When we talk about responsibility in the promotional products industry, conversations often start with recycled content, certifications or carbon impact. But increasingly, there’s a deeper shift happening – one that asks us to expand how we think about what “responsible” really means.
We, as promo pros, are part of a global supply network. That means the decisions we make – what we source, whom we source from and what questions we ask – have ripple effects far beyond our immediate business relationships. If we’re serious about sustainability, we need to put people, especially workers, at the center of that conversation.
This is more than a trend. It’s a fundamental evolution of our collective responsibility.
Why Does Transparency Matter Now?
The truth is many of us still don’t have clear visibility into the full journey our products take before they reach our clients. That’s not a failure; it’s a reflection of how fragmented and opaque global supply chains have become, especially in a fast-moving industry like ours. But that opacity comes with risk – human rights violations, unsafe working conditions and labor exploitation often happen in the hidden corners of those supply chains.
For PPAI members, increasing transparency isn’t about box-checking or compliance theater. It’s about building a healthier, more resilient industry – one where we can stand behind our products not just because they look great or deliver ROI, but because they were made in ways that respect and protect people.
Moving From Product Specs To People Specs
The promotional products industry has always been about delivering meaningful, memorable experiences. But behind every branded hoodie, tote bag or notebook is a person (often several) whose story rarely gets told. As buying decisions increasingly incorporate environmental impact, there’s an opportunity – and a responsibility – to give equal weight to human impact.
Elizabeth Wimbush
Director of Sustainability & Responsibility, PPAI
What if our industry started viewing worker well-being as a core product attribute?
That doesn’t mean every PPAI member needs to become a labor rights expert. But it does mean that asking different questions about working conditions, wages, freedom of association or recruitment practices should become as routine as inquiring about turnaround times or print quality.
Learning From Leaders Outside Our Industry
Organizations like the Fair Labor Association have spent decades developing frameworks for traceability, ethical sourcing and responsible purchasing. While they may not have originated in our space, their tools and approaches offer valuable guidance as we confront shared challenges across global industries.
That’s why PPAI is exploring collaborative conversations with groups like the FLA to learn, to adapt what works and to bring those insights to our members. Not because we expect small businesses or independent distributors to overhaul their operations overnight, but because change is easier (and more effective) when we move together.
As a distributor or supplier, you might be wondering what practical steps you can take, especially if you don’t control manufacturing directly. Here are a few starting points:
- Get curious. Start mapping your supply chain, even if it’s just one product at a time. Ask your suppliers where goods are made and who’s making them.
- Talk to your clients. More end buyers are asking about responsible sourcing. Use this moment to educate them – and yourself – on the social impact of what they buy.
- Engage your partners. Work with suppliers and decorators who are open to conversations about workers’ rights and transparent practices.
- Use the tools PPAI is developing. As we expand our resources on human rights, due diligence, labor transparency and responsible sourcing, these will be available to help you meet your clients’ expectations and your own standards.
Building An Industry We Can Be Proud Of
The reality is, our industry isn’t immune to the global challenges facing supply chains. But we’re also not powerless. By making transparency and workers’ rights part of how we define value, we have the chance to elevate the entire industry – building trust, future-proofing our businesses and aligning with a growing wave of clients and consumers who care about the stories behind the stuff.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about progress and about ensuring that as our industry evolves, we bring everyone along, especially the people who make it all possible.
Wimbush is the director of sustainability and responsibility at PPAI.
