|
Summer is finally here, and we hope you’re having fun in the sun!
We’ve got plenty to share with you, including a recap of our epic Promo Safari stop in Boise, a spotlight on our current Past President Thomas Dalis, industry news, member updates, and the opening of nominations for this year’s Annual Awards.
Promo Safari Portland on August 19 is guaranteed to be a show-stopper, with JQ’s Field Guide Part II, a full day of exhibits, and our Annual Meeting & Awards. Register today — we can’t wait to see you there!
| Thank You for Joining Us in Boise! | | |
What an epic stop on our Promo Safari adventure!
From the networking party to the engaging education session led by Ashley Colautti, Boise brought the energy from start to finish. The show floor was filled with standout products, fresh ideas, product discovery, industry friends reconnecting, and new faces joining the adventure.
A big thank-you to everyone who joined us, exhibited, supported, sponsored, and helped make Boise such a successful stop on our Promo Safari adventure.
Congratulations as well to our Promo Safari Grand Prize winners—Chance, Mindy, and Kris!
Next up: the Portland Show on August 19, featuring exhibits and our Annual Meeting & Awards. It’s guaranteed to be a show-stopper. Register Today — we can’t wait to see you there!
| | Board Director Spotlight: Thomas Dalis | | |
We’re excited to spotlight Thomas Dalis, NWPMA’s current Past President and longtime board volunteer. Thomas has been a familiar and trusted presence within NWPMA for years, generously sharing his time, perspective, and leadership to help support the association and its members.
Professionally, Thomas has been with Timbuk2 for more than 11 years, bringing supplier-side experience, industry knowledge, and a practical perspective to his role on the board.
| |
| | | | |
Since joining the NWPMA Board in 2021, Thomas has served in several leadership roles, including Board Director, Membership Chair, President-Elect, President, Past President, and RAC Liaison.
Through each role, he has been a steady supporter of NWPMA’s membership, events, advocacy efforts, and regional engagement.
| |
| |
Thomas has also represented NWPMA at PPAI’s Legislative Education and Action Day, known as LEAD, for multiple years.
Through this work, he has joined industry peers in sharing the real-world impact of the branded merch industry with lawmakers and helped to keep important policy conversations moving forward.
His participation helps ensure our region has a voice in advocacy efforts that impact businesses across the Northwest.
| |
| | | | |
Outside of work and volunteering, Thomas enjoys getting outside for adventures and spending time on the golf course whenever he can.
From leadership events to regional gatherings, he continues to show up for NWPMA, and his continued involvement has helped strengthen the association and support its ongoing regional presence.
Thank you, Thomas, for your continued leadership, volunteerism, and support of NWPMA!
| |
| |
It’s time to help celebrate the people who make our industry so special. Nominations are now open, and we want to hear from you!
Award and leadership nominations are open for:
- Supplier Rep of the Year
- Distributor Sales Rep of the Year
- Multi-Line Rep of the Year
- Hall of Fame
- Lifetime Achievement Award
- Volunteer of the Year
- Super Star Award
- Best Hype Person
- Best Connector
- Most Likely to Make You Laugh
- Most Likely to Turn a Simple Idea Into Something Brilliant
- 2027 NWPMA Board of Directors
- 2027 NWPMA Member-At-Large
| | | Upcoming Events & Webinars | | |
"Packaging Is Not the Box; It’s the Brand Experience, …It’s The Hidden Profit Lever"
June 24, 2026, at 9:30 AM PT
Most salespeople view packaging as an afterthought, a simple container for the product. In reality, packaging is a powerful branding tool that elevates perception, enhances the client experience, and dramatically increases margins.
In this session, Cliff Quicksell reveals how creative packaging can elevate brand perception, create a more memorable client experience, and open the door to stronger margins.
| | |
Cliff Quicksell
Quicksell & Associates
| | | | |
"New Tricks in '26: What's New in SAGE"
July 14, 2026, at 9:30 AM PT
Join us for a walkthrough of the latest enhancements to SAGE Workplace, Websites, and Stores, as well as some existing “Hidden Gem” tools designed to help you sell more and keep your year going strong!
You’ll leave with tips to streamline the process, strengthen presentations, and make the most of SAGE tools.
Learning Outcomes
- Idea & Presentation Wizards
- Instant Virtual Samples
- Custom Page Builder
| | |
NWPMA Promo Safari - OR
August 19, 2026 | 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
DoubleTree Downtown Portland, OR
JQ's Field Guide to High Performance Habits, Top Suppliers, Annual Meeting & Awards
Free to Attend • Free to Bring Clients
| | | | | |
LEADing the Way Recap
Policy and regulatory conversations move quickly, and it’s not always easy to know what matters most for your business.
Watch the Leading the Way recap to hear directly from regional LEADers, better understand the issues shaping the branded merch industry, and stay connected as these advocacy conversations continue.
| | |
The Branded Merch Industry's "Next Big Leap"
PPAI recently shared its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, outlining a five-year framework focused on strengthening the industry’s positioning, building community, and helping branded merch claim a larger role in modern marketing. Read More
New Research Reinforces the Power of Promotional Products
ASI’s 2026 Ad Impressions Study continues to highlight the effectiveness and staying power of branded merch, with recent coverage focused on product categories like T-shirts and how they generate impressions, brand favorability, and long-term value for advertisers. Read More
Fire Restrictions Are in Effect Across Oregon and Washington
The Bureau of Land Management is reminding visitors that statewide fire restrictions remain in effect on BLM public lands throughout Oregon and Washington as warmer weather sets in. It’s a timely summer reminder to plan ahead, stay aware of changing outdoor conditions, and help keep Northwest communities and recreation areas safe during peak season. Read More
| | |
In the Bag Promotions Joins Sky High Marketing
Boise-based In the Bag Promotions has joined Sky High Marketing, expanding resources and capabilities for clients while keeping the local Idaho team in place. As part of the transition, founders Dan and Lori Reading are retiring from day-to-day operations and will remain involved through July 2026 to help support a smooth transition.
Read Full Press Release
| | | |
Welcome New Member!
Boundless is a Merch Media Agency™ bringing together creative strategy, consultative service, and enterprise-scale execution to help brands create meaningful merchandise experiences. From branded merchandise and custom sourcing to company stores, kitting, logistics, rewards programs, and events, Boundless helps organizations turn merch into memorable brand moments.
| | | |
Have you renewed your membership?
Your NWPMA membership keeps you connected to the regional promo community and gives you access to valuable benefits, including member savings and SAGE discounts.
Renew today to stay connected to scholarships, education, networking, volunteer opportunities, advocacy, and the resources that support your business.
| | | | |
Looking for ways to help your brand stay visible? With flexible advertising opportunities available, NWPMA makes it easy to build recognition, connect with members in meaningful ways, and keep your company top-of-mind throughout the year.
Interested in learning more? Contact shay@nwpma.org
| | | | |
