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."

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.”

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.”

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

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.

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.

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."

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

Proforma (PPAI 196835, D13) – ranked the No. 5 distributor in the inaugural PPAI 100 – has announced that Meg Erber is joining the company as director of sales.

A 25-year veteran of the promotional products industry, Erber has spent the past eight years as outside sales account manager at S&S Activewear – ranked the No. 2 supplier in this year’s PPAI 100.

“I am incredibly excited for the opportunity to be part of this dynamic team,” says Erber. “I feel as though Proforma's vision aligns perfectly with my own professional values – so I am eager to make my mark and contribute to the continued success of the company.”

An Example of Promo’s Possibilities

Erber’s fingerprints are all over the promotional products world. Coming to the industry after a career in the U.S. Navy, Erber has made her mark by creating or contributing to promo channels beyond just the scope of her official job title.

• She is a perennial member of PPAI’s #Online18.

• Erber was also the former co-host of PromoCorner’s Industry Insider podcast, which as since evolved into Branding Banter.

• She is a sitting member on the PromoCares Board of Directors.

• Previous to joining S&S Activewear, Erber worked for Brynn Speaks Promo powered by HALO Branded Solutions, Pop! Promos and Jetline Promo and Gimmees.com.

• Gibson, another industry veteran with a diverse set of experiences in the industry, claims that she has long considered the possibility of working with Erber in an official capacity.

Proforma’s Run Of Key Hires

Erber joins Proforma as the distributor has made a number of recent splashes with key hires, including Michael Dobozy as chief technology officer and Charity Gibson as chief marketing officer.

“Twelve years we’ve been waiting to find a way to work together,” Gibson says. “I can’t believe it’s finally happening. Meg and I met on Twitter in 2010. She invited me to crash her hotel room as a total stranger at a trade show in San Diego. Didn’t know if I was going to live or die. We’ve been best friends ever since. Planning Promotions East for the last three years has been awesome. We work so well together. She is a total super star. Can’t wait to show the world what we can do.”

Proforma CEO Vera Muzzillo says that Erber is another strategic addition to play a crucial role in carrying out the company's vision. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Megan to the Proforma family," says Muzzillo. "Her extensive experience in the print and promotional products industry, coupled with her proven leadership skills, will undoubtedly make her a valuable asset to our team."

Written by: Jonny Auping & John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

American Solutions for Business hosted its largest national sales conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Held February 18-21^st, the event welcomed nearly 800 total attendees, a record high in the company’s 43-year history.

The four-day event featured a full agenda, including networking opportunities, professional development and workshop sessions, merch show, welcome kickoff, fundraising for two separate charities, memorial walk and tradeshow featuring over 200 vendor partners.

“I’m so proud of the event experience our team creates,” shared Dana Zezzo, ASB’s VP of Vendor Relations, Marketing & Events. “It’s powerful to bring together our sales associates, vendor partners and home office teams to create the collaboration needed to best serve our customers through product knowledge, new ideas and better processes. It’s hard work, but every ounce of planning is worth it!”

On Monday night, the group enjoyed a private rodeo at Cowtown Coliseum and dinner at Billy Bob’s in the Stockyards (sponsored by CFC Print & Mail). The following night Tuesday was spent at Texas Live, where ASB rented the entire second floor where attendees could mingle (sponsored by ASI).

Justin Zavadil, ASB’s President added, “We’re incredibly grateful to have the best salespeople in the industry and the most supportive vendor partners who empower us. To see this all come together is amazing. There’s already an overwhelming buzz about our next conference, happening in Palm Springs March 2025.”