Next Level Apparel (272027, Standard Plus) has shaken up its leadership team following the departure of former CEO Randy Hales in 2023.

• Joe Simsolo, who founded the California-based company in 2003, has officially returned  to the role of CEO in after holding it on an interim basis since last August.
• Additionally, his son, Eric, has been promoted to company president after previously serving as vice president of business development.
• The father/son leadership team was selected by the Next Level Apparel’s board.

Prior to his return to the CEO role in 2023, Joe had stepped away from the company’s day-to-day operations while remaining on the board. Eric has been with Next Level in an official capacity for over nine years.

“We have brought together a strong team and added gifted leaders,” says Eric. “We are positive in the value we can offer to distributors and are keen to demonstrate that.”

Part Of A Larger Restructuring

Appointing the Simsolos to the top of the company’s leadership is the headline among a number of recent leadership changes in Next Level’s corporate structure in 2024.

• In April, the supplier hired Brett Bjorkman as chief operating officer.

Bjorkman previously served as senior vice president of Augusta Sportswear Brands for three years and has navigated sourcing and operations in leadership positions for Hurley and Billabong.

• In March, Michael Niemann was hired to the role of senior director of product.

Niemann has held various leadership roles with apparel companies including six years as director of apparel at Quicksilver.

Turning Things Around

In the years since the pandemic struck, Next Level Apparel has seen sales decline. With a nearly complete overhauling of leadership in 2024, Eric says that strategic plans are in place to begin showing signs of growth. Key focuses going forward will include:

• Core groupings and product lines
• Aggressive pricing at guaranteed rates
• Emphasis on product quality and customer service.
• Improved marketing campaigns

“We plan to innovate while building on a sturdy foundation,” Eric says. “With high-quality products, best inventory levels, aggressive pricing and successful marketing and sales strategies, we are positive in our business prospects.”

Written by Jonny Auping

Published with Permission from PPAI

Custom Ink is about to have a leadership change in the coming weeks.

The Fairfax, Virginia-based company has announced Marc Katz, the company’s co-founder, has stepped down as CEO, clearing the way for former Realtor.com CEO David Doctorow to take on the top job in August.

• Katz will stay connected to Custom Ink (PPAI 594384) as chair of the company’s board.

• Doctorow served as CEO of Realtor.com from 2020 to 2023.

• Custom Ink is PPAI 100’s No. 17 distributor, earning high marks in Growth, Revenue and Online Presence.

“We’ve undertaken major changes since the pandemic to refocus on our digital roots, and now it’s time for a new CEO to lead us to new heights,” Katz says. “David is a proven leader with an impressive track record building digital business. He’s also a terrific person, and the Board and I have enormous confidence in him to lead Custom Ink.”

• As CEO of Realtor.com, the company’s revenue and site traffic grew under his tenure.

• Prior to that, Doctorow spent nearly four years as head of global growth at eBay.

• He has also spent multiple years in leadership roles at Expedia and Hewlett Packard.

“What Marc and the team have accomplished over the last 25 years is remarkable, and I’m honored and excited to step into the CEO role and lead Custom Ink going forward,” Doctorow says. “This is a great company, built on a foundation of strong values, and I feel deeply aligned with its mission to help people create a stronger sense of community and connection.”

• In December of last year, Custom Ink laid off nearly 500 employees.

• In 2021, the company acquired Swag.com, which recently unveiled an ambitious plan to try to level the playing field for promo smaller distributors.

Bringing On A Fresh Perspective

Doctorow joins Custom Ink with three decades of experience in technology and sales ranging across different industries.

Written by: Jonny Auping

Published with Permission from PPAI

PPAI has begun a leadership change at the very top.

Dawn Olds, MAS, has taken on the role of Interim CEO and President – previously held by Dale Denham, MAS+, since 2021 – as noted to members in a letter from PPAI Board Chair Andrew Spellman on July 17.

• Recently retired as HALO’s senior vice president of industry relations and DEI, Olds spent her entire 35-year career at PPAI 100’s No. 2 distributor.

• A longtime volunteer, Olds served on the PPAI Board from January 2020 to January 2024 and was Board Chair from January 2022 through The PPAI Expo 2023.

Shortly after the PPAI staff was briefed on the announcement Wednesday, PPAI Media sat down with Olds to discuss her new role, her immediate plans and being the first woman to lead PPAI in the organization 121-year history.

PPAI Media: Are you excited to take on this new chapter leading PPAI through a transition?

Olds: Absolutely. It’s super exciting. I’ve worked with the PPAI staff, even before my time on the PPAI Board; volunteer staff and things like that. I’ve always loved the team here.

Being able to help everyone as you go on to the next steps in all the great strategic initiatives we have in place. I’m super excited about it. I love all the people here. It’s like a family.  

PPAI Media: I know you had recently retired. Did you have any hesitation when the opportunity came up to be PPAI’s interim CEO and president?

Olds: I had about one second of hesitation. I have a new puppy. Who’s going to give her the love and attention she needs?

In all seriousness, I’ve been retired for five months. I was just at the point where I was starting to feel a lot more relaxed than I normally like to be. Having a creative outlet or an outlet to share what I’ve learned over the years was a welcome opportunity.

When I told my husband about it, he had no hesitation. He was like, “I don’t want you to feel like you have to, but Dawn, I can see that you’re bored. This will be good for you.”

Summer’s not quite over and I really enjoy my outdoor activities, so maybe a moment of hesitation, but if that’s your only hesitation then what’s your big holdup?

PPAI Media: Do you feel that your time on the PPAI Board gives you insight into how PPAI operates?

Olds: I have a lot to learn. This is the opposite side. Being on the Board is always Board-to-Board and you’re looking at strategy and what’s coming next.

This is more about executing strategy and about the individual people. So, while it did give me insight that another CEO might not have, I still have a lot to learn. I’ve been overwhelmed with how helpful everyone has been already.

PPAI Media: What are your immediate goals or plans for PPAI as you take on this role?

Olds: Our No. 1 thing is really making sure the staff knows how valued they are and how important they are to the Association – down to every single person. Making everyone feel comfortable is the most important thing.

Then making sure that we’re on track with all the things that everyone has been working on and finding out what resources or tools or what I can do to help everyone with what they’ve been working on. I’ve been trying to get to little things here and there already.

We’re in the midst of a building renovation that everyone is super excited about. The website has been redesigned. We have an ERP transition and conversion. And the transition on our new membership plan.

It’s a lot of stuff. Getting a feel where we’re red, yellow or green. What assistance does everyone need? Can I be a resource?

It’s really sticking to the same priorities that you all already had.

PPAI Media: At the moment, what is the timeline to hire a permanent president and CEO?

Olds: The timeline will take however long it takes. I’m committed to being here for however long that requires. When we ran the last process of searching for this role, I was the incoming Chair of the PPAI Board. I think from end-to-end that process was targeted at 3-6 months. I assume it’s going to be a similar timeline.

It depends on the situation. Sometimes you have a candidate that needs to give extended notice. I was retired, so I could drop everything. The next person might have current responsibilities that need to be transitioned.

I’m committed to doing whatever we have to do to make sure the Association doesn’t skip a beat.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Written by: Jonny Auping

Published with Permission from PPAI

Bruce Cameron, age 79, of Spring, TX, passed away June 30, 2024, from complications occurring after the substantial stroke he suffered in March 2024.

He was born in Brooklyn, New York, on September 19, 1944.

Bruce proudly served in the Army from 1968-1973, piloting helicopters in Vietnam and achieving the rank of Captain. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, two Air Medals, the Army Commendation Medal, and numerous others.

On November 3, 1984, Bruce married his wife, Paula, and together they raised two children.

Bruce enjoyed a fulfilling career in promotional sales. He was deeply devoted to his children, actively participating in their activities throughout their upbringing. Bruce found particular joy in coaching their numerous sports teams and in his role as a Do-Dad for the Girl Scouts.

Later in life, Bruce developed a deep fascination with orchids, which blossomed into an "obsession" and a part-time business. He loved to tend to and sell orchids at various venues, which inspired the name of his company, Orchid Obsession.

In addition to his family and business pursuits, Bruce donated his time to Northwoods Presbyterian Church and several other organizations.

His life's work brought him immense joy, as he found fulfillment in helping others.

Above all, Bruce was known for his unwavering patriotism, a value that remained steadfast throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Paula Cameron; daughter, Laura Tuttle and future son-in law, Justin McKee; and son, Matthew Cameron, as well as many other family members. He was preceded in death by his mother, Grace Kosman.

A military honors for Bruce will be held on July 26, 2024 from 9:30 AM-10:00 AM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038. Attendees must be in line in lane 1 by 9:15 am.

A memorial service will occur Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Northwoods Presbyterian Church, 3320 Cypress Creek Pkwy, Houston, Texas 77068. This service will be available to live stream at https://www.facebook.com/NorthwoodsPresbyterianChurch/.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Northwoods Presbyterian Church or the Houston chapter of the Disabled American Veterans.

PCNA (PPAI 113079, Platinum) – the No. 3 supplier in the PPAI 100 – has announced a new partnership with Cap America (PPAI 111597, Platinum) – the No. 18 supplier in the PPAI 100.

As of July 16, the New Kensington, Pennsylvania-based firm now offers a selection of Cap America’s line of headwear.

• The integration of the Fredericktown, Missouri-based company’s products complements PCNA’s existing lineup of more than 2,200 items across both hard and soft goods categories.

“I’m very proud to partner with Cap America, a significant new addition to our product lineup,” says Liz Haesler, global chief merchandising officer at PCNA. “Renowned for its excellence, Cap America has a stellar reputation in the industry. Every order is handled with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the delivery of top-quality service and products.

• Orders, including those as small as 15 pieces for premium styles and 24 pieces for all other styles, can be shipped within 3-5 days post-approval.

• Distributors can take advantage of free embroidery digitizing, no setup fees and flat rate run charges.

• Embroidery costs are priced at $1.25(G) USD/$1.57(G) CAD for up to 10,000 stitches and $1.75(G) USD/$2.19(G) CAD for additional stitches.  

“By joining forces with Cap America, we’re not only expanding our headwear collection, but also strengthening our commitment to social responsibility and excellence in the promotional products market.” 

Expanded Product Offering

PCNA now offers 10 Cap America headwear styles in over 220 individual color options.

The companies say this partnership provides key benefits to distributors, such as “embroidery excellence,” production capacity, deep inventory, low minimums and quick delivery, as well as “pricing made simple.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

SAGE, the leading provider of information, marketing, and business management solutions for the promotional products industry, is proud to announce the introduction of its new comprehensive client text messaging system within the CRM Module of SAGE Online and SAGE Web.

Distributors can now communicate with their clients via text message directly through SAGE’s CRM Module. This not only enhances client communication but also greatly improves the overall client experience. SAGE is the first industry CRM solution to offer built-in text messaging capabilities, building on its tradition as the leader of technology solutions for the promotional products industry.

SAGE’s client text messaging offers a number of advantages to customers. Because the text message threads are safely stored and easily accessible in the CRM, distributors can take advantage of collaboration and easier access to message threads, particularly for larger distributorships and those with multiple account reps for clients. With all messages automatically tracked and searchable in the contact’s history, distributor users can easily reference a clear record of client interactions and retrieve past communications through the robust search function, preventing the loss or misplacement of vital information.

Additionally, because text messages are sent from a system number as opposed to distributor users’ individual cell phone numbers and kept in the CRM system as opposed to in personal cell phones, SAGE’s text messaging system ensures continuity in client communications even amid team changes. 

SAGE’s new text messaging system includes robust notification options. A unified list of new messages is displayed on the CRM overview dashboard, making it easy to see all new messages in one place. Users can access and search complete message threads from the client’s profile through the new Messaging tab. Account reps can also receive desktop notifications or push notifications to their mobile devices when new messages arrive from clients.

Best of all, SAGE’s new text messaging feature has no additional costs whatsoever. There is no setup required, meaning that text messaging is available now for use by all distributors with a SAGE Total Access subscription.

From the CRM Module, users can access the client text messaging feature through their client’s profile. There they will see a new Messages tab, and each contact who is opted-in to receive text messaging, as well as the full text message history. In order to send text messages to a client contact, users will simply check the “Text messaging opt-in” box for the client and confirm that they have the authority to send text messages for the particular client’s cell phone number. Client contacts can opt out of text messaging at any time by simply replying STOP and the system will automatically update their preferences in the CRM.

“We all know that effective client communication is a cornerstone of any business success, but particularly for businesses in our industry,” said David Natinsky, President of SAGE. “Our new client text messaging feature not only streamlines the communication process but also ensures that our customers have all the tools they need to maintain strong, lasting relationships with their clients.”

SAGE is pleased to announce that the client text messaging capability is available now as part of SAGE Online’s and SAGE Web’s CRM Module at no additional charge and with no additional setup.

To learn more about the client text messaging feature and how it can benefit your business, please visit www.sageworld.com or contact your Account Advisor today.

Geiger (PPAI 105182, Platinum) – the No. 5 distributor in the PPAI 100 – has announced the acquisition of German distributor WER GmbH.

• The integration process will begin immediately with WER GmbH rebranding to WER GmbH, a Geiger Company.
• While Geiger has successfully completed five acquisitions in the United Kingdom, the acquisition of WER marks the Lewiston, Maine-based firm’s first in Germany.

“Geiger is continuing our strategic path forward in servicing global clients,” says Jo-an Lantz, MAS, president and CEO of Geiger. “WER GmbH culture, commitment to the highest service, quality and ESG standards exceeded our expectations. By leveraging the strengths and resources of both organizations, we’ll deliver even greater value and innovative solutions to the market.”

“One thing is for certain,” Lantz adds, “Geiger is global. Now more than ever.”

Beneficial Partnership

Launched in 1992, WER GmbH has more than 100 employees and operates six offices and several warehouses across Germany, including in Munich, Cologne and Frankfurt.

Its alignment with Geiger’s service offerings, such as kitting, company stores, international distribution, custom products, in-house decoration and warehousing, will further enhance the range of services available to the newly combined customer base.

“We have known Geiger as a global leader for many years and it has proven itself to operate with honesty and integrity, sharing the same values and culture as WER,” says Alex Heinecke, CEO of WER GmbH.

“These qualities are vital to working in our marketplace and within our customer base. Geiger’s global network and industry leadership will provide our clients with enhanced services and offerings. We’re confident that this partnership will be beneficial for our customers and employees alike.”

• Heinecke will continue to lead the division under the new ownership.
• All WER GmbH employees have been retained by Geiger, including CFO Marc Strickrodt and director Mirco Häßlich.

“We’re thrilled to welcome WER GmbH to the Geiger family,” says Vicky Kinasz, vice president and managing director of Geiger International. “This acquisition further expands our international presence and enhances our capabilities in key markets. The synergy between our organizations will create new opportunities for innovation and growth, further benefiting our many international clients.”

Global Expansion

This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Geiger’s ongoing international growth strategy, significantly strengthening its presence in Europe.

• Last year, the firm acquired Firebrand Promotions, an eco-conscious company based in the UK.
• Of course, sustainability is top of mind at Geiger: its UK office received Platinum status from EcoVadis in 2023, and its global headquarters in the U.S. achieved a Gold EcoVadis rating in 2024.
  

Geiger has truly ramped up M&A activity this year, acquiring California-based distributor O2 Marketing + Design and New York-based distributor Broadway Marketing.

Toronto-based Redwood Classics Apparel (PPAI 696010) has announced a partnership with Vantage Apparel (PPAI 113235, Platinum) making Vantage its exclusive U.S. provider.

• Vantage was recently named PPAI 100’s No. 12 supplier.
• Redwood Classics is a women-owned and minority-owned certified promo supplier founded in 2009.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Redwood Classics’ exceptional products into the Vantage family,” says Rob Watson, CEO of Vantage. “Redwood Classics’ commitment to quality, craftsmanship and innovation aligns perfectly with our values at Vantage. This partnership will enable us to offer our customers an expanded selection of value-driven options that are both stylish and meticulously crafted.”

• Watson recently returned to Vantage as CEO last November, following a trend of returns at the company, including Fred Durand (chief operating officer) and Chris Alfano (chief digital officer) in July of last year.

Redwood Classic offerings are immediately available through Vantage, and inventory will be stocked in Vantage’s New Jersey warehouse.

• The news follows another recent development for Vantage, which opened a Santa Ana facility in June.The new location is intended to expand Vantage’s contract decoration services along the West Coast.

From Redwood Classics’ perspective, founder and president Kathy Cheng says that Vantage’s distributor network in the United States puts Redwood Classics products in the hands of more end users.

“Partnering with Vantage Apparel marks a significant milestone for Redwood Classics,” Cheng says. “Vantage’s extensive network and industry expertise will help us reach new heights and continue to grow our presence across North America. We look forward to collaborating with Vantage to bring our unique, made-in-Canada designs to a broader audience.”

An Aligned Mission of Sustainability

Redwood Classics has a long history of prioritizing sustainability efforts in its practices while also promoting diversity with its platform within the industry. Vantage’s shared values helped make the partnership between the two suppliers possible.

“The path is clear: Whether you’re a multinational corporation or a local startup, championing social causes can be both a moral commitment and a strategic advantage,” Cheng has written for PPAI Media.

• Redwood Classics introduced upcycling programs into its processes in 2014.
• Vantage received a high mark for Responsibility in the 2024 PPAI 100.

The first major hurricane of the season slammed Texas on Monday, forcing multiple Houston-based suppliers to close for the day.

• By the time Hurricane Beryl weakened to a tropical storm, more than two million homes and businesses were without power across the state, according to poweroutages.us.

HIRSCH – the No. 20 supplier in the 2024 PPAI 100 – reopened on Tuesday with all employees safe and accounted for. “No building damage, but with issues city-wide, we may have some delays on specific orders that our team will be in contact with customers about,” says George Morgan, director of marketing at HIRSCH. “But we’re open, taking orders and production is operating.”
Meanwhile, KTI Promo (PPAI 238818, Silver) remains closed after experiencing a power outage.
At least seven deaths in the U.S. have been attributed to Beryl, which brought damaging winds and heavy rainfall throughout Monday, The Associated Press reported.

• The storm is expected to bring heavy rains and possible flash flooding from the lower and mid-Mississippi Valley to the Great Lakes into Wednesday, the National Weather Service reported.

• A flood watch is in effect for parts of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan.

Texas placed 121 counties under a disaster declaration ahead of the hurricane’s landfall. Should the state request federal assistance, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has pre-positioned 500,000 meals and 800,000 liters of water in the region and 60 generators on stand-by.

4EZtees.com / Texas Art Embroidery (PPAI 380229, Silver) also closed its production facility on Monday due to a power outage. Micah Stalarow, business development manager at 4EZtees.com, says partial power has been restored and that the firm plans to be running production by the end of Tuesday.

“We’re in the process of distributing remote login information to more team members, and we’re also working to provide flexibility for team members to continue to put their homes back together while helping keep business running as normal as possible,” Stalarow says.

“The one thing I want to share is that the more business we receive, the more it helps us through this challenging time. We hope that the PPAI community at large will take this time to both help us and give us an opportunity to earn more valuable partnerships. I’m available to talk with anyone that would like to.”

“Our staff is safe, although some still don’t have power at home,” says Shawna Cano, West Coast sales manager at KTI Promo. “Our IT team is working to see if we can get set up to work remotely. However, without power, our processes and responses may be a little slower than usual. We haven’t received an ETA on when the power will be restored but are hoping it will be within the next day or so.”

Beryl’s Impact

Josh Pospisil, MAS, vice president of business development at AIA – the No. 18 distributor in the 2024 PPAI 100 – lives in the Houston area and considers himself very lucky that his power was restored Monday evening.

“My kids and I are very close to our neighbors, so we spent a majority of the day hanging out with them as they have a generator,” Pospisil says. “Once the storm passed, it was all hands-on deck with cleaning up our yard and helping the neighbors with theirs. Although we had power, we didn’t have internet or cell service. I was able to handle just one meeting yesterday morning via my phone, but once that was done, so was my access to everything.

“My heart and soul go out to all those affected by the storms, that have dealt with the loss of a family member, flooding, downed trees that have hit houses and those that are still without power as this Houston heat rises back up.” 

With temperatures expected to soar into the 90s and humidity that could make it feel as hot as 105 degrees, a heat advisory is in effect through Wednesday in the Houston area, according to the National Weather Service. The lack of electricity for air conditioning could make for extremely dangerous conditions.

Steven Meyer, MAS, national sales manager at Arch Promo Group (PPAI 820951, Silver) – the No. 38 supplier in the 2024 PPAI 100 – is about to embark on a wild adventure.

Over the next two months, the 25-plus-year veteran of the promotional products industry will be riding the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route (GDMBR).

• Stretching approximately 2,700 miles long, it’s considered the grandest unpaved cycling route in North America.
• The route begins in Banff, Alberta, Canada, and finishes at the U.S.-Mexico border in Antelope Wells, New Mexico.
• If he can average 45 miles a day, Meyer says he’ll complete the ride in about 60 days.
  

Building A Better Future

Meyer’s goal with this journey is to raise awareness and funds for the Promotional Products Education Foundation (PPEF).

• Since 1989, PPEF has awarded $3,347,000 in college scholarships to 1,788 promotional products industry employees and their children.

Arch Promo Group has committed to match the first $5,000 of donations, and Meyer hopes another industry leader will step up to match the next $5,000.

“The challenges and difficulties of this ride don’t really compare to the challenges so many families have in getting financing together for higher education,” Meyer says. “Your generosity and donations help fund dreams for these families, and I believe we all have a stake in that future.”

You can support Meyer by donating to the PPEF here.

At both the regional and national level, Meyer has been an active volunteer in the industry for more than 20 years.

• Serving on the PPAI Board of Directors from 2009-2014, Meyer was the Association’s board chair in 2012-2013.
• He’s also a former president of both the Upper Midwest Association of Promotional Professionals (UMAPP) and Promotional Products Association Southwest (PPAS).

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI