Two veterans of the Canadian promotional products industry are calling it a day.

Bill and Sharon Miller, founders of supplier BCG Creations in Montreal, have announced that they will retire from the industry on June 28, 2024.

Bill and Sharon Miller, BCG

Founded in 1981 by Bill Miller, BCG Creations, now part of Top 40 supplier HPG (asi/61966) as BCG, became known for its emblems, medallions, lapel pins, lanyards, golf ball markers and wood accessories, like luggage tags and coasters. Sharon, a former nurse, joined her husband in the business while also raising four children.

In 2018, HPG acquired the BCG product line; Bill kept the chief operating officer position at BCG and Sharon was CEO. Oldest son Zack, who has worked at BCG for over 10 years, will now remain as general manager, and the couple will maintain their status as company shareholders.

“Watching my parents build BCG from the ground up has been an inspiration,” said Zack Miller. “Their dedication, resilience and unwavering commitment have laid the foundation for our family’s legacy in the industry. As I step further into a leadership role, I’m honored to continue their vision and carry forward the BCG legacy they worked so tirelessly to create.”

Over the years, the couple traveled to industry events in both Canada and the U.S. – they were known to always work shows together, often with their English bulldogs in tow.

“Sharon and I are humbled by the friendships and memories the promotional products industry has given us,” Bill Miller said. “As we embark on this new adventure called retirement, we carry with us the lessons learned, the bonds forged and the legacy of BCG.”

Sharon Miller said retirement is “the beginning of a new journey,” one that will be “filled with cherished memories and endless possibilities.”

Bill, Sharon and Zack Miller at an industry trade show.

“The Millers’ passion, dedication and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in shaping BCG’s success,” said Chris Anderson, CEO of HPG and a member of Counselor’s Power 50 list. “While we bid farewell to two industry icons, we also celebrate their remarkable legacy and the enduring spirit they’ve instilled within our company. We wish them all the best in their well-deserved retirement.”

With 2023 North American promotional products revenue of $268.8 million, HPG ranked eighth on Counselor’s most recent list of the largest suppliers in the industry.