Tech 101
PPAI Media looked at tech products in August – a $900 million category in the industry, according to PPAI research – and offered an explainer on a product category that some distributors avoid as too complicated.

Thank you! Yes, tech products can be intimidating. I’ve been selling promos for 54 years, when they were called “advertising specialties.” Keeping up is essential, and you just made it much easier to understand what a “power bank” is!

This industry has always been exciting and fires the imagination. You that were born with the “tech” chip are so very lucky. If you want to, you can do anything. Thanks for pulling us “Oldsters” along. It’s much appreciated.
Fran Summers
Owner
Empower Promos
Santa Clarita, California

Walk Away The Right Way
In the magazine’s July issue, PPAI Media shared a question about how to respond to a customer that has begun price shopping after a distributor had spent considerable time and money working with them on the project.

Understanding that everyone has already said what needs to be said, I would end my speech with:

“I do not wish any outcome other than the best for you and your company, but in my experience your final outcome will not be as planned. My experience has been clients that receive inferior products, goods not on time and if there are any issues, no one is available to fix the problem. Please remember not to be embarrassed on your decision and reach back out to us. We will welcome you back with open arms and the same quality service and prices we have always offered.”

My dad always said: “Never step on the toes connected to the backside you may have to pucker up to tomorrow.”
James Montgomery
President
Montgomery Promotions
Tifton, Georgia

NALC’s Return A Success
In August, PPAI’s North American Leadership Conference returned after a two-year hiatus from in-person events. It brought leaders together from across the industry to connect and learn.

This was my first time attending this event, and the curation of the speakers far exceeded my expectations. Every speaker truly created meaningful conversations about how to look at our industry and inward at our company. Enormous kudos to the entire team that put this on!
Patrick Napurski
President
Halls & Company
Brooklyn Park, Minnesota
PPAI 111778, S6

Value In The Face Of Adversity
In August, PPAI Media reported on a Wall Street Journal article on CEOs’ potential cost-cutting measures in the face of tightening budgets, and promotional products could be on the chopping block

I couldn’t agree more with Danny [Rosin]’s statement: “Consider the power of thoughtful, utilitarian and sustainable branded gear that helps recognize staff, thank customers and help companies connect with prospects that might not give them the time of day if they did not offer them something of value for their time, data and insight.”

I think we need to keep this concept top of mind all the time, though, not just in economic downturns. My clients all know whatever product suggestions I make to them, they will be useful, not just something to carry a logo.

A recent example is a local community college client. They wanted more of their students to follow their TikTok channel. I suggested branded ring lights for the students’ mobile phones, so their “follow” message (right below the brand) is front and center in a useful tool every time the students use that handy ring light to make any videos.
Sandee Rodriguez
Owner
Graphic Designs & D&S Designs
Greater Philadelphia

Send feedback on articles in PPB or opinions on industry issues to JamesK@ppai.org.