Steven Meyer, MAS, was managing a drugstore in Willmar, Minnesota, in 1998, when he received a phone call from Jim Moore, MAS, principal at then-supplier Molenaar, inviting him to an interview. Meyer didn’t know Moore and wasn’t looking for a job, but a mutual friend, Dan Hansen of Hansen Advertising, thought Meyer would be a perfect fit for selling promotional products.

Meyer was not at all interested in sales, but he says Moore’s pitch and professionalism captivated him and sealed the deal. In exchange for training Meyer, Moore stipulated that he had to get involved in a regional association.

“Part of our agreement was that I would volunteer for UMAPP, and someday, if I was lucky, I might be able to get on a PPAI task force or committee,” Meyer says. While attending PPAI’s 1998 Summer Show in St. Louis, he watched a board presentation and was immediately hooked.

Meyer became an active participant in the Upper Midwest Association of Promotional Professionals, which ultimately led to his election to its board in 2003. He went on to serve as vice president in 2008 and then as president in 2009. At the same time, he volunteered for PPAI, starting on the Suppliers Committee and Membership Committee in 2002.

Leading regional trade associations and serving on the PPAI Board made dramatic changes in my life.”

Steven Meyer, MAS

PPAI Hall of Famer

Over the next decade, Meyer served a term, and sometimes two, on most of PPAI’s committees, advisory councils and work groups. He also was an industry speaker and a participant in PPAI’s Legislative Education and Action Day on Capitol Hill.

In 2009, Meyer was elected to the PPAI Board of Directors, becoming chair in 2012. But his love for industry service wasn’t yet satiated. After his board service was complete, he continued to give of his time and talent to the Promotional Products Education Foundation, among other initiatives.

Working with PPEF reopened his eyes to the ongoing need to fund industry scholarships, and he realized he could use his broad network to attract donations. An avid hiker and biker, Meyer set an ambitious goal for himself. In 2024, he rode his bike more than 600 miles on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and raised several thousand dollars for PPEF.

• After working at Molenaar for 15 years, Meyer left the company when it was sold in 2013. He spent a few months at QuickPoint before relocating to Dallas the next year to help launch supplier RiteLine.
• In typical “Steven Meyer style,” he was drawn to volunteer with the Promotional Products Association Southwest, where he served as a board member in 2016, vice president in 2017 and board president in 2018.
• Following six years at RiteLine, Meyer departed the company to take on his final industry role. He joined the startup team at Arch Promo Group in 2020, helping to grow it to 10 brands before his retirement last fall.

“Steven’s dedication to the growth and integrity of our industry is both exemplary and inspiring,” says Steve Ehlert, national general manager at Arch Promo Group, PPAI 100’s No. 28 supplier, and Meyers’ nominator for the PPAI Hall of Fame. “What sets Steven apart is not just the breadth of his professional experience but the depth of his generosity in sharing it.”

What sets Steven apart is not just the breadth of his professional experience but the depth of his generosity in sharing it.”

Steve Ehlert

National GM, Arch Promo Group

Asked how his more than two decades of volunteer service have helped shape him, Meyer says, “Leading regional trade associations and serving on the PPAI Board made dramatic changes in my life. Most of all, the interaction with other members and directors is invaluable. Those experiences taught me so much about myself, increased my confidence and opened my eyes to a whole new level of the industry.”

Meyer recalls that for nearly half of his time in the industry, he was serving on either a regional board or the PPAI board – and it was an irreplaceable experience.

“Without those roles and the interaction with other members, the regional executive directors and the staff at PPAI and fellow board members – whether we are talking about a personal or business relationship – my career would have been less fulfilling. Volunteering gives back so much more than it takes,” he says.

His proudest achievements on the PPAI Board included helping to establish the first Green Task Force and trimming the board from 18 to 11 directors, thus reducing expenses and making each voice more valuable and accountable. His biggest delight, however, has been helping others flourish.

RELATED: Ultimate Honors: PPAI Hall of Fame Welcomes Isaacson, Jenkins

“Most of all, I’ve had an opportunity to listen and share with others,” he says. “To say less and listen more. To be a mentor but also receive and appreciate a different viewpoint. Whether it’s someone new to the industry or an old friend, each has something to share.”

Meyer says the distinction of being named to PPAI’s Hall of Fame is still sinking in. “When I look at others who have been recognized in this way, I’m a bit hesitant. But, thanks to good friends like [Hall of Fame inductees] Mary Dobsch and Teresa Moisant, I’ve learned that each person gives of themselves in different ways and that gift can be valued differently by any person,” he says.

“Being acknowledged with this honor means that I am part of the fabric of this industry and that my peers felt my contributions made a difference,” Meyer adds. “It also means that I share this award with so many who helped me. Thank you to all my friends, co-workers and peers for this once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

Written by: Tina Berres Filipski

Published with Permission from PPAI

PPAI has announced the winners of its 2026 PPAI Pyramid Awards. This year, 34 different companies took home gold and silver Pyramids. The annual awards honor creative excellence in the promotional products industry and recognize dependable suppliers, outstanding promotions, creative campaigns and exceptional craftsmanship by Association members.

First presented in 1958, the PPAI Pyramid Award represents the pinnacle of achievement and honors the long-standing, collaborative partnerships between the PPAI family of members that differentiate strategic promotional marketing from the buying and selling of products. The PPAI Pyramid Award, sponsored by Pacesetter Awards, has stood the test of time and continues to advance the awareness and prestige of the industry’s talented companies and individuals. The award recognizes promotional products firms and helps shine the spotlight on the collaborative business model unique to the industry.

The winners are listed alphabetically below.

American Solutions for Business
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Educational Programs

BAG MAKERS, Inc.
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Supplier/Distribution Collaboration

BAMKO
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Consumer Programs
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Sales Inventive Programs
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Business to Business Programs
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Social Responsibility Programs

BEL Promo
Silver Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Supplier Sales Support Materials

Branded Products
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Tradeshow/Exhibit Traffic Programs

C.C. Creations
Silver Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Self Promotion Campaigns

CE Competitive Edge
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Employee Incentive & Recognition Programs

commonsku
Gold Pyramid: Technology Programs – Web Content/Functionality
Silver Pyramid: Technology Programs – eCommerce Website

Totally Chocolate Promo (Formerly Chocolate Chocolate)
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Supplier Decorating
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Special Applications/Processes

City Apparel + Merch
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Not For Profit Programs

CounterPoint
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Print On Hard Surfaces

Facilisgroup
Gold Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Content Marketing Program

Gemline
Silver Pyramid: Technology Program – Mobile Apps/Mobile Websites

HALO
Gold Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Digital Self Promotion Campaigns
Silver Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Branding Campaigns

Honeycomb Promotional Marketing Agency
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Client Programs

HPG Brands
Gold Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Self Promotion Campaigns
Gold Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Supplier Sales Support Materials
Silver Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Cause Advocacy Marketing Programs

IICON Creative Strategies
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Not For Profit Programs

INM Marketing Group
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Employee Incentive & Recognition Programs
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Social Responsibility Programs

iPROMOTEu
Silver Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Content Marketing Program

KOOLGATOR
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Print On Textiles
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Print On Textiles

Koozie Group
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Special Applications/Processes

MadeToOrder
Gold Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Branding Campaigns

Martket Branding
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Client Branding Programs

OPTI Print and Fulfillment
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Etching/Engraving/Laser
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Large Format Printing
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Mascot/Character Product
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Print On Hard Surfaces
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Supplier/Distribution Collaboration
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Combination of Processes
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Large Format Printing
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Mascot/Character Product

Overture Promotions
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Distributor/Supplier Collaboration

PCNA
Gold Pyramid: Technology Programs – eCommerce Website
Silver Pyramid: Technology Programs – Web Content/Functionality

Promotional Partners
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Educational Programs

SRG
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Casting/Molding
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Combination of Processes
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Customized Non-Catalog Product
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Casting/Molding

The Chest
Silver Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Customized Non-Catalog Product

Thumbprint
Gold Pyramid: Technology Programs – Mobile Apps/Mobile Websites

Vantage Apparel
Silver Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Digital Self Promotion Campaigns
Gold Pyramid: Supplier Decorating – Embroidery

Whitestone
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Business to Business Programs
Gold Pyramid: Marketing Programs – Cause Advocacy Marketing Programs
Gold Pyramid: Client Programs – Client Branding Programs

Zagwear
Silver Pyramid: Client Programs – Consumer Programs

Published with Permission from PPAI

S&S Activewear (PPAI 256121, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 2 supplier has announced that Rob Hamill has been promoted to the role of chief strategy officer to kick off 2026. The Illinois-based company says that the position is solutions-focused and will “accelerate innovation” within the industry.

• Hamill initially joined S&S Activewear in 2024 as a director of strategy. He most recently held the role of vice president, strategy and corporate development.
• His strategic influence was instrumental in the industry-reverberating acquisition of alphabroder in the fall of 2024. At the time, both companies were ranked in the top five of the PPAI 100 suppliers.

Rob Hamill

Chief Strategy Officer, S&S Activewear

Mergers and acquisitions have been a headlining piece of Hamill’s strategic contributions to S&S, but the company credits his purview the past few years with responsibilities including market expansion, operational excellence and innovation technology. As chief strategy officer, he will operate under similar goals with a slight pivot toward the immediate overseeing of “enterprise strategy, market intelligence, M&A and the continued development of technology platforms that strengthen customer performance.”

S&S CEO Frank Myers says that Hamill’s position is focused, first and foremost, on solutions for customers.

“Rob’s energy strategic mindset and customer-first approach have helped shape the future of S&S,” says Myers. “His work directly supports our goal of giving customers the solutions they need to say ‘yes’ to more opportunities. His leadership will accelerate the innovation our industry deserves.”

Rob’s energy strategic mindset and customer-first approach have helped shape the future of S&S.”

Frank Myers

CEO, S&S Activewear

A Busy Year For S&S

While 2024 may have been the year that S&S made its blockbuster acquisition of alphabroder, the supplier exercised plenty of strategic maneuvering in 2025.

• In May, it reached an exclusive agreement with vineyard vines and Marmot.
• The next month, the supplier followed that up with an exclusive partnership with HanesBrands.

RELATED: S&S Activewear: Into The Big Room

• By August, S&S announced that it was the exclusive wholesale provider of Gildan’s American Apparel.

Last month, the company closed distribution centers in Illinois and Texas, with nearly 200 employees being laid off. The closures were part of a network integration plan that resulted from the 2024 acquisition of alphabroder.

“We’re committed to managing this process thoughtfully and ensuring a smooth, well-planned path forward for our people and our business,” the company said in a statement.

Written by: Jonny Auping

Published with permission from PPAI

For Warwick Publishing (PPAI 114154, Gold), 2026 represents a big round number, one that very few companies are fortunate enough to reach: This year, PPAI’s No. 66 supplier celebrates its centennial. But not only did the St. Charles, Illinois-based firm reach 100 years, it did so while remaining family owned and operated.

• Warwick Publishing is now in its fifth generation, currently owned by Alex Paschal, the company’s CEO and a 2023 PPAI Rising Star.

As the story goes, it was Lina Paschal, a journalist, who bought The Valley Chronicle all the way back in 1903 before eventually selling it to Paul Paschal, her nephew, which began its journey as newspaper publisher and, eventually, promotional products supplier.

“A single brave step is what set our story in motion,” says Paschal. “In 1926, Lina sent us all on a journey. She didn’t know it then, but between the day she bought The Valley Chronicle and where we stand today under the Warwick name, that journey would carry us through 63 more years of newspaper publishing, where we’d print more than 100 million copies, a pivot to us producing over 20 million calendars, and be blessed with five generations of Paschals walking these halls.

More than four thousand employees have called this place home, and hundreds of thousands more have trusted us as their partner in printed media and promotional products. As we celebrate our centennial, we’re incredibly grateful for each and every one of them.”

Alex Paschal

CEO, Fifth-Generation Owner, Warwick Publishing

“Most importantly though, more than four thousand employees have called this place home, and hundreds of thousands more have trusted us as their partner in printed media and promotional products. As we celebrate our centennial, we’re incredibly grateful for each and every one of them.”

At a time when digital options are increasingly hyped, Paschal celebrates the success of the tactile offerings of Warwick Publishing over time and still flourishing today.

“Printed paper still works,” Paschal says. “It’s personal, tactile and timeless. And when done well, it becomes
a piece of your client’s brand that sticks around long after the first impression.”

Written by: Jonny Auping

Published with Permission from PPAI

Pantone has announced that Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201) is its 2026 Color of the Year.

The institute, which is considered a leading authority on color, describes it as a “lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection.”

Cloud Dancer encourages relaxation and focus, allowing the mind to wander and creativity to breathe, the company says. The color is “associated with new beginnings” and “signifies our desire for a fresh start,” Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the institute, told CNN.

• A key structural color, Cloud Dancer’s versatility “provides scaffolding for the color spectrum, allowing all colors to shine,” Pantone says.
• Pastel and neutral tones make compatible combinations to Cloud Dancer, offering subtle shifts in hue, the company adds.
  

Each year, the Pantone Color Institute carefully selects a hue that reflects worldwide trends in design, fashion, current events and more.

• The Pantone Color of the Year program was created in 1999 to spark conversation around color and culture.
• The Color of the Year for 2025 was Mocha Mousse, “a rich, warm, indulgent mood that made our wardrobes (and our world) a little more delicious,” and the Color of the Year for 2024 was Peach Fuzz, a “velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body and soul.”

“The color name is critical. The minute you hear a name describing color, you instantly conjure up an image,” Pressman said, adding that this precise shade of white, with its “equal balance of cool and warm undertones,” was carefully chosen.

“Had we gone for a white that was more optically bright, not only does it take away from the natural feeling and honesty and authenticity that we’re looking for… it almost speaks to sterility and isolationism, because it’s cold,” Pressman told CNN.

The promo industry keeps a close eye on color trends, including the annual Color of the Year announcement, as suppliers and distributors apply those ideas to future product and marketing plans.

Published with Permission from PPAI

Written by: John Corrigan

They come from all corners of the promotional products world – distributors, suppliers and business service firms of every size – but they share one thing in common: a relentless drive to lead, innovate and lift others as they rise.

Each year, PPAI Media searches the industry for its brightest emerging leaders, and in 2025, more than 200 nominations poured in. From this impressive field, 12 young professionals stood out for their achievements, their commitment to their communities and their unmistakable potential to shape what comes next.

Since the program’s creation in 2010, PPAI Rising Stars have embodied the qualities that keep the industry moving forward: leadership, creativity, volunteerism and the courage to take on new challenges. For the second year, eligibility was limited to professionals under age 40 – a nod to the program’s mission of spotlighting the next generation of visionaries charting the industry’s future.

The 2025 honorees were celebrated in October at PPAI’s Leadership Development Conference in Texas, where they joined peers for a young professionals educational track designed to sharpen their skills and expand their influence. It was a fitting setting – a space dedicated to learning, connection and growth – for a group that represents the best of what’s ahead.

Several of this year’s Rising Stars were nominated multiple times by colleagues and mentors who see their impact firsthand. Their stories reflect an industry in constant evolution, one that thrives on fresh ideas and fearless leadership.

Read on to meet the 2025 class of PPAI Rising Stars. Their light is already shining, and their future promises to illuminate the path for everyone in promo.

Patrick Bardsley, 37
Co-founder & CEO, Spectrum Designs

Read Patrick’s Interview

“He’s built a thriving business that not only delivers high-quality custom apparel and promotional products, but also creates life-changing employment opportunities for autistic individuals. Under his leadership, Spectrum has grown from a small startup to a nationally recognized nonprofit with multiple locations, high-profile clients and a proven social impact model. What impresses me most is how Patrick balances operational excellence with deep compassion. He’s just as focused on perfecting our printing process as he is on making sure every team member is seen, supported and successful. His work is innovative, impactful and inspiring, and he’s only getting started.”

–Kelli Fisher, Spectrum Designs

Nina Bui, 29
Territory Sales Manager, HPG

Watch Nina’s Interview

“As a fellow supplier, I’ve seen how intentionally she builds connections with other reps, creating a network that helps all of us better serve our distributor customers even when a solution doesn’t come directly from her own line. She’s a true team player, a rising talent in our industry and genuinely a joy to work with. I’m proud to call her a friend and excited to watch her continued growth and success.”

–Dawn Kovar, Showdown Displays

Abby Burke, 33
National Account Executive, Walker-Clay

Watch Abby’s Interview

“I consider Abby a Rising Star in the promotional products industry because she thinks differently and isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. She’s always looking for fresh, creative ways to connect with new clients and expand her reach. What sets her apart is how she leans into platforms like TikTok and YouTube to share her expertise and personality in an authentic, engaging way. She’s built content that educates, entertains and ultimately drives interest in our industry, helping open doors that traditional outreach methods might not. Her willingness to take risks and experiment with new approaches is exactly what this industry needs more of.”

–Amanda Clay, Walker-Clay

Jade Crider, 24
Lead Sales & Social Media Coordinator, Hasseman Marketing & Communications

Watch Jade’s Interview

“Over the past three years, Jade has made a name for herself and stepped out of the shadows of her father, a well known long-time industry vet. Through her use of social media marketing, her podcasting and her personal branding – not to mention her paneling at various industry events – she’s definitely come into her own as a force in the industry.”

–Matt Shucart, Advertising Premium Sales

Savannah Dmytriw, 30
Vice President of Business Development, S.C.G.

Watch Savannah’s Interview

“She pairs authentic visibility with real results. In a space where social media is often smoke and mirrors, she stands out by backing every post with real retail trends, transparency and follow-through. Sav’s content isn’t just for likes. Every piece of content shines a light on and elevates the measurable impact she’s making for her own brand, her company, and to our industry as a whole. Her merch reviews are curated, deliberate and impressive. Her content already blows me away, but another specific example of how she’s impressed me is how she’s built a promo community of like-minded distributors and suppliers to think tank how to move the industry forward. She is a force because she doesn’t just talk the talk and get her social media clout. She walks the walk and turns ideas into action.”

–Brittany Frase, MadeToOrder

Kristine Eng, 34
Director of Marketing, Pop! Promos

Watch Kristine’s Interview

“Kristine has already made an indelible mark on our industry. With over 11 years of experience across supplier and distributor organizations, she exemplifies the innovation, leadership and forward-thinking vision this award is meant to honor. Since joining Pop! Promos just two years ago, Kristine has accelerated through the ranks, earning a promotion from Marketing Manager to Director of Marketing. Today, she leads both the Marketing and Creative Services departments, driving results-oriented strategies and cultivating a team culture rooted in excellence, creativity and authenticity.”

–Erin Reilly, Pop! Promos

Stephanie Hinkle, 37
Marketing Manager, MadeToOrder

Watch Stephanie’s Interview

“She takes the same tools that we all have access to and learns how to use them to their most magical potential, and then she shares that knowledge with competitors and peers – what!? She is a curious and creative mind who loves to collaborate to bring her knowledge to the greater industry, someone who is not only passionate but willing to share that passion is invaluable.”

–Samantha Fullerton, BAMKO

Cayley Lazarus, 39
Inside Sales Lead, Logomark

Watch Cayley’s Interview

“Cayley is extremely proactive and engaged in all of our client projects, big and small. She is a constant in our daily lives, showcasing ideas and solutions to make our day-to-day easier and helping us to present the best of the best to wow our clients. Cayley grew her territory with the Taylor account from about $50,000 in 2021 to $700,000 in 2024 – an increase of 1,300%!”

–Amy Loeffler, Taylor Promo Marketing

Eli Martin, 32
Sales Manager, 5B’s Embroidery and Screen Print

Watch Eli’s Interview

“Within 5B’s, Eli has made leaps in sales growth while still focusing on what matters the most in companies: the people. Eli manages a sales team giving them the opportunity to grow and learn. He is a hands-on leader who makes people feel wanted and needed in the office. Eli is compassionate and willing to help a younger person in the industry, not just at his company. Eli is in a unique situation, being a decorator. They have even less ability to influence the buying decision. Eli can utilize his connections to grow the company. He is not afraid to put himself in an uncomfortable situation to grow his skillset or network.”

–Lindsay Bons, ID Line

Vera Minot, 35
Co-owner & Creative Director, Southwest Solutions

Watch Vera’s Interview

“Under Vera’s direction, Southwest Solutions earned a Silver Pyramid Award from PPAI for one of their standout client campaigns, and the company has been named one of PPAI’s Greatest Companies to Work For twice in the last three years – a testament to both the culture she helps lead and the quality of the work she champions. Her creative vision and leadership continue to shape not just the team, but the trajectory of the company and its reputation within the industry.”

–Sydney Harvey, Southwest Solutions

Halle Moore, 25
Marketing Coordinator, PromoCorner

Watch Halle’s Interview

“She brings a fresh Gen Z perspective to the industry, keeping content dynamic and engaging, especially through initiatives like the Behind the Brands series. Her energy and modern outlook are shaping a more connected, forward-thinking future for the industry.”

–Kristina Beal, Chocolate Chocolate

Kate Murray, 24
Communications & PR Specialist, American Solutions for Business

Watch Kate’s Interview

“Kate shows up every day ready to make us better. She works hard, is super motivated and is genuinely a good person. The first time she really stood out to me was seeing how she engaged with our reps and vendors at one of our socials at The PPAI Expo last year. She’s so welcoming and present. It’s hard not to like her!”

–Justin Zavadil, American Solutions For Business

Published with Permission from PPAI

SRG (PPAI 230188, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 17 supplier, has announced an exclusive partnership with New Jersey-based supplier All American Writing Instruments (PPAI 113946, Silver), naming SRG the sole North American supplier for AAWI’s complete line of pens, pencils and markers.

• AAWI is a 97-year-old, fourth generation family business that’s considered the last vertically integrated pen manufacturer in the United States.
• As part of the partnership, Ian Brudenell, vice president of sales at AAWI, will join SRG.

AAWI’s ‘Made in America’ legacy and SRG’s reach create the perfect combination.

Merrick Falkenstein

Chief Revenue Officer, SRG

“AAWI’s ‘Made in America’ legacy and SRG’s reach create the perfect combination, offering distributors reliable, USA-made products with the support and service they trust,” says Merrick Falkenstein, chief revenue officer at SRG.

AAWI’s six brands – Garland, RevMark, PenScents, Pencil Heroes, Pokka and RePen – cover a full spectrum of writing needs, from eco-friendly pens to rugged contractor markers.

“This partnership allows us to expand our reach without sacrificing our commitment to American manufacturing,” says Adam Bell, president of AAWI. “Together with SRG, we’ll continue to deliver exceptional quality and service to our customers.”

Together with SRG, we’ll continue to deliver exceptional quality and service to our customers.”

Adam Bell

President, All American Writing Instruments

• Effective immediately, SRG will manage all AAWI purchase orders and customer inquiries.

After 25 years as St Regis Group, the Ontario-based company rebranded to SRG at the beginning of 2025. The name solidifies its expansion beyond awards and into premium giftware and lifestyle products, including drinkware, pens, journals, housewares, bags, tech and much more.

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Following President Trump’s trade deal with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has announced the suspension of recently imposed actions as part of its Section 301 investigation of China shipbuilding.

• As part of that deal, Trump agreed to lower tariffs on Chinese imports to 47% in exchange for promises from Beijing on fentanyl, rare earth elements and soybeans.

The suspension, which starts November 10, 2025, and lasts for one year, covers proposed vessel fees on maritime transport services as well as tariffs on ship-to-shore cranes and cargo-handling equipment. As a result, no fees or duties will be collected during this period.

What the suspension means for the promotional products industry is:

• Immediate relief from cost escalation tied to freight, port and handling fees
• Improved supply-chain predictability for 2026 production and imports
• Continued diversification and affordability in the import pipeline that most suppliers depend on.

“The suspension delivers a one-year tariff pause, strengthens supply-chain stability and highlights PPAI’s active voice in trade policy outcomes that directly affect members,” says Alok Bhat, market economist, research and public affairs lead at PPAI.

The suspension delivers a one-year tariff pause, strengthens supply-chain stability and highlights PPAI’s active voice in trade policy outcomes that directly affect members.”

Alok Bhat

Research & Public Affairs Lead, PPAI

PPAI’s Stance

The Section 301 actions were opposed by numerous trade associations, including PPAI, which submitted comments ahead of a hearing this past March and supported a study by Trade Partnership Worldwide that found USTR’s initially proposed remedies would have a drastically negative economic impact.

During the hearing, concerns raised included increased costs, supply chain disruption, impact on agriculture and a lack of direct benefit to U.S. shipbuilding. Many pointed out that the U.S. shipbuilding sector lacks capacity to replace Chinese-built vessels anytime soon, making the policy more punitive than productive.

Instead of imposing broad fees, there were recommendations during the hearing for alternative approaches such as:

• Tax incentives and subsidies for U.S. shipbuilding to improve competitiveness.
• Targeted trade agreements to address concerns about China’s subsidies without harming U.S. businesses.
• Delays or phased implementation to allow industries time to adjust.
• Exploring exemptions for non-Chinese operators to avoid unintended consequences.

“PPAI strongly urges USTR to consider the unintended economic consequences of the proposed Section 301 remedies, particularly their strain on U.S. supply chains, cost structures and business operations,” Drew Holmgreen, president and CEO of PPAI, said in comments submitted to the USTR ahead of the hearing.

“While these measures are intended to support domestic shipbuilding, they risk creating higher costs for importers, disrupting logistics networks and weakening the competitiveness of industries that rely on global trade, including promotional products.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Every generation invents its own slang: far-out daddy-o, that’s lit, all that and a bag of chips. Most fade into the ether. Others wind up named Word of the Year by Dictionary.com. Yes, the Gen Alpha battle cry made it to the big book.

“Perhaps the most defining feature of ‘67’ is that it’s impossible to define,” Dictionary.com says. “It’s meaningless, ubiquitous and nonsensical.”

Pronounced six-seveeeeen (emphasis on seven, personal choice on the amount of e’s), it can be shouted without warning or as a reply to anything. Literally. “What’s 50+17?” 6-7. “It’s cold outside.” 6-7. “How are you today?” 6-7.

Its rise to fame is just as confusing.

• The expression can be traced back to rapper Skrilla’s track “Doot Doot (6 7).”
• Six-foot-seven NBA player LaMelo Ball became tied to the phrase, prompting fans to yell “six-seveeeeen” when he takes the court.
• A 14-year-old dubbed the “67 Kid” went viral for shouting “six-seven” while making an accompanying hand gesture – both palms facing up, moving as if weighing two items.
• Popular high school basketball player Taylen Kinney further popularized the slang when he rated a Starbucks drink “six… six… six-seven.”

That quick clip made Kinney a star and inspired his own product line, featuring the number and his signature.

Like any other fad, promo wisely jumped on the opportunity. Tumblers, hoodies, socks, stickers, even matching T-shirts are flooding online store fronts, from Etsy to Amazon. Everyone wants in the inside joke that’s clearly not inside anymore.

Some items feature a simple “6-7.” Other items require a little thinking. Either way, it’s a money maker. Because the saying has no clear meaning, its appeal lies in its flexibility. It can be printed on just about anything, making quick turnarounds and short-run production easy.

And of course, Santa isn’t skipping out on the cash cow. Wrapping paper, customizable Christmas ornaments and tiny “Elf on the Shelf” sweatshirts are already available.

So, what’s the best way to end the madness? 6-7.

Written by: Sarah Luna

Published with Permission from PPAI

OrderMyGear (PPAI 704581, Silver) has merged with Inktavo (PPAI 817423, Standard-Base), creating a new solutions service for branded merchandise firms. The two business services providers will continue to operate their existing product lines with a future integration process planned.

• Inktavo has primarily helped clients working in decorated apparel shops and sign businesses by streamlining their operations and improving efficiency through technology. It is the parent company of Printavo, InkSoft, GraphicsFlow, Clarity and SignTracker.
• OrderMyGear helps promo firms set up online stores, among other services. It continues to have success in the team apparel market with crossover in the promo industry.

“Combining Inktavo and OMG empowers our customers with a platform that offers solutions for branded apparel, promotional products and signage,” says James Armijo, CEO of Inktavo. “We can enable online sales, proposals, in-house production or outsourced production — or any combination of those — so that our customers have the tools and support they need to realize their vision and grow, and their customers can have a seamless experience as if everything is handled in-house.”

Combining Inktavo and OMG empowers our customers with a platform that offers solutions for branded apparel, promotional products and signage.”

James Armijo

CEO, Inktavo

‘A Single Technology Partner’

Both sides of the merger are claiming that it will create a business services provider that will be nearly unprecedented in terms of what it can offer distributors and suppliers in the promo industry.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Inktavo and expand the ecosystem of solutions available to branded merchandise businesses,” says Leonid Rozkin, OMG’s CEO. “For the first time, distributors, decorators and dealers will have a single technology partner to help power every element of their business from product discovery and digital sales channels to post-sale order management, decoration, fulfillment and accounting.”

For the first time, distributors, decorators, and dealers will have a single technology partner to help power every element of their business.”

Leonid Rozkin

CEO, OrderMyGear

Indeed, Inktavo inherited a number of resources in the merger. Prior to the deal, OMG had been busy the past few years buying companies of its own and strengthening its presence in the promo industry.

• In June, OMG acquired Aturian, an integrated ERP solution for distributors.

This coincided with the company’s launch of a new service: OMG Presentations and Order Management.

• In 2023, OMG acquired Distributor Central, a move that showed strategic growth for the business services provider.
• And in 2022, it had acquired rival BrightStores, turning rivals into teammates.

“Suppliers will have unmatched access to thousands of customers using our combined set of solutions to search, buy and sell brandable products,” Rozkin says. “Together, we are uniquely positioned to connect the industry with market-leading data and technology.”

Written by: Jonny Auping

Published with Permission from PPAI