As the branded merch industry works to attract the next generation of talent, company values are no longer just words on a careers page. They’re becoming part of the employee value proposition. Deloitte’s 2025 Gen Z and Millennial Survey found that 89% of Gen Z respondents consider having a sense of purpose important to their job satisfaction, while nearly half have left a role they felt lacked purpose. Around 4 in 10 have even turned down an employer, assignment or project because it conflicted with their personal ethics or beliefs. For younger professionals, work increasingly reflects what they stand for. And organizations that can authentically demonstrate those values are likely to have an advantage in attracting and retaining great people. But responsibility doesn’t end with our own teams. Every company in our industry relies on a much broader network of people. Suppliers, manufacturers, decorators, logistics providers and service partners all contribute to the products we create and the experiences we deliver. While every organization has a different level of influence within the supply chain, every organization has opportunities to build stronger relationships, ask thoughtful questions and encourage responsible business practices. That doesn’t mean expecting perfection – far from it. One of the biggest misconceptions about responsible sourcing is that it’s about finding flawless suppliers or eliminating every possible risk. In reality, it’s about understanding where risks exist, building trust, creating transparency and supporting continuous improvement over time. The strongest supplier relationships aren’t built through “gotcha” moments, they’re built through collaboration and true partnership. If that sounds familiar, it should. The same philosophy applies to building a great workplace. No company becomes one of the best places to work overnight. Culture is the result of thousands of small decisions to listen to feedback, invest in development, admit when something isn’t working and choosing to make it better. Responsible supply Deloitte’s 2025 Gen Z and Millennial Survey found that 89% of Gen Z respondents consider having a sense of purpose important to their job satisfaction. Go to WarwickPublishing.com for details Full Color, Full Coverage Sturdy 4mm Coroplast Corrugated Easy Assembly w/Sturdy Base One or Two Side Printing Available TABLETOP STANDEES NEW! Table and Countertop Full Color Advertising! STE-811 - 8.5"w x 11"h STE-1117 - 11"w x 17"h PPAI/114154 SAGE/57590 • SEPTEMBER 2026 • 19 Responsibility | Voices
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