PSI, Europe’s leading network for the promotional products industry, is inviting companies to submit sustainable products and campaigns as part of its PSI Academy Awards program. Submissions are due by June 30.

PSI will be holding a gala in September in Cologne, Germany, to give out the PSI Academy Awards for achievements in sustainability.

The awards, which replace the organization’s former Sustainability Awards, recognize outstanding achievements and best practices in the European promo industry and underline the growing importance of innovation and sustainability in a changing market. PSI notes that criteria for the PSI Academy Awards were set in close connection with the goals of the European Green New Deal, which aims to make the EU economy climate neutral by 2050. PSI is looking for companies that set an example through pioneering approaches in the areas of the circular economy, resource conservation and social responsibility.

Winners will be recognized during an evening gala event on Sept. 11 at the Gürzenich in Cologne, Germany, as part of the PSI Academy Conference, which will also feature presentations, discussions and workshops on sustainability and other issues affecting the promo industry.

“With the PSI Academy Awards, we want to make an outstanding commitment visible and promote sustainable innovations,” said PSI Director Petra Lassahn. “Our goal is to strengthen our responsible action in the promotional products industry and set new standards.”

Companies get several benefits by attending the awards, according to PSI, including greater visibility to other sustainable brands, judging from an expert panel of industry professionals and an opportunity to present themselves to customers who care about eco-friendliness.

Supplier winners will be chosen from the following categories: clothing and textiles; electronics and multimedia; lifestyle and accessories; school and office suppliers; bags, luggage and travel. Other awards will be given out to best advertising media campaign by a retailer, company of the year for retailers, and industrial and commercial customers, as well as newcomer of the year for retailers.

Founded in 1960, PSI has more than 5,500 members in its network across Europe. Its annual PSI Show, every January held in Düsseldorf, is the largest promotional products event in Europe.

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