Drew Holmgren, CEO and President of PPAI, joined Branded Merch Network Co-FounderJeff Solomon for their annual conversation at the PPAI Expo. They discussed the success of the recent PPAI Expo and highlighted the contributions of key staff members. They noted what made the PPAI UltimateTailgate Party at Allegiant Stadium special. Drew emphasized the importance of networking and professional development. He reflected on his first year, noting the industry's community-driven nature and the strategic planning for the next five years. He also discussed PPAI's focus on sustainability, citing a forthcoming carbon footprint study, and its international strategy to unify the branded merchandise industry globally.

Learn more about PPAI here: https://www.ppai.org/

#brandedmerchnetwork #ppai #ppaiexpo #promotionalproducts #brandedmerch #businessleadership #sustainability #internationalbusiness

Uploaded on Jan 20, 2026

In another engaging "Why It Matters" conversation, Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon and Cassie Green, Content Director for Apparelist, discuss the importance of sustainability in the apparel industry. Cassie highlights Apparelists role in supporting apparel decorators through educational content and the annual PRINTING United Expo, which had record-breaking attendance despite economic challenges.

They discussed the need for better purchasing decisions, reducing textile waste, and addressing the impact of fast fashion. Jeff presses Cassie to put a spotlight on two companies that she feels are doing something special. The companies Cassie calls out are Stanley/Stella and Living Ink for their exceptional sustainable practices.

Jeff shares his enthusiasm for quality products that recipients will appreciate and keep. That defines sustainability. Jeff and Cassie discussed the impact of well-executed virtual events that effectively offer insights that drive quality business. They also discuss the importance of live events and the positive changes in the industry driven by consumer demand and legislation. Enjoy the conversation!

Take advantage of Apparelist content: https://www.apparelist.com/

Learn more about PRINTING United Alliance: https://www.printing.org/

Learn more about Allmade here: https://stanleystella.com/en-us

Learn more about Stanley/Stella here: https://stanleystella.com/en-us

Learn more about Living Ink here: https://www.livingink.co/

#whyitmatters #brandedmerch #brandedmerchnetwork #brandedapparel #sustainabilty #sustainablemerch

Uploaded on Dec 9, 2025

In this "Why It Matters" conversation, Ben Pawsey, VP of Marketing at HPG, and Branded Merch Network Co-Founder, Jeff Solomon, MAS, discussed his journey into sustainability, inspired by a book at age 15. HPG is a business leader bringing several beloved companies under one umbrella into the industry.

Their sustainability focus has enabled them to achieve EcoVadis Certification Platinum status. Pawsey emphasized the importance of sustainable practices, likening every purchase to a vote for a sustainable future. Why does it matter? Quality, sustainable products drive good business. Enjoy the conversation!

Learn more here about HPG: https://hpgbrands.com/

Learn more about "Sustainability as a Service" here: https://hpgbrands.com/esg/

#whyitmatters #brandedmerch #dotherightthing #businessleadership #EcoVadis

Uploaded on Dec 5, 2025