Client Branding Programs Gold Winner Whitestone The primary objectives of this promotion were to reinforce Rice University’s values of creativity, collaboration and community, and to differentiate it within the crowded higher education space. The aim was also to update counselors on admissions information in a nontraditional, engaging format. Inspired by a student-led LEGO campus initiative, Whitestone created a high-impact mailer campaign targeting more than 5,500 high school and community-based counselors across the U.S. The fully custom toy brick building kit, contained in a branded box, centered around Rice’s beloved mascot, Sammy the Owl, as a buildable centerpiece, and included a postcard with a QR code linking to digital admissions content. The creative and interactive promotion gained viral traction, extended Rice University’s brand visibility and increased counselor-student engagement while delivering strong ROI relative to the investment. Silver Winner Martket Branding The BC Hydro Power Pioneers, a group of retired BC Hydro employees and their spouses, were preparing for Jamboree 2024, a weeklong Northern Lights cruise to Alaska, and wanted custom-branded items to reinforce their group identity and foster connection, unity and visibility. Martket Branding curated a high-quality, 10-piece collection designed for comfort, practicality and packability, with fleece jackets and vests that addressed the needs of senior travelers during the variable weather of the late-season cruise. At the client’s request, the items also reflected the colors of the Northern Lights. Each piece was brought to life through various decoration techniques that complemented their practicality and intended use. In addition to apparel, products included a travel blanket, fleece scarf, stainless steel water bottle, packable backpack, travel binoculars, LED keychain light and a lanyard. The collection generated nearly $8,900 (CAD) in online sales for the Power Pioneers, with $1,000 of that donated to the Power Pioneers’ Miracle Millions Campaign in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Pyramid Awards | Client Promotions | Must Read PPAI • MARCH 2026 • 61
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzU4OQ==