Regional associations in the promotional products industry gained a total of 298 companies as new members in 2024, according to the latest survey results from PPAI Research.

However, both supplier and distributor membership decreased from 2023, with an average of 83 supplier members (down from 90) and 109 distributor members (down from 116) per association. Meanwhile, multi-line reps are holding steady, averaging 13 members.

  • Regional associations added an average of 33 new member companies in 2024 (up from 23 in 2023).


Although the surge of new companies joining regional associations shows that many in the promotional products industry are rediscovering the value of local networks, the simultaneous decline in average supplier and distributor members signals that associations must work harder to retain engagement, says Steven Lazarus, MAS, vice president of sales and marketing at Florida-based distributor Promotional Breezes and chair of PPAI’s Regional Relations Committee.

These associations will only deliver long-term value if they convert recruits into engaged, committed members.”

Steven Lazarus, MAS

Chair of PPAI’s Regional Relations Committee

“I would consider it like your local chamber of commerce for the promotional products industry,” Lazarus says. “What I take from that is clear: just as a chamber thrives only if its members remain active, these associations will only deliver long-term value if they convert recruits into engaged, committed members. It’s not enough to just sign them up, but you have to ensure they participate, contribute and see tangible benefits.”

In 2024, most regionals reported they’re not tracking membership prospects, unlike in 2023, when averages could be measured. Without visibility into potential pipelines, growth risks becoming reactive instead of strategic, according to Alok Bhat, market economist, research and public affairs lead at PPAI.

“Recruitment momentum is back, but it’s uneven,” Bhat says. “The challenge now is to convert recruits into engaged, long-term members so gains are sustainable.”

Operations Data

Aside from staff or board members, regional associations had an average of 11 volunteers in 2024, according to the survey results.

  • Only 61% say they recognize their volunteers for their time and efforts.

As far as member recognition goes, most associations present Supplier Awards (15), a Hall of Fame (12), a Volunteer of the Year Award (11), Multi-line Rep Awards (11) and Distributor Awards (10).

  • In terms of most popular software, applications and business services used by associations, QuickBooks leads the pack with 100%. Canva (96%), Zoom Catalog (91%), Microsoft Office (87%) and WildApricot (83%) round out the top five.
  • Facebook is the most popular social media platform used by associations, followed by Instagram and LinkedIn.


Nearly three quarters (74%) of associations say an independent contractor serves as their executive director and 65% say there’s a yearly evaluation process in place for that position.

Alok Bhat headshot
PPAI is committed to supporting, partnering and collaborating with regional associations to help navigate industry legislation and strengthen advocacy efforts.”

Alok Bhat

Research & Public Affairs Lead, PPAI

Most associations (96%) responded that they do prepare an annual budget, indicating a high level of planning and financial discipline.

  • In 2024, one-third of associations reviewed or planned to review their dues structure, while the rest maintained their current structure.
  • At least one regional raised dues significantly to offset rising operational expenses.


Trade Show Dominance

Nearly all associations (96%) actively maintain a trade show committee, making trade events a cornerstone for member engagement and revenue. Trade show revenue rose sharply in 2024 with growth extended across most associations. Despite being below early-decade highs, trade shows remain the single largest non-dues revenue source for most associations.

Membership (96%), special events (78%) and communications/marketing (70%) are also widely engaged committees, emphasizing a strong focus on attracting and retaining members while enhancing visibility.

  • Although more than two-thirds of regionals have a communications/marketing committee, that percentage dropped from 86% in 2023. “Without strong communication, member value and visibility risk being under-leveraged,” Bhat says.


More than two-thirds (70%) of associations have a professional development committee and 48% have a legislative/advocacy committee. It’s surprising the latter percentage declined from 57% in 2023 considering growing policy and regulatory challenges. “PPAI is committed to supporting, partnering and collaborating with regional associations to help navigate industry legislation and strengthen advocacy efforts,” Bhat says.

I’m thankful to all regionals who participate so we can better shape your future as PPAI members.”

Kara Keister, MAS

PPAI’s RRC Delegate

In an increase over 2023, 22% of associations have a volunteer/leadership development committee, presenting a growth opportunity for strengthening leadership pipelines and volunteer engagement.

Behind The Survey

The annual survey is conducted to provide regional associations with a pulse report, says Kara Keister, MAS, owner of Ohio-based distributor Social Good Promotions and PPAI’s Regional Relations Committee delegate.

“At PPAI, this study is then used to create valuable insights and input that helps create benefits and programs to better serve our regional association membership,” Keister says. “In years past, the RRC and PPAI have worked together to close the gap in some of those areas. For instance, 2024 brought a new LEAD regional playbook, which is a ‘how to’ guide for our regional associations to connect with legislators. 

“There has already been discussion related to volunteer engagement from this year’s findings. It’s a valuable tool for the association and I’m thankful to all regionals who participate so we can better shape your future as PPAI members.”

  • During The PPAI Expo 2026, there will be a special pre-show gathering to learn more about your regional association and how they can help support your business on a local level.
  • Meet Your Regional: Coffee & Collaboration takes place on Wednesday, January 14 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Level 2 Foyer, from 8:30-9:30 a.m.
  • For more information, click here.

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The full report is available to all Professional-tier members via Premium Research.

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