Written by Lidia Vijga, Co-founder at DeckLinks
Extraordinarily diverse, the PPAI Expo is a four-day event that brings together the brightest minds and most innovative companies in the promotional products industry. From pens and t-shirts to high-tech gadgets, if you can put a logo on it, you’ll find it here.
Walking into the expo reminded me of my first time on the Las Vegas Strip. Just like Vegas wows visitors with its bright lights and colorful signs, the exhibition floor amazed me with its variety of promotional items. Every booth aimed to grab attention with striking displays and a wide range of branded products. The energy in the air was similar to what you’d feel in Las Vegas, but instead of casinos and shows, it was all about creative marketing ideas.
But what makes this industry truly special is its foundation of family-owned businesses that have stood the test of time. These aren’t just companies, they’re legacies passed down through generations, each with a unique story to tell.
In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through my PPAI Expo experience, introducing you to some of these remarkable family-owned businesses. Their stories of perseverance, innovation, and dedication might just inspire you to look at that branded pen on your desk a little differently.
What is PPAI and how did I end up at their Expo
Founded in 1903, the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) stands as the largest not-for-profit trade association in the promotional products industry, representing over 15,000 member companies.
Their mission is simple yet powerful: to establish promotional products as an essential element of every brand’s marketing strategy. For more than a century, PPAI has been the driving force behind the industry’s growth and innovation, advocating for its members and proving that promotional products work.
Something unique about this industry struck me during the expo. Unlike other business conferences I’ve attended, LinkedIn was NOT the go-to networking tool… far from it. In fact, when I asked exhibitors to connect on LinkedIn, many seemed surprised by the request. One interaction particularly stood out: when I connected with an exhibitor, I noticed he had only 1 LinkedIn connection – I would be his second! Curious, I asked him, “How do you manage sales without LinkedIn?” His response was: “PPAI takes care of us.” 🧡
That’s when I realized the strength of this association. While most industries rely on social media for connections, PPAI has built such a strong community that its members don’t need to look elsewhere for business relationships.
So how did I end up here?
My journey to the PPAI Expo began with Eric Granata, the founder of PromoPilot, who has been transforming the promotional products industry since 2012. Through PromoPilot, he shows companies how to streamline their operations, automate their routine tasks and make the most of their business tools – all without needing to know how to code.
When he invited me to the expo, I was excited to see firsthand how this industry, which combines traditional marketing with more advanced tech, comes together at its biggest annual gathering.
My PPAI Expo experience began in one of the conference rooms, where Eric shared his insights about automation and the no-code movement. His presentation showed how even simple automation tools can transform the most time-consuming business tasks into streamlined processes.
Eric excels at making complex technology sound approachable, proving that you don’t need to write a single line of code to automate your business – just a willingness to learn new tools.
Whether you’re managing orders, tracking inventory, or handling customer relationships, there’s a simpler way to get things done through automation. Eric’s real-world examples resonated with everyone in the room, showing exactly why more and more promotional product businesses are embracing these tools to stay competitive.
While innovation drives the industry forward, the heart of PPAI beats strongest through its family-owned businesses.
Gallery Leather
Meet the Gallery Leather Team! I had the privilege of meeting the president Jeff Plourde and his family, who now lead the company. Their story perfectly captures the essence of family businesses in this industry. When Jeff purchased the company in 2019, just months before the pandemic would reshape the business world, he wasn’t just buying a leather goods manufacturer – he was becoming part of a legacy of Maine craftsmanship and a tight-knit family of artisans.
Gallery Leather’s journey from a small shop to a thriving company of 30 skilled craftspeople speaks volumes about the power of putting people first. Their longest-serving employee, Melissa, has been handcrafting leather goods for 35 years, and she continues to do so with the same passion she had on day one.
The company’s commitment runs deeper than business – when their founder passed away, the team planted an apple tree outside their building, a living testament to their bonds that run deeper than mere commerce. Walking through their booth at PPAI, it was clear that this spirit of family and craftsmanship hasn’t just survived – it’s thriving.
Tuckahoe Hardwoods
At the next booth, Rowina Dent from Tuckahoe Hardwoods shared her family’s remarkable journey – a story that took them across continents. While brothers Johnny and George Dent started the company in Maryland as a hardwood flooring specialist in 2004, it was their expansion into handcrafted promotional products that shaped their journey and brought a warm, personal touch to the promotional business industry.
Rowina shared how she and her husband moved their family to Indonesia, where they now source their materials and operate their own furniture shop. Their collection includes beautifully crafted items made from East Indian walnut and teak – from cutting boards to wooden mugs and tea sets.
The ‘GA’ tea set (on the left) has a heartwarming family connection – it was named after their daughters Greta and Alex, who inspired the product through their love of hosting tea parties.
What makes their products special isn’t just the craftsmanship, but their direct involvement in the entire process, from log selection to final product. This hands-on approach not only ensures quality but also keeps their pricing competitive by eliminating middlemen. Each piece tells a story of sustainable practices and family values, showing how promotional products can be both meaningful and environmentally conscious.
Tyca
I had the pleasure of meeting the father and daughter duo behind Tyca, premier manufacturers of embossed apparel and accessories. Their story is an inspiring journey of evolution and resilience. The company was originally founded by the father 50 years ago, but not in the way you might expect. He started out making shoes before making a bold pivot to focus on what Tyca is now known for: high-quality, embossed denim, cotton, and leather apparel and accessories. This shift proved to be a pivotal moment for the company, and their first major client was Levi’s, a partnership that helped launch Tyca into the industry.
Since 1978, Tyca has been a leader in producing embossed products with extraordinary, three-dimensional visual impact. What sets Tyca apart is their ability to create unique designs on a wide range of materials, from denim and fleece to leather, vinyl, and canvas. Their embossing process delivers superb detail, dimension, and definition, making each product truly stand out. I couldn’t resist running my hands over the jackets to feel the rich texture of the embossing—it’s impressive how tangible the quality is.
Garment Decor
Meet the three brothers behind Garment Decor, a company that’s reshaping expectations in custom t-shirt and embroidery industry. Their journey began in 2013 with a passion for printing and a small garage near Los Angeles. Today, that humble start has evolved into a thriving operation with a 20,000 square foot facility.
The brothers’ hands-on approach was evident when they created a custom t-shirt for me right there at the expo, showcasing the skill and efficiency that has propelled their startup to industry recognition.
But despite their growth, they haven’t lost that personal touch. With a team of 30, they treat every customer like family, which shows in their hundreds of 5-star reviews.
What surprised me the most is that the brothers aren’t stopping there. They’ve got big dreams beyond the printing world. They’ve acquired a new facility nearby and are venturing into real estate. Their plan is to turn this new space into a shared office environment, renting out to various businesses – not just those in the printing industry. It’s almost like they’re creating their own mini “WeWork”!! This creative expansion shows how family businesses like Garment Decor are thinking outside the box, diversifying their interests, and contributing to the local business community in unexpected ways.
Infant Blanks
My next visit to the Infant Blanks booth was truly inspiring. This family-owned company is doing something special in the world of baby clothes. What really stood out wasn’t just their soft, 100% cotton garments, but their clever partnership with hospitals. Infant Blanks came up with a brilliant idea: printing care instructions for new moms right on their layette sets.
As I looked through their products – from tiny onesies to cozy blankets – I could feel the care put into each item. The fabrics were soft, the designs thoughtful. It struck me how this family business wasn’t just making clothes; they were supporting new families in a meaningful way. This partnership with hospitals shows how promotional products can be more than just items with logos. They can be tools for education, sources of comfort, and even a helping hand for new parents.
Infant Blanks is proving that with a little creativity, a family business can touch lives and make a real difference, one baby garment at a time.
Scratch Off Systems
Next, I came across the engaging Scratch Off Systems booth. Their display immediately caught my attention with its diverse range of promotional products. I realized that I had just discovered a fascinating world of interactive printing.
The team at their booth provided a highly informative demonstration of their products, and I even took their sample package back to Toronto with me. Each item in the package highlighted their attention to detail – from classic scratch-off cards to digital solutions, peel-to-win cards, and various specialty labels.
As I learned more about their operation, I was impressed by their significant experience, having printed over 375 million scratch-offs. Their product range extended well beyond what I initially expected, including custom pull tabs, online sweepstakes, direct mailers, parking passes, and specialized items like security labels and signature panels. The fact that they handle all production in-house and offer local printing with fast shipping showed their commitment to quality control and customer service. I’m excited to follow this company and I look forward to seeing what innovative solutions they’ll bring next to the promotional products industry.
American Ad Bad
Next, I visited American Ad Bag booth. Though I didn’t meet the owner, a friendly team member walked me through their product line. Started in 1992 in Woodstock, Illinois, American Ad Bag has become a go-to name for custom printed bags of all types – non-woven, paper, and plastic.
As I picked up and felt some of the samples, I could see why they’ve earned a reputation for quality and smart design. What really impressed me was their new line of bags made from 100% sugarcane waste. These eco-friendly options felt durable enough for all sorts of uses, from fancy boutiques to everyday shopping.
Their representative even gave me one of their reusable totes to try out. As I carried it around the expo, I thought about how this family business that’s been around for decades is still coming up with fresh ideas and keeping up with what customers want today, especially when it comes to being kinder to the environment.
Quality Patches
Meet Sofiya and her talented team at Quality Patches, a specialized manufacturer and supplier known for turning even the most creative patch ideas into reality. With years of industry experience, they offer a wide range of custom options, from embroidered to chenille patches, all crafted with precision and attention to detail.
Their artists and designers pour their creativity into every project, crafting one-of-a-kind patches that tell a story – whether for proud schools, competitive sports teams, growing businesses, or special events.
Quality Patches has made its mark in the industry (with some shiny awards to prove it!) by giving each client their full attention and making sure every vision comes to life exactly as imagined. Whether it’s a bold school emblem that pops, a dynamic team logo that gets fans excited, or an elegant corporate design that means business – that’s what they live for. At Quality Patches, they create wearable art that leaves a lasting impression.
METROPAK
Next at the PPAI Expo, I discovered the remarkable story of Metropak. Their success is built on a friendship that dates back to third grade. Owners Eric Grossman and Edward Hanson have known each other since elementary school, a bond that has lasted for decades. When you’ve been friends for that long, running a business together becomes almost like a family affair.
Their commitment to customer service as the top priority has paid off, making Metropak the highest-rated bag supplier in the industry. They’ve consistently maintained a 5-Star ASI rating and A+ Sage rating year after year. This dedication to quality and service has also earned them multiple recognitions as one of the best workplaces in the industry.
Beyond their impressive track record, Metropak is making strides in sustainability with their new RETHINKPoly™ material, made from 90% recycled content. Their focus on US manufacturing and eco-friendly practices demonstrates how long-established businesses in the promotional products industry can adapt to meet modern needs while maintaining their core values of quality and service.
Illini
I had the opportunity to visit a super busy booth by Illini, a well-established promotional product manufacturer since 1949. Through my lens, I captured their impressive collection, with their coasters standing out for their cozy and amazing design quality. My photos showcased a portion of their extensive lineup of 700 promotional items, all produced in their massive 100,000 square foot facility.
This family-owned business serves various sectors including corporate, education, and healthcare markets, and their commitment to quality was evident in every product I photographed. Their union print shop and state-of-the-art UV printing technology, which ensures vibrant, multi-colored designs with precise PMS color matching, has helped them maintain their position as a trusted partner for promotional product distributors.
This blend of precision, heritage, and technological advancement has allowed Illini to create meaningful promotional products for over seven decades.
Picnic Time – Family of Brands
Next at the expo, I visited Picnic Time‘s booth. Since 1982, this family-owned business has been crafting products that turn outdoor meals into memorable gatherings. Their collection mesmerized me, from classic woven European picnic baskets to sleek, contemporary entertaining pieces. Every item tells a story of craftsmanship and seems designed with one purpose: bringing people together in the great outdoors.
The booth showcased their diverse product line, which has grown from humble beginnings in a Woodland Hills garage to become a respected brand in promotional products industry.
You can really feel the passion behind this Southern California company, founded by Italian immigrants Gustavo Cosaro and Mario Tagliati. With their deep-rooted dedication to crafting products that bring people together, the company remains committed to helping families and friends create lasting memories and build connections that stand the test of time
Sonoma Promo
Sonoma Promo, originally founded as Sonoma Pins Etc. in 1990, has evolved into a powerhouse in the promotional products industry. The company’s transformation was driven by the need to offer customers more than just quick-turnaround, off-the-shelf items. With their mantra “Evolve or Perish,” Sonoma Promo set out to meet the growing demand for creative, customized solutions that go beyond typical merchandise.
Over the years, the company has earned a reputation as an award-winning wholesale supplier of unique items such as custom 3D miniatures, coins, medallions, wine accessories, patches, and keychains, among many others.
Sonoma Promo was co-founded by Judith Friedman, a tenacious risk-taker who has shaped the company with her vision and leadership. Her belief in Mark Twain’s famous words, “Many a small thing has been made large by the right kind of advertising,” has driven Sonoma Promo’s growth and success.
Sonoma Promo also places a strong emphasis on product safety. Long before the introduction of federal regulations like the CPSIA, they worked closely with major retail brands to ensure their products met the highest standards for lead and heavy metal content. Today, Sonoma Promo continues to lead the industry in safety, adopting best practices and automated production processes to stay ahead of evolving challenges.
Rupt
Next at the expo, I met the team behind Rupt, and I was blown away by what they’ve created. Rupt isn’t just a brand—it’s a fresh approach to combining innovation with sustainability in a way that feels completely new. Founded by Jason Lucash and Mike Szymczak, Rupt is all about breaking the mold and turning everyday products into something extraordinary.
What really surprised me was the range of products they offer, each with its own unique functionality, yet all designed with sustainability at their core.
From sleek speakers, headphones, and earbuds to powerbanks, cables, and backpacks, every item has been thoughtfully crafted with the planet in mind. And they don’t stop there—Rupt also offers eco-conscious drinkware, including bottles that combine style and purpose.
The company specializes in crafting avant-garde products made from recycled materials, while maintaining a high level of transparency and working toward carbon neutrality. A notable aspect of their approach is the product packaging, which goes beyond traditional use. Instead of being just a container, their packaging serves as a canvas for second-life possibilities, reimagining packaging as an art form with a clear purpose. Rupt’s dedication to these principles highlights their effort to redefine industry standards and integrate sustainability into every aspect of their products.
iDex International
iDex International specializes in contract embroidery, screen printing, and DTF printing for apparel, hats, accessories, and more. Known for their lightning-fast turnaround, they never compromise on quality even when working at speed. What sets them apart? They handle rush orders without tacking on extra fees – making them the go-to partner for businesses that need reliable, versatile production on any timeline.
Beyond speed, iDex prides itself on clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. They aim to build strong, lasting relationships with clients, treating each partnership as a long-term collaboration. This customer-first approach, combined with their broad range of services, has helped iDex stand out in the wearables and promotional products industry.
Larlu
Larlu is an award-winning supplier helping distributors with a range of high-quality products and great customer service since 1961. With a focus on teamwork and industry know-how, Larlu offers a huge variety of products and creative ideas to fit any client’s needs. Their lineup includes over 40 product categories, like buttons, pennants, flags, towels, signage, clocks, lanyards, magnets, decals, and more.
Everything is made in the USA at one of their six production facilities, and all products meet important safety standards like CPSIA and Prop 65. Larlu is also committed to the environment, with green initiatives to reduce waste and conserve resources. Plus, they offer an Event Guarantee—your order ships on time or it’s free.
Tech Partners at PPAI Expo
While family businesses remain the backbone of the promotional products industry, I’d like to highlight tech partners who understand the unique challenges of the industry and develop really exciting solutions.
Merch.AI
Merch.AI is an innovative platform built to simplify and enhance the promotional products industry. With the help of artificial intelligence, this company empowers both distributors and suppliers to save time and automate creative tasks, enabling them to focus more on sales and client relationships.
For distributors, Merch.AI offers a quick and easy way to create fully branded PDF catalogs, web presentations, and flyers. The AI-powered tools also help generate themed kit ideas, such as custom event kits for everything from office parties to corporate fundraisers. By automating tasks like product branding, users can customize over 10,000 products with their clients’ logos in minutes, cutting down on repetitive work and speeding up the sales process.
On the supplier side, Merch.AI is designed to help suppliers connect with more distributors by consolidating product catalogs and sales teams into one unified platform. Suppliers can easily upload custom catalogs, showcase their product lines, and generate branded PDFs in under two minutes. With tiered access for sales teams, suppliers can efficiently manage and share catalog reports and product lists, streamlining collaboration and expanding their reach.
PromoHunt
PromoHunt was created out of a frustration many small businesses face in the promotional products industry. After struggling with existing tools, the founder recognized that current platforms were bogged down by ads, lacked easy price comparisons, and failed to integrate into daily workflows. This led to the creation of a platform built specifically to make sourcing products easier and more efficient for both distributors and decorators.
PromoHunt prioritizes user experience with a clean, intuitive interface and powerful tools that make it easy to compare account-specific prices from multiple suppliers. The platform’s toolbar seamlessly integrates with supplier websites, automatically displaying any applicable coupons and contact details.
What sets PromoHunt apart is its commitment to fairness and transparency. Designed with distributors and decorators in mind, the platform keeps its core toolbar free for all users. PromoHunt ensures a level playing field by never promoting one supplier over another or excluding any suppliers from its services. Product visibility is earned through merit, not payment, giving suppliers of all sizes equal opportunities to be discovered. With a focus on efficiency, transparency, and ethical sourcing, PromoHunt is dedicated to helping businesses thrive in the promotional products industry.
That’s a wrap!
The PPAI Expo revealed a unique aspect of the promotional products industry. While the showroom floor was packed with the latest products, what really stood out were the individuals behind the booths. Family businesses continue to thrive here, passing down their knowledge and values from one generation to the next.
These companies aren’t intimidated by technological advancements – rather, they’re enthusiastically adopting them to enhance customer service while maintaining the personal touch that made them successful in the first place.
