Key Takeaways
• The Basics: Tactive (asi/299441) has acquired Concept Prints Inc. (CPI, asi/166238), integrating CPI’s team and services.
• End of an Era: Former CPI Owner Tom Hackett is retiring. He said CPI is in great hands.
• A Brisk Beginning: Promo M&A came at a quick clip in 2024 and is well underway at the outset of 2025, with deals occurring on the supplier and distributor side of the business.
Mergers and acquisitions in the promotional products industry at the outset of 2025 are continuing with a new deal announced between two Indianapolis-based distributors.
Tactive (asi/299441) shared Jan. 27 that it has acquired Concept Prints Inc. (CPI, asi/166238), a firm that’s been in business for going on 43 years.
The companies did not release financial terms of the deal but noted that CPI team members are coming aboard at Tactive. The company told ASI Media that CPI will go to market under the Tactive name.
“CPI has been a cornerstone in this industry for decades, and we’re honored to continue their legacy,” said Tactive CEO Courtney Bills in a statement. “We are thrilled to welcome their expertise into the Tactive family.”
CPI offers in-house screen printing and embroidery, as well as a gamut of promo solutions.
Tactive is fully integrating CPI into its operations. Executives said CPI customers should expect a “seamless transition” and a suite of services and solutions, including hard good promo products, branded apparel, dimensional mail, commercial printing, e-commerce and fulfillment.
On its website, Tactive showcases a range of case studies that exemplify its work across mediums that include promo products, 3D direct mail, large format printing and other categories.
Tom Hackett, formerly owner of CPI, is entering retirement. He said CPI is in great hands.
“Tactive is the perfect fit for both our customers and employees,” said Hackett. “Their innovative approach and dedication to service excellence ensure that CPI’s customers will continue to receive the quality and care they’ve come to expect. I’m proud to see our work carried forward to new heights.”
Bills said the addition of CPI’s team helps Tactive deepen its expertise and expand its offerings to better serve both new and existing clients.
“The CPI team has set the bar high in this industry,” Bills said. “We’re excited to build on their foundation.”
Last year was one of the most momentous the promotional products industry has ever seen for M&A. The deal-making has continued in early 2025 on both the distributor and supplier sides of the sector. Deals include Counselor Top 40 supplier Stouse (asi/89910) being acquired.
