One of the things I love most about our industry is that we never stand still. EVERY DAY, PEOPLE ACROSS THE BRANDED MERCHANDISE community are creating new ways to connect brands and audiences, strengthen relationships and deliver meaningful experiences. That same spirit is driving the work happening at PPAI as we continue bringing our Strategic Plan to life. Over the past several months, our team has been focused on turning vision into action. You’ve likely seen Merch Moves Us, our targeted, global marketing initiative designed to elevate branded merchandise and reinforce its role as a powerful marketing channel that powers lasting connections. It’s one of the most ambitious efforts our industry has undertaken to tell a more unified and compelling story about this medium. We’ve also launched the Branded Merchandise Global Market Report, developed with Oxford Economics. For the first time, our industry has independent data that demonstrates the significant economic impact of branded merchandise around the world, giving all of us stronger tools for advocacy, credibility and growth. Meanwhile, our redesigned member portal makes it easier to access benefits, engage with PPAI and manage your membership experience. Beyond these major initiatives, important progress is happening throughout the organization. PPAI Advance continues expanding opportunities for professional development and leadership growth. Our signature events team continues to deliver world-class experiences that help members learn, connect and build stronger businesses. Across advocacy, research, education, technology and events, our focus remains the same: helping our members succeed. While I’m incredibly proud of the work our staff is doing, the truth is that PPAI’s greatest strength has always been its members. Highlighted by those who volunteer their time to aid in our vision and mission. PPAI volunteers help shape strategy, bring fresh perspectives, challenge our thinking and ensure we’re addressing the needs of a rapidly evolving industry. They help us innovate, stay relevant and keep our mission and vision connected to the realities our members face every day. Simply put, PPAI is stronger because members choose to lead. With our call for volunteers currently open, now is your opportunity. If you’ve ever considered becoming more involved, I encourage you to take a look. Whatever your passion to improve this community, there is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. Volunteering is also an investment in yourself. It develops leadership skills, builds valuable relationships, offers visibility into industry strategy and allows you the chance to influence the future of branded merchandise in areas where you have expertise. To learn more and apply, visit ppai.org/volunteers. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t share my excitement as well that registration is now open for The PPAI Expo. I truly believe it remains the most important gathering of the year for our community. This year will feel markedly different as we refresh Expo by introducing new experiences, testing new ideas and enhancing how we serve our members. After all, if we’re not innovating, we’re just putting our logo on the same old thing. (And none of us want that!) More importantly, Expo is where our community comes together to learn, connect and help shape the future of branded merchandise. It’s where you’ll see our vision in action as we continue elevating merch and showcasing how it powers lasting connections between brands and the people they serve. Thank you for your membership, your partnership and your commitment to this community. Every volunteer hour, every event attended and every contribution made helps move our industry forward. I’m grateful to be on this journey with you. Let’s go! From PPAI Drew Holmgreen, CAS President & CEO 10.26 Thank you for your membership, your partnership and your commitment to this community. Every volunteer hour, every event attended and every contribution made helps move our industry forward. 4 • OCTOBER 2026 •
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