a new era of sustainability in promotional products
Promo product sustainability is shifting from talk to action. See how carbon-neutral and recycled materials are making eco-friendly swag more accessible.
We survived the PPAI Expo—barely! Every January, nearly 1,000 suppliers get together in the largest promotional products trade show in North America. After 25k steps each day, checking out hundreds of vendors, and touching and testing countless products, we're here to give you a glimpse of what we loved.
DRINKWARE
These water bottles had a retail feel with a nice color scheme and lots of options. I really liked the Rowan recycled sip lid.
Brumate is a new(ish) brand to our industry. It's an unexpectedly heavier item that is made to last. Comes in many different styles and colors. The fashion colors were fun (video) and I could see those being popular this year.
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The Perka Rex bottle had a very similar look and feel to Owala. Made from recycled stainless steel, it was a great fit for people who want the Owala look with a sustainable twist.
I would've scoffed at a collapsible bottle, had I not just left my water bottle behind because it didn't fit in my carry on! I loved this idea for the traveler and the person who uses every square inch of their packing space. Leak proof, BPA free, and fully collapsible. If only I had one, I could've been hydrated.
This wall of drinkware was a great showcase of trending colors and styles. So. Many. Options.
MISC
The options for making customized inflatables are really impressive, and with a minimum order of 1! Great detail and a truly fun way to showcase your brand.
I loved the look of the Mini Jute Tote. The embroidery was beautiful and very clean. The handles helped level it up to look more like an item you would receive as a gift, instead of an item you would just put a gift in.
BAGS
An employee favorite, this Moonyx bag was swooned over by everyone around it. The front pocket can zip off to be its own crossbody bag in the event you need something smaller. The material was made from recycled polyester which felt like a higher end item.
I'm a sucker for a backpack that looks like it can also substitute as a camper bag. It was lightweight enough to not bog you down, but sturdy enough to trust your gear in. It's stylish and functional.
Our tech customers really love Incase merch - and I got to see and feel just how good these items were. Designed to keep your tech gear organized and safe, and made with 100% recycled materials, it remains the top dog in requests for high-quality bags and cases.
This is a laptop and bag security system that allows a person to briefly step away without having to pack up their belongings or worry about theft. A numerical code is entered in the lock to unlock your items when you return. I haven't seen anything like it in the promo world yet.
APPAREL
They had beautifully soft quilted crewnecks and a really great weekender bag. The bag had a shoe compartment, sturdy zippers and construction, and comes in black and navy.
Supasoft Apparel had really nice (and soft) waffle fabric towels that supposedly repel sand, which I'll happily be testing as soon as the snow melts. I loved the colors and the fringe.
ACCESSORIES
These slides, called HYPD, have a switchable top strap. They felt like something I would actually purchase.
This quilted blanket was one of my favorite pieces I saw throughout the whole show. It reminded me of Rumpl and does SUCH a great job of being trendy, useful, and desirable.
These were stick-on patches. I think this could be a great option for those who want to sell their own patches that can easily adhere to anything they might want. No ironing or sewing needed! Lots of creative options and the embroidery was beautiful.
The zippered cube pouch was really fun in-person. I could think of a million things to put in those starting with my kids traveling art supplies or my own self-care items. Great as a travel bag too. Came in various sizes and textures from rip stop, to corduroy, to quilted.
That’s a wrap for this year’s PPAI show. But we’re always on the lookout for new promo products, unique decorations and trending brands. If there’s anything you’re on the hunt for, just let us know. We’ll scour the scene for your next great piece of merch.
