PCNA (PPAI 113079, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 3 supplier, has announced a partnership with Strideline to expand its apparel accessory offerings with two premium sock options: the Saver Full Sublimation Sock and the Premium Sublimation Sock.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Strideline – a brand known for redefining comfort with innovative, high-performance socks,” says Nicole Kyser, category director at PCNA. “Its commitment to quality and design aligns with our mission to deliver standout, in-demand promo offerings. With two Strideline sock styles now available through PCNA – both offering full sublimation coverage – we’re continuing to expand our assortment with trusted brands customers recognize and love.”

The Vernon Company (PPAI 109323, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 25 distributor, has announced the promotion of Connor Ringgenberg to corporate programs web manager.

• Ringgenberg joined Vernon in 2018 as a marketing assistant, supporting various creative and technical projects including Vernon catalogs, product photography and the development of company stores.
• Most recently, he played a key role in advancing Vernon’s e-commerce capabilities, particularly through its webstore enhancement project.

“Connor’s attention to detail, problem-solving skills and deep understanding of our operations have consistently made a positive impact,” says Sharla Elscott, director of corporate programs. “We’re excited to see how his leadership will continue to drive success for the company and our clients.”

Premium Square USA (PPAI 277161, Standard-Plus) has announced a strategic alignment with Premium Square Europe to enhance support for U.S.-based distributors working on both domestic and international projects.

This cross-continental partnership is designed to streamline sourcing, logistics and product availability for U.S. distributors engaged in high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects across the U.S. and Europe.

“We’re excited to bring U.S. distributors closer to the resources, products and support they need to succeed on both sides of the Atlantic,” says Michael Reisbaum, managing director of Premium Square USA. “Our collaboration with Premium Square Europe ensures seamless access to a curated selection of premium goods backed by responsive service and international supply chain coordination.”

Penn Emblem (PPAI 537470, Standard-Base) received the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors’ 2025 Innovation Award for its work on the PennWeave Billy Strings Goddess emblem.

This emblem is one of many made for Grammy Award-winning bluegrass artist Billy Strings and his current tour.

NAUMD described the series as “elevating merchandise branding by combining art, storytelling and technical expertise into a standout visual product.”

Premier Group Network, a buying group comprised of suppliers and distributors, has announced that it’s teaming up with business services provider PromoPulse (PPAI 772580).

• Premier Group members will benefit from exclusive savings from the PromoPulse Automated Marketing Platform, which will send curated content highlighting preferred suppliers to their customers automatically via email and social media.
• Premier Group members will receive cost savings, extended AMP trial time, increased email limits and discounts for additional email lists and campaigns.

“Every business knows that marketing is essential to succeeding in today’s competitive landscape,” says Dana Geiger, executive director of Premier Group Network. “By teaming up with PromoPulse, we’re giving our members access to an effective, always-on marketing solution that will keep them front and center with their clients so they can take advantage of every sales opportunity.”

“Our deep experience with applying technology to the promotional products industry, combined with Premier Group’s leading network, will make marketing easy for their members,” adds Jason Nokes, founder of PromoPulse.