News

  • Wednesday, April 03, 2024 1:32 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    The relationship between distributors and the suppliers they work with is fundamental to success in the promotional products industry. Some suppliers go the extra mile to make that relationship run smoother, respond more efficiently and be more fruitful for all involved. PPAI’s Supplier Stars award recognizes those suppliers who have gone above and beyond.

    The 24 companies recognized here have been chosen by industry distributors for the quality of their communications, customer service, products, decorating and packaging.

    The Supplier Star is one of four PPAI Pyramid Awards, the industry’s pinnacle of achievement, now in its 66th year. Distributors cast their votes for one supplier in each of 12 categories. This annual competition is open to all PPAI supplier members in good standing who update their sales volume every two years as required and maintain a SAGE supplier rating of A or higher.

    New Supplier Member

    Supplier Star

    Stellar Lanyards North America
    Miami, Florida

    With over a decade in business as a leading dye sublimation textile manufacturer in Mexico, Stellar Lanyards specializes in producing lanyards, wristbands, hats and drawstring bags. Stella Lanyards is now entering the U.S. promotional market, offering fully in-house production, which eliminates overseas sourcing dependencies. The company operates as an audited facility, ensuring compliance with international and labor standards for the manufacturing of licensed merchandise.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    Sweeter Cards
    St. Louis, Missouri

    Sweeter Cards, a WBENC certified business, merges the worlds of greeting cards and gourmet chocolate bars into one. The company is committed to ethical practices, exclusively using fair-trade certified chocolates. The chocolates are crafted using clean ingredients free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives and hydrogenated oils. Sweeter Cards is also dedicated to sustainability, using recyclable card packaging and vegetable-based inks. Beyond their product, the company embodies inclusivity, employing adults with disabilities.

    $50,000-$250,000

    Supplier Star

    Totally Bamboo
    San Marcos, California

    Totally Bamboo’s journey began as a different company – Hollywood Chairs in North Hollywood. Seeking to enhance their foldable chairs, the company turned to bamboo for its strength and lightness. Inspired by its eco-friendly properties, the company pioneered the first bamboo cutting board, marking the birth of Totally Bamboo. The company showcases its commitment to sustainability and ingenuity by introducing groundbreaking products like the first laminated bamboo salad bowl and dishwasher-safe bamboo cutting board.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    GMG Works
    Lakewood, New Jersey

    From designing and providing free customized virtuals and samples to delivering products promptly, GMG Works ensures that clients stay ahead in the promotional producst market and top of mind for their clients. With a history of selling more than 1 billion pens, the company boasts a commitment to fast turnaround and competitive pricing. GMG Works offers a comprehensive line of drinkware, notebooks, mugs, clips, poker chips, highlighters, magnets and other promotional items.

    $250,001-$500,000

    Supplier Star

    YM Labs
    Clearfield, Utah

    Founded in 1993, YM Labs introduced high-intensity flavored lip balms to the promotional products industry when basic flavors dominated the market. Today, the company goes beyond lip balms, now producing hand sanitizers, lotions, gels, sunscreen products and more in its Utah factory, which handles compounding, filling and labeling in house. Operating as an FDA-compliant facility following cGMP guidelines, the company now offers over 30 stock lip balm flavors.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    Illinois Glove Company
    Northbrook, Illinois

    Illinois Glove Company is a fourth-generation family business, offering custom-imprinted gloves tailored to every promotion and budget. The company handles in-house printing using high-quality methods and equipment to ensure that client logos and safety messages look their best on its gloves. Illinois Glove Company gloves have safeguarded workers in oilfields, utilities, factories and mines, as well as American soldiers in four wars.

    $500,001-$1 Million

    Supplier Star

    WOWLine
    Syosset, New York

    WOWLine, a third-generation family-owned business, has been in business for more than 50 years. Previously known as Many Mini Toys, the company is known for toys, games, puzzles and novelties, but more recently branched out to add practical items for the kitchen, health and wellness, pets and much more. The CPSIA-compliant company has also made significant strides in promoting eco-friendly materials, with products made from materials such as bamboo, recycled paper and recycled plastic.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    EMT
    Indianapolis, Indiana

    For over 40 years, EMT has delivered exceptional brand and recognition experiences through a variety of custom-made products. The trusted supplier of lapel pins, patches and emblematic jewelry remains committed to a singular vision, “to delight, unite and inspire the world, one emblem at a time.”

    $1,000,001-$2.5 Million

    Supplier Star

    imprintID
    Lorton, Virginia

    With an initial focus on lanyards and ID products, imprintID has expanded its product lines to include tech accessories, drinkware, apparel, headwear, office supplies and more. ImprintID also offers a variety of decorating methods, including die cut, screen print, heat press, color/full-bleed sublimation, embossing, embroidery and more. The company strives to provide the best customer experience without hassle and instill confidence in every order.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    Bentcil Company
    Indianapolis, Indiana

    Originally focusing on bent pencils and bent pens, Bentcil Company has been a presence in the promotional product industry for over 40 years. Originating with American-made bent pencils and later introducing bent pens, the company’s creative product line has continually evolved. Its original creations include Smashlights, Gato Clips, Dateline Calendars, Bentcils and Inkbend. Most of Bentcil’s products are designed in the USA.

    $2,500,001-$5 Million

    Supplier Star

    Jornik Manufacturing
    Stamford, Connecticut

    Jornik Manufacturing is a family-owned and operated supplier. Jornik offers a vibrant, wide range of products across all categories and stands out for its emphasis on product responsibility practices. In support of its responsibility goals, the company works to ensure that its core products are not just designed but engineered, manufactured, tested and inspected to exceed expectations.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    AZX Sport
    Tonawanda, New York

    AZX Sport offers a blend of domestic production on both the East Coast and West Coast, coupled with overseas sourcing. Having been in business for over 20 years, AZX has built a reputation for quality and customer service, reflected in their several industry awards. The company operates facilities in New York, California and Canada and upholds a strong commitment to product responsibility and ethical conduct.

    $5,000,001-$10 Million

    Supplier Star

    Raining Rose
    Cedar Rapids, Iowa

    A full-service manufacturer, Raining Rose specializes in personal care products such as lip balms, sunscreens and lotions. The company is guided by its core values encapsulated in ASPIRE: Attitude, Safety, Passion, Integrity, Relationship and Evolve. With regular third-party audits, their FDA-registered facility is certified for USDA organic production. Raining Rose is also a certified B Corporation, reflecting its commitment to high standards of accountability.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    Towel Specialties
    Baltimore, Maryland

    Towel Specialties is a family-owned business that began in 1985 with a goal to provide innovative products and unsurpassed customer service. Many of the company’s employees and outside sales reps have more than 20 years of service, providing continuity and product knowledge to keep customers coming back year after year. Its lineup of products includes beach and golf towels, beach accessories, blankets, robes and more. In addition, Towel Specialties facilities have been audited for product safety, product quality, social accountability, environmental stewardship and supply chain security.

    $10,000,001-$20 Million

    Supplier Star

    Pro Towels
    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

    Pro Towels – the No. 42 supplier in the 2023 PPAI 100 – has built a varied product line encompassing beach, golf and sport towels. The company offers in-house screen printing and embroidery services, along with domestic manufacturing capabilities. Based in Pittsburgh, the company also operates facilities in Camarillo, California; Abbeville County, South Carolina; and Richmond, British Columbia.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    Fields Manufacturing
    St. Cloud, Minnesota

    Fields Manufacturing was established more than 30 years ago to bring a selection of branded merchandise to the promotional products industry, from lanyards and drinkware to die-cast vehicles. It is the parent company of the American Greenwood, Better Life Line, Sprout Tyme and TargetLine brands and offers a diverse range of products.

    $20,000,001-$35 Million

    Supplier Star

    Goldstar
    Shelbyville, Tennessee

    Goldstar – the No. 16 supplier in the 2023 PPAI 100 – manufactures customized writing instruments, drinkware and bags, and ships from locations in California, Tennessee, Ireland and the Czech Republic. The company offers full-color decoration, large imprint areas and high-capacity laser engraving in addition to free creative, on-demand sales and marketing tools.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    Starline USA
    Grand Island, New York

    Starline USA – the No. 13 supplier in the 2023 PPAI 100 – specializes in delivering quality, high-end gifts and awards from name brands like uniball, Stanley, Pelican and more. Starline prides itself on its patented and award-winning TruColor digital decoration technique, a technology with the capability of printing standard one-color or multi-color logos, photographs, tight registration and logos with half-tones or gradients. The company emphasizes a commitment to innovative design, with 90% of last year’s sales comprising products introduced within the past five years.

    $35,000,001-$50 Million

    Supplier Star

    Gold Bond
    Hixson, Tennessee

    Gold Bond has evolved from a small pencil company to the No. 22 supplier in the PPAI 100, operating out of three facilities on two continents. The company supplies hard goods, apparel and accessories and prides itself on being large enough to handle demanding orders while small enough to be flexible in accommodating customer requests. Gold Bond says its greatest asset is its ability to adapt to the ever-changing needs of its partners, and each team member strives to exceed customer expectations.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    BAG MAKERS
    Union, Illinois

    BAG MAKERS – the No. 23 supplier in the 2023 PPAI 100 – is a supplier of printed bags, specializing in a diverse range including non-woven, PET non-woven, paper, plastic, polyester, laminated, cotton/jute and mesh bags. The company delivers quality imprints, products and service and offers custom design capabilities, free artwork services and rush options. BAG MAKERS prides itself on its on-time shipping performance and customer satisfaction and is certified as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise.

    $50,000,001-$100 Million

    Supplier Star

    Ariel Premium Supply
    St. Louis, Missouri

    With an initial focus on stress relievers, Ariel Premium Supply has evolved to design and decorate thousands of products across dozens of categories. The No. 15 supplier in the PPAI 100 and celebrating its 30th year in the industry, Ariel Premium Supply has grown to be a global operation with production and sourcing offices in five countries. The company has now shifted its focus toward sustainability, actively pursuing the development of more eco- friendly products.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    Gemline
    Lawrence, Massachusetts

    Founded in 1958, Gemline – the No. 5 supplier in the 2023 PPAI 100 – supplies bags, business accessories, stationary, drinkware, gifts and writing instruments to the promotional products market. Its diverse product portfolio includes offerings from multiple house brands such as Aviana, Gourmet Expressions and Vertex, alongside trusted consumer brands like Moleskine, Samsonite and Igloo. Headquartered in Massachusetts with a presence in southern China, Gemline employs over 500 professionals worldwide.

    More Than $100 Million

    Supplier Star

    SanMar
    Issaquah, Washington

    SanMar is the largest supplier of wholesale imprintable clothing and accessories in the United States, earning its place as the No. 1 supplier in the inaugural PPAI 100. Founded more than 50 years ago with a core philosophy of “Be Nice and Tell the Truth,” the family-owned company operates eight distribution centers nationwide and represents over 30 brands. SanMar offers service on a wide range of retail and private-label imprintable apparel and accessories.

    Supplier Award of Merit

    alphabroder
    Trevose, Pennsylvania

    With a portfolio of more than 6,500 styles from more than 80 brands, alphabroder – the No. 3 supplier in the 2023 PPAI 100 – offers classic and trending apparel, along with an array of products like drinkware, bags, journals and technology items. The company’s 10 distribution and production facilities strategically cover 99% of the U.S. population with one- to two-day shipping and operates under the vision statement, “Be the most trusted and valued partner for branded products and services.”

    Written by: Sarah Luna

    Published with Permission from PPAI

  • Thursday, March 28, 2024 11:45 AM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Early Tuesday morning a massive container ship struck Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing a significant portion of it to collapse into the Patapsco River. As of Thursday morning, the bodies of two construction workers who had been performing repairs on the bridge's roadway have been recovered, while four more are missing and presumed dead.

    • As immediate safety concerns are addressed, various industries are left to speculate over how shipping logistics will be affected by the closure of the Port of Baltimore for an undetermined period.
    • Most promo suppliers are unlikely to feel any direct impact from the immediate closure of the Port of Baltimore, but there are a number of factors that could see promo’s supply chain affected by it in the coming weeks or months.

    • $80.8 billion in trade.
    • 7 million tons of general cargo.
    • 3 million tons of roll-on/roll-off farm and construction machinery.
    • 847,000 cars and small trucks
    Other automakers, like BMW and Volkswagen, that utilize the port only anticipate temporarily delays.

    Other East Coast ports in New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia and Virginia will likely absorb the shipments that Baltimore would have taken on, which will require careful logistics to avoid a strain on any given port.

    Nearby ports’ ability to absorb additional cargo could affect promo firms’ operations.

    Congestion in any given port could also lead to delays in shipping. Industry companies will likely need to coordinate with partners along their individual supply chains for up-to-date freight timeframes.


    Much of 2023 saw the West Coast ports contending with labor issues. They ultimately avoided prolonged labor stoppages, but many companies opted to reroute through the East Coast.

    That dynamic reversed at the end of 2023, as drought affected the Panama Canal’s viability as a cargo passage, sending many shippers back to the West Coast.

    A labor strike at East Coast ports remains a possibility ahead of a September 30 contract deadline. Disruption in the ports, or overwork among any given East Coast port because of the Port of Baltimore closure, will likely not help these dynamics, which past events have shown can become tense quickly.

    “There is no question that this will have a major and protracted impact to supply chains,” says Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.

    Life Without The Port Of Baltimore

    According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the Port of Baltimore is the 20th largest port in the country. Approximate logistical numbers for the port in 2023 include:

    The port is somewhat unique in that a significant portion of its cargo is made up off “roll-on/roll-off” shipments including passenger cars, farm equipment and large construction materials. It’s the country’s busiest port for car and light truck shipments, and industry observers speculate that prolonged closure could push automobile prices higher in the coming months.

    Currently, there is no official estimate on when vessels will be able to enter and leave the port, as stated by the port’s social media accounts. Some estimates suggest fully clearing the bridge debris could take as long as three months.

    Ford and GM have already diverted shipments away from the port, with Ford’s CFO publicly stating the closure will “have an impact” on the company.

    The port has 12 private and five public terminals from which vessels can enter and depart.

    Replacing the bridge could take several years, with the condition of its existing foundational structures a major factor in shaping the ultimate timeline. President Joe Biden has stated that he does not plan on waiting for an investigation that could hold the ship responsible for collapse in order to pay for the rebuilding process.

    “It’s my intention that the federal government will pay for the entire cost of reconstructing that bridge, and I expect Congress to support my effort,” Biden says. “This is going to take some time. We’re not leaving until this job is done.”

    Promo Perspective

    It is unlikely that promo is among the industries to face any immediate pressure due to the port’s closing.

    Shawn Kanak, president of Towel Specialties, based in Baltimore, said that he does not expect any slowdowns in production or shipment caused by the bridge’s collapse.

    “The Francis Scott Key bridge is 10 miles away from Towel Specialties and didn't impact any employees,” Kanak says. “We are fully operational and preparing for our busiest spring/summer season ever. We don't anticipate the accident and rebuild affecting our business as we have always utilized multiple ports of entry for our products for nearly 40 years. We are, of course, mournful of the loss in the community and appreciate everyone's concerns.”

    However, in the macro sense, promo companies should monitor the situation, as well as their logistics, carefully. The aftermath of the collision risks disrupting an already precarious freight-based supply chain, both for industry companies and their clients.

    Even further into the future, the events could change or accelerate trends in how freight enters and moves through the U.S.

    Written by: Jonny Auping

    Published with Permission from PPAI

  • Wednesday, March 27, 2024 12:46 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Polyconcept North America (PCNA), the leading supplier of promotional products, is proud to announce the appointment of Doug Mitchell to the role of Chief Growth Officer, a new position within the company's Executive Leadership Team. Mitchell is tasked with spearheading strategic initiatives focused on high growth and driving innovation throughout PCNA's operations in North America.

    With a proven track record of building and scaling high-performing teams and products throughout his 15 years of experience in e-commerce, digital marketing, and advertising, Doug Mitchell is exceptionally positioned to contribute to PCNA’s mission. Most recently, he was the Vice President of Performance Marketing at Chewy, where he enhanced the online customer acquisition and retention programs for the leading pet retailer. Prior to that, Mitchell was the General Manager of Supplier Advertising and Retail Media at Wayfair, where he further solidified his expertise in building and growing a cross-functional business unit that created impactful advertising solutions for Wayfair's suppliers and partners.

    "I am incredibly excited to contribute to PCNA's market leadership by advancing the company's growth and innovative endeavors, especially through Givee Select, PCNA's pioneering gifting solution,” expressed Mitchell. “The demand for a streamlined, personalized gifting experience is significant, and I am dedicated to ensuring Givee Select not only meets but exceeds distributor expectations."

    Launched in January 2024, Givee Select is a centralized online store solution that streamlines personalized gifting, offering a seamless gifting process for any occasion, such as conferences and corporate events. The all-in-one platform empowers distributors to handpick from a curated collection of high-quality gifts, facilitating the option for unique personalization, transparent pricing, no inventory obligations, and reduced waste. To date, Givee Select is nearing 1,000 store set ups, highlighting the platform’s growing demand in the industry.

    Mitchell is no stranger to the Promotional Products industry, having led the team that created Vistaprint’s wholesale business as Vice President of Partner Development for seven years. His entrepreneurial spirit is also demonstrated through his co-founding and leadership as CEO at OfferLogic, which aligns exceptionally with PCNA's innovative drive.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Doug to the PCNA family,” stated Neil Ringel, CEO of PCNA. “Doug's entrepreneurial mindset and proven track record in driving growth make him an invaluable addition to our team. We are confident that he will help us achieve our vision of becoming the leading provider of personalized and customized products in North America.”

    Doug Mitchell attended the US Naval Academy, earned a bachelor’s degree at Brown University and his MBA from The University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business.

  • Friday, March 22, 2024 1:55 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Evans Manufacturing (ASI #54280) proudly announces the addition of Tanner Pittman to their team as the new MidWest|MidSouth Sales Account Executive. With four years of experience in the promotional products industry, Tanner brings his expertise and passion, making him a valuable asset to the company.

    In expressing excitement about the new role, Tanner shared, "I am thrilled for the opportunity to become one of the ‘Avengers of Promo’ and develop under the guidance of Alex Symms, who has made tremendous headways in the industry. My love for this industry has been overwhelming- I’ve realized my closest friends and the people I talk to the most frequently are within the industry!  I’m so excited and grateful for the opportunity to further deepen my knowledge of this industry with Evan’s and HPG!"

    Pittman comes from 4 years of experience with Outdoor Cap, a supplier of blank and decorated caps and headwear. I anticipate new challenges, Tanner expressed, "I'm excited to learn a new side of the industry, meet new customers, reconnect with existing customers, and live out the Evan's and HPG mission of providing quality product and service to their distributors."

    Tanner is currently focused on immersing himself in the new role and environment. He emphasized commitment to bringing innovation and dedication to the MidWest|MidSouth Sales Account Executive position.

    "We are delighted to welcome Tanner to the HPG and Evans Manufacturing family," said Alex Symms, Director of Sales for West Coast Operations at HPG. "His addition to our team reflects our ongoing commitment to providing the highest level of service and expertise to our clients. With Tanner on board, we are confident in our ability to continue delivering innovative solutions and exceeding our customer expectations.  We couldn't be more excited about Tanner's arrival and his future here."
  • Friday, March 22, 2024 1:10 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Logomark (PPAI 110898, Platinum) – the No. 19 supplier in the inaugural PPAI 100 – has launched the first DisplaySplash product under its Eco-Lifestyle product line. The initial release features stretchy table covers made from recycled water bottles.

    • The open- and closed-back table covers come in three sizes featuring full color dye sublimation decoration. They are fire-retardant and machine washable. Later this year, the company will expand the line to include flags and tents.

    “We are thrilled to introduce the Eco-Lifestyle DisplaySplash line as a sustainable solution for businesses looking to have a positive impact on the environment,” says Maggie Wheeler, senior vice president of new product development. “With the increasing focus on sustainability, our rPET table covers offer a compelling way for brands to elevate their marketing efforts while demonstrating their commitment to eco-conscious practices.”

  • Friday, March 22, 2024 1:07 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Koozie Group (PPAI 114187, Platinum) – the No. 10 supplier in the inaugural PPAI 100 – generated $26,667.23 for 4 Paws for Ability through its 2023 plush giveback program.

    • The program, which began in 2022 by IMAGEN Brands, donated 1% of plush order sales referencing a specific code to 4 Paws for Ability. IMAGEN Brands was recently integrated with Koozie Group.
    • Since 1998, 4 Paws for Ability has placed over 1,500 highly specialized service dogs with those in need. Their dogs help veterans, children, and other individuals with autism, diabetes, epilepsy, mobility issues and more.
    • Koozie Group will continue the giveback program this year.

    Melissa Ralston, chief revenue officer with Koozie Group, says, “As part of our Keep It. Give It. vision, we strive to do business in a way that benefits our people, our customers, our communities and our industry. Givebacks are one of the many ways we accomplish this goal, and we are so proud to support amazing organizations like 4 Paws for Ability.”

  • Tuesday, March 12, 2024 3:30 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Cap America (PPAI 111597, Gold) – ranked the No. 11 supplier in the inaugural PPAI 100 – has announced the promotion of Sarah Burgin to the role of chief operating officer.

    • Burgin becomes the first woman in the history of the Fredericktown, Missouri-based company to hold a chief officer role.
    • Mark Gammon previously served as COO before becoming CEO in 2021.
    “In light of Cap America’s impressive growth, the appointment of a COO became essential,” Gammon says. “Sarah’s extensive experience and business acumen will be extremely advantageous to our continued success.”


     

    Burgin’s Background

    According to the company, Burgin will play a crucial role in ensuring the seamless operation and longevity of the company, collaborating closely with Gammon and other C-suite executives to lead a dynamic and effective leadership team.

    Burgin, who joined Cap America in 2015 as the director of human resources, most recently held the position of vice president of finance.

    Her background includes retail business management; she holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Central Methodist University, where she also served as an adjunct business instructor, and an MBA from Southeast Missouri State University.

    Written by: John Corrigan

    Published with Premission from PPAI

  • Thursday, February 29, 2024 1:28 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Bob Lilly Promotions (BLP) is thrilled to announce the promotion of Brandy Mason to Vice President of Sales Operations, effective immediately. With over 19 years of extensive experience in the industry and a decade of dedicated service at BLP, Brandy has been an integral part of the company's success and growth.

    In her previous roles as Director of Client Services and Senior Sales Account Manager, Brandy has consistently demonstrated her exceptional leadership abilities and commitment to excellence. She has managed the sales support team with unwavering dedication, leading the charge in providing unparalleled service to BLP’s clients. Her impressive track record includes managing the company's top two accounts and achieving over $1 million in sales for seven consecutive years, a testament to her sales acumen and unwavering dedication.

    Brandy's innovative approach to business solutions is evident in her development of BLP’s eLearning portal, which has significantly enhanced the company's training and development offerings. Her efforts have not only contributed to the growth of BLP but have also set new standards for excellence within the industry.

    Her outstanding contributions have been recognized on numerous occasions, as evidenced by being voted Account Manager of the Year four times and receiving the Leadership of the Year award from her peers six times. These accolades reflect Brandy's exceptional leadership skills, her ability to inspire those around her, and her unwavering commitment to BLP’s values and objectives.

    As Vice President of Sales Operations, Brandy will leverage her vast experience and strategic vision to drive BLP’s sales operations to new heights. She will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the company, fostering innovation, and ensuring that BLP continues to deliver exceptional value to its clients.

    Bob Lilly, Founder of Bob Lilly Promotions, expressed his enthusiasm about Brandy's promotion, stating, "Brandy Mason is the epitome of leadership, dedication, and innovation. Her remarkable journey with BLP is a source of inspiration to us all, and I have no doubt that she will excel in her new role and help propel our company to even greater success."

    Please join us in congratulating Brandy Mason on her well-deserved promotion to Vice President of Sales Operations. We look forward to her continued leadership and contributions to Bob Lilly Promotions.

  • Thursday, February 29, 2024 12:51 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Bob Lilly Promotions is excited to announce a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to lead with innovation and strengthen industry connections. Andrea Weston, formerly the Director of Program Operations, has been promoted to Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, effective immediately.

    Andrea Weston's illustrious career spans over two decades in the promotional product industry, with the last eight years dedicated to Bob Lilly Promotions. Her journey with the company has been marked by remarkable achievements and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Andrea's expertise in new business development, especially with enterprise e-commerce platforms, has been instrumental in expanding the company's reach and capabilities.

    In her new role, Andrea will continue to build on her success, focusing on strengthening supplier partnerships and leading internal branding and marketing initiatives. Her strategic vision and innovative approach are set to propel Bob Lilly Promotions into new realms of success, fostering impactful connections throughout the industry.

    This promotion is a testament to Bob Lilly Promotions' commitment to innovation, exceptional service, and client satisfaction. Andrea's leadership qualities and her ability to drive strategic partnerships will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of the promotional products industry.

    Bob Lilly, Founder of Bob Lilly Promotions, expressed his enthusiasm about Andrea's promotion, stating, "Andrea Weston's promotion to Vice President of Strategic Partnerships is a significant milestone for Bob Lilly Promotions. Her expertise, passion, and visionary leadership are exactly what we need as we embark on this next chapter. I am confident that Andrea will continue to make an indelible impact on our company and the industry at large."

    The team at Bob Lilly Promotions is thrilled about Andrea's new role and the direction in which the company is headed. We are committed to continuing our tradition of excellence and look forward to the innovative and strategic initiatives that Andrea will lead.

    Stay tuned for more exciting updates from the Bob Lilly Promotions team as we continue to forge ahead, creating impactful connections and delivering exceptional value to our clients.

  • Wednesday, February 28, 2024 2:53 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    VisionUSA®, the Dallas-based trailblazer in the promotional products industry, is thrilled to announce its exclusive, groundbreaking partnership with ZOKU, a renowned innovator in lifestyle and promotional items. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both companies and is poised to revolutionize the promotional products landscape. In addition to Bodum, Rocketbook, JBL, Weber, and BlendJet we will now offer the brand to distributors, allowing companies to feature their own logos and messages on these trending products.

    "We are delighted to join forces with ZOKU, a brand known for its commitment to quality, creativity, and innovation in drinkware, frozen treats and food-to-go products. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to provide our clients with top-tier promotional products that not only represent their brands effectively but also enhance their customers' experiences." says Felix Soliz, owner of VisionUSA®.    Soliz continues, “Our partnership with ZOKU is not only about delivering exceptional products but also about promoting sustainability.  ZOKU's “1 bottle = 1 tree planted” on it’s stainless steel bottles policy resonates deeply with VisionUSA's commitment to environmental responsibility. By aligning ourselves with ZOKU's sustainability initiatives, we reinforce our dedication to offering eco-conscious promotional solutions that make a positive impact on the planet."

Promotional Products Association Southwest (PPAS) is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization.

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