News

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

Advertising Specialty Institute has announced that president and CEO Tim Andrews will retire from the company at the end of March after 23 years of leadership.

The Cohn family, owners of ASI, and Andrews have agreed on the transition timing and are working closely together to ensure a seamless process, the company says. The family has engaged Russell Reynolds Associates to lead the process of finding the next CEO for the ASI Family of Companies, which includes ASI, The ASI Show, ASI Canada, ASI Computer Systems and Print + Promo Marketing.

“Leading ASI for the past 23 years has been the honor of my professional life,” Andrews says. “I look forward to continuing to lead ASI, support our industry and ensure a smooth transition to the next leader.”

Leading ASI for the past 23 years has been the honor of my professional life.”

Tim Andrews

President/CEO, ASI

PPAI President and CEO Drew Holmgreen says Andrews has been a tremendous force in advancing the promotional merch industry.

“Tim has been gracious and welcoming as I’ve stepped into this industry, and I’ve valued the opportunities we’ve had to connect and collaborate in ways that elevate merch,” Holmgreen says. “While our organizations play different roles in the marketplace, I’ve always respected Tim’s commitment to innovation and his passion for the community we share. His leadership has brought real joy to the way our industry connects brands and people, and I wish him every success as he looks ahead to this next chapter.”

I’ve always respected Tim’s commitment to innovation and his passion for the community we share.”

Drew Holmgreen

PPAI President & CEO

‘Next Chapter’

Andrews has been the fifth president in ASI’s history, and each new president has built on the foundation of the past, according to Norman Cohn, chairman of ASI and an industry veteran of 75 years.

“Tim has been a great leader for ASI for more than two decades, and it’s important for everyone to know that he will continue leading the company until the next leader is onboarded,” Cohn says. “We’ll work hard to find the very best leader for the next chapter of ASI and the industry.”

We’ll work hard to find the very best leader for the next chapter of ASI and the industry.”

Norman Cohn

Chairman, ASI

ASI will continue under long-term Cohn family ownership, in its third generation of leadership, with members of the fourth generation now working at ASI. Over the past year, Matthew Cohn and Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer have led an extensive succession planning process, interviewing multiple firms and consulting with dozens of experts before selecting Russell Reynolds Associates.

“When we selected Tim to join ASI as president, we immediately knew that he would be a great leader and ideal partner for our family,” Matthew and Stephanie say. “We are excited to be looking for the next leader for ASI and know that they will help take ASI and the industry to exciting new heights in the years to come.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Polyconcept North America (PCNA), the leading supplier of promotional products, proudly announces the appointment of Mark Gammon as Vice President of National Accounts and Buying Groups. A respected leader in the promotional products industry, Gammon most recently served as CEO of Cap America, where he guided the company through significant growth and product innovation.

With more than 15 years of industry experience, including board service with PPAI since 2024, Gammon brings deep expertise in sales leadership and business development. At Cap America, he quickly advanced from Vice President of Sales to President and COO, before being named CEO in 2021. During his tenure, he oversaw the launch of new product lines, expanded into sporting goods, and positioned the company as a top supplier of team and promotional headwear.

“I am honored to contribute to PCNA’s leadership in the promotional market by delivering customer-centric solutions that drive growth and success,” said Gammon. “I’m passionate about the role promotional products play in brand recognition and engagement, and I look forward to applying my experience to further strengthen PCNA’s leadership in the industry.”

Prior to Cap America, Gammon spent eight years at The Vernon Company, where he built his foundation in sales management and client relationship development. His career-long commitment to the promotional products industry makes him an ideal fit for PCNA’s sales leadership team.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mark to the PCNA family,” said Neil Ringel, CEO of PCNA. “Mark knows this industry inside and out. His proven track record of growth, innovation, and leadership will drive even greater value for our distributor partners. He is truly an invaluable addition to our team, and his passion for building strong, customer-focused teams is exactly what we need to fuel our next phase of growth.”

At PCNA, Gammon will oversee the national account and buying group teams within the sales department. He succeeds Bill Peterson, who has served as Vice President of Sales since 2021.

PCNA and Cap America partnered in 2024 to expand PCNA’s headwear portfolio, a collaboration that highlighted shared values between the two companies. Cap America’s reputation for exceptional embroidery, product innovation, and community commitment mirrors PCNA’s values and ProudPath initiative, which champions sustainability and purpose-driven brands.

Gammon graduated summa cum laude from William Penn University and later earned a certificate in Disruptive Strategy from Harvard Business School, underscoring his commitment to continuous learning and leadership excellence.