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  • 28 Mar 2024 10:50 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

  • 27 Mar 2024 11:48 AM | 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.

  • 22 Mar 2024 12:55 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."
  • 22 Mar 2024 12:10 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.”

  • 22 Mar 2024 12:08 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.”

  • 12 Mar 2024 2:31 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

  • 29 Feb 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.

  • 29 Feb 2024 12:50 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.

  • 28 Feb 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."

  • 28 Feb 2024 2:12 PM | Cassondra Franze (Administrator)

    Massachusetts-based supplier HPG (PPAI 110772, S11) has announced a partnership with TerraCycle, an established recycling firm that has operated in the environmental space since 1978.

    • Out of the collaboration, HPG is producing a version of TerraCycle’s Zero Waste Box for pens, pencils and markers.
    • HPG will host a livestream with more information about the partnership and the new product featuring Elizabeth Wimbush, PPAI’s director of sustainability and responsibility, on February 29.
    • In last year’s inaugural PPAI 100, HPG ranked as the No. 8 supplier.

    A Sustainable Duo

    By partnering with an experienced recycling firm, HPG’s Zero Waste Box is intended to “act as a promotional product that diverts waste from landfills,” an effort to provide ecologically responsible options and fight the “brandfill” label that promo has at times been saddled with.

    “We're proud to join forces with TerraCycle, offering a sustainability solution that redefines our industry,” says Jing Rong, HPG’s VP of supply chain & sustainability. “We recently launched the Pens, Pencils & Markers Zero Waste Box at Hub and we're eager to offer more waste stream products in the near future.”

    • Wimbush notes that it is the type of collaboration that PPAI encourages, allowing experts in sustainable operations to guide suppliers through proven methods of recycling.

    “TerraCycle's innovative approach aligns with the industry's increasing focus on sustainability,” says Wimbush. “We're thrilled to see partnerships like this driving positive change in the promotional industry.”

    An Opportunity To Learn More

    Wimbush will join Nick Lateur, HPG’s brand director, and Rhandi Goodman, TerraCycle’s SVP of business-to-business and direct-to-consumer for a livestream detailing the Zero Waste Box and significance of the partnership.

    • Goodman is expected to explain how TerraCycle can convert waste that municipal recycling centers cannot, and, in the process, turn it into new product like playgrounds, benches and shipping pallets.

    “We're excited to share insights into our collaborative efforts,” Goodman says. “This partnership represents a significant opportunity for positive environmental impact within the promotional industry.”

    Written by Jonny Auping

    Published with Permission from PPAI

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