This is The Coolest Stuff In Merch P. 46 P. 38 P. 48 P. 42 P. 40 What does cool look like? You know it when you see it. It’s the X-factor you can’t spreadsheet, the element that makes brands magnetic and ideas contagious. It’s why people show up, lean in and want to be part of something. That’s exactly why PPAI Media has brought back The Coolest Stuff In Promo Merch* for the third year in a row. These aren’t just people, products or concepts getting polite applause – they’re red-hot standouts driving buzz, curiosity and copycat energy across the industry. They’re being talked about, shared, studied and, yes, chased. Their originality gives them an edge that can’t be cloned, only admired and learned from. Because trends fade and jargon changes, but cool still wins – and these winners have it in spades. *See next page for details. PPAI • APRIL 2026 • 37 The Coolest Stuff in Merch | Must Read
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