Sportsman Cap & Bag (asi/88877), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, has expanded its line of Richardson headwear, highlighting a new line of 112 Trucker caps, among other styles. “Richardson is one of the hottest headwear brands in the market today. Customers can’t get enough of the 112, and we’re confident they’ll feel the same way about the expanded collection,” said Dan Saferstein, Sportsman Cap & Bag president.

BAMKO (asi/131431), a Counselor Top 40 distributor, announced that Alexandre Silva, its director of creative services for Latin America, has been selected to join DesignRush’s Best Design Awards jury. Silva said being part of the judging panel will be an honor. “I believe that category-winning design requires a harmonious blend of creativity, originality, and problem-solving skills. It’s about transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary and valuable,” he added.

NC Custom (asi/44900), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, has launched its 2024 Holiday Preview, which features a collection of new cookies, holiday kits, chocolate gifts and showcases of best-selling items. Offerings include new eco-friendly products, such as FairTrade chocolate almonds and raisins and compostable packaging options. Partner brands featured include M&M’s, Godiva and Lindt. NC Custom said distributors will receive 10% free goods on any products in the holiday catalog if they order by October 1st, for shipping between October 2nd and November 17th, 2024. Use promo code FGH24.

Charles River Apparel (asi/44620), a Massachusetts-based supplier, has hired two new sales representatives: Michael Galati and John Bates. Galati joins as the direct sales representative for Western Pennsylvania and Ohio territories, while Bates comes aboard as a multi-line sales representative for Michigan. Both have over a decade of experience working on various sides of the promo industry, executives said. “Michael and John’s experience will help customers exponentially,” said Sharon Steed, director of sales. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome them to our team.”

Outdoor Cap (asi/75420), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, has appointed Kim Jones as head of manufacturing. With more than 20 years in the manufacturing industry, working with brands like Nike, New Balance and Fanatics, Jones brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to the team, according to the supplier. “Kim brings a level of industry experience to Outdoor Cap that is second to none,” said JJ Reese, head of operations. “As we continue to expand our domestic decoration capabilities, Kim will be helping us set the bar for quality and execution in headwear decoration.”

Facilisgroup has promoted Terri Harland to director of professional development. In her new role, she’ll lead efforts at Amplifi, Facilisgroup’s education program. Previously, Harland was the new business development manager at Facilisgroup for more than two years. “Terri’s extensive experience as a sales leader for top distributors and technology providers has equipped her with a deep understanding of the promo industry, providing her with a unique and valuable perspective,” said Dave Rehg, SVP of partner success.

Campus Stop (asi/336407) says that Karie Cowden has joined the firm’s executive team. The distributorship said in a statement: “Campus Stop will leverage Karie Cowden’s three decades of experience in the promotional products industry, encompassing both distributor and supplier roles, to enhance operational efficiency, drive sales growth and ensure compliance with industry standards nationwide.”

Crystal D (asi/47759), a supplier of corporate awards and gifts, has promoted Tawauna Garner and welcomed Colby Kiger and Gary Rinehart to its sales team. Garner is now lead solutions specialist, a role in which she is responsible for client relationship management, strategic account planning, sales and revenue generation, and project management and execution. “Tawauna has always surpassed the high bars she sets for herself while earning the respect of colleagues, customers and partners in the industry,” said Bridget Dahlgren, executive vice president of marketing and sales. “Her experience and knowledge will help shape our team going forward and position us well to excel at our goals.” Kiger’s background is in inside sales in the automotive industry, while Rinehart most recently built customer relationships for a distributor group. “We are thrilled to have Colby and Gary aboard and are excited for our customers to work with them,” Dahlgren said.

Sock Club (asi/88072) has donated more than 115,000 pairs of socks to nonprofit organizations through its matching Give Back Program. For every pair ordered, Sock Club donates a pair to a nonprofit. The supplier made the announcement in support of National Nonprofit Day, which is Aug. 17.

BEL Promo (asi/39552) has hired three senior account executives. Marland Strickland, Lori Gearinger and Jocelyn James will provide an elevated level of inside support for strategic sales managers and enterprise and VIP client partners, according to the supplier. “With over three decades of combined experience providing truly outstanding support in the promotional products industry, these three additions will completely elevate BEL Promo’s already incredible service,” said Tom Clouser, BEL Promo’s national sales manager.

Imperial (asi/75945) is sponsoring First Tee through its newly established philanthropic organization The Imperial Foundation. First Tee is a nonprofit that provides educational programs for young people that build character and instill life-enhancing values through golf.

The Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) has appointed Josh Nachman, executive vice president of Zagwear (asi/365552), to its board of directors. SAAGNY President Sean Kurtzman expressed excitement over Nachman’s appointment. “His extensive industry experience and visionary approach will greatly contribute to our mission of advancing the promotional products industry and enhancing member value,” he said.

The Philadelphia Area Promotional Products Association (PAPPA) is holding its Fall Promotions Client Expo on Wednesday, Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fuge, 780 Falcon Circle, Warminster, PA. Admission for distributor members is free; for non-member distributors, entrance costs $25. Preregister here to receive a client invitation for this end-user show.

PromoPulse, an automated marketing platform for the promotional products industry, is celebrating its fifth anniversary by giving away more than $10,000 worth of marketing tools to distributors. “We feel very fortunate to have made it five years while consistently growing each year,” said Jason Nokes, founder of PromoPulse. Among the prizes are a one-year subscription to the full AMP automated marketing platform and personalized advice from industry veterans. More information about the giveaway is available on its website.

Proforma (asi/300094), a Counselor Top 40 distributor, held a women’s session during its recent Annual Convention and Family Reunion. Partnering with the Rose Brooks Center, a nonprofit dedicated to ending domestic violence, Proforma facilitated the session to empower survivors and raise awareness through a variety of activities, including a self-defense class and roundtable discussions. Attendees also completed a service project, assembling more than 150 welcome kits, valued at more than $10,000, for individuals seeking shelter at the center. “By providing education, support, and resources, we are making a real difference in the lives of survivors of domestic violence,” said Meg Erber, director of sales.

PCNA (asi/66887), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, announces that Givee Select, the company’s online gifting platform, will now be integrated with Stripe payment processing. In addition, Givee Select now offers a $9.95 flat shipping and fulfillment rate per order of any size – previously, the charge was per item.

3M, parent company of Counselor Top 40 supplier 3M/Promotional Markets (asi/91240), has named Anurag Maheshwari as its new chief financial officer, effective Sept. 1. Maheshwari, who will also hold the title of executive vice president, replaces Monish Patolawala, whose departure was announced earlier this month. Maheshwari currently serves as executive vice president and CFO for Otis Worldwide Corporation, which manufactures, installs, and services elevators and escalators, with customers in more than 200 countries and territories.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is continuing to review public feedback on the Biden Administration’s proposed tariff rate increases on $18 billion worth of imported Chinese products, including items like steel and aluminum that can impact the promotional products market. USTR received more than 1,100 comments from the public on the proposed levies. The office anticipates that it will issue a final determination on how to proceed on the potential rate increases in August 2024. “USTR expects that the modifications slated for 2024 will take effect approximately two weeks after it makes the final determination public,” the agency said.