News

Pantone has announced that Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201) is its 2026 Color of the Year.

The institute, which is considered a leading authority on color, describes it as a “lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.”

Cloud Dancer encourages relaxation and focus, allowing the mind to wander and creativity to breathe, the company says. The color is “associated with new beginnings” and “signifies our desire for a fresh start,” Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the institute, told CNN.

• A key structural color, Cloud Dancer’s versatility “provides scaffolding for the color spectrum, allowing all colors to shine,” Pantone says.
• Pastel and neutral tones make compatible combinations to Cloud Dancer, offering subtle shifts in hue, the company adds.
  

Each year, the Pantone Color Institute carefully selects a hue that reflects worldwide trends in design, fashion, current events and more.

• The Pantone Color of the Year program was created in 1999 to spark conversation around color and culture.
• The Color of the Year for 2025 was Mocha Mousse, “a rich, warm, indulgent mood that made our wardrobes (and our world) a little more delicious,” and the Color of the Year for 2024 was Peach Fuzz, a “velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body and soul.”

“The color name is critical. The minute you hear a name describing color, you instantly conjure up an image,” Pressman said, adding that this precise shade of white, with its “equal balance of cool and warm undertones,” was carefully chosen.

“Had we gone for a white that was more optically bright, not only does it take away from the natural feeling and honesty and authenticity that we’re looking for… it almost speaks to sterility and isolationism, because it’s cold,” Pressman told CNN.

The promo industry keeps a close eye on color trends, including the annual Color of the Year announcement, as suppliers and distributors apply those ideas to future product and marketing plans.

Published with Permission from PPAI

Written by: John Corrigan

They come from all corners of the promotional products world – distributors, suppliers and business service firms of every size – but they share one thing in common: a relentless drive to lead, innovate and lift others as they rise.

Each year, PPAI Media searches the industry for its brightest emerging leaders, and in 2025, more than 200 nominations poured in. From this impressive field, 12 young professionals stood out for their achievements, their commitment to their communities and their unmistakable potential to shape what comes next.

Since the program’s creation in 2010, PPAI Rising Stars have embodied the qualities that keep the industry moving forward: leadership, creativity, volunteerism and the courage to take on new challenges. For the second year, eligibility was limited to professionals under age 40 – a nod to the program’s mission of spotlighting the next generation of visionaries charting the industry’s future.

The 2025 honorees were celebrated in October at PPAI’s Leadership Development Conference in Texas, where they joined peers for a young professionals educational track designed to sharpen their skills and expand their influence. It was a fitting setting – a space dedicated to learning, connection and growth – for a group that represents the best of what’s ahead.

Several of this year’s Rising Stars were nominated multiple times by colleagues and mentors who see their impact firsthand. Their stories reflect an industry in constant evolution, one that thrives on fresh ideas and fearless leadership.

Read on to meet the 2025 class of PPAI Rising Stars. Their light is already shining, and their future promises to illuminate the path for everyone in promo.

Patrick Bardsley, 37
Co-founder & CEO, Spectrum Designs

Read Patrick’s Interview

“He’s built a thriving business that not only delivers high-quality custom apparel and promotional products, but also creates life-changing employment opportunities for autistic individuals. Under his leadership, Spectrum has grown from a small startup to a nationally recognized nonprofit with multiple locations, high-profile clients and a proven social impact model. What impresses me most is how Patrick balances operational excellence with deep compassion. He’s just as focused on perfecting our printing process as he is on making sure every team member is seen, supported and successful. His work is innovative, impactful and inspiring, and he’s only getting started.”

–Kelli Fisher, Spectrum Designs

Nina Bui, 29
Territory Sales Manager, HPG

Watch Nina’s Interview

“As a fellow supplier, I’ve seen how intentionally she builds connections with other reps, creating a network that helps all of us better serve our distributor customers even when a solution doesn’t come directly from her own line. She’s a true team player, a rising talent in our industry and genuinely a joy to work with. I’m proud to call her a friend and excited to watch her continued growth and success.”

–Dawn Kovar, Showdown Displays

Abby Burke, 33
National Account Executive, Walker-Clay

Watch Abby’s Interview

“I consider Abby a Rising Star in the promotional products industry because she thinks differently and isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. She’s always looking for fresh, creative ways to connect with new clients and expand her reach. What sets her apart is how she leans into platforms like TikTok and YouTube to share her expertise and personality in an authentic, engaging way. She’s built content that educates, entertains and ultimately drives interest in our industry, helping open doors that traditional outreach methods might not. Her willingness to take risks and experiment with new approaches is exactly what this industry needs more of.”

–Amanda Clay, Walker-Clay

Jade Crider, 24
Lead Sales & Social Media Coordinator, Hasseman Marketing & Communications

Watch Jade’s Interview

“Over the past three years, Jade has made a name for herself and stepped out of the shadows of her father, a well known long-time industry vet. Through her use of social media marketing, her podcasting and her personal branding – not to mention her paneling at various industry events – she’s definitely come into her own as a force in the industry.”

–Matt Shucart, Advertising Premium Sales

Savannah Dmytriw, 30
Vice President of Business Development, S.C.G.

Watch Savannah’s Interview

“She pairs authentic visibility with real results. In a space where social media is often smoke and mirrors, she stands out by backing every post with real retail trends, transparency and follow-through. Sav’s content isn’t just for likes. Every piece of content shines a light on and elevates the measurable impact she’s making for her own brand, her company, and to our industry as a whole. Her merch reviews are curated, deliberate and impressive. Her content already blows me away, but another specific example of how she’s impressed me is how she’s built a promo community of like-minded distributors and suppliers to think tank how to move the industry forward. She is a force because she doesn’t just talk the talk and get her social media clout. She walks the walk and turns ideas into action.”

–Brittany Frase, MadeToOrder

Kristine Eng, 34
Director of Marketing, Pop! Promos

Watch Kristine’s Interview

“Kristine has already made an indelible mark on our industry. With over 11 years of experience across supplier and distributor organizations, she exemplifies the innovation, leadership and forward-thinking vision this award is meant to honor. Since joining Pop! Promos just two years ago, Kristine has accelerated through the ranks, earning a promotion from Marketing Manager to Director of Marketing. Today, she leads both the Marketing and Creative Services departments, driving results-oriented strategies and cultivating a team culture rooted in excellence, creativity and authenticity.”

–Erin Reilly, Pop! Promos

Stephanie Hinkle, 37
Marketing Manager, MadeToOrder

Watch Stephanie’s Interview

“She takes the same tools that we all have access to and learns how to use them to their most magical potential, and then she shares that knowledge with competitors and peers – what!? She is a curious and creative mind who loves to collaborate to bring her knowledge to the greater industry, someone who is not only passionate but willing to share that passion is invaluable.”

–Samantha Fullerton, BAMKO

Cayley Lazarus, 39
Inside Sales Lead, Logomark

Watch Cayley’s Interview

“Cayley is extremely proactive and engaged in all of our client projects, big and small. She is a constant in our daily lives, showcasing ideas and solutions to make our day-to-day easier and helping us to present the best of the best to wow our clients. Cayley grew her territory with the Taylor account from about $50,000 in 2021 to $700,000 in 2024 – an increase of 1,300%!”

–Amy Loeffler, Taylor Promo Marketing

Eli Martin, 32
Sales Manager, 5B’s Embroidery and Screen Print

Watch Eli’s Interview

“Within 5B’s, Eli has made leaps in sales growth while still focusing on what matters the most in companies: the people. Eli manages a sales team giving them the opportunity to grow and learn. He is a hands-on leader who makes people feel wanted and needed in the office. Eli is compassionate and willing to help a younger person in the industry, not just at his company. Eli is in a unique situation, being a decorator. They have even less ability to influence the buying decision. Eli can utilize his connections to grow the company. He is not afraid to put himself in an uncomfortable situation to grow his skillset or network.”

–Lindsay Bons, ID Line

Vera Minot, 35
Co-owner & Creative Director, Southwest Solutions

Watch Vera’s Interview

“Under Vera’s direction, Southwest Solutions earned a Silver Pyramid Award from PPAI for one of their standout client campaigns, and the company has been named one of PPAI’s Greatest Companies to Work For twice in the last three years – a testament to both the culture she helps lead and the quality of the work she champions. Her creative vision and leadership continue to shape not just the team, but the trajectory of the company and its reputation within the industry.”

–Sydney Harvey, Southwest Solutions

Halle Moore, 25
Marketing Coordinator, PromoCorner

Watch Halle’s Interview

“She brings a fresh Gen Z perspective to the industry, keeping content dynamic and engaging, especially through initiatives like the Behind the Brands series. Her energy and modern outlook are shaping a more connected, forward-thinking future for the industry.”

–Kristina Beal, Chocolate Chocolate

Kate Murray, 24
Communications & PR Specialist, American Solutions for Business

Watch Kate’s Interview

“Kate shows up every day ready to make us better. She works hard, is super motivated and is genuinely a good person. The first time she really stood out to me was seeing how she engaged with our reps and vendors at one of our socials at The PPAI Expo last year. She’s so welcoming and present. It’s hard not to like her!”

–Justin Zavadil, American Solutions For Business

Published with Permission from PPAI

SRG (PPAI 230188, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 17 supplier, has announced an exclusive partnership with New Jersey-based supplier All American Writing Instruments (PPAI 113946, Silver), naming SRG the sole North American supplier for AAWI’s complete line of pens, pencils and markers.

• AAWI is a 97-year-old, fourth generation family business that’s considered the last vertically integrated pen manufacturer in the United States.
• As part of the partnership, Ian Brudenell, vice president of sales at AAWI, will join SRG.

AAWI’s ‘Made in America’ legacy and SRG’s reach create the perfect combination.

Merrick Falkenstein

Chief Revenue Officer, SRG

“AAWI’s ‘Made in America’ legacy and SRG’s reach create the perfect combination, offering distributors reliable, USA-made products with the support and service they trust,” says Merrick Falkenstein, chief revenue officer at SRG.

AAWI’s six brands – Garland, RevMark, PenScents, Pencil Heroes, Pokka and RePen – cover a full spectrum of writing needs, from eco-friendly pens to rugged contractor markers.

“This partnership allows us to expand our reach without sacrificing our commitment to American manufacturing,” says Adam Bell, president of AAWI. “Together with SRG, we’ll continue to deliver exceptional quality and service to our customers.”

Together with SRG, we’ll continue to deliver exceptional quality and service to our customers.”

Adam Bell

President, All American Writing Instruments

• Effective immediately, SRG will manage all AAWI purchase orders and customer inquiries.

After 25 years as St Regis Group, the Ontario-based company rebranded to SRG at the beginning of 2025. The name solidifies its expansion beyond awards and into premium giftware and lifestyle products, including drinkware, pens, journals, housewares, bags, tech and much more.

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Following President Trump’s trade deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has announced the suspension of recently imposed actions as part of its Section 301 investigation of China shipbuilding.

• As part of that deal, Trump agreed to lower tariffs on Chinese imports to 47% in exchange for promises from Beijing on fentanyl, rare earth elements and soybeans.

The suspension, which starts November 10, 2025, and lasts for one year, covers proposed vessel fees on maritime transport services as well as tariffs on ship-to-shore cranes and cargo-handling equipment. As a result, no fees or duties will be collected during this period.

What the suspension means for the promotional products industry is:

• Immediate relief from cost escalation tied to freight, port and handling fees
• Improved supply-chain predictability for 2026 production and imports
• Continued diversification and affordability in the import pipeline that most suppliers depend on.

“The suspension delivers a one-year tariff pause, strengthens supply-chain stability and highlights PPAI’s active voice in trade policy outcomes that directly affect members,” says Alok Bhat, market economist, research and public affairs lead at PPAI.

The suspension delivers a one-year tariff pause, strengthens supply-chain stability and highlights PPAI’s active voice in trade policy outcomes that directly affect members.”

Alok Bhat

Research & Public Affairs Lead, PPAI

PPAI’s Stance

The Section 301 actions were opposed by numerous trade associations, including PPAI, which submitted comments ahead of a hearing this past March and supported a study by Trade Partnership Worldwide that found USTR’s initially proposed remedies would have a drastically negative economic impact.

During the hearing, concerns raised included increased costs, supply chain disruption, impact on agriculture and a lack of direct benefit to U.S. shipbuilding. Many pointed out that the U.S. shipbuilding sector lacks capacity to replace Chinese-built vessels anytime soon, making the policy more punitive than productive.

Instead of imposing broad fees, there were recommendations during the hearing for alternative approaches such as:

• Tax incentives and subsidies for U.S. shipbuilding to improve competitiveness.
• Targeted trade agreements to address concerns about China’s subsidies without harming U.S. businesses.
• Delays or phased implementation to allow industries time to adjust.
• Exploring exemptions for non-Chinese operators to avoid unintended consequences.

“PPAI strongly urges USTR to consider the unintended economic consequences of the proposed Section 301 remedies, particularly their strain on U.S. supply chains, cost structures and business operations,” Drew Holmgreen, president and CEO of PPAI, said in comments submitted to the USTR ahead of the hearing.

“While these measures are intended to support domestic shipbuilding, they risk creating higher costs for importers, disrupting logistics networks and weakening the competitiveness of industries that rely on global trade, including promotional products.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Every generation invents its own slang: far-out daddy-o, that’s lit, all that and a bag of chips. Most fade into the ether. Others wind up named Word of the Year by Dictionary.com. Yes, the Gen Alpha battle cry made it to the big book.

“Perhaps the most defining feature of ‘67’ is that it’s impossible to define,” Dictionary.com says. “It’s meaningless, ubiquitous and nonsensical.”

Pronounced six-seveeeeen (emphasis on seven, personal choice on the amount of e’s), it can be shouted without warning or as a reply to anything. Literally. “What’s 50+17?” 6-7. “It’s cold outside.” 6-7. “How are you today?” 6-7.

Its rise to fame is just as confusing.

• The expression can be traced back to rapper Skrilla’s track “Doot Doot (6 7).”
• Six-foot-seven NBA player LaMelo Ball became tied to the phrase, prompting fans to yell “six-seveeeeen” when he takes the court.
• A 14-year-old dubbed the “67 Kid” went viral for shouting “six-seven” while making an accompanying hand gesture – both palms facing up, moving as if weighing two items.
• Popular high school basketball player Taylen Kinney further popularized the slang when he rated a Starbucks drink “six… six… six-seven.”

That quick clip made Kinney a star and inspired his own product line, featuring the number and his signature.

Like any other fad, promo wisely jumped on the opportunity. Tumblers, hoodies, socks, stickers, even matching T-shirts are flooding online store fronts, from Etsy to Amazon. Everyone wants in the inside joke that’s clearly not inside anymore.

Some items feature a simple “6-7.” Other items require a little thinking. Either way, it’s a money maker. Because the saying has no clear meaning, its appeal lies in its flexibility. It can be printed on just about anything, making quick turnarounds and short-run production easy.

And of course, Santa isn’t skipping out on the cash cow. Wrapping paper, customizable Christmas ornaments and tiny “Elf on the Shelf” sweatshirts are already available.

So, what’s the best way to end the madness? 6-7.

Written by: Sarah Luna

Published with Permission from PPAI

OrderMyGear (PPAI 704581, Silver) has merged with Inktavo (PPAI 817423, Standard-Base), creating a new solutions service for branded merchandise firms. The two business services providers will continue to operate their existing product lines with a future integration process planned.

• Inktavo has primarily helped clients working in decorated apparel shops and sign businesses by streamlining their operations and improving efficiency through technology. It is the parent company of Printavo, InkSoft, GraphicsFlow, Clarity and SignTracker.
• OrderMyGear helps promo firms set up online stores, among other services. It continues to have success in the team apparel market with crossover in the promo industry.

“Combining Inktavo and OMG empowers our customers with a platform that offers solutions for branded apparel, promotional products and signage,” says James Armijo, CEO of Inktavo. “We can enable online sales, proposals, in-house production or outsourced production — or any combination of those — so that our customers have the tools and support they need to realize their vision and grow, and their customers can have a seamless experience as if everything is handled in-house.”

Combining Inktavo and OMG empowers our customers with a platform that offers solutions for branded apparel, promotional products and signage.”

James Armijo

CEO, Inktavo

‘A Single Technology Partner’

Both sides of the merger are claiming that it will create a business services provider that will be nearly unprecedented in terms of what it can offer distributors and suppliers in the promo industry.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Inktavo and expand the ecosystem of solutions available to branded merchandise businesses,” says Leonid Rozkin, OMG’s CEO. “For the first time, distributors, decorators and dealers will have a single technology partner to help power every element of their business from product discovery and digital sales channels to post-sale order management, decoration, fulfillment and accounting.”

For the first time, distributors, decorators, and dealers will have a single technology partner to help power every element of their business.”

Leonid Rozkin

CEO, OrderMyGear

Indeed, Inktavo inherited a number of resources in the merger. Prior to the deal, OMG had been busy the past few years buying companies of its own and strengthening its presence in the promo industry.

• In June, OMG acquired Aturian, an integrated ERP solution for distributors.

This coincided with the company’s launch of a new service: OMG Presentations and Order Management.

• In 2023, OMG acquired Distributor Central, a move that showed strategic growth for the business services provider.
• And in 2022, it had acquired rival BrightStores, turning rivals into teammates.

“Suppliers will have unmatched access to thousands of customers using our combined set of solutions to search, buy and sell brandable products,” Rozkin says. “Together, we are uniquely positioned to connect the industry with market-leading data and technology.”

Written by: Jonny Auping

Published with Permission from PPAI

PPAI has announced the recipients of its 2026 Icon Awards, which celebrate the accomplishments of those who have gone above and beyond in service to the promotional products industry, the Association and their communities.

This year’s honors are being bestowed on:

• PPAI Hall of Fame: Steven Meyer, MAS
• PPAI Distinguished Service Award: Todd Pottebaum, MAS+
• H. Ted Olson Humanitarian Award: Renée Jones, MAS

The PPAI Hall of Fame

Celebrating individuals who have demonstrated monumental and selfless efforts and devotion to the promo industry, induction into the PPAI Hall of Fame gives permanent recognition to those whose creative spark and tireless dedication have helped the Association and industry prosper.

A 27-year industry veteran, Steven Meyer, MAS, was most recently national sales manager at Arch Promo Group, PPAI 100’s No. 28 supplier, before retiring on October 1. During his tenure, he managed the sales and integration of Arch’s five latest acquisitions, according to Steve Ehlert, national general manager at Arch.

“Steven’s dedication to the growth and integrity of our industry is both exemplary and inspiring,” says Ehlert, who nominated Meyer. “His contributions aren’t limited to the success of the supplier he was at. He has consistently elevated the standards of the industry through active involvement in regional trade organizations, advocacy for the industry and thoughtful leadership.”

Meyer – the 2018 recipient of the PPAI Regional Volunteer Award – has given back to the industry for decades. He served as PPAI Board Chair from 2012-2013, president of the Promotional Products Association Southwest from 2018-2019 and president of the Upper Midwest Association of Promotional Professionals from 2009-2010.

• A 2016 PPAI Fellow, he has participated in dozens of PPAI committees and advisory groups.

“What sets Steven apart is not just the breadth of his professional experience but the depth of his generosity in sharing it,” Ehlert says. “Countless individuals, myself included, have benefited from his mentorship. He was a guiding light in my decision to join this industry after witnessing firsthand his love of selling promotional products.

What sets Steven apart is not just the breadth of his professional experience but the depth of his generosity in sharing it.”

Steve Ehlert

National GM, Arch Promo Group

“Whether offering guidance to young professionals entering the field or simply lending a listening ear, he has made it his mission to support, uplift and empower others.”

The PPAI Distinguished Service Award

The annual PPAI Distinguished Service Award is presented to Association members who consistently contribute their skills and expertise toward the betterment of the organization. Through volunteer service or by offering their leadership to PPAI, these are members who have generously given the gift of their energy, time and enthusiasm.

A 25-year industry veteran, Todd Pottebaum, MAS+, president of Quality Resource Group, PPAI 100’s No. 53 distributor, has been a long-time advocate for the industry.

In addition to serving as PPAI Board Chair in 2021, Pottebaum was chair of the Government Relations Action Council and the PPAI Marketing Information and Research Committee.

• Additionally, he’s an executive committee member of Reciprocity Road and previously served as president of the Upper Midwest Association of Promotional Professionals.
• He has also spoken at regional education events and served as a panelist at a national industry conference.

Outside the industry, Pottebaum served on Meeting Professionals International’s marketing and membership committees and has been named an MPI Volunteer of the Year for the Minneapolis/St. Paul Chapter. When his son was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder linked to the IQSEC2 gene, Pottebaum co-founded the IQSEC2 Research & Advocacy Foundation, raising awareness and funding for a condition that affects children worldwide.

“Todd Pottebaum stands as a model of service-driven leadership, with a wide-reaching and deeply personal impact on the promotional products industry,” says nominator Perry Wehrle, MAS, executive director of Reciprocity Road, who is retiring at the end of 2025.

Todd Pottebaum stands as a model of service-driven leadership.”

Perry Wehrle, MAS

Executive Director, Reciprocity Road

“A frequent speaker, mentor and advocate for well-being and ethical leadership, Todd embodies the very ethos of PPAI’s Distinguished Service Award. His career has been marked by professional excellence and a selfless devotion to strengthening our industry, supporting its people and giving voice to those often unheard.”

The H. Ted Olson Humanitarian Award

Named after the late PPAI president emeritus, the H. Ted Olson Humanitarian Award is presented to members who have shown long-standing empathy, devotion and commitment to improving quality of life and bringing about change for the betterment of a community.

Peers 24-year industry veteran Renée Jones, MAS, founder and CEO of North Carolina-based distributor A Creative Touch, have attested that she’s deserving of the honor.

Named a PPAI Fellow in 2019, Jones has served on the PPAI Board of Directors as well as numerous committees and advisory councils, including the Promotional Products Education Foundation’s board of directors.

Beyond the promo industry, she volunteers with the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, among other civic organizations throughout the United States.

• In 2022, she received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Volunteer Service Award from President Joe Biden.

From serving as the youngest national commander of the DAV Auxiliary to her tireless efforts with Honor Flight, Rotary and countless local projects, Jones embodies the spirit of gratitude in action, according to nominator Danny Rosin, CAS, president and co-owner of Brand Fuel, PPAI 100’s No. 29 distributor, and incoming chair of the PPAI Board of Directors.

Few people live the values of service and humanity as completely as Renée Jones.”

Danny Rosin, CAS

President/Co-Owner, Brand Fuel

“Whether she’s leading thousands of heartfelt letters for veterans or founding support networks like LIPP Café to uplift industry peers, Renée proves that small actions, multiplied over time, create lasting ripples of change,” Rosin says.

“Her life is a testament to what can happen when passion meets purpose, and her example invites all of us to show up, give back and lead with heart. Few people live the values of service and humanity as completely as Renée Jones, and no one could be more deserving of this honor.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Piblished with Permission from PPAI

Charles River Apparel (PPAI 111644, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 39 supplier, has announced two key leadership changes.

Jason Lipsett, who was promoted to president of the New England-based firm in September 2024, now holds the title of president and CEO after leading the company’s strategic direction over the past year.

• Jason’s appointment marked three generations of Lipsetts at the helm of Charles River Apparel, which his grandfather, Walter Lipsett, founded in 1983. 
• In the move, Jason’s father Barry Lipsett transitions to a formalized senior advisory role.

Additionally, Lindsey Davis, MAS, has been appointed vice president of sales. The 20-plus-year industry veteran will officially join Charles River Apparel on November 17, following her transition from her current role at PPAI, where she serves as vice president of sales. Davis will continue supporting the Association through the end of October.

Lindsey’s energy, authenticity and customer-centric mindset make her an incredible addition to our leadership team.”

Jason Lipsett

President/CEO, Charles River Apparel

“Lindsey’s energy, authenticity and customer-centric mindset make her an incredible addition to our leadership team,” says Lipsett, a 2024 PPAI Rising Star. “She brings outstanding industry experience, a deep understanding of customer relationships and a collaborative, forward-thinking approach that aligns perfectly with our focus on growth and innovation.”

Before joining PPAI, Davis spent nearly six years at Raining Rose, PPAI 100’s No. 48 supplier, where she directed promotional sales following the company’s acquisition of Solar Advertising – her family’s business, which she led before overseeing its sale.

She joined the PPAI staff in 2022 after stepping down from the PPAI Board of Directors, which she served as the Regional Relations Committee delegate.

I look forward to bringing my experience and passion for this industry to a brand I’ve long admired and to help drive what’s next.”

Lindsey Davis, MAS

VP of Sales, Charles River Apparel

“I’m so grateful for my time at PPAI and for the opportunity to work with such talented people driving our industry forward,” Davis says. “Joining the Charles River Apparel team brings me immense joy, as their values, vision and goals align perfectly with my own. I look forward to bringing my experience and passion for this industry to a brand I’ve long admired and to help drive what’s next.”

PPAI President and CEO Drew Holmgreen says, “We’re deeply grateful to Lindsey for the impact she’s made at PPAI – from her early volunteer efforts to her recent leadership role that has driven meaningful growth. We look forward to seeing all she’ll accomplish in her new role.”

We’re deeply grateful to Lindsey for the impact she’s made at PPAI.”

Drew Holmgreen

President/CEO, PPAI

• Bruce Barnet, COO of Charles River Apparel, was recently elected to the PPAI Board of Directors. His term will begin in January following The PPAI Expo 2026.

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

PPAI has announced the results of the recent member vote for its Board of Directors beginning in 2026 and confirmed the industry leaders who will hold offices next year. Incoming members will join in January following The PPAI Expo 2026. Likewise, certain existing Board members will either transition to new roles or complete their tenure on the Board.

Members voted to confirm the slate of nominees, made up of Whitestone founder and CEO Joseph Sommer and Bruce Barnet, COO of Charles River Apparel.

Additionally, the Board approved S&S Activewear CEO Frank Myers to fill a vacancy created when Dan Pantano announced his departure from alphabroder. S&S Activewear acquired alphabroder in 2024. Myers will serve the remainder of Pantano’s term, set to expire in 2027.

Also added to the Board is Samantha Kates, CEO of supplier Spector, who will serve as at-large director for two years.

New Officers Named

• Danny Rosin, CAS, co-owner of Brand Fuel, PPAI 100’s No. 29 distributor, will assume the role of Chair for 2026.
• Zack Ottenstein, president of The Image Group, PPAI 100’s No. 41 distributor, has been named Chair-Elect.
• Mark Gammon, who was just named to vice president of national accounts and buying groups of PCNA, PPAI 100’s No. 5 supplier, will support them as Vice Chair of Finance Services.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to serve our Association,” Ottenstein says. “During a challenging time for so many in our industry, PPAI’s advocacy and educational resources are more important than ever. I look forward to working with everyone to help our industry thrive.”         

During a challenging time for so many in our industry, PPAI’s advocacy and educational resources are more important than ever. I look forward to working with everyone to help our industry thrive.”         

Zack Ottenstein

President, The Image Group

The current Board Chair, Denise Taschereau, CEO of Fairware, will move into the role of Immediate Past Chair. Kara Keister, MAS, owner of distributor Social Good Promotions, will also continue in her role as Regional Relations Committee delegate.

These one-year board officer terms will begin immediately following The PPAI Expo 2026, which will run January 12-15.

Drew Holmgreen, PPAI’s president and CEO, took a moment to thank the four members who will be leaving the Board in January, noting that the commitment of time, leadership and expertise are key to making PPAI thrive in always changing business landscape.

“Volunteer leadership is more than just part of PPAI’s success,” says Holmgreen. “It’s the engine that drive us forward.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have leaders who give their time, talent and passion to guide our community. Chris Anderson, Dan Pantano, Lori Bauer and Immediate Past Chair Andrew Spellman have each left a lasting mark on this industry and on me personally, and I’m deeply grateful for their service.”

I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Joseph Sommer, Bruce Barnett, Samantha Kates and Frank Myers to the Board.”

Drew Holmgreen

President & CEO, PPAI

New Faces Join The PPAI Board Of Directors

Members voted to approve PPAI’s slate of nominees last month, and the Board of Directors confirmed their appointments last week. Kates and Myers were placed by Board appointment.

The industry leaders joining the Board in January include:

• Joseph Sommer, founder and CEO of Whitestone – ranked the No. 34 distributor on the 2025 PPAI 100.

Joseph Sommer

Founder & CEO, Whitestone

Under his leadership, Whitestone has expanded through strategic acquisitions in the U.S. and Canada, achieved over 400% growth since 2020, and launched the RISE Initiative – an ambitious sustainability program that includes 1% for the Planet membership, EcoVadis certification, and science-based emissions reduction targets.

• Bruce Barnet, chief operating officer of Charles River Apparel, PPAI 100’s No. 39 supplier

Bruce Barnet

Chief Operating Officer, Charles River Apparel

Since joining Charles River Apparel 13 years ago – first as CFO and now as COO – Barnet has been instrumental in driving strategic growth, operational advancement and brand development.

During his tenure, the company has worked to streamline internal operations, expand its global supply chain, embrace sustainability, implement transformative technologies and develop a positive culture rooted in giving back through its social impact initiative, Charles River Cares.

• Samantha Kates, president of Quebec-headquartered Spector, PPAI 100’s No. 18 supplier 

Samantha Kates

President, Spector

Kates joins the Board to fill the slot vacated by Lori Bauer of iPROMOTEu, who had served in the Board’s at-large seat, a two-year appointment. Kates oversees sales, customer service, marketing and product development at Spector. A seasoned executive with a passion for driving transformation, building high-performing teams and elevating brand experiences, she oversees sales, customer service, marketing and product development.

With more than two decades in the promotional products industry, she has held senior leadership roles at suppliers, distributors and business platforms, including Charles River Apparel, iPROMOTEu and commonsku.

• Frank Myers, CEO of S&S Activewear, PPAI 100’s No. 2 supplier

Frank Myers

CEO, S&S Activewear

Myers will be filling the remained of term that was previously held by Dan Pantano of alphabroder, who is stepping away from the industry. Myers was promoted to CEO of S&S in 2022, having joined the company back in 2009. He has led the company through expansive growth, most recently its industry-shaping acquisition of alphabroder in late 2024.

According to Holmgreen, these four individuals combine to bring great experience and unique perspective to the PPAI Board of Directors.

“I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Joseph Sommer, Bruce Barnett, Samantha Kates and Frank Myers to the Board,” Holmgreen says. “They’ve already jumped right in, shaping our strategic planning and showing exactly why expectations of them are high.

“Their dedication proves that when passion meets purpose, it not only elevates merch, it brings real joy to the brands, businesses and communities we touch.”

Written By: Jonny Auping

Published with  Permission from PPAI

Dan Pantano, president and CEO of alphabroder, which was acquired by S&S Activewear in 2024, will be departing the company October 1. Pantano is currently a member of PPAI’s Board of Directors.

• Pantano led alphabroder through what would be one of promo’s largest and most industry-shaping acquisitions ever and helped S&S Activewear become PPAI 100’s No. 2 supplier.
• He also led the supplier through a number of acquisitions of its own during his nearly 13-year tenure, including Bodek & Rhodes and Ash City.
  

Dan’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping our growth journey.”

Frank Myers

CEO, S&S Activewear

“Dan’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping our growth journey,” says Frank Myers, CEO at S&S Activewear. “His vision, customer-first mindset and ability to build strong teams leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of all of us at S&S, we are grateful for his many contributions and wish him the very best in his next chapter.”

Pantano’s mission in the industry has often included a focus on a growing utilization of technology. He refers to “solution-selling” within the industry; the process of selling a solution to a client’s needs rather than simply a product.

• S&S Activewear credits him for having “championed initiatives that enhanced the customer experience, expanded product offerings and inspired employee engagement.”

Pantano joined the company in 2013 after spending 20 years working for prominent health care businesses.

Written by: Jonny Auping

Published with Permission from PPAI