IN THIS ISSUE P PA I . ORG/ MED I A 05.26 World Cup Campaigns p. 10 Selling To Solopreneurs p. 22 Making American History p. 28 BRANDING WITHOUT BORDERS The industry sometimes relies on its own ecosystems, but collaboration and knowledge-sharing are bridging continents and creating a global voice. p. 34
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4 From PPAI Appreciation For Suppliers & Service Providers 7 Creative Calendar Essentials 10 Use Case On The Pitch 14 In Style Bold Prints Are Back 18 Solutions Spotlight Equipment & Machinery Must Read 22 Promotional Products Work Merch For The One-Person Empire Community 48 Buzzworthy Branding Touchdowns 50 PPPC Communiqué Canadian Distributors Spotlight ExperienceDriven Merch 52 Inside PPAI PPAI Volunteer Committee Spotlights For Q1 58 New Members 61 Datebook 66 Perfect Promo CONTENTS 05.26 VOLUME 50, ISSUE 04 America Was Branded From The Start From George Washington’s inaugural buttons to the surge of America 250 products, patriotic merch has long been woven into the fabric of the United States’ biggest moments. 28 Pyramid Awards In Technology The branded merchandise industry continues to embrace digital transformation, and this year’s PPAI Pyramid Award winners prove how smarter e-commerce, mobile tools and web platforms are making it faster and easier than ever for distributors to sell and fulfill merch. 40 Branding Without Borders The industry sometimes relies on its own ecosystems, but collaboration and knowledge-sharing are bridging continents and creating a global voice. 34 28 40 PPAI® 34 PPAI • MAY 2026 • 3
From PPAI Danny Rosin, CAS PPAI Board Chair 05.26 Like any good investment, appreciation itself appreciates. The more you put in, the more you get in return. Appreciation For Suppliers & Service Providers I don’t know about you, but I’m sensing positive momentum as we navigate through the second quarter of 2026. I’m doing my best version of the worm, the chicken dance and even the sprinkler. Why? I’m still ecstatic about how this year kicked off at The PPAI Expo. The new and innovative products. The interactive experiences on the show floor. The beautiful, engaging booths. I had a serious case of drop jaw, and months later, I’m still trying to pick it up off the floor. In a world filled with digital everything, I love the H2H (human-to-human) connections we get to make in Las Vegas or at PPAI’s spring and summer gatherings, from LEAD, to NALC, WLC, and even now the International Leadership Summit and beyond. These events always remind me why I love our industry, but this year just feels a little different. As a distributor leader, I am always excited about the strategic branded merch opportunities I find out about at PPAI events. But years of hindsight tell me that it is our suppliers who make the most significant investments. To each supplier who sponsors, underwrites and invests in the distributor experience, thank you. It’s making a difference! The last year was tough for many of us. The uncertainty and whiplash have not been fun. It’s been exhausting, but I’ve witnessed how our suppliers really step up. They’ve remained resilient and steadfast. They’ve often taken it on the chin so distributors can keep going. They’ve stayed committed to fighting the good fight, even though 2025 and the early parts of 2026 have been a kick in the pants for most of us. So, here’s to the supplier (insert clapping emojis)! The unsung hero. You are the ones who pay for the booth spaces so we can have shows, pay for advertisements so we can receive pubs like the one you are reading, sponsor our local and national events and indulge us with wonderful hospitality. All of this enhances the distributor experience and makes us more successful. Suppliers, thank you for investing in R&D and sourcing innovative products and refreshed classics. Thank you for assuming inventory risk. Thank you for traveling far and wide to meet with us, often with bulky, expensive booths that are a pain to set up. Thank you for helping out with our nonprofit activities. For market testing. For earning sustainability certifications. For the trends reports. For the case studies, samples and virtuals that help us close deals. For investing in our favorite professional nonprofit, PPAI. Thank you, thank you, thank you. And while I am on this “appreciation tour,” let’s insert more clapping emojis plus a fist bump emoji and recognize our service providers. Here’s a shout-out to you all for providing the tech platforms, automation, scalability, fulfillment and shipping services, outsourced work, integrations, payment processing, art services, consulting, education, certifications, business planning, standardization, AI tools, lead gen services, credit services, and compliance reporting. Whew! Y’all are what Tina Turner calls, “Simply the Best!” (You are welcome for the earworm.) As we move deeper into 2026, let’s remember to show a little grace when things go south or get spicy. Let’s remember to be a little more “open source” minded and to operate in the spirit of collaboration. Let’s remember to be appreciative of the partnerships we often take for granted. Like any good investment, appreciation itself appreciates. The more you put in, the more you get in return. We’re not even to the halfway point on the calendar. There’s still so much time to make 2026 your, your company’s, and our industry’s best year ever! 4 • MAY 2026 • PPAI
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PPAI® SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEDIA, RESEARCH & PUBLIC AFFAIRS Josh Ellis JoshE@ppai.org DEPUTY EDITOR John Corrigan JohnC@ppai.org SENIOR NEWS EDITOR Jonny Auping JonnyA@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, CAS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Christopher Cheney DIRECTOR OF SALES Michele Schwartz, CAS DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY John Twist 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 • MAY 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 June NATIONAL CANDY MONTH Product Idea: Stick it, secure it and enjoy hands-free convenience with the EaseFlex Double-Sided Suction Phone Holder. Made from soft, durable, washable silicone, it’s built for repeated everyday use. Doublesided suction cups grip your phone or case and adhere to mirrors, windows and other smooth surfaces, giving you a stable setup without clamps or stands. It frees your hands for selfies, video chats, tutorials, streaming and more. Available in a range of colors and compatible with all major phone brands, it delivers prominent branding that stays visible. Agraffes Innovation / PPAI 615870, Standard-Plus / agraffes.com 6 NATIONAL DOUGHNUT DAY 13 NATIONAL MOVIE NIGHT 21 NATIONAL SELFIE DAY July NATIONAL PICNIC MONTH Product Idea: This Full-Size Printed Hammock delivers a broad, highly visible branding surface and comes as a complete kit with carabiners and rope straps. Made from soft, durable polyester, it holds up to regular outdoor use. The 126x59-inch hammock fits standard hanging setups in backyards, campsites and balconies, its lightweight design packs easily for travel, and the full-coverage imprint area keeps branding visible whenever it’s in use. Complete with a matching travel bag, it’s a promotional item built for repeated exposure. Yorkn / PPAI 599060, Standard-Base / yorkn.com 11 NATIONAL FRENCH FRY DAY 22 NATIONAL HAMMOCK DAY 30 NATIONAL CLIMB A MOUNTAIN DAY August INTERNATIONAL PEACE MONTH Product Idea: Where there are fajitas, there must be margaritas. The Cantarito Clay Cup pairs traditional style with everyday practicality, making it a natural fit for any gathering. Made from natural clay and finished with a food‑safe glaze, the 3x5‑inch cup is safe for both microwave and dishwasher use. Its 12‑oz. capacity works well for hot or cold beverages, and a 2x2‑inch imprint area offers ample room for branding without overwhelming the design. A mixed matte and glossy finish highlights the cup’s textured surface, giving it a rustic look suited for kitchens, bars and everything in between. Whether used for matcha or mezcal, it keeps brands at the center of every fiesta. wine-n-gear / PPAI 492763, Standard-Base / wine-n-gear.com 12 NATIONAL VINYL RECORD DAY 18 NATIONAL FAJITA DAY 30 NATIONAL BEACH DAY PPAI • MAY 2026 • 7
PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS TO BE UNIVERSALLY VALUED Essentials 05.26 USE CASE p. 10 SOLUTIONS SPOTLIGHT p. 18 BOLD PRINTS ARE BACK As the demand for bold prints resurges, consumers and branded merchandise companies are embracing unabashed self-expression. page 14 IN STYLE Roman Samborsky / Shutterstock.com PPAI • MAY 2026 • 9
The World Cup isn’t just a game. It’s a global merch moment brands can’t afford to miss. By Sarah Luna On The Pitch leolintang / Shutterstock.com AMANDA WILLIAMS Owner/Founder Branding Treasures PPAI 832773, Standard-Plus Cincinnati, Ohio YOU CAN’T BE A REAL FAN of the game without a Stadium Scarf. Williams says the item is a staple of soccer crowds. “It’s a fun wearable without the hassle of sizes, and great for any age.” The 100% acrylic scarf offers Pantone-matched colors printed anywhere on the material, along with Pantone-matched fringe or embroidery. At approximately 6 inches wide and 46 inches long, it provides ample space for logos or messaging. “These are great because they have a large area to focus on the brand and event,” Williams adds. Pop! Promos / PPAI 564497, Gold / poppromos.com The Sigma Clear Zippered Tote is made of translucent PVC, allowing for quick, easy entry into stadiums. The clear material also helps users locate their belongings, making organization simple. “It’s a useful product for venues that have security requirements,” Williams says. A zippered main compartment keeps personal items secure, while 25-inch shoulder straps provide allday comfort. And the bag doesn’t get put away when soccer season ends. “Even after a day at the beach, you can toss your sandy gear in the bag to keep your car clean, then rinse it out later,” she adds. Gemline / PPAI 113948, Platinum / gemline.com 10 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Essentials | Use Case
Williams knows a game winner when she sees one, and the Igloo Day Chiller Backpack Cooler makes the roster. “I would love to try this cooler. I have been eyeing it,” Williams says. “It’s a standout from the tons of neutral bags I already own, it would be a pop for my clients’ brands as well.” Made to hold 12 cans, the backpack cooler is crafted from 100% recycled postconsumer polyester exterior fabric and a mix of recycled and virgin foam insulation. Adjustable backpack straps and stretch mesh pockets make it a solid option for outdoor activities, and an exterior stash pocket keeps keys and other essentials secure. Gemline / PPAI 113948, Platinum / gemline.com With its stylish color options and a unique shape, the ASOBU Orb Bottle is sure to grab attention. “This is one of my favorite unique pieces of drinkware to show my clients. It stands out among a sea of bottles, making the piece unique for the brand,” Williams says. Holding up to 14 ounces of your favorite drink, the bottle keeps beverages warm for 12 hours and cold for a full 24. The ceramic inner coating helps keep drinks fresh, and the lid doubles as a cup, making the rightsized pour easy. Leakproof and spillproof, this bottle is ready to go anywhere. “This will be great for outdoor watch parties and general everyday use afterwards,” Williams adds. Ad-N-Art / PPAI 236926, Standard-Plus / adnart.com Williams is a big fan of Chameleon Like’s custom journals. “They’re one of my favorites because not only do you get a full color, edge-to-edge canvas for creative design, you can add tip-in pages to boost your message,” she says. “Use this feature to add in themed stickers, the invite to your watch party, the team schedule, or have fun with a bracket!” The Full Color Value Perfect Bound Journal comes in three size options and features a flexible soft-touch cover and 70 white pages. Clients can choose from blank, lined, graph or dotted pages. Other customization options include pen loops and pens, elastic closures and a full-color process liner. Chameleon Like / PPAI 209189, Silver / chameleonlike.com Williams recommends the Terra Pack 2-in-1 Backpack and Lunch Cooler. “This was a lifesaver for me and my family. Between blankets, raingear, snacks and drinks for soccer games, zoo trips and hiking/camping, it fit almost every occasion I tested,” she says. The product combines the convenience of a backpack with the practicality of a cooler, keeping essentials, food PPAI • MAY 2026 • 11 Use Case | Essentials
Protect your valuable contactless items with the Vanguard RFID Key Pouch. “Digital theft is a reality we live with, so when participating in large, crowded events you should be extra cautious,” Williams says. “By gifting an item that goes the extra mile of providing some peace of mind, your brand acknowledges you care, too.” Designed to block unauthorized scanning, this slim pouch keeps key fobs and credit cards protected. Its compact size fits easily into most pants pockets and purses, and an attached key ring secures vehicle fobs while a clip fastens to bags and backpacks. The pouch is made of premium carbonfiber material with an RFID-blocking layer. HPG / PPAI 110772, Platinum / hpgbrands.com Luna is a former marketing copywriter at PPAI. and drinks in one easy-to-transport bag. Two large main compartments with padded sleeves provide enough room and protection for up to a 17-inch laptop. Waterproof zippers and welded seams guard against leaks, and adjustable shoulder straps and a top handle make carrying easy. Goldstar / PPAI 114031, Platinum simplygoldstar.com Made of durable, anti-microbial plastic, the Triple Banger Bottle Opener is a practical gadget ready to pop, twist or crack open almost any drink. “No matter the container your favorite beverage comes in, this tool will come in handy. From water bottles to soda cans to glass bottle caps, this tool will do the trick,” Williams says. Available in nine colors and full-color imprinting, it’s branding that’s always in hand. “With the key ring, you will never leave home without it,” she adds. Devara / PPAI 113441, Standard-Plus / devara.com GEAR UP FOR THE GAME. STYLE 3001 DOMESTIC STOCK: DECORATIONS: FLAT & 3D EMBROIDERY . WOVEN LABELS RUSH AVAILABLE: Quick turnaround for event deadlines Ships From New Jersey WORLD CUP COLLECTION 2026 6 COLOR OPTIONS CONTINENTALHEADWEAR.COM sales@continentalheadwear.com 12 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Essentials | Use Case
@infinityheadwearforher @infinityher @infinityforher infinity her @infinityforher infinityforher.com The COLBIE* Ivory/Sea Turtle/ Leopard Camo The EMMA* Mauve/Mauve The KATE* Sapphire The ANNIE* Leopard Camo/ Brown The SOPHIE* Berry/Starburst The ROSIE Ivory/Sherbert/ Floral The CHARLIE Leopard/Black The MAYA Violet/ Snow Leopard The JO Chocolate/Fawn/ Chocolate The HATTIE Floral Camo The JANET Black/White/ Cow The CASSIE Dusty Pink/Floral The TESS Rose/Polka Dots/ Khaki It’s about time women had a cap made just for them. *Available Summer ‘26 WHOLESALERS:
Bold Prints Are Back As the demand for bold prints resurges, consumers and branded merchandise companies are embracing unabashed self-expression. By Nicole Rollender NOTICE-ME PRINTS ARE BACK and bolder than ever. Minimalism fatigue is one factor driving this demand. “After years of neutral palettes and quiet luxury, consumers, especially Gen Z and Gen Alpha, crave personality and selfexpression,” says Cassidy McCullough, product development and marketing coordinator at headwear supplier Infinity Her. “Self-expression lends itself to more maximalist aesthetics, where characterization and bold visual identity take center stage.” While Gen Z may be leading the charge, adoption is far from limited to youth-driven markets. “Luxury designers and contemporary brands are incorporating bold prints into their assortments, reinforcing their cultural relevance and creating memorable collections,” McCullough says. “What was once statement dressing is now mainstream.” Roman Samborsky / Shutterstock.com 14 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Essentials | In Style
Trend-driven prints are appearing across all types of programs and retail-inspired collections, with more room to play with graphics. “The most activity is in college, resort and private label programs, where bold prints create standout pieces and bring more energy to the garment,” says Michael Gaudioso, director of marketing at apparel supplier MV Sport. Muted colors and subtle designs still have their place as accents or layering items. “Textured fabrics and printed patterns add interest that solids don’t offer,” says Breanna WoicekowskiWiener, senior merchandiser at Vantage Apparel, PPAI 100’s No. 14 supplier. “Mixing in printing technology advancements that allow for unique prints in bold colors gives customers the option for more personality.” Polka dots are experiencing renewed popularity, too, says McCullough, with oversized dots becoming standout focal points. “Stripes are prevalent in bold, high-contrast versions that feel graphic and crisp,” she adds. “Maximalist florals are more prominent, moving away from the lessis-more sentiment of 2010s minimalism.” Animal prints have reappeared in retail and runway collections as well. “More brands are exploring playful and abstract interpretations, such as Bambi and fawn motifs, as well as cow or longhorn prints,” McCullough says. Color-blocking is trending on the spring/summer runways, with designers like Prada, Fendi, Loewe and Versace. “They’re embracing high-impact hues and bold contrasts, transforming collections into vibrant displays of expressive color,” McCullough says. MV Sport has seen strong interest in oversized graphics, all-over prints, retro-inspired patterns and nature-driven artwork. “Retro-striped, ’70s graphics remain timeless staples in graphics and garments,” Gaudioso says. “The ’90s have also been a major influence in art, fashion and graphic design, bringing back oversized prints.” All-over step-and-repeat patterns leaning toward abstraction are popular, too. “The new Vansport Pro Watermark Polo features a sublimated print that nods to a fleur-de-lis-inspired pattern, and the Vansport Pro Crossroads polo is on the abstract side,” WoicekowskiWiener says. “Both prints are on white bases, which makes the color, pattern and logo stand out.” Distributors can elevate their product offerings because of lower minimums on tech-inspired decorations and vintage methods like felt or twill. “[Direct-to-film] has taken a significant share of the industry by removing setup costs, such as screens, making smaller runs cost-effective,” Gaudioso says. Woicekowski-Wiener notes that short-sleeve and fullbutton polo silhouettes using lighter-weight fabrics are best for all-over prints. “The construction drapes easily on the body, balancing the pattern’s boldness,” she says. The key to selling boldprinted wearables is positioning and relevance. “Bold prints shouldn’t be framed as risky but presented as retail-inspired, trendforward and brand-elevating,” McCullough says. “Start by anchoring the conversation in trend validation. Help clients understand that bold graphics aren’t a one-off creative gamble but part of a broader movement happening across runways, retail and social media.” Next, she recommends tying bold prints to memorability in a saturated landscape. “Highimpact graphics applied to trending prints or patterns increase perceived value and visual differentiation,” she says. Finally, position bold prints as a storytelling tool. “When a print aligns with a brand’s identity, campaign message or target demographic, it becomes a strategic choice rather than a design risk,” McCullough says. Here’s how the trend translates into products you can pitch. “After years of neutral palettes and quiet luxury, consumers, especially Gen Z and Gen Alpha, crave personality and self-expression,” – Cassidy McCullough, product development and marketing coordinator at headwear supplier Infinity Her PPAI • MAY 2026 • 15 In Style | Essentials
Give off a vacation vibe with the Vansport Pro Maui Shirt, a tonal palm-leaf print, camp-style, full-button polo. A trendy twist on a Hawaiian shirt, it’s made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex jersey that offers UV protection, as well as moisturewicking and antimicrobial properties. Vantage Apparel / PPAI 113235, Platinum / vantageapparel.com A structured, six-panel, mid-profile cap with mesh back panels, the Charlie (shown in leopard and black) features a wicking sweatband and concealed ponytail opening. Infinity Her / PPAI 791471, Standard-Base / infinityforher.com An unstructured, six-panel, low-profile cap with mesh back panels, the Janet features an antique brass tri-glide closure, wicking sweatband and concealed ponytail opening. “This contrasting visor is on trend in more ways than one: cow print and color blocking,” McCullough says. Infinity Her / PPAI 791471, Standard-Base / infinityforher.com The classic-fit, cotton/polyester blend Mood & Vibe Horizon Crew (available starting in July and shown in light denim heather) has an all-over back print, rib-knit neckline, cuffs, waistband and set-in sleeves. MV Sport / PPAI 163428, Silver / mvsport.com 16 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Essentials | In Style
The Greg Norman Micro Pique Spinner Print Polo is a soft, lightweight, moisture-wicking golf shirt with performance stretch technology for complete mobility during your swing. Featuring a unique tonal golf print that adds a touch of sophistication, this pique polo is made from 91% polyester and 9% spandex. Vantage Apparel / PPAI 113235, Platinum / vantageapparel.com The boxy-fit Mood & Vibe Shira Striped Crew is made of cozy French terry, with a drop shoulder seam, rib knit cuffs and a clean finish hem. “This silhouette lends itself to larger graphics and bold designs while aligning with the comfort-driven styles our customers want,” Gaudioso says. MV Sport / PPAI 163428, Silver / mvsport.com A sophisticated performance piece, the Vansport Pro Watermark Polo features a subtle overall sublimation print that makes a white polo more interesting with an abstract print. This 100% polyester polo includes moisture-wicking and antimicrobial properties, as well as UPF 50+ protection. Vantage Apparel / PPAI 113235, Platinum / vantageapparel.com An award-winning writer and editor, Rollender heads up New Jersey-based STRANDWritingServices.com. PPAI • MAY 2026 • 17 In Style | Essentials
Siberian Art / Shutterstock.com 18 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Essentials | Solutions Spotlight Equipment & Machinery OUR INDUSTRY’S SUPPLIERS and distributors must the tools needed to produce, decorate and deliver at scale. While the work of equipment and machinery providers often operates in the background, it directly impacts efficiency, consistency and the ability to take on more complex or higher-volume jobs. Suppliers rely on specialized equipment to expand their capabilities, whether that means adding new decoration methods, increasing production speed or maintaining quality across large runs. As demand grows for faster turnaround times and more customization, having the right machinery in place becomes less of an advantage and more of a requirement. These providers help companies evaluate what they need, install systems that fit their workflow and keep operations running smoothly over time. Distributors also benefit, especially those bringing certain services in house or working closely with production partners. Understanding what equipment can do – and what partners are equipped to handle – helps set clearer expectations with clients and opens the door to new types of projects. When businesses are looking to scale, improve efficiency or add new capabilities, PPAI-validated equipment and machinery providers offer the expertise and infrastructure to move operations forward with confidence. See more on these business services providers and many more. Visit PPAI.org/solutions. PPAI-validated providers of equipment and machinery can assist suppliers and distributors alike with the industrial tools to operate at scale.
The Provider The Solution Mimaki USA PPAI 821935, Silver Mimaki delivers versatile digital printing solutions for in-house production across hard goods and textiles, combining highquality output, reliability and scalability to support customization and high-volume growth. Koenig & Bauer Kammann PPAI 892667, Standard-Plus Delivering flexible screen, digital and hybrid printing on complex shapes, Koenig & Bauer Kammann is backed by strong U.S. service, extensive parts inventory and global engineering support. ATTO Inkjet PPAI 878174, Standard-Base ATTO Inkjet brings over 20 years of global expertise, delivering innovative printing technology and reliable solutions backed by a commitment to excellence and long-term customer success. Brown Manufacturing Group PPAI 469686, Standard-Base Brown Manufacturing provides American-made garment decorating equipment, including screen printing and DTG/DTF solutions, with customizable options, versatile scalability and dedicated service for reliable, high-performance production. ITNH PPAI 463996, Standard-Base Providing robust, professional printing equipment, ITNH brings a consultative process, hands-on demos, installation and ongoing service, building long-term partnerships focused on performance, support and innovation. LogoJET PPAI 372330, Standard-Base LogoJET offers complete UV printing systems for in-house production, handling flat and irregular surfaces with ease, enabling fast prototyping, small-batch efficiency and professional-quality results. Lotus Laser Systems PPAI 901742, Standard-Base High-performance, durable equipment is built for demanding production environments, combining advanced engineering, decades of expertise and industry-leading safety to outperform standard machinery. LSINC PPAI 801212, Standard-Base LSINC’s Peri Series offers USA-made direct-to-object printers for cylinders, tapers, contours and handled items, delivering industrial performance with innovative capabilities and full customer partnership. PPAI • MAY 2026 • 19 Solutions Spotlight | Essentials
wine-n-gear creates premium custom merchandise that helps brands stand out. From drinkware and bar tools to luxury wine accessories and premium packaging, we combine thoughtful design with reliable production to deliver products that impress clients and help close more business. Discover more at wine-n-gear.com WNG-174 WNG-066 WNG-264 WNG-002 WNG-2963 WNG-292 WNG-2566 WNG-735 WNG-359 WNG-053 WNG-2914
PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS WORK p. 22 BRANDING WITHOUT BORDERS p. 34 PYRAMID AWARDS IN TECHNOLOGY p. 40 STORIES TO KEEP AND USE 05.26 Phordi Hinthong / Shutterstock.com AMERICA WAS BRANDED FROM THE START From George Washington’s inaugural buttons to the surge of America 250 products, patriotic merch has long been woven into the fabric of the United States’ biggest moments. page 28 Must Read PPAI • MAY 2026 • 21
22 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Must Read | Merch For The One-Person Empire How solopreneurs and consultants can use branded merchandise to build their brands By Audrey Sellers NOT LONG AGO, WORKING solo was considered a side hustle or a stepping stone to a traditional job. Today, it’s an increasingly intentional career choice. Nearly 30 million Americans work for themselves as solopreneurs, running businesses entirely on their own with no paid employees. These one-person companies add almost $2 trillion to the U.S. economy and span everything from independent consultants to online influencers. Many people branch out on their own because they want flexibility – and for most, the move turns out to be the right one. Most solopreneurs report higher satisfaction, with 86% saying they’re happier working on their own than in a traditional job. But the appeal isn’t just about choosing when and where they work. It’s the chance to build their work around what matters most to them. In MBO Partners’ 15th annual report on independent professionals, respondents described success in broader terms, pointing to priorities like helping others and being happy (60%), continuing personal growth (59%), having a sense of purpose (58%), maintaining good health (56%) and spending enough time with family (53%). Unlike many traditional jobs, working solo gives people more control over how their careers fit into their lives, not the other way around. This autonomy shapes how long people expect to keep working. Solopreneurs are more likely than traditional employees to continue working later in life, often because they genuinely enjoy it. About 21% say they never plan to retire because they simply enjoy their work, want to stay mentally engaged and continue to earn income. Rather than counting down to retirement, many independent professionals are building careers designed to evolve
PPAI • MAY 2026 • 23 | Must Read alongside the lives they want to live. But, to keep working on their own terms, solopreneurs need steady client relationships and a pipeline of new opportunities. That’s why 65% say gaining new clients is a top priority over the next five years, according to the Branch x Mastercard Solopreneur Report. Branded merchandise, from luxe notebooks sent after discovery calls to sleek water bottles mailed as welcome gifts, help solopreneurs stay top-of-mind when the next opportunity arises. As the independent business market grows more crowded, the need to differentiate becomes even more important. By 2028, the number of solopreneurs could rise to 90 million. With so many consultants, creators and coaches competing for clients, branded merch is just the way to cut through the noise and be remembered. Merch That Works As Hard As Solopreneurs Solopreneurs handle everything themselves, and that can put a real strain on their time and budget. In one survey, 41% of solopreneurs said time management is their biggest challenge, followed by marketing and customer acquisition (34%) and cash flow (29%). More than 60% say they underestimated how hard it would be to run every part of the business alone. That’s why smart, efficient marketing matters. Branded merchandise can help one-person businesses stay visible without adding more to their workload. A branded webcam, for example, keeps their name visible on calls, while merch like hats or water bottles double as gifts that keep their name top of mind. Stand Out When CEOs Are Hiring More companies are turning to freelancers and independent specialists to get work done. Nearly half of CEOs say they plan to hire more freelance talent, and many say these professionals are essential to their organization’s success. For solopreneurs, that means more opportunity, but also more competition. Branded merch can be a simple way to stay memorable without spending a lot of time or money. Sending a branded notebook after a meeting or showing up on calls with custom gear can help solo workers look polished and stay memorable with the executives who hire. The Optimistic Business Of One Most solopreneurs are full-time and all-in. About 41% rely on their business as their main source of income, according to the most recent Solopreneur Report from Simply Business. Another 13% work full time while keeping other income streams on the side. Even part-timers aren’t just dabbling, with about 70% saying they plan to grow their revenue this year. This shows that solopreneurs are ambitious and serious about standing out. Branded merch gives them a simple, high-impact way to get noticed. Merch like sleek bags or desk accessories help people remember their brand long after a meeting. A Ritual That Drives Results Some of the most productive solopreneurs don’t start with an app but with pen and paper. About 25% follow a daily goal-setting ritual, which can boost their output by as much as 20%. A luxurious pen and a great notebook make it easy to keep priorities straight and jot down new ideas. More than 60% say they underestimated how hard it would be to run every part of the business alone. About 70% of part-timers say they plan to grow their revenue this year. Nearly half of CEOs say they plan to hire more freelance talent A Snapshot Of Today’s Owner-Only Businesses Working for yourself isn’t a niche path anymore, but one that’s becoming increasingly accessible to all kinds of people at various stages in their careers. Immigrants made up about 14% of solopreneurs last year, and more than half of solopreneurs are women. So, what drives these one-person powerhouses? According to Gusto’s New Business Formation survey, they ventured out on their own to: 54% Be their own boss 53% Work according to their own schedule: 34% Build an asset for the future: 24% L eave an unfulfilling job and pursue a passion: 22% Make a positive impact 21% Boost their income: 16% Seize a business opportunity 11% Supplement income for an immediate expense 10% Replace a lost job 2% Take advantage what technology made possible
24 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Campaign Collateral The Theo LED Rechargeable Desk Lamp isn’t just a desk accessory but a branded experience solopreneurs can share. It features two height options, dimmable capabilities and three light modes – warm, cool and natural – to create the ideal ambiance for any work session. Logomark / PPAI 110898, Platinum / logomark.com Not your typical water bottle, the Slim Tritan memobottle features a flat, paper-inspired design and includes a silicone sleeve and lid. It easily fits into laptop bags or pockets, making it simple to carry anywhere without taking up too much space. PCNA / PPAI 113079, Platinum / pcna.com A sleek custom journal like the FlatMate Perfect Notebook is perfect for solopreneurs who host workshops or masterminds. It lays completely flat for easy writing and features a textured, two-tone cover and tear-away pages. HPG / PPAI 110772, Platinum / hpgbrands.com Must Read | When solopreneurs work online, merch like the Web Camera & Microphone makes every call more polished. The adjustable clip mounts easily to any type of monitor or tripod. It can also stand alone on a desk. Send it to clients or prospects to keep a brand front and center during meetings. Starline USA / PPAI 112719, Platinum / starline.com
PPAI • MAY 2026 • 27 The Delsey Paris Softside Travel Bag is sleek enough for client meetings and durable enough for daily use. Designed with a stylish vegan leather trim and a padded laptop compartment, it makes a great gift for VIP clients. Choose from black, cream, gray or navy blue. SnugZ USA / PPAI 112982, Platinum / snugzusa.com The Work-From-Home Essentials Smart Kit makes a useful onboarding gift for new clients. The set includes a branded notebook, mousepad, travel mug, backpack and stress ball tucked inside a white box for a professional presentation. BEL Promo / PPAI 362224, Gold / belpromo.com Solopreneurs could wear a custom hat like this Five-Panel Corduroy Hat at events and when filming social content to create a recognizable look. The corduroy material gives the hat a textured, vintage feel. Customize everything from the eyelet colors to the panel embroidery. Numo / PPAI 112597, Gold / numomfg.com Sellers is a California-based freelance writer and former associate editor at PPAI. | Must Read
28 • MAY 2026 • PPAI Must Read | America Was Branded From The Start From George Washington’s inaugural buttons to the surge of America 250 products, patriotic merch has long been woven into the fabric of the United States’ biggest moments. By John Corrigan The History Of America was BRANDED FROM THE START bearsky23 / Tonstock / Fultz Photography / Shutterstock.com Was Branded From The Start
America Was Branded From The Start | Must Read Branded merchandise is as American as baseball, jazz and apple pie. Before it became a defined business category, patriotic merch was already being produced and distributed as mass messaging tools. These promotional products weren’t essential to “brand campaigns” yet, but they demonstrated the core concept that would define the industry: Branded merch powers lasting connections. In many ways, the story of patriotic merch is also the story of the industry itself, illustrating how it grew, evolved and responded to national moments. From political campaigns to wartime mobilization to cultural movements, merch has remained a powerful force in shaping public opinion, national identity and consumer capitalism. The Birth Of Political Merch You must go back 237 years for the dawn of patriotic – and political – merchandise in the U.S., as commemorative buttons were distributed at George Washington’s presidential inauguration. “There was a dozen different buttons, and some said ‘Long Live The President’ because they were treating him like a king. They didn’t know what to say,” says Tony Lee, president of the American Political Items Collectors, a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to promoting the collection, preservation and study of materials relating to political campaigns and the presidency. Throughout the 1800s, political merch consisted of primarily brass and metal items, Lee says. To show support for candidates, people would have an image of them on tin, PPAI • MAY 2026 • 29
30 • MAY 2026 • PPAI A reproduction of a William Jennings Bryan-John Kern campaign button for the 1908 presidential election. (courtesy of Bankers Advertising) which they would put into a brass shell and wear on their lapel. They also wore silk ribbons with the candidate’s name and a message. “It wasn’t until 1896 when manufacturers invented the ability to mass-produce buttons,” Lee says, “and that changed everything.” That’s the year New Jersey-based supplier Whitehead & Hoag patented the celluloid pinback button, which was used in the 1896 presidential campaign of William McKinley. National advertisers realized buttons could display something more commercial than just political figures, and Whitehead & Hoag monopolized that business for the early part of the 20th century. (Co-founder Benjamin Whitehead was elected the first president of PPAI, then known as the National Association of Advertising Novelty Manufacturers, in 1904.) As manufacturing scaled, so did U.S. imagery in advertising. Calendars, paper fans, trading cards, glassware and other products were decorated with the American flag, the bald eagle and other patriotic symbols. ‘We Can Do It!’ In 1917, the nation entered World War I, which necessitated some adjustment in the branded merch industry. Steel shortages caused several firms like Iowabased distributor Vernon (founded in 1902) to temporarily discontinue manufacturing and concentrate instead on the distribution side, according to PPAI records. As for suppliers, many of them added a new client – the U.S. armed forces. Merch became a tool for mobilization: Liberty Loan campaign buttons, pins and posters; factory incentive awards; and products decked out in red, white and blue or emblazoned with military insignia were all in high demand. If World War I marked the beginning of companies relying upon patriotic branding, then World War II solidified it as a powerful marketing strategy. With the line between government propaganda and commercial promotion blurred, wartime messaging became central to corporate identity. For example, Ohio-based distributor Kaeser & Blair (founded in 1894) offered a catalog of patriotic products, including war ration books and stationery. Americans received these books, which contained stamps for purchasing gas, meat, sugar, tires and other rationed items, to manage resources during the war effort. And once again, the merch industry made necessary adjustments to support the war effort. Stebco Products, a Chicago-based manufacturer of briefcases, started turning out boxes for infantry field telephones, instrument cases for Air Corps bombardiers and flyers’ clothing bags. To its line of cloth products, Cincinnatibased supplier Kemper-Thomas Co., one of the 12 charter members of PPAI, added civilian gas masks and Marine Corps fatigue caps. Another charter member, Minnesota-based distributor Brown & Bigelow, offered a line of proximity fuses for artillery shells. Before New Jersey-based supplier Peerless Umbrella became synonymous with umbrellas, the company produced parachutes for the military during WWII. Vernon manufactured ammunition boxes and sold window blackout kits for homes and businesses on the East and West coasts to deter shelling from offshore German U-boats during World War II. In March 1944, Vernon was honored for an “outstanding production contribution to the war effort” and presented with the Army Ordnance flag, described as a “symbol of the Army’s gratitude for work performed on the home front.” At the award presentation, Major Gordon Fowler urged Must Read | America Was Branded From The Start A war ration book advertisement posted around 1944 (courtesy of Kaeser & Blair) As manufacturing scaled, so did U.S. imagery in advertising. Calendars, paper fans, trading cards, glassware and other products were decorated with the American flag, the bald eagle and other patriotic symbols.
PPAI • MAY 2026 • 31 Branded combs for Iowa Senator Leroy S. Mercer’s re-election campaign in the 1940s (courtesy of Bankers Advertising). employees to continue their efforts until victory was secured. Political & Patriotic Merch Explodes In the years following World War II, American manufacturing represented pride, stability and growth. Patriotic themes reflected optimism and belief in the country’s future. With national sentiment at an all-time high, Kaeser & Blair released The All-American Holiday Line catalogs, which offered a wide selection of print material, such as letterheads, calendars and envelopes. Each catalog – featuring Uncle Sam shaking hands with Santa Claus – had pockets to store a selection of stock images and examples of typesetting symbols. “We still have these on display at our K&B Museum,” says Mitchell Kaeser, co-CEO of Kaeser & Blair. “I call them the original emojis.” Perhaps only eclipsed by President Donald Trump’s ubiquitous red “Make America Great Again” hat a half century later, President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s “I Like Ike” button for his 1952 campaign is the most prominent political merch in U.S. history. “I Like Ike” was an effective slogan because it’s short, rhythmic and personal. At just three words, it fit effortlessly on buttons, hats, posters and any other imprinted item. “It’s the best example of a mass-produced lithograph button,” Lee says. “They made tens of millions of that button, which is why it still shows up in people’s drawers and sewing boxes.” Thanks to television transforming candidates into brands, political merch exploded throughout the 1960s. In addition to buttons, pins and apparel, there was great demand for yard signs, balloons, flyers and bumper stickers – which were invented by Forrest P. Gill, founder of Kansas-based supplier Gill Studios in 1946. “From Carter and Reagan to the historic 2008 election of Barack Obama, we’ve been the backbone of political and patriotic messaging for over half a century,” says Jeff Flowers, director of marketing at Gill Studios. “We’ve seen trends come and go, but the core of what we do remains: helping people show their support, proclaim their allegiance and share their voice. We’ve been here for all of it, and we’re not slowing down now.” The amount of political promotional products doubled for each election in the 1960s, according to Lee. “By the time you had Nixon running in 1968, political promotional items were everywhere,” he says, “and there were probably tens of thousands of companies making these items for candidates.” During that same period, political merch evolved from primarily focusing on candidates to representing cultural movements. There were pins, buttons, armbands, posters, T-shirts and more items showing support for civil rights and women’s rights and protesting the Vietnam War. As screen Thanks to television transforming candidates into brands, political merch exploded throughout the 1960s. America Was Branded From The Start | Must Read Vernon was presented with the U.S. Army Ordnance Award in 1944 for outstanding production contribution to the war effort. The All-American Holiday Line catalogs of 1948-1949 and 1950-1951 from Kaeser & Blair.
32 • MAY 2026 • PPAI A decorative plate featuring the many similarities between Presidents Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy (courtesy of Bankers Advertising). printing became cheaper, political expression became fashionable with students able to create whatever designs they wanted in the comfort of their garages. • During the Vietnam War, the U.S. Information Agency asked PPAI for “civil action gifts” to distribute in remote agricultural areas of the Southeast Asian country. The Agency believed gifts such as pencils, sewing kits and vegetable slicers could bolster morale in villages under attack by the Vietcong. Following the Vietnam War, President Gerald Ford was trying to get prices and wages under control. In announcing his anti-inflation campaign, Ford badged his lapel with a “WIN” button, an acronym for “Whip Inflation Now.” Within a month, Adcraft Manufacturing alone sold 5 million WIN buttons. Celebrating Americana As the ’60s came to a close, patriotic merch was inspired by another shining moment: American astronaut Neil Armstrong becoming the first person to walk on the moon. Kaeser & Blair capitalized on the moon landing to market its “space age” advertising specialty package. “Technology has certainly increased since 1969, and that remains an important focus at Kaeser & Blair,” Kaeser says. Bill Bywater, chairman emeritus of Bankers Advertising – a 130-year-old distributor in Iowa City, Iowa – remembers the anticipation of the historic event. “We had a salesman in Wapakoneta, Ohio, which was the hometown of Neil Armstrong,” says Bywater, who has been with Bankers for more than 60 years. “The city commissioned us to do a plate with a very nice design of Armstrong. It was so exciting. I took my family and we went to a resort in Missouri to make sure we could watch it because the landing was scheduled to take place in the middle of the night.” The nation threw its biggest celebration to date just seven years later, with the U.S. Bicentennial marking a massive surge in patriotic merch. Red, white and blue apparel was all the rage, and companies incorporated traditional American symbols into their branding strategies, offering planners, calendars, glassware and even custom vinyl products. “Probably the most significant thing I remember in this business was the bicentennial,” says Bywater, a PPAI Hall of Famer. “The McCleery-Cumming Company, which was known as the Washington line right here in Washington, Iowa, came out with a bicentennial calendar with custom art depicting the founding of our country and it sold very, very well.” Congress established the American Revolution Bicentennial Administration that would, among other things, establish an official emblem to promote the occasion. Because ARBA was picky about who could obtain a license, PPAI petitioned for allowing anyone to use the seal instead of restricting it to a chosen few. Although ARBA eventually relented and authorized licenses for commercial purposes, the Association wasn’t taking any chances – it had its own U.S. Bicentennial logo designed. A Bicentennial Information Resource Kit, containing the reproducible logo, directory of services and Kaeser & Blair ad from 1969. Armstrong Plate As the ’60s came to a close, patriotic merch was inspired by another shining moment: American astronaut Neil Armstrong becoming the first person to walk on the moon Must Read | America Was Branded From The Start
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