Green Bay, Wisconsin-based Zipline, announced the early launch of their new 2008 catalog in order to offer distributors a chance to build momentum early for 2008 sales campaigns. According to Zipline president Hans Kindsgrab, “By launching our catalog early, it offers our distributor partners a great way to set themselves apart by giving their customers fresh new ideas to consider for their 2008 promotion and recognition needs.” Zipline prides itself on being adamant about avoiding any new products readily available by other suppliers. According to Kindsgrab, “We promise to only add new items that are truly unique. Our distributors should grab our catalog
Read MoreSenator USA and Dart Pen Merger
Senator & Co. announced the merger of Senator USA and Dart Manufacturing into the newly formed Senator Promotional Group USA. Michael Nick, president and CEO of Senator Group Worldwide, said, “This is the first step in Senator’s global strategy to become a prominent supplier of promotional products around the world. Senator enjoys the number-one position for promotional ball point pens in Europe and has a significant presence in about 90 countries around the world. We are very happy to now have a strong foothold in the U.S. market, the biggest promotional products market in the world. We also recognize that we need to
Read MoreProforma Achieves $30 Million in Monthly Sales in October
Prepared to celebrate its 30th Anniversary in 2008, Cleveland-based Proforma, provider of print and promotional products, achieved a record-breaking month, exceeding $30 million in system-wide sales. The earnings figure represents a 10 percent increase over the company’s previous high that was achieved in December 2006. “We are proud to announce this milestone in the growth of Proforma,” began Greg Muzzillo, founder and co-CEO of Proforma. “Proforma is focused on increasing system-wide sales through the retention and recruitment of quality owners who believe in Proforma and in selling comprehensive business solutions to their customers. This record-breaking month is another exciting indication that Proforma is
Read MoreSportsman Cap Network Showcases Headwear for 2008
In an effort to allow distributors to be better prepared for the upcoming year, Shawnee, Kansas-based Sportsman Cap Network has made its catalog available early. “We have an exciting product lineup for 2008 and we couldn’t wait to get the catalog into the hands of our customers,” said Dan Saferstein, CEO. “We have added new brands, several new styles and trends that are sure to be a hit.” Saferstein believes the wide range of available styles takes into account today’s diverse culture, allowing wearers to display their individuality and fashion sense. The Sportsman line includes an extensive collection of functional caps, as well
Read MorePPAI Expo 2008: Exciting and Educating
On Monday, January 14 and Tuesday, January 15 at the Las Vegas Expo 2008, the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) will bring together some of the nation’s foremost sales and marketing experts to help owners take their business to the next level. Ten different paid workshops will be offered this year. Each of these workshops is designed to allow time for an in-depth analysis of the subject matter. Topics will include guerrilla marketing, financial planning, effective referral generation, and niche marketing solutions and strategies for Web site success. In addition, luncheon sessions will allow distributors to take part in the following: Developing a
Read MoreCrystal D Announces Licensing Agreement with Laser Design International
St. Paul, Minnesota-based Crystal D, a leading supplier of crystal awards and corporate gifts, announces that it has entered into a licensing agreement with Laser Design International (LDI). This agreement, effective immediately, allows Crystal D to offer subsurface engraved products to the promotional products industry. LDI holds the patent rights to exclusive technology used to create subsurface engraved images inside crystal. This technology allows for an unlimited amount of creativity. Crystal D will be able to replicate virtually any image or design provided by customers. The licensing agreement allows Crystal D to meet the growing needs of its customers. “Adding this highly technical process
Read MoreLarry Wilhelm Speaks To Entrepreneurship Club at Luther College
At his Decorah, Iowa appearance, HBC Corporation president Larry Wilhelm spoke on “Opportunities in the Promotional Industry,” offering insight into how entrepreneurship is utilized within the promotional products industry. Attendees learned what works and what doesn’t from strategy to tactical applications, when quickly growing a business. Wilhelm brings more than 30 years of health- and beauty-care experience and leadership to the promotional products industry, managing large-scale projects involving custom formulations and custom imprinting. Richard Leake, professor of economics and management at Luther College said, “The historical approach he used helped students understand the personal and professional experiences that Mr. Wilhelm had prior to starting
Read MorePrime Line Names Neil Lipper Director of Custom Sourcing
Prime Line of Bridgeport, Conn., proudly announced the appointment of Neil Lipper as director of custom sourcing. With more than 20 years of industry experience, Lipper brings expertise in all aspects of custom-designed products, including conception and design, sales, manufacturing, importing, customs and duties, and shipping. He is a past president of SAAGNY, a member since 1984, and has been named a 2007 Hall of Fame inductee. “Neil’s experience and mastery of custom direct programs makes for a perfect match with Prime’s existing resources and reach in the industry,” said executive vice president Jeff Lederer. “With Neil, we are in a fantastic position to
Read MoreBroder Bros. Open House Draws More Than 400
Broder Bros. Co. enjoyed a tremendous response at the open house held to debut their brand new Dallas-area distribution center. More than 400 people attended the day-long event, which included seminars on such topics as marketing, the future of our distribution centers, apparel trends and technology, and new initiatives in IT. Attendees also took in the 2008 offerings from Alpha Shirt Company and Broder Bros. private labels and such vendors as Alternative, Bella, Dickies, Gildan, Anvil, Fruit of the Loom, Jerzees, Hanes and more. The day wrapped up with a fashion show, cocktail reception and a concert by recording artist Bob Schneider.
Read MoreSanMar Joins the Fair Labor Association
Seattle-based SanMar, a leading supplier of imprintable apparel and accessories, has recently been accepted as a participating company of the Fair Labor Association. The FLA is a nonprofit organization established to defend workers rights worldwide. In joining the FLA, SanMar further strengthens the company’s long-standing commitment to human rights and compliance. “SanMar takes social compliance very seriously and requires all suppliers to adhere to our global operating principles,” said Marty Lott, SanMar president. “This process begins during supplier selection as it is critical that suppliers share our commitment to ethical practices and agree to abide by our strict requirements prior to receiving orders.” SanMar’s
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