It’s nice to welcome new staff members with some company merch and a team lunch. But while this can help you make a welcoming impression, it doesn’t let new reps know how they’re doing. That’s where onboarding feedback comes in. As a leader, it’s im...

Every industry needs specialists.These are the professionals and organizations that step in with expertise, technology and capabilities that help everyone else perform at a higher level. They may not always be the most visible part of the busine...

On the July 26th episode of Last Week Tonight, John Oliver issued a challenge to Buc-ee’s, the gas station and convenience store chain, to sue the HBO show’s latest branded merchandise collection, which bears a striking resemblance to Buc-ee’s logo....

TSC (PPAI 134317, Gold), PPAI 100's No. 46 distributor, has announced the acquisition of Kreative Marketing Kompany, a branded merch distributor based out of Solon, Ohio. The acquisition gives TSC, which is headquartered in Ridgeland, Mississippi, i...

While exhibiting at SAAGNY’s Promotions East in June, I was asked, “Considering you’ve been doing these shows for the last few years, do you think this year’s response was better?”The answer was yes. That question stuck with me.Sparkpolo lau...

I speak with clients every day who want to terminate an employee for poor performance, unacceptable attendance or personality clashes. They are concerned, rightfully so, about the impacts on their business by either keeping an employee who is not me...

Sometimes, you have to make tough decisions. Even though you may want to hold off telling a client their request is tricky or their rush order won’t arrive in time, putting off those conversations won’t make the situation any easier. In fact, it usu...

Nadel (PPAI 107145, Platinum), PPAI 100's No. 12 distributor, announced the acquisition of All Branded Group, an Australian distributor. This acquisition supports Nadel's mission to have a large global presence.Founded by Mark Sacharowitz, All B...

A crucial part of the annual Legislative Education and Action Day, better known as LEAD, is explaining who we are as the branded merchandise industry and conveying our economic impact. This year was no different, as LEAD attendees helped lawmak...