It’s another acquisition with a Made-in-the-USA focus for Arch Promo Group.

The Roxana, IL-based company that’s already parent firm to a number of promotional products suppliers announced that it has acquired HOWW Manufacturing (asi/61952). Financial terms of the deal were not released.

HOWW has been in business for 39 years and focuses on producing and selling Made-in-America drinkware from its facility in Lake Barrington, IL. The supplier both designs and molds stock and custom offerings in the United States for the promo industry, Arch Promo Group emphasized.

“We are excited to grow our portfolio of products and services with the addition of HOWW’s industry-leading drinkware,” said Steve Ehlert, national general manager of Arch Promo Group. “HOWW Manufacturing has been known for helping to build their customers’ brands throughout North America and beyond with innovative drinkware. We will invest in making our combined company stronger while offering a broader product line to our customers.”

Going forward, Peter Kalamaras will serve as general manager of HOWW Manufacturing. Former HOWW owner Mike Kalamaras will support Peter’s transition to the position amid the integration with Arch Promo Group, executives said. Peter is Mike’s son.

“I wanted to ensure HOWW would be in good hands, and I am very glad we found Arch Promo Group,” said Mike Kalamaras. “Arch shares our commitment to delivering innovative products at a great price. Our customers will benefit from a larger partner with a wider product range, and our employees will continue to enjoy working for a growing leader in the industry. I see a bright future for HOWW Manufacturing and Arch Promo Group.”

Ehlert told ASI Media that HOWW Manufacturing will continue to operate out of its current location with no service changes.

On this Promo Insiders podcast from ASI Media recorded last year, Steve Ehlert of Arch Promo Group discusses the firm’s expansion.

Making Strategic Acquisitions

The deal for HOWW Manufacturing marks the second this summer in which Arch Promo Group acquired a supplier that specializes in Made-in-the-USA products. In late July, Arch Promo Group purchased Wristbands America, a supplier of domestically-made silicone wristbands to the promo market.

A division of St. Louis-based Confluent Holdings, Arch entered the promo industry in 2016 with the acquisition of Gemini Industries (asi/56100). The company’s profile has risen significantly over the last couple years amid a run of headline-grabbing acquisitions, including Drum-Line (asi/50873), StrombergBrand Umbrellas (asi/89955), and ProRose (asi/79933). The company’s portfolio also includes TKCups-Sorg’s (asi/88200) and F&H Ribbon.

Arch Promo Group’s line of products features key tags, air fresheners, magnets, award ribbons, cups, napkins, reusable barware, calendars, journals, umbrellas and wristbands.

“Our products are produced in the U.S. and customized to our customers’ specifications to enable them to promote their brands and messages through creative product design,” the company said.

Merger and acquisition activity has come at a quick pace in promo in 2023. A growing private equity presence in the market has been one factor in that phenomenon.