This year’s Partner Series has been packed with value! Each partner brought something new to the table, from creative packaging to thoughtful gifting strategies and industry trends. We heard from some of the brightest minds in the promotional products world, learning what’s working and how to create great branded items. If you missed any episodes, we’ve got the highlights!
Here’s a look back at all the episodes that made 2024 awesome.
January: The Power of Drinkware with Mike Contreras from ETS Express
We kicked off the year with Mike Contreras from ETS Express, who shared why drinkware remains the top hard goods category in the industry.
Takeaways:
- High-quality drinkware is a long-lasting way to share your brand’s story—it’s not something people are likely to throw away.
- Brands like Larq, Owala, Contigo, Ember, and Blender Bottle are the top brands in the market focusing on style and functionality.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
February: Redefining Custom with Amanda Jones from Pop! Promos
Amanda Jones gave us a look at how Pop! Promos is pushing the boundaries of customization while keeping sustainability at the forefront.
Takeaways:
- Pop! Promos launches new products constantly. Amanda talked about the 40 products that they launched this year.
- Their commitment to sustainability includes eliminating single-use plastics and offsetting carbon emissions, setting a strong example for the industry.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
March: Creative Packaging and Sustainability with Mike Szymczak from Rupt
Mike Szymczak walked us through Rupt’s innovative approach to packaging and their dedication to sustainability, raising industry standards with their “Second Life Packaging” concept.
Takeaways:
- Rupt is committed to genuine sustainability and supply chain transparency which makes them a leader in thoughtful product design.
- Their “Second Life Packaging” transforms packaging into functional items like desk clocks or bird feeders, adding extra value.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
May: Tech Innovation for Events with Matt Eysoldt from Powerstick
Matt from Powerstick shared how their in-house production process leads to standout tech products for corporate events and programs and quick turnarounds.
Takeaways:
- Fast production times and custom packaging options make Powerstick a go-to for high-quality, tech-focused promotional solutions.
- Brands like Google and Ford trust Powerstick to represent them with innovative, reliable products.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
June: Elevating Brands with Bridget Kress from PCNA
Bridget Kress from PCNA discussed the value of their extensive product portfolio and their ProudPath™ initiative.
Takeaways:
- PCNA’s partnerships with retail brands that give back make it easier for companies to align with social and environmental goals.
- PCNA’s offerings include clothing, journals, and innovative decoration services. Their value-added customization options and decoration services are great additions to their products.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
July: Custom Awards with Ryan Hole from Visions Awards
Ryan Hole shared how Visions Awards is modernizing recognition programs with creative and customizable options.
Takeaways:
- Their rapid ship and hold-and-fulfill programs ensure awards arrive on time for any occasion.
- Fully customizable awards allow brands to create unique pieces that truly represent their milestones and achievements.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
August: Premium Retail Brands with Jeremy Gonzalez from Hirsch Gift
Jeremy Gonzalez with Hirsch Gift showed us how to make an impression with premium, retail-branded products.
Takeaways:
- High-end retail brands create trust and loyalty by offering gifts that people actually want to use.
- It’s possible to find premium options that fit your budget while still making a big impact.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
September: Timeless Gifting with Taryn Sanders from Terry Town
Taryn Sanders from Terry Town walked us through quality gift-giving during the busy gifting season and how to choose items that customers or employees will keep.
Takeaways:
- Products like high-end cashmere and customizable packaging make gifts feel personal and special.
- Timeless, quality items ensure your gift leaves a lasting impression.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
October: Lifestyle, Travel & Tech with Geoff Vejsicky from Gemline
Geoff Vejsicky from Gemline explained why shifting from giveaways to meaningful, giftable items is worth the investment.
Takeaways:
- Eco-conscious products and Gemline’s Betterway program help brands align their values with their merchandise.
- Thoughtful, high-quality gifts create stronger connections and better ROI than traditional giveaways.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
November: Personalized Gifting with Mark Hanratty from Swanky Badger
Mark Hanratty from Swanky Badger closed out the year with insights into personalized, on-demand gifting that forges emotional connections.
Takeaways:
- Personalized gifts add meaning and help build deeper relationships with employees and customers.
- Swanky Badger’s on-demand approach ensures every gift feels unique while supporting community causes like children’s hospitals.
Watch the full Partner Series episode HERE.
Each Partner Series episode offered practical advice and inspiration for leveraging branded merchandise to build stronger connections with employees and customers. Whether you’re looking to align with sustainability goals, embrace innovation, or create meaningful gifts, our partners provided a roadmap for success.
Stay tuned for episodes in 2025!
