Best Of The 2026 PPAI Expo | Must Read distributors alike to connect, exchange ideas and explore opportunities beyond borders. By design, these moments reflected one of the Association’s core strategic pillars: strengthening community. ● Responsibility In Action Behind the scenes, PPAI’s commitment to responsibility continued to take measurable shape. The Association once again worked with venue partners to divert the vast majority of event waste from landfills, building on previous years’ results. In 2024, the event achieved 88% diversion. In 2025, that number climbed to 91%, with hopes of further improvement in 2026. “I’m incredibly proud of not only our efforts at an organization level, but those of our exhibitors and attendees in helping us improve how much waste is diverted from landfill at Expo, year over year,” said Elizabeth Wimbush, CAS, PPAI’s director of sustainability and responsibility. Water refill stations, recycled lanyards and responsibly sourced print materials quietly reinforced the idea that sustainability at the big event is less about optics and more about systems. ● An Exclamation Point The week culminated Wednesday night at Allegiant Stadium, where The PPAI Expo Party brought attendees onto the field for networking, food, entertainment and celebration. Hosted by PPAI and sponsored by SAGE, Orbus, OTTO International, Showdown Displays, Smartex Apparel and Tranter Graphics, the event served as a fitting exclamation point on a week defined by connection, collaboration and forward momentum. ● Looking Ahead As the biggest week in branded merch came to a close, the takeaway was clear: The industry isn’t standing still. With a new strategic plan in place, renewed focus on education and innovation, and a community that continues to show up for one another, The PPAI Expo once again proved why it remains the place where the promotional products year truly begins. The PPAI Expo will return to Las Vegas Jan. 11-14, 2027, ready to write the next chapter. Ellis is the publisher and editor-in-chief of PPAI Media. PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 51
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