News

Proforma – ranked the No. 5 distributor in this year’s PPAI 100 – has announced the hiring of Mike Dobozy as its new chief technology officer and the promotion of former CTO Brian Carothers to chief information officer.

“We’re very pleased to welcome Mike Dobozy, who is a proven technical visionary and leader with a wealth of experience and innovative technical expertise,” says Vera Muzzillo, CEO of Proforma. “We’re also thrilled to recognize Brian Carothers, who is the best of the best for his accomplishments. Together, their business acumen and hands-on management styles will be critical to Proforma’s industry-leading technology initiatives as we continue our expansion and innovation in automation, machine learning and artificial intelligence.”

Tech Prowess

With more than 20 years of technical experience, Dobozy comes to the promotional products industry from software development firm Red Hat, where he served as principal architect.

“Having worked with Fortune 25 clients, I’m very impressed with the software, team and processes that Proforma has developed,” Dobozy says. “I look forward to adding my expertise and experience to the development of seamless automation, efficient workflow and intelligent decision making in the ProVision platform.”

“I’m thrilled to help welcome Mike into the Proforma family,” Carothers adds. “His deep expertise in artificial intelligence and platform automation at scale make him the perfect addition to accelerate our industry-leading technology.”

Acting as CTO at Proforma since 2015, Carothers has overseen the Independence, Ohio-based distributor’s IT department and managed all development, analysis and project management resources.

• Named the 2023 PromoStandards Distributor of the Year, Carothers has contributed his experience to the creation and implementation of standards for the utilization and advancement of data in the promotional products industry.

Published with Permission from PPAI

For the ninth consecutive year, Orbus Visual Communications®, has been named one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation. Orbus is North America’s largest producer and manufacturer of visual communications solutions for tradeshows and events, retail environments, and workplace interiors.

The Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation competition determines companies that implement exceptional human resource practices and commit to their employee’s health and happiness. Companies are rated in categories such as communication, work-life balance, employee education, diversity, recognition, and retention.

This recognition reaffirms Orbus’ commitment to fostering an environment where employees thrive personally and professionally. Orbus is proud to be included in the list of 385 winners out of 2,700 nominations for 2023. Along with an employer questionnaire, Orbus employees were surveyed as a part of the selection process.

“Our continued recognition as one of The Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation is a testament to the dedication and passion of our incredible employees,” said Gary Keefer, CEO of Orbus Visual Communications. “An empowered and fulfilled workforce is the cornerstone of our success and we commit to providing an environment that nurtures personal growth.”

It’s “Tua Time” for Perry Ellis International (PPAI 255232, S8) – ranked the No. 36 supplier in this year’s PPAI 100.

The global fashion house has announced a partnership with Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, in which the NFL star will serve as a global brand ambassador.

“We're incredibly excited to unveil a long-term partnership with Tua,” says Oscar Feldenkreis, president and CEO of Perry Ellis. “As a remarkable talent, both on and off the field, Tua is the quintessential Perry Ellis man. In his position as a star quarterback, it's all about performance, and he is ‘Always Ready to Make the Play,’ which complements our brand ethos ‘Always Ready.’ We're proud to welcome Tua to our own team as an ambassador and creative inspiration.”

Product Launch

The partnership also extends to a product collaboration inspired by Tagovailoa’s Hawaiian-Samoan heritage. Using elements like earth and water for inspiration, the collection emulates the lush mountains, oceanic horizons, bright florals and textual foliage of the islands. The collaboration is set to launch in the summer of 2024.  

“This is a fun project for me,” Tagovailoa says. “I appreciate the versatility, optimism and inclusion that Perry Ellis values through its designs and business. I'm excited to be working so closely with the Perry Ellis team and to have the full support of an iconic American brand.”

The Doral, Florida-based firm is also partnering with the Tua Foundation to focus on youth initiatives, health and wellness programs and various charitable causes. Currently, the Tua Foundation is actively dedicating its resources to assist Maui families affected by the devastating wildfires.

Written by John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

PPAI has announced the recipients of its 2024 Icon Awards: PPAI Hall of Fame inductee Dave DeGreeff, MAS, and PPAI Distinguished Service Award recipient Bill Petrie.

These awards celebrate the accomplishments of those who have gone above and beyond in service to the promotional products industry, the Association and their communities.

Honoring The Icon Award Recipients

Traditionally, recipients of the Association’s most prestigious awards have been recognized at the Chair’s Leadership Dinner at The PPAI Expo in Las Vegas. Beginning in 2024, Icon Award recipients will be recognized with two distinctly special events to bring more significant awareness to their accomplishments.

As part of The PPAI Expo Conference on January 15, recipients will receive official on-stage recognition and be guests of honor during a networking luncheon. Additionally, each recipient will be part of a panel discussion during the luncheon, allowing them to share stories and wisdom with the audience.

Anyone can sign up to attend the luncheon when they register for The PPAI Expo. Those who have already registered can return to their confirmation page and add a ticket to the luncheon.

That evening, the Chair’s Leadership Dinner will be held as a private, “invitation only” experience at an extremely memorable location: Rivea, atop the Delano Hotel overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. The night will kick off with a reception, followed by dinner, as recipients enjoy a high-end, unique experience for themselves and their guests.

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.

DeGreeff’s 40-plus-year career in the promotional products industry began in the late 1970s as a regional sales manager for Hazel, Inc. In 1984, he launched DCD, a multi-line rep company that he ran for two decades. In 2003, he became president of Asgard/Flagship Promotional Services. Over the next 10 years, he also served as special assistant to the CEO of AIA Corporation and senior vice president of U.S. markets at BigBang Corporate Apparel.

Always looking to give back to the industry and make a difference in the community, DeGreeff has served on many PPAI committees, including being on the PPAI Board of Directors from 2011 to 2013. In addition to serving on the board of the Promotional Products Education Foundation (PPEF), he has also been executive director of both the Promotional Products Association Southwest (PPAS) and the Houston Promotional Products Association (HPPA). In 2016, DeGreeff was named a PPAI Fellow, and in 2018, he was inducted into the HPPA Hall of Fame.

Peter Hirsch, MAS, founder and president of HIRSCH, credits DeGreeff with being the first to volunteer for the Hurricane Katrina relief program in 2005, working tirelessly for almost two weeks helping with the collection and distribution of donations. In 2017, after Hurricane Harvey hit the Houston area, DeGreeff was back again to help with the effort.

“His list of volunteering positions speaks volumes about this dedicated man and his love and support of the promotional products industry,” says Hirsch, recipient of the 2022 PPAI H. Ted Olson Humanitarian Award. “His exemplary record in the business arena and his volunteer commitments to this industry put him shoulder to shoulder with past recipients of this prestigious award.”

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.

With 23 years of experience in promo, Petrie, founder and creative director of brandivate – a business services agency based in Hendersonville, Tennessee – has been a long-time advocate for the industry.

Currently a PPEF trustee and incoming vice chair for 2024, Petrie has served in various roles on the boards of both the Promotional Products Association of the Mid-South (PPAMS) and the Regional Association Council and has volunteered with many PPAI committees. He’s also been a Legislative Education and Action Day participant on Capitol Hill and a frequent speaker at PPAI and regional events.

A devoted educator within the industry, Petrie contributes content for Promo Marketing and regional association newsletters. He’s also a former chef and board member with PromoKitchen, an all-volunteer organization that provides mentorship in the industry. In 2016, he was named a PPAI Fellow.

“Bill Petrie is a giver and leader in the promotional products space,” says Kirby Hasseman, CEO of Hasseman Marketing & Communications and Petrie’s co-host on the “Promo UPFront” podcast.

“Bill works tirelessly to elevate the industry through creating valuable content and through mentoring. In addition, Bill is a leader who’s willing to say the challenging thing in order to make things better. While that can be a thankless role, it’s imperative. The promotional products space is lucky to have Bill Petrie and I am honored to call him my friend.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

The Irving Convention Center came alive on September 12th as the Promotional Products Association of the Southwest (PPAS) held its annual tradeshow, aptly named the PPAS EXPO. This year's event was nothing short of spectacular, boasting a record attendance of nearly 400 participants, marking it as the largest PPAS tradeshow to date.

With over 200 product lines represented, the tradeshow floor was a vibrant display of the latest and greatest in promotional products. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with a wide array of industry professionals and explore a diverse range of promotional merchandise, all under one roof.

PPAI's Integral Role: Elevating the Tradeshow Experience

One of the major highlights of the PPAS EXPO was the active involvement of the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) as the title sponsor. PPAI's steadfast commitment to the industry was evident throughout the event, contributing significantly to the overall success and reach of the tradeshow.

Moreover, PPAI organized an insightful education session titled "Promotional Products Work: The Strategic Value of Promotional Products in Building Your Brand." The session was expertly presented by AJ Cole, PPAI's Promotional Products Work initiative manager. Attendees were enlightened about the strategic prowess of promotional products in bolstering brand identity and engagement, gaining valuable insights to integrate into their marketing strategies.

A Visionary Perspective: Parker Stephens, PPAS President

Parker Stephens, President of PPAS, shared his enthusiasm and vision for the industry during the event. He remarked, "The PPAS EXPO represents a significant milestone for our association and the promotional products industry. It's heartening to see the remarkable growth in attendance and the diversity of product lines on display. This event truly showcases the potential of promotional products in driving brand success."

Stephens emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the industry, encouraging attendees to leverage the knowledge and relationships established at the PPAS EXPO to propel their businesses forward. His words resonated with the attendees, fostering a sense of camaraderie and motivation to embrace the evolving landscape of promotional products.

The PPAS EXPO not only served as a platform for business networking and product discovery but also as an educational hub, igniting fresh ideas and strategies to elevate the promotional products sector. As the event concluded, attendees left inspired and equipped with a deeper understanding of the pivotal role promotional products play in brand building and marketing effectiveness. The success of this year's PPAS EXPO sets a promising precedent for future tradeshows, reaffirming the industry's potential and vitality in the ever-evolving business landscape.

In a remarkable display of philanthropy and camaraderie, the Promotional Products Association Southwest (PPAS) successfully raised $1,340 for the Promotional Products Education Foundation (PPEF) during their annual Golf Tournament held at the prestigious Cowboys Golf Club on September 11.

The event, an annual tradition within the local industry, brought together distributors, suppliers & end-buyers for a day of friendly competition and giving back to the community. This year, the focus was on supporting PPEF, an organization committed to providing scholarships and academic assistance to students and professionals in the promotional products industry.

The generous contributions of the players will undoubtedly make a meaningful impact on the PPEF's mission, enabling the foundation to continue empowering individuals within the industry to reach their educational and professional goals.

Parker Stephens, President of PPAS, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm regarding the successful fundraising initiative, stating, "We are thrilled with the outcome of this year's Golf Tournament and the support we received for PPEF. It's heartwarming to see everyone come together to make a difference in the lives of our peers."

Stephens' sentiment resonates throughout the promotional products community, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and collective efforts to drive positive change within the industry. The success of this fundraising initiative serves as a testament to the commitment of PPAS and its members to fostering education and growth within the promotional products industry.

The PPAS Golf Tournament not only showcased the exceptional golfing skills of the participants but also demonstrated the collective strength and determination of industry professionals to support worthy causes. As the event concluded, participants left with a sense of fulfillment, knowing that their contributions would make a lasting difference in the lives of aspiring professionals through PPEF's initiatives.

In conclusion, the PPAS Golf Tournament on September 11 at Cowboys Golf Club was more than a golfing event—it was a swing for a cause, a demonstration of unity, and a reminder of the transformative power of collective generosity within the promotional products industry. The funds raised for PPEF will undoubtedly contribute to a brighter future for many aspiring individuals, reinforcing the industry's commitment to education and professional development.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has voted to approve a mandatory standard to reduce button cell and coin battery ingestion hazards to children six years and under.

Both suppliers and distributors in the promotional products industry should be aware that these batteries are used in many types of products, such as a variety of toys, wireless video game controllers, musical greeting cards and keyless entry remotes.

“Now that CPSC has finalized Reese’s Law, and has adopted ANSI/UL4200A-2023 as the mandatory standard for consumer products powered by button cell batteries and not covered by the ASTM F963- The Toy Safety Standard, it is urgent that all members of the promotional products industry comply,” says Rick Brenner, MAS+, president and CEO of Product Safety Advisors and long-time co-chair to PPAI’s Product Responsibility Summit.

Legislation

Enacted August 16, 2022, Reese's Law mandates that the CPSC implements federal safety requirements for button cell or coin batteries, as well as consumer products containing such batteries.

• These requirements don’t apply to toy products for children under 14 if the products comply with the Toy Standard.

• Additionally, the law requires that any button cell or coin battery offered for sale, manufactured for sale, imported into the U.S. or included separately with a consumer product, meet the child-resistant packaging requirements in the Poison Prevention Packaging Standards after February 12, 2023.

Consistent with Reese’s Law, the mandatory standard – ANSI/UL 4200A-2023 – requires either the use of a tool, such as a screwdriver or coin to open the battery compartment, or the application of at least two independent and simultaneous movements to open by hand.

Additionally, such consumer products must pass a series of performance tests simulating reasonably foreseeable use or misuse. The standard also includes labeling requirements for consumer products containing button cell or coin batteries, and labeling requirements for consumer product packaging.

Safety Hazard

According to the CPSC, the consequences of a child swallowing a button cell or coin battery can be immediate and deadly. The tiny batteries can burn through a child’s throat or esophagus in as little as two hours if swallowed.

• From 2011 through 2021, the CPSC is aware of 27 deaths and an estimated 54,300 injuries treated in emergency rooms associated with ingested or inserted button cell or coin batteries.

The movement to promote child safety regarding button cell and coin battery ingestion was spearheaded by Trista Hamsmith, whose 18-month-old daughter Reese Hamsmith died from injuries sustained when she swallowed a coin cell battery in December 2020. Since that time, Hamsmith has worked tirelessly to protect other children from similar hazards.

“I thank Trista Hamsmith and the congressional champions of this legislation for all of their work to provide the commission with expedited authority to address this safety hazard,” wrote CPSC Chair Alexander Hoehn-Saric. “I also want to thank the CPSC staff for providing the necessary support and analysis to bring us to this important moment. With these changes, we’ll help reduce the number of deaths and injuries from these consumer products.”

Promo’s Next Steps

The new law will take effect 180 days from the date that it is published in the Federal Register, which has not happened yet. Promo industry suppliers have an opportunity to evaluate their product line and determine if their non-toy button cell powered products already meet the standard or will have to be redesigned.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is presenting at this year’s Summit on Reese’s Law. The event will be held October 8-10 in Alexandria, Virginia. Click here for more information and to register.

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

One of promo's largest family-owned companies has appointed a new leader that was not born into the business.

New York-headquartered Starline, the No. 13 supplier in the 2023 PPAI 100, on Wednesday announced the promotion of Jeffrey Hassler to the role of president. Hassler joined Starline in 2012. He had most recently served as chief financial officer.

• Previous president Mason Lapsker will take on the role of CEO. 
• The company was founded in Canada more than 50 years ago by Joshua Lapsker, Mason Lapsker's grandfather, who passed away at age 79 last year.
  
  

"Our family's deep-rooted belief in the importance of a corporate family itself has been the heartbeat of our organization for over 50 years," says Mason Lapsker. "Jeff started his Starline career as a cost accountant, and in the span of a decade, he's become an indispensable part of our company. With unwavering support and unshakeable dedication, his commitment to Starline, and most importantly, our people, embodies the very principles upon which Starline was founded."

Hassler had climbed to CFO by 2018. Previous career stops prior to Starline came from outside of promo, including stints in the banking and insurance industries.

“Jeff’s guidance has already proven to be invaluable in our steady sales growth and innovative decoration offerings,” says Starline CRO Brian Porter. “I have no doubt that with his experience and knowledge of the industry, it will continue our long-standing reputation for top-tier service and innovation.”

Written by: Josh Ellis

Published with Permission from PPAI

Saint Louis-based Arch Promo Group has announced its acquisition of HOWW Manufacturing Company in Barrington, Illinois. Terms of the sale weren’t disclosed.

As a result of the acquisition, Mike Kalamaras, former owner of HOWW Manufacturing, will support Peter Kalamaras’ transition from vice president to general manager of HOWW Manufacturing.

“I wanted to ensure HOWW would be in good hands, and I’m very glad we found Arch Promo Group,” says Mike Kalamaras. “Arch shares our commitment to delivering innovative products at a great price. Our customers will benefit from a larger partner with a wider product range, and our employees will continue to enjoy working for a growing leader in the industry. I see a bright future for HOWW Manufacturing and Arch Promo Group.”

Welcome To The ‘Family’

Formed in 2022, Arch Promo Group was developed to bring together a family of brands with a common goal of providing promotional products sold through its trade-only suppliers.

• In addition to HOWW Manufacturing, those brands include Gemini Industries, TKCups-Sorg’s, ProRose, F&H Ribbon, Drum-Line, StrombergBrand Umbrellas.

 

• Arch Promo Group’s expanding line of products includes key tags, air fresheners, magnets, award ribbons, cups, napkins, reusable barware, calendars, journals, umbrellas, wristbands and more.

 

Founded in 1984, HOWW Manufacturing specializes in custom printed promotional drinkware, such as shot glasses, beer mugs, multi-use cups and more.

“We’re excited to grow our portfolio of products and services with the addition of HOWW’s industry-leading drinkware,” says Steve Ehlert, national general manager of Arch Promo Group. “For nearly 50 years, HOWW Manufacturing has been known for helping to build its customers’ brands throughout North America and beyond with innovative drinkware. We’ll invest in making our combined company stronger while offering a broader product line to our customers.”

PPAI Media previously spoke with industry leaders on their best practices for mergers and acquisitions.

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Steven Meyer, MAS,  Arch Promo Group National Sales Manager announced the appointment of Les Love, CAS as Midwestern Sales Manager. Love’s responsibilities include meeting and supporting regional distributors throughout the Midwest, introducing the Arch Family of Brands to all and attending industry events. “Meeting our distributor friends on their turf, doing everything possible to support their position as creative resources for their customers and helping them grow their business and profits is at the top of my list,” says Love.

Meyer reports that Love’s new responsibilities are another example of change and growth with Arch. “His 17 years of experience as a distributor sets him apart from most supplier reps and his understanding of the distributor side of the business makes his voice valuable,” Meyer adds.

“As we continue to grow, adding new suppliers and focusing on US made/decorated product yet happily NOT mashing everyone into one way of doing business, we’re finding out that both our new brands as well as their long time loyal customers appreciate and feel great about joining or working with Arch,” Meyer states.