantha Kates has had the unique opportunity to work on all three sides of the industry – distributor, supplier and technology services. Now the president of Quebecheadquartered Spector, the No. 18 supplier in the 2025 PPAI 100, she brings that range of experience to the PPAI Board of Directors for a two-year term as an at-large appointment. “I have a broad perspective on how each segment operates, where the pain points are and how we can better collaborate to drive success,” Kates says. “In addition, having worked extensively in both Canada and the U.S., I bring a North American perspective that helps me understand the nuances of different markets while recognizing the common opportunities that unite us.” Overseeing sales, customer service, marketing and product development, Kates joined Spector in 2022 as chief sales officer and rose to president in 2024, playing a central role along the way in shaping its vision for growth, innovation and customer engagement. With nearly 30 years in the promotional products industry, Kates has held leadership positions at commonsku, Charles River Apparel and iPROMOTEu. Her cross-category experience and drive for strategic growth “I have a broad perspective on how each segment operates, where the pain points are and how we can better collaborate to drive success.” Samantha Kates PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 31 Board of Directors | Must Read
have established her as a respected and forward-looking voice across the industry. “During my term, I hope to contribute to initiatives that deepen member engagement, allow for a broader range of roles to be represented and expand the influence and credibility of our industry,” Kates says. Filling The Gap In September, the Board approved S&S Activewear CEO Frank Myers to fill a vacancy created when Dan Pantano announced his departure from alphabroder, which S&S Activewear – the No. 2 supplier in the 2025 PPAI 100 – acquired in 2024. Myers will serve the remainder of Pantano’s term, set to expire in 2027. First a young hotshot in investment banking, and a top analyst in his class, he later joined a private equity firm. He was only in his mid-20s when S&S hired him in 2009 to run a newly acquired supplier following his evaluation of the company. He knew little of the industry, but S&S’s founding leaders saw something in Myers – sharp, operationally-minded and unencumbered. Within a few years, Myers stepped into a broader operational role at S&S. He would be CFO and COO. He was president by 2021, then became CEO a year later, when Jim Shannon retired. Myers has led the company through expansive growth, most recently its industry-shaping acquisition of alphabroder in late 2024. Corrigan is deputy editor at PPAI. “We all need this market to grow. We need to help.” “I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Joseph Sommer, Bruce Barnet, Samantha Kates and Frank Myers to the Board. They’ve already jumped right in, shaping our strategic planning and showing exactly why expectations of them are high.” – Drew Holmgreen, CAS, PPAI President & CEO Frank Myers 32 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Must Read | Board of Directors
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34 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Must Read | PPAI Sales Volume
Editor’s Note: Since 1965, PPAI’s U.S. Distributor Sales Volume Estimate has been the most trusted, directionally accurate measure of the size of the U.S. promotional products market and trends in the industry. Selected charts displayed in this article are taken from the full report, available to professional members through PPAI’s Premium Research. Data was compiled with the help of independent research partner MyImaginity. Promo channel sales reached $27.1 billion last year, according to PPAI’s just-released 2025 U.S. Distributor Sales Volume Estimate. By these metrics, it’s the first time the promotional products industry can account for north of $27 billion in sales, a number that has grown steadily in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, that landmark is more of a silver lining in a report that reveals mostly slowed growth in the promo market. The $27.1 billion number represents a growth of 1.3% over the previous year, which is a slower pace than the rate promo was growing in the years prior. • Tariff volatility, rising costs of compliance and freight, as well as tighter client budgets and compressed margins all made 2025 a difficult year for sales, likely contributing to modest growth. • Worryingly, the 1.3% growth rate lags significantly behind the 2025 inflation rate, according to the Consumer Price Index. PPAI Sales Volume Estimate: Promo Reaches New Height But Hampered By External Volatility The annual report reveals industry insights concerning company size, sustainability, AI, retail brands, online sales and distributors using suppliers outside the industry. By Jonny Auping Ljupco Smokovski / Sergey-Nivens / Sanit Fuangnakhon / Shutterstock.com PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 35 PPAI Sales Volume | Must Read
Alok Bhat, market economist and research and public affairs lead for PPAI, reiterates that the industry can’t rest on its laurels when it comes to reaching new heights, as the external circumstances many promo firms faced made it a difficult year for them. “Revenue growth alone doesn’t tell the full story this year,” Bhat says. “Many distributors sold more but made less.” To Bhat’s point, cost volatility absorbed much of the topline growth. Many distributors reported revenue growth without corresponding profit gains. Within that dynamic is a sort of eye-of-the-beholder perspective: When it comes to the state of the promotional products industry, demand was not a significant challenge, but protecting margins was. The chart below indicates that tariffs, freight/logistics costs and client budget cuts are all playing major roles in distributor margins. 10-Year Industry Performance Year Industry Performance ($) 2016 21,304,931,457 2017 23,285,980,409 2018 24,746,578,839 2019 24,223,484,868 2020 19,617,112,147 2021 22,077,935,415 2022 25,522,419,472 2023 26,094,912,163 2024 26,780,831,357 2025 27,128,982,165 60% 59% 71% 55% 57% 46% 43% 43% 38% 52% 50% 52% 3% 1% 13% 80 60 40 20 0 (%) Tariffs/duties Freight/logistics costs Compliance costs Price competition Client budget cuts Factors Impacting Margins in 2025: ■ Total ■ Over $2.5M ■ Under $2.5M 36 • MARCH 2026 • PPAI Must Read | PPAI Sales Volume
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$1.9B $1.8B $2.3B $2.2B 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 6 4 2 0 ($ bn) Retail Branded Product Sales Contribution To Distributor Business, 2018-2025 ■ Under $2.5M ■ Over $2.5M $2.1B $2.3B $2.1B $2.8B $2.3B $2.9B $2.6B $3.4B $2.4B $2.9B $2.1B $2.2B $3.7B $5.4B $4.4B $4.5B $4.5B $4.9B $5.3B $6.0B Company Size Comparisons Large U.S. distributors – classified as those with annual sales over $2.5 million – were responsible for 54% of the industry’s sales volume. These distributors generated $14.6 billion in 2025. Conversely, small distributors (under $2.5 million) accounted for 46% of the industry’s sales volumes, making just over $12.5 billion. This split remained largely unchanged from prior years, indicating a stable industry structure. With increased mergers and a greater presence of private equity across many industries, it can be seen as a sign of an industry’s good health that smaller companies have not lost ground over the past few years. Margin pressures were reported among small and large companies. Both small and large distributors saw modest increases in their sales volumes in 2025 with growth rates of 1.31% and 1.29% respectively. Growth In Retail Branded Products One of the most clear and apparent growth signals in the data is the move toward retail branded products, reflecting a shift toward higher-value items, even if it means sacrificing quantity. In fact, growth in this sector far outpaced industry growth overall, led mostly by large distributors whose retail-branded sales grew by 15.9% (compared to 10.3% among distributors under $2.5M). In total, retail branded product sales reached an estimated $6 billion. For many distributors this shift reflects margin protection rather than volume explosion, as buyers favor perceived value items. Bhat considers this a demand shift as opposed to a short-term trend, as buyers prioritize value, quality and brand recognition. “Buyers are choosing better products, not just cheaper ones,” Bhat says. Distributor Company Size 2025 Sales Volume 2024 Sales Volume Total Difference Annual Growth Rate (%) Under $2.5M $12,538,624,993 $12,376,292,733 $162,332,260 +1.31% Over $2.5M $14,590,357,172 $14,303,538,624 $185,919,548 +1.29% Total $27,128,982,165 $26,780,831,357 $348,250,808 +1.30% 45% 55% 46% 54% 44% 56% 48% 52% 47% 53% 46% 54% 42% 58% 44% 56% 43% 57% 46% 54% 46% 54% 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 100 75 50 25 0 ($%) Market Share By Distributor Size, 2015-2025 ■ Under $2.5M ■ Over $2.5M PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 39 PPAI Sales Volume | Must Read
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