Rupt Ventures, the venture arm of supplier Rupt (asi/84203), has invested in RIPL Goods (asi/82503), a purpose-driven brand committed to making a measurable social and environmental impact through premium, sustainable products. Founded former ad industry professional Leo Bellis-Jones, RIPL Goods uses each product in its range to fund critical impact programs, such as employing workers to collect ocean plastic, protecting vital rainforests or advancing education initiatives. “RIPL Goods embodies exactly what we look for at Rupt Ventures, entrepreneurs who challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what’s possible in promo,” said Jason Lucash, CEO of Rupt. Bellis-Jones said Rupt Ventures’ investment will allow the supplier to scale its efforts, introduce new product and expand its reach in promo.

GNP Branded Gear (asi/200020) has hired Ariana Hopkins as branding specialist. Hopkins has been in sales and marketing for a decade, and prior to joining GNP, she was working with clients in the healthcare industry.

EcoPlum (asi/185835), a sustainable promotional products distributor, has announced its recertification as a B Corp for its second three-year period, after first receiving certification in 2022.

Proforma (asi/300094), a Counselor Top 40 distributor, recently hosted its third annual “Proform-A-Service” day, with team members dedicating time to give back. Volunteer efforts on Martin Luther King Jr. Day included supportive gatherings for individuals in correctional facilities, collecting coats and blankets for the Salvation Army Coat Drive, packing bags of essentials to provide to homeless people, and preparing and serving hot meals for nearly 200 people at a local soup kitchen. “At Proforma, we believe there’s no better way to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. than through acts of service that uplift our communities,” said Vanessa Edwards, director of business development.