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Big Markets: Strategies to Target Top Promo Products Verticals in 2026
Five cornerstone industries are recalibrating in 2026 – bringing new challenges and fresh avenues to leverage promo for growth. Plus, a look at emerging markets.
Top Stories
U.S. Government Launches Online Portal for Tariff Refunds
Trade experts caution that payouts will take time and will require businesses to ‘jump through hoops.’
Q1 Industry Sales Rise 1.8% as Inflation, Iran Conflict Weigh on Market
The results mark a sharp comedown from the industry’s strong 2025 second half, though distributors remain optimistic despite ongoing uncertainty.
Convergence Corner: Thea Rodrigue & RED Swag Turned a Meeting Into an Opportunity for Fun
The CEO of Red Swag made what could’ve been a dull job something memorable using print and promo.
Why Showrooms Still Matter in the Digital Age
Distributors find value – and close more deals – in a well-curated physical showroom.
Product Hub
Products
This Week’s New Suppliers: Unstoppable New Products
Discover creative products from new ASI suppliers.
Products
Editor’s Picks: Dynamic Banners & Flags
Whether at small businesses or large-scale events, these vibrant banners and flags are ideal for making client branding stand out in a crowd.
Products
This Week’s New Suppliers: New Promo Has Bloomed
Discover creative products from new ASI suppliers.
Bobby Lehew Will Oversee AI Initiatives at Commonsku in Newly Created Role
As chief AI officer, Lehew will “own the intelligence loop” between customers, product and the AI landscape.
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Sherry Gantt Joins Giant Media as VP of Strategic Partnerships
Gantt previously held executive sales roles at several promo suppliers and distributors.
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Fully Promoted Names Walter Miska Brand President
Current president Andrew Titus will transition to the role of president of United Franchise Group, Fully Promoted’s parent company.
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Goldstar Transitions Away From All-Inclusive Pricing Model
The Counselor Top 40 supplier will shift to line-item pricing that separates out base product costs from decoration and logistics.
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Logomark Names Hillary Scaletta to VP Role
The Counselor Top 40 supplier credited Scaletta with driving growth in her previous regional account manager position. Kristina Ciapponi was hired to succeed Scaletta.
Promo for the Planet
Sustainability
Sustainability in Print: What’s Driving Progress
Regulation, consumer demand and innovation are pushing printers toward more credible, scalable, eco-friendly practices – despite ongoing challenges.
Sustainability
Registration Open for 2026 Sustainable Merch Summit
Apparel supplier Stanley/Stella has been named presenting partner of the virtual event set for Earth Day.
Sustainability
The Promise (and Limitations) of Recycled Polyester
rPET has become popular in apparel and promo as a more sustainable alternative to virgin polyester. But behind the production process story lies a complex recycling system, quality variability and ...
Big Markets 2026: Real Estate
A new period of stabilization is giving agents and brokerages the opportunity to deepen client relationships and stretch their marketing budgets.
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Big Markets 2026: Healthcare
This fast-growing market is still ripe for targeting – but not without its challenges.
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Big Markets 2026: Nonprofit
The explosion of digital giving along with evolving donor engagement creates fresh opportunities for branded merch.
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Big Markets 2026: Construction
Fueled by infrastructure investment and an emphasis on employee retention, this vertical continues to be a steady performer.
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Custom Ink Survey Shows Value of Schools’ Spiritwear Programs
Findings indicate that K-12 institutions with inconsistent merch offerings see weaker fundraising and community engagement.
Sponsored Content
melin
High-End Sales Opportunity: How To Sell a Celebrity-Endorsed Promo
Forget everything you thought you knew about promotional headwear. Now, you can give your clients the opportunity to add their logo to a product worn by celebrities and professional athletes by...
STAHLS'
Podcast: Why Patches & Emblems Are a Beginner-Friendly Decoration Favorite
Have you ever thought about decorating with patches and emblems , but weren't sure where to start? Consider this podcast your crash course on how to get started. Today we're joined by Lizz...
SnugZ USA
Introducing Puffin Drinkwear: Now Available for Promo
Delight your clients with a unique can cooler that's as functional as it is fun. We're talking about Puffin Drinkwear , now available from trusted supplier SnugZ USA (asi/88060). You read...