September/October 2025 Issue

Dear UMAPP Members and Friends,


As the leaves begin to turn and we settle into the cozy rhythms of fall, I hope this message finds you energized by the season’s shift and optimistic for the journey ahead.

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Industry Momentum & Strategic Adaptation


We’ve entered a time of meaningful transformation in the promotional products industry. According to PPAI's 2025 Mid-Year Trends & Predictions, savvy firms are recalibrating with precision—diversifying sourcing, innovating fulfillment, and adapting with strategic intent to market pressures and supply-chain friction PPAI. These insights remind us that UMAPP’s resilience—and your leadership—are more critical now than ever.

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Growth on the Horizon


Looking back to the outlook for 2025, it’s clear our industry remains optimistic about the future. Data shows that nearly half of the top distributors and suppliers expect growth of 6–15%, with many prioritizing new markets and expanded product lines as core strategies. As we plan for UMAPP’s future, we’re aligning our initiatives—like finding new ways to connect and expanding beyond the Twin Cities region —to reflect that forward-looking ambition.

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Looking Ahead: Warmth, Purpose, Connection

As the calendar turns toward fall and soon winter, here’s what UMAPP is excited to focus on:


• Thoughtful Engagement — We’re building on this season’s mood of connection through outreach and storytelling. Our upcoming Young Professionals gatherings, networking events, and social media highlights will reflect both industry insights and personal relevance.
  
• Creative Community — Driven by innovation, we’ll continue mixing regional events with purposeful design trends, sustainability spark, and lasting style.
  
• Celebrating You — Fall is also a wonderful time to reflect on UMAPP’s milestones—old and new—and express gratitude for the generosity, innovation, and dedication at the heart of our association.

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Thank you for your continued support and vision. As you wrap your days in crisp air and cozy sweaters (or continue to bask in warmth for those of you in the warmer regions), know that you’re part of an industry—and an association—that’s rooted in strength, ingenuity, and heart.

Warmly,

Misty Friedrichs, President, UMAPP

National Sales Manager:

3M Promotional Markets

• UMAPP Board of Directors Application for 2026-2027

• September 24: Webinar. Jessica Gibbons-Rauch with PPAI presenting “PPAI Advance, the Next Evolution of Learning”

• September 30: Seminar. "AI for Promotional Products Professionals: A Blueprint for Your Success"

• September 30: UMAPP "Connects" Social Event
  
• October 14, 2025: Seminar. "The Strategic Leaders Roadmap" hosted by the Business Leaders Breakfast Forum. UMAPP Members receive a discount.

Former UMAPP Presidents were invited to a breakfast on August 11 to share memories and insight about the Association's leadership direction moving forward.

From left: Paul Miller, Chris Babiash, Scott Hareid, Misty Friedrichs (current President) Paula Coomer, Eric Johnson, Sue Kennedy, Joe Durand, Patrick Napurski (current Vice President), Sandy Nichols, Sue Selseth (Executive Director). Missing from the photo: Jim Christopherson

Reprinted with permission from PPAI Media

More than 80% of employees say they work harder when appreciated. Showing appreciation at work doesn’t have to be complicated. It could look like sending a co-worker a quick thank-you after they helped you close a deal. Or, it could mean giving a shout-out during a team meeting to recognize someone’s hard work.

Upper Midwest Association of Promotional Professionals admin@umapp.org

UMAPP.org | 651-734-9767 (landline)