Commonsku, a Toronto-based provider of business and sales software for the promo industry, honored its skummunity award winners at skucon in Las Vegas on Jan. 12. The recipients were:

• Distributor Community Champion: Sarah Whitaker of The Branded Things, part of Williams Advertising, (asi/360402) for support of her industry peers.
• Supplier Community Champion: Storm Creek (asi/89879) for the team’s encouragement for and support of the industry.
• Supplier Connected Workflow: Counselor Top 40 supplier Cutter & Buck (asi/47965) for its integrations from the European Patent Office.
• Shops Innovation Leader: Kelli Rosenfeld of Blue Rose Promotions (asi/141910) for her creative use of e-commerce on behalf of clients.
• Distributor Entrepreneur of the Year: Josh and Rachel Kozinski of Sky High Marketing (asi/328476) for expanding their facility, employee count, client base and growth numbers.

Quebec-based distributor ASD Promotion Advertising and buying network PromoGroup have entered into a strategic merger, under which the two firms will have shared ownership while maintaining their respective industry presences. “We’re extremely excited about this union, which will allow ASD and PromoGroup to benefit from shared procurement resources while continuing to serve our distributor members with the same excellence and passion,” said spokesperson Alexis Gemme-Piacente. “Both organizations will continue to operate independently, with their own unique strategies, tools and approaches.”

Stahls’ (asi/88984) Hotronix has announced an exclusive worldwide manufacturing, distribution and service agreement with Stampinator. The partnership integrates Hotronix IQ heat press technology into the Stampinator concept, allowing automatic screen-print press users flexibility for achieving specialty finishes beyond the limits of traditional screen printing. In addition, it allows screen printers to improve prints with underbase stamping to smooth fibers for better opacity and quick cure capabilities, producing bright, soft transfer results on a variety of fabric types.

Promotions Pronto (asi/526399) is celebrating 20 years in business with a rebrand that includes a new logo, embracing its nickname of Promos Pronto. “This celebration is about more than just our business success – it’s about the relationships we’ve built, the causes we’ve supported, and the trust our clients have placed in us,” said Stacee Gilmore-Fernandez, owner of Promotions Pronto. “I’m so proud of how far we’ve come, and I’m grateful to our clients and partners for trusting us to bring their brands to life.”

Orbus (asi/75209), a supplier of visual communications products for trade shows and live events, has integrated with PromoStandards, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing digital communications between distributors and suppliers. “Orbus’ compliance with PromoStandards affords greater business opportunities to our promotional products distributors,” said Cassandra Chiodo, national account manager. “It will save time by utilizing their established platforms to customize products, complete orders and retrieve data so they can initiate sales with more end clients.”

Fossa Apparel (asi/55141) in California has appointed Christian Brown of CB Marketing Group, and Lori Eaton and Nick Cooper, both of lorieaton.com, as its newest multi-line agents. Collectively, they will represent Fossa Apparel in Texas, Oklahoma, Oregon and Washington. “This expansion strengthens our commitment to providing top-notch service and support to our industry partners,” the supplier said in a statement.

Terry Town (asi/90913) has hired Lauren Raughton as national sales manager. Raughton, who has been in promo for 13 years, will support, build and strengthen relationships across Terry Town’s national account base. She’ll work closely with Aaron Bradley, vice president of sales, and her counterparts on the national accounts team. “We are very excited to welcome Lauren to the Terry Town family,” Bradley said. “Lauren has exceptional skills and knows exactly what it takes to grow and build long lasting relationships with our national accounts base.”

Crystal D (asi/47759), a supplier of crystal awards and gifts, has hired Courtney Doyle as southern territory manager. Doyle has more than two decades of sales experience. “We are thrilled that Courtney has brought her energy and expertise to Crystal D,” said Bridget Dahlgren, executive vice president of marketing and sales.  “From the moment you meet her, it’s evident that she wants to truly know you and find solutions to support you. She is a fabulous resource and a true sales professional.”

Imperial (asi/75945), a headwear brand well-known in the golf and pickleball industries, has partnered with amateur pickleball league Honcho Pickleball as the “Official Headwear Sponsor” of the league’s 2025 season. “This collaboration strengthens our grassroots initiatives and deepens our commitment to the growing pickleball community,” said Jerry Biag, Imperial’s director of marketing.

Paperclip (asi/290141) has hired TJ Walter as director of sales. “TJ brings a wealth of industry knowledge and experience,” the company said in statement. “His unmatched energy and passion will play a pivotal role in our growth and evolution as a strategic solutions provider.”

Outdoor Cap (asi/75420) celebrates its director of strategic partnerships, Jenny Straub, for receiving the iPROMOTEu A Woman’s View Supplier Visionary Award for her contributions and leadership in the promotional products industry. Straub has been with Counselor Top 40 supplier Outdoor Cap since 2019. “Jenny’s passion for serving promotional accounts and delivering customer-focused solutions have made her an invaluable leader,” said Jamie Jeter, the supplier’s head of promotional product sales. Counselor Top 40 distributor iPROMOTEu (asi/232119) organizes the A Woman’s View event

Towel Specialties (asi/91605) announced its annual Sales Representative of the Year Award, with Rob Ball, Ben Black and Johanna Black of the Illinois/Wisconsin-serving “Ball and Black” sales team taking home the honor for the second consecutive year. Fritz Ford Associates and Paul Sprunk and Associates earned a tie for second place. “We’re fortunate to have such a dedicated and skilled rep force from coast to coast,” said Shawn Kanak, president of Towel Specialties.

Imperial (asi/75945), a headwear brand selling styles in promo and other channels, will continue its partnership with The American Junior Golf Association through 2026, with the company serving as official headwear sponsor at more than 200 events each year. “As Imperial continues to invest in the game of golf, we are proud to continue our involvement with the AJGA and support junior golf at the highest competitive level,” said Imperial President of Brand David Shaffer.

Promo Direct (asi/300477) has announced plans to add advanced technologies to its offerings this year, including marketing automation, an improved e-commerce platform and access to live U.S.-based customer service representatives. “As our industry evolves, integrating innovative technology is vital for exceeding customer expectations and maintaining a competitive edge,” says CEO Dave Sarro. “These enhancements will position Promo Direct to better serve our clients while optimizing internal operations.”

Gemline (asi/56070), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, has promoted Suzanne Simpson to the position of director of strategic accounts. Simpson has been with Gemline for more than 10 years, beginning as a sales agent for Canada. Most recently, she was a senior strategic account executive. “Her ability to build trust and deliver exceptional results has earned her widespread respect both within the organization and among the clients she serves,” says the company.

HPG (asi/61966), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, welcomes two new sales executives. Scott Loehrke is now director of national accounts – he has 15 years of industry experience with both distributors and suppliers, including most recently as a strategic director at Top 40 supplier alphabroder (asi/34063). In addition, Darryl Andree has been named director of sales for the HPG’s Debco brand, based in Concord, ON. Andree has nearly two decades of industry experience, and was most recently a director of business development with Top 40 distributor BAMKO (asi/131431). HPG has also announced that it’s partnered with OrderMyGear (OMG) to offer company stores to distributor customers.

Exec to Coach, a business coaching firm dedicated to transforming small and medium-sized enterprises, has added Melissa Ralston, Tom Havens and Melyssa Hitchcock to its team of coaches. All three have had accomplished executive-level careers in the promotional products industry. Ashely McCune, formerly president of promo software solution provider Facilisgroup, founded Exec to Coach. “I am honored to welcome Melissa, Tom, and Melyssa to our team,” said McCune. “They are proven executives who truly embody the vision on which we were founded – to bring together coaches who have themselves been successful executives.”

Promotional Resource Group (PRG), a multi-line agency in Vaughan, ON, has appointed Joel Eden as sales & account manager for Alberta and British Columbia. He brings 13 years of industry experience to his new role. “I’m excited to hit the ground running and help our partners achieve their goals with innovative and impactful solutions,” he says. “I look forward to showcasing the power of PRG’s supplier lineup and building lasting connections in this dynamic market.”

Proforma (asi/300094), a Counselor Top 40 distributor, received awards from Graphic Design USA’s Best-of-Year design competition for two marketing campaigns: a digital campaign called “Sizzlin’ Summer Swag” and a direct-mail campaign called “Message in a Bottle.” Marissa Jansen, content and communications manager at Proforma, said the wins are significant for the team and the Proforma network. “We create these resources on behalf of our community to help them go to market in new and unique ways,” she added. “Winning these awards is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the team, and also the commitment Proforma has to consistently establish our network as a leader in the print and promotional products industry.”

Canvas Custom Apparel Group has officially opened its doors. Founded by industry veteran Michael Snyder, the new company will offer custom apparel design, sourcing and manufacturing with low minimums. Snyder has two decades of industry experience, including time spent with Counselor Top 40 supplier PCNA (asi/66887); EdwardsX, the custom apparel division of Top 40 supplier Edwards Garment (asi/51752); and Tri-Mountain. “Canvas is a great culmination of my career,” says Snyder, “bringing together the best and brightest minds that I’ve encountered throughout my journey, now all under one roof.”

Greater Pacific (asi/58135), a supplier of custom imported promotional products, has added industry veteran Kelly Borre to its team. Borre has a proven track record in global importing, consultative sales and creative branded merchandise. She’s been recognized for her concierge sales approach and specializes in managing complex sourcing projects and providing seamless, high-impact solutions. Borre said she’s thrilled to join Greater Pacific: “Their reputation for delivering innovative, tailored importing solutions aligns perfectly with my expertise.”

The Kanata Group (asi/73520) has made key appointments to its sales team. Carrie Pitre is now vice president of national accounts and brings almost 20 years of experience to the role. In addition, the company welcomes four multi-line reps:

• Walter Brzyski of Brisk Enterprises for the Mid-Atlantic region (DE, NJ, NY and PA)
• James Matson of Northwest Professional Sales for the Pacific Northwest region (AL, ID, MT, OR and WA)
• Kent Getsee and Paula Coomer of Preferred Lines Marketing for the Midwest region (IA, IL, KS, MI, MN, MO, ND, NE, SD, OH, IN and WI)

“I’m very happy to be adding these terrific individuals to our already strong regional sales team,” says Joe Huber, senior vice president of promotional sales. “I’m very optimistic for 2025 and beyond.”

BamBams (asi/38228) has promoted long-time employee Zack Harvey to vice president of national accounts. Harvey began his career as an intern with the company and, over the past 15 years, has thrived in roles that include account executive, sales manager and director of national accounts, according to BamBams. “Zack’s strong industry relationships, keen attention to detail, integrity and ambition will undoubtedly benefit the company in his new role,” the firm said in a statement.

GNP Branded Gear (asi/200020) has hired Andrew Maloney as a branding specialist. The distributorship said he brings several years of experience with merch and has worked as a travel coordinator and account manager, serving a diverse base of clients. “Andrew’s previous positions included a vast number of projects in corporate gifting and e-store development,” GNP stated.

Gold Bond (asi/57653), a Hixson, TN-based promo supplier, has launched ZipShip, a same-day production service that ensures orders are decorated and shipped the same day, provided the order is placed by noon eastern of that day. The service applies to a collection of 30 curated products, including golf balls, tumblers, accessories and eco-friendly items. “With ZipShip, we’ve redefined what fast means in the promotional products industry,” said Mark Godsey, president of Gold Bond Inc. “This service was built for distributors who need quality, speed, and reliability all at once.”

PromoEQP, an associative distributor-focused competitive pricing program, has promoted Cheryl Frerichs to executive director of distributor subscriptions. Prior to joining PromoEQP, Frerichs owned and operated a trophy and awards business in California. She has exceled since coming aboard at Promo EQP, executives said. “Cheryl has shown a passion and dedication to making PromoEQP work better for the distributor,” says Jeremy Chacon, PromoEQP’s vice president of business development and advancement. “We fully expect that this [promotion] will only make PromoEQP better by allowing her the freedom to focus solely on enhancing and building the distributor network.”