September 2025

As the trees turn gold, we’re thankful for our
vibrant members who make this season even brighter.

September 24, 2025 Wild Wednesday Webinar: “PPAI Advance, the Next Evolution of Learning”


Join Jessica Gibbons-Rauch, for an energetic, insider’s look at the completely revamped certification portfolio, PPAI Advance, and how it’s designed to support you. From updated CEU options and flexible learning formats to the universal credit system that puts you in control, this session will break down what’s changed, why it matters, and how to build a personalized path toward professional growth. Whether you're brand new to the certification process or looking to recertify with purpose, you’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and maybe even a few course recommendations to get started.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand the structure and purpose of PPAI’s updated certification portfolio (TAS,CAS, and MAS)
  • Explain the universal credit (CEU) system and how it increases flexibility for learners
  • Identify the wide range of credit-earning opportunities available—including PPAI Advance, live events, third-party education, and work-based learning
  • Describe the key reasons behind the certification updates and how they better reflect today’s industry needs
  • Map out their own next steps in the certification journey with confidence


Read more and register

2 Great Cities/2 Great Shows...& A Golf Tournament, too!


Mark your calendars and register to attend our

upcoming Fall Holiday Showcase!

 

Don't miss this year's Fall Holiday Showcase which will be held in both St. Louis and Kansas City. Our annual end user friendly tabletop show format will be at two fun and unique locations that you and your customers are sure to love!


TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2025

The Foundry Arts Centre

520 North Main Center

St. Charles, MO 63301


THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025

The Fiorella's

9000 West 137th Street

Overland Park, KS 66221



Education: 9 am - 10 am Exhibits Open: 10 am - 1pm


Register to exhibit or attend today!



 For event details and registration links, click here

NEW THIS YEAR!

We will be hosting our annual Golf Tournament between the Fall shows on 10/15/25 in Kansas City so start getting your teams together now!

Get ready to swing into action!

It's time to tee off and have some fun on the fairways with PPAMidwest, your co-workers, family and friends!


10/15/2025

Fred Arbanas Golf Course

11100 View High Dr

Kansas City, MO 64134


Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, this event promises a fantastic opportunity to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with colleagues, family, and friends in a relaxed and beautiful setting with top-notch amenities.


Tournament Details:

  • Registration/Check in - 8 am
  • Shotgun Start - 9 am 
  • Golfer Entry Fee - $150 per person/$600 per team which includes:
  • 18 holes of Championship Golf
  • Electric Cart
  • Buffet Lunch
  • Golfer's Goodie Bag
  • Bragging rights and prizes in various categories, including 1st and 2nd place teams, Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and Longest Putt.
  • Sponsorship Opportunities:
  • Snack Sponsor - $250 (Limit: 1)
  • Lunch Sponsor - $500 (Limit: 3) 
  • Beverage Cart Sponsor - $500 (Limit: 1) 
  • Hole Sponsor with sign only - $50
  • Hole Sponsor with exhibit space and sign - $200 (must bring all items needed for your exhibit space including table, tent, etc.)


All Sponsorships include prominent signage at the course, online promotion including company logo on pre-event marketing and the opportunity to include product in Golfer Goodie Bags or donate prizes.

 Register Today!

 

PPAMidwest News

Vantage Apparel Announces Single PO Integration with Cutter & Buck: From Webstores to Contract Decoration


Avenel, NJ - Vantage Apparel recently announced that Cutter & Buck is now fully integrated with Vantage, including the Vantage Webstore platform. This partnership brings together two powerhouse brands known for premium quality – now with instant access to Vantage’s 29-year, award-winning decoration services, all fulfilled seamlessly on a single-vendor purchase order.

 

Effective immediately, distributors using Vantage Webstores can merchandise their online stores with the entire Cutter & Buck catalog—including both the classic Retail CB line and the everyday essential Clique collection. Every style is available for print on-demand decoration by Vantage with no minimums, allowing distributors and their customers to place one-piece orders with the same ease and efficiency as bulk programs.

 

“Vantage’s webstore solution is designed to simplify how distributors sell branded merchandise—faster, easier, and with more flexibility,” said Rob Watson, CEO of Vantage Apparel. “By adding Cutter & Buck to the mix, we’re delivering the industry’s largest apparel assortment on one platform—decorated on-demand and ready to order with just a click.”

 

As an official contract decoration partner, Vantage offers distributors FREE inbound freight from Cutter & Buck to any of its three U.S. facilities: Avenel, NJ; St. Louis, MO; and Santa Ana, CA. Even for non-webstore orders, distributors only need to issue a single purchase order to Vantage—with Cutter & Buck apparel and Vantage as the decorator—and Vantage’s system handles the merchandise ordering, eliminating the need for a second PO.


These integrations allow for centralized product selection, seamless ordering, and a flexible, customer-branded ecommerce experience that supports programs of any size—from internal company stores to large-scale promotional campaigns.

 

“We know our customers are looking for premium brands that elevate their programs—and they want simplicity in how they deliver that experience,” said Joel Freet, CEO of Cutter & Buck. “By partnering with Vantage, we’re making it easier than ever for companies to bring Cutter & Buck into their corporate apparel, employee recognition, and client gifting initiatives—with the same quality, style, and service they expect from us.

PCNA Welcomes Mark Gammon as VP of National Accounts and Buying Groups


Pittsburgh, PA – Polyconcept North America (PCNA), recently announced the appointment of Mark Gammon as Vice President of National Accounts and Buying Groups. A respected leader in the promotional products industry, Gammon most recently served as CEO of Cap America, where he guided the company through significant growth and product innovation.

 

With more than 15 years of industry experience, including board service with PPAI since 2024, Gammon brings deep expertise in sales leadership and business development. At Cap America, he quickly advanced from Vice President of Sales to President and COO, before being named CEO in 2021. During his tenure, he oversaw the launch of new product lines, expanded into sporting goods, and positioned the company as a top supplier of team and promotional headwear.

 

“I am honored to contribute to PCNA’s leadership in the promotional market by delivering customer-centric solutions that drive growth and success,” said Gammon. “I’m passionate about the role promotional products play in brand recognition and engagement, and I look forward to applying my experience to further strengthen PCNA’s leadership in the industry.”

 

Prior to Cap America, Gammon spent eight years at The Vernon Company, where he built his foundation in sales management and client relationship development. His career-long commitment to the promotional products industry makes him an ideal fit for PCNA’s sales leadership team.


“We are thrilled to welcome Mark to the PCNA family,” said Neil Ringel, CEO of PCNA. “Mark knows this industry inside and out. His proven track record of growth, innovation, and leadership will drive even greater value for our distributor partners. He is truly an invaluable addition to our team, and his passion for building strong, customer-focused teams is exactly what we need to fuel our next phase of growth.”

 

At PCNA, Gammon will oversee the national account and buying group teams within the sales department. He succeeds Bill Peterson, who has served as Vice President of Sales since 2021.

 

PCNA and Cap America partnered in 2024 to expand PCNA’s headwear portfolio, a collaboration that highlighted shared values between the two companies. Cap America’s reputation for exceptional embroidery, product innovation, and community commitment mirrors PCNA’s values and ProudPath initiative, which champions sustainability and purpose-driven brands.

 

Gammon graduated summa cum laude from William Penn University and later earned a certificate in Disruptive Strategy from Harvard Business School, underscoring his commitment to continuous learning and leadership excellence.

Alan Tabasky Joins C-Suite at SnugZ USA


West Jordan, UT – Alan Tabasky, who most recently served as president of BEL Promo and chief supply chain officer of its parent company BEL USA, has been named senior vice president and chief supply chain officer of supplier SnugZ USA.

 

“Alan’s industry experience, operational acumen and customer-centric approach make him a perfect addition to our Executive Team,” said Brandon Mackay, CEO of SnugZ USA. “We’re thrilled to welcome someone with Alan’s deep knowledge and passion. He brings a fresh perspective and a proven ability to drive scale, process and partnership across the value chain.”

 

In his new role, Tabasky will oversee SnugZ USA’s global supply chain strategy while working closely with the executive team to drive efficiency, innovation and operational excellence across the organization.

 

“Leaving BEL USA was not an easy decision, but I’m incredibly excited about what’s ahead,” said Tabasky. “SnugZ has a phenomenal reputation, strong leadership and a values-driven culture that aligns with how I lead. I’m energized by the opportunity to contribute to their next phase of innovation and growth.”

Maple Ridge Farms Celebrates First Anniversary of Sweeter Cards Acquisition


Mosinee, WI – Maple Ridge Farms marked the first anniversary of its acquisition of Sweeter Cards with a champagne toast on the company’s patio.


“Our acquisition of Sweeter Cards has exceeded all expectations,” said Tom Riordan, President of Maple Ridge Farms. “Our sales are up 75% this year, driven largely by Sweeter Cards. We’ve seen strong demand across many industries, especially in healthcare and finance. To build on that momentum, we’ve recently expanded the Sweeter Cards line to include:

  • Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • Albanese® Gummi Bears
  • Peppermint Bark


Jodie Schillinger, Executive Vice President, added: “The success of Sweeter Cards in just one year demonstrates how intentional design and innovation can transform corporate gifting into a meaningful, memorable marketing tool. At Maple Ridge Farms, we’re proud to celebrate this milestone as we continue elevating the art of food gifting—creating joy, driving impact, and sparking brand activations that leave a lasting legacy.”



Riordan also recognized the brand’s founder: “Stacy Stahl was instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition. We owe her tremendous gratitude—this success would not have been possible without her.”

PPAMidwest Members.....Are you taking advantage of your

membership benefits like our Member Only Coupon Book?

Visit our Members Only Section for this and other Member Only Benefits!

The Vernon Company Adds Rachel Kleser to National Sales Team


Newton, IA – The Vernon Company has welcomed Rachel Kleser of Clearwater, FL-based Easy Peasy Promotions to its national sales team.


Kleser established her company in 2020 as an engraving business and soon after began offering promo products and branded apparel. Previously, she was a marketing executive for equipment company IBIX North America Surface Technologies. Moving forward, Kleser’s company will operate under The Vernon Company’s auspices but will retain its brand, clients and operations.


“Every client’s world is different, and I love learning the nuances of each business,” says Kleser. “The most rewarding part of this work is finding creative solutions, building strong relationships and growing alongside my customers.”


Kleser connected with The Vernon Company when a customer’s request for a large order exceeded her capacity. She’ll now serve both her existing clients and Vernon customers from her home office in Florida.



“We’re happy to have Rachel join our team,” says Kelli Denes, director of business development. “She’s creative, hardworking and always focused on finding the best ways to support her customers. Working with her is a pleasure, and we’re excited to see her bright future.”

Want to earn points and join in on the fun?

Simply complete the easy request form  to have your points credited

for the activities you participate in. For live events and activities, your attendance will automatically be recorded and points assigned, provided you are an active member of PPAMidwest. For recorded webinars, referrals and completion of PPAI Certifications or renewals, simply complete the easy request form to have your points credited.

It is that simple! (click on above image for more information).

Industry News

PPAI Board of Directors

PPAI Media

PPAI Board of Directors Welcomes 4 New Members

 

PPAI has announced the results of the recent member vote for its Board of Directors beginning in 2026 and confirmed the industry leaders who will hold offices next year. Incoming members will join in January following The PPAI Expo 2026. Likewise, certain existing Board members will either transition to new roles or complete their tenure on the Board.

 

Members voted to confirm the slate of nominees, made up of Whitestone founder and CEO Joseph Sommer and Bruce Barnet, COO of Charles River Apparel.

 

Additionally, the Board approved S&S Activewear CEO Frank Myers to fill a vacancy created when Dan Pantano announced his departure from alphabroder. S&S Activewear acquired alphabroder in 2024. Myers will serve the remainder of Pantano’s term, set to expire in 2027.



Also added to the Board is Samantha Kates, president of supplier Spector, who will serve as at-large director for two years.

Read More

The Types of Social Media Posts That Go Viral For Small Businesses

Liz Brody • Contributing Editor • Entrepreneur Magazine


We all post dutifully, but what actually gets customers commenting? Here, six mom-and-pops share their most successful posts.


You don't have to be an influencer to get attention on social media, and your posts don't need to rack up a million views in order to make a difference to your bottom line. For small businesses, what counts as "viral" is all relative.

 

The key is engagement, or getting your customers sharing, liking and thinking about your business. So how do you make that happen? Here, six mom-and-pops share their social media success stories.



Read More

PPAI Rising Stars Class of 2025

PPAI Newslink

PPAI Rising Stars Class of 2025 Announced

 

PPAI's staff judges have once again completed one of the toughest assignments of the year: identifying the newest class of PPAI Rising Stars.

 

More than 200 nominations poured in from across the promotional products industry in 2025, spotlighting professionals whose accomplishments, leadership and passion set them apart. From this group, 12 individuals have been chosen for recognition as the 2025 PPAI Rising Stars.

 

The honorees embody the qualities the program has celebrated since its creation in 2010 – achievement, volunteerism, leadership and, most importantly, the potential to shape the industry’s future for decades to come.


Meet The 2025 PPAI Rising Stars

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