For the second year in a row, the Sustainable Merch Summit returns, building on a 2025 debut that welcomed more than 400 professionals across promo, print and apparel.

This year’s virtual summit is planned for Earth Day, April 22, at 1 p.m. Eastern and will be co-hosted by the Branded Merch Network, ASI, Apparelist and the 2 Regular Guys podcast.

“Sustainability can feel overwhelming, especially when the conversation gets abstract or expensive,” said Jay Busselle, co-founder of Branded Merch Network. “This summit focuses on practical next steps for the people doing the work every day. Progress starts on the ground, not in a ballroom.”

As sustainability expectations rise, distributors and decorators are being asked harder questions about sourcing, transparency and certifications. The summit is designed to deliver clarity without hype for working professionals across converging sectors and focuses on practical next steps, rather than abstract policy conversations.

This year’s sessions include:

• The Real State of Sustainable Merch
• Certifications: What Actually Matters & What Doesn’
• Proof Over Promises
• When Sustainability Becomes a Growth Strategy

A new feature for 2026, “Merch That Made the Cut,” will highlight products selected by distributors and decorators based on performance, rather than marketing claims.

Registration details will be available on the Branded Merch Network soon.

If you missed the 2025 Sustainable Merch Summit, you can catch up with it here:

Promo for the Planet is your destination for the latest news, biggest trends and best ideas to help build a more sustainable and socially-responsible industry.