Nothing matches The PPAI Expo – the largest and longest-running trade show in the branded merchandise industry – for a first look at the products, suppliers and trends poised to define the year ahead.
Each January, the show floor of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center buzzes with hundreds of thousands of products and countless conversations, creating opportunities to discover fresh ideas before the competition does.
Lisa Greyhill, president of Illinois-based distributor Firebrand Global Marketing, looks forward to attending The PPAI Expo every year.
“It’s those few days that we carve out to see new products, attend interesting sessions, meet with PPAI and other industry committees and nurture and celebrate connections,” Greyhill says. “All while logging about 20,000 steps each day!”
Lisa Greyhill
President, Firebrand Global Marketing
Greyhill isn’t exaggerating – the trade show floor runs roughly 1 million square feet in scope and features nearly 1,000 exhibiting companies from across the branded merchandise landscape in more than 2,500 booths.
Merch’s Must-Attend Event
Of course, suppliers are also eagerly anticipating The PPAI Expo 2027. For over two decades, they’ve set up shop in Las Vegas, displaying their latest innovations and connecting with new customers.
“The PPAI Expo is one of our favorite ways to kick off the year,” says Corey Marx, co-founder of New York-based supplier Joco Innovations, which recently earned certification as a partner in U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism program.
As the supplier continues growing in the branded merch industry, this is an important step in strengthening its supply chain, vendor controls and import capabilities, according to Marx.
“Joco is growing, expanding our capabilities and investing in what’s next, which gives us more ways to bring fresh, memorable product ideas to our distributor partners,” Marx says. “It all comes back to one simple idea: Fun gets remembered, and we’re excited to bring that to The PPAI Expo 2027.”
Corey Marx
Co-Founder, Joco Innovations
As far as networking opportunities go, it’s not just the trade show floor where suppliers can interact with distributors. There’s PPAI Advance – the one-day educational event with a curated slate of experts from both within and outside the industry to enlighten branded merch professionals and spark conversation throughout the rest of the event.
There’s The Pitch – a combination of Shark Tank and The Voice that sees exhibiting suppliers attempt to impress a lineup of discerning judges.
There’s the Opening Reception at Skyfall Panoramic Bar & Lounge, where unforgettable views (along with drinks and hors d’oeuvres) set the stage for meaningful connections with fellow merch pros.
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There’s Promo & Pints – a beer garden located on the show floor, which is the ideal location to meet with clients and network with colleagues.
And don’t forget The PPAI Expo Party at Grand Prix Plaza–Home of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Join fellow merch pros for an elevated, high-energy celebration complete with food, beverages and exclusive access to one of Las Vegas’ most iconic venues. It’s the perfect way to connect, unwind and celebrate an incredible week.
“The PPAI Expo is the perfect opportunity to unveil our latest products, connect with our valued distributor partners and stay ahead of the curve on the latest market trends,” says Raffaele Laurenti, sales manager of Americas at Switzerland-based supplier Pagani Pens, which will be exhibiting at The PPAI Expo 2027.
Raffaele Laurenti
Sales Manager – Americas, Pagani Pens
Under One Roof
The PPAI Expo is the Super Bowl of the branded merch industry, according to Tommy Romero, partner at Massachusetts-based supplier Pin Machine.
“There’s no better event for meeting new distributors while continuing to strengthen the partnerships that are essential to our business,” Romero says. “The energy at the show – and throughout the industry that week – is undeniable.
One thing I particularly look forward to is connecting with other suppliers. People sometimes underestimate just how valuable supplier-to-supplier relationships can be. Beyond the friendships and camaraderie, these relationships provide a great pulse on the overall temperature of the industry and can become an important source of referrals and new opportunities.”
Tommy Romero
Partner, Pin Machine
Above all else, The PPAI Expo serves as the industry’s grand reunion. Suppliers, distributors, decorators and business services providers all come together to learn, network and reconnect. Having an opportunity to gather in person is especially cherished in the post-pandemic landscape.
“There are so many good people in this industry, from intentional groups like PromoKitchen to those people I’ve met at camps or workshops, all who are willing to lift up and mentor others,” Greyhill says. “How can I not love having a little in-person quality time with all of them in one giant, fun gathering place?”
Register Now
Don’t wait any longer – register and book your trip to The PPAI Expo 2027 right now.
PPAI member distributors may have their registration fees waived based on their membership tier. It’s $50 per person for additional registrants.
Qualified non-member distributors may access the exhibits and conference for $250 per person if they register by December 3 and $350 per person after that date. Members of industry regional associations but not PPAI can receive a code from their executive director for a discounted rate.
Suppliers and business services providers who are members but not exhibiting will be charged $750 per person for access to the exhibit hall but may attend PPAI Advance for no additional cost.
Nonmember, nonexhibiting suppliers and business services providers aren’t permitted to attend The PPAI Expo 2027.
