It’s been quite a year, with constant changes in tariff rates and trade policies making it difficult to know what the rules are from day to day. And once it seemed the dust had settled and the rates confirmed, the Supreme Court ruled certain tariffs unlawful this February, kickstarting a new round of confusion. Asking for a clear and predictable trade policy will be one key message for the dozens of PPAI members headed to Washington this month. Each year, a dedicated group of industry professionals travels to the nation’s capital to advocate for the needs and interests of the branded merchandise industry. Roughly 60 members, along with key PPAI staff, are participating in the annual Legislative Education and Action Day, better known as LEAD, on April 21. “LEAD is consistently one of my favorite events of the year. Many of us volunteer to network, gain or hone skills, and truly make a difference,” says Kara Keister, MAS, head of GOOD for Social Good Promotions and PPAI Regional Relations Committee board liaison. “The annual LEAD event checks every one of those boxes. Not only is it a growth opportunity for attendees, but it’s imperative to the industry and our future.” “Long gone are the days of showing off the successful onesie-in-a-box campaign or hypothetically talking about independent contractor legislation,” she adds. “This group of PPAI leaders and incredible volunteers is discussing the hard-hitting issues surrounding imports, tariffs, sustainability practices, small business legislation and bills that could directly affect our livelihood.” PPAI revamped and intensified its advocacy efforts on behalf of the branded merch industry in 2025, with a new lobbying partner in Washington, new guidance for advocacy at the regional association level and much more. Thanks to the Association’s partnership with Thorn Run Partners, a top 10 Washington lobbying firm, PPAI members will again have Capitol insiders guiding the way as they visit congressional offices. “PPAI’s partnership with Thorn Run has amplified our voices tenfold and made the event significantly more accessible,” says Keister. LEAD demonstrates PPAI’s strategic commitment to elevating branded merch and ensuring its value is understood at every level, especially on Capitol Hill, says Drew Holmgreen, CAS, PPAI president and CEO. “Advocacy is essential to that elevation. It creates opportunity, fuels growth and protects our community’s ability to thrive,” he adds. “Branded merch powers lasting connections, and our presence in Washington ensures that impact is recognized.” “Not only is it a growth opportunity for attendees, but it’s imperative to the industry and our future.” — Kara Keister, MAS, Social Good Promotions PPAI • APRIL 2026 • 55 LEAD Preview | Must Read
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