DURING THE TIMES of pharaohs and pyramids, umbrellas were a convenience reserved only for the upper-echelon of society. However, 21st- century umbrellas have much more to do than shield royalty from rain and shine. They are one of the few ad specialty products deserving of the title, “walking billboard.” With new imprinting techniques and equally modern designs, umbrellas are expanding their scope as viable promotional products. Helen Stromberg, president of Hudson Valley Umbrella/StrombergBrand, Peekskill, N.Y., said, “Umbrellas really started taking off when the imprinting technology started advancing ten years ago.” Now, with a wide selection of printing methods available—digital printing, heat transfer and sublimation, for example—vibrant,
Read More
THE PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS industry is an evolving one. Case in point: a little over five years ago when this writer first came aboard the Promo Marketing (formerly Promotional Marketing) ship, there was little, if any, talk of the environment and what the industry could do to preserve it. However, within the past two years alone, it seems the entire industry has gone “green,” with both suppliers and distributors heralding their environmentally responsible business practices and industry publications dedicating entire issues to the topic. Even with the widespread attention environmental safety has received, there are other notable topics brewing in the industry these days.
Read More
Cleveland-based Proforma will hold its 19th Annual Convention and Family Reunion in Dallas from July 29 to Aug. 1, at the Adams Mark Hotel. The four-day event will bring together representatives from the company’s 600 franchise offices throughout North America, as well as its extensive vendor network, motivational and industry speakers, and Proforma’s Worldwide Support Center staff. The convention will offer educational seminars and sessions, networking opportunities and presentations. Attendees can choose from more than 40 educational and informational seminars that offer advanced training, tools and business strategies. James Mapes will deliver the keynote address titled, “Quantum Thinking: Going Beyond Your Limits”. Guest speaker
Read More
HALO/Lee Wayne, Sterling, Ill., announced the stock purchase of Tasco Promotions, Dallas. Terms of the sale were not disclosed. Marc Simon, HALO/Lee Wayne’s CEO, said, “Fred Goldstein and his team have built a very successful business. Fred was ready to retire and our philosophy of exceptional service and lucrative sales compensation for industry professionals mirrored his formula for success.” According to Tasco owners, Goldstein and Billy Hale, the decision was easy. “They’re good people running a great operation,” noted Goldstein. “It will be the best possible home for our sales people and their business.” Operational responsibilities will transition from Dallas to HALO/Lee Wayne’s
Read More
