As first reported on Wednesday in a PPB Newslink Breaking News alert, Chris Anderson, chief operating officer at HUB Promotional Group, has been named the company’s new CEO, effective June 14. He will be responsible for all day-to-day operations and decision-making at HUB. The move is designed to ensure continuity and the long-term future of HUB Promotional Group following the resignation of longtime CEO Joe Fleming, a decision accepted by the HPG Board of Directors. Fleming will remain a shareholder and active board member.

HUB Promotional Group, based in Braintree, Massachusetts, is comprised of suppliers HUB Pen, Beacon, BEST Promotions USA, Cooler Graphics, Debco, BCG Creations, Origaudio and HandStands.

“It is an exciting time at HUB Promotional Group,” says Anderson, speaking to PPB Newslink. “We have several clear vectors for growth in the coming years—all of which center on our commitment to provide industry-leading speed, quality and value to our customer-partners.”

Anderson adds, “Specifically, we will leverage our coast-to-coast North American footprint and invest in smart technology to provide a seamless customer experience across our wide array of products and brands. Additionally, we will continue to innovate within our existing categories—such as writing instruments, drinkware, technology accessories and bags—while also expanding into new, complimentary categories. Finally, HUB Promotional Group has earned the reputation for being the buyer of choice for promotional product suppliers who are looking to sell their business, and we will continue to be thoughtful, but aggressive, in our pursuit of additional strategic acquisitions."

Speaking on the process of finding a successor to Fleming, Jason Lucash, HUB Promotions Group senior vice president of marketing and product, who has a seat on the company’s board, says, “Chris has been in the COO role for HPG since December of 2018, and over the past seven months he has earned the respect of the entire team along with the board of directors. Chris is a natural leader who has the vision and drive to take HUB Promotional Group to the next level. Through his past experience leading HandStands through two acquisitions, one to Energizer in 2016, and then a second one to HUB Promotional Group in 2018, the board feels very confident in Chris’s abilities to continue to grow HPG.”

Fleming says, “After more than 30 years devoted to the growth, care and well-being of HUB, it is time for me to pursue other goals and hand the reins to the next generation of leaders at HPG.” About Anderson, Fleming adds, “In his first six months as chief operating officer, Chris has earned the respect of our entire team and exhibited the passion and wisdom necessary for us to realize the shared vision we all have for HPG. HPG has a fantastic leadership team, and it will continue to grow and delight customers in the process.”