January 09, 2019
2019 Distributor Salesperson of the Year Finalist - Luke Freeman, Wizard Creations
Get to know Luke Freeman, a 2019 Distributor Salesperson of the Year Finalist!
Salespeople of the Year: Get the complete list here
Distributor Finalist
Luke Freeman
Wizard Creations (asi/362568)
Known as “The Swag Father,” Luke Freeman shares his nickname with The Godfather in more ways than one: Every time he thinks he’s out, the promotional products industry pulls him back in.
As a side job, Freeman’s parents started a screen-printing business in their garage in Bloomington, IL. Growing up, Freeman would either print shirts or sell them in order to afford the latest pair of Jordans. At Eastern Illinois University, he printed T-shirts for Greek organizations and clubs in order to afford bi-weekly trips to Florida to visit his future wife and business partner Mara. Finally, after being laid off in 2009, the couple decided to go full-time distributing branded apparel and promo products.
They’ve turned Boca Raton, FL-based Wizard Creations into a powerhouse, establishing relationships with Coca-Cola, Ford Motor Company and other blue-chip brands. “I never doubted I could be a success in this business,” says Freeman, who increased his sales over 40% from last year. “I love what I do, and it shows in the creativity I bring to each and every one of my client’s projects. My gift is being able to relate to people of all walks of life and see the big picture as it relates to marketing.”
A self-described hustler since childhood, Freeman attributes his success to keeping his finger on the pulse of trends in retail, technology and pop culture. He maintains a very active social media presence, making connections with potential clients and showcasing his life outside the office. “We’re very true to our beliefs – we don’t filter anything,” Freeman says. “I want to inspire other entrepreneurs to show the world who they are.”
Freeman is constantly involved in the community, whether by serving on the board of six local nonprofits or supporting charities focused on kids, pets and cancer. Highly spiritual and a firm believer in the Golden Rule, he strives to treat others with respect, spreading positivity to everyone he meets. “Because people know I have a big heart, they want me involved,” Freeman says. “I’m leaving a giant footprint in the universe so when I’m gone, my legacy lives on and my kids know who their father was.”
Getting to Know You
What’s one fun fact about yourself?
I proposed to my wife on the center court of an NBA basketball game.
Sum up your selling style in one word.
Not one but 10: Treat all people as you want to be treated yourself.
What industry trend are you most excited about?
Experiential marketing
If I wasn’t working in promotional products, I’d be …
An executive at an ad agency.
What’s your favorite promo product?
My own that I just licensed to PCNA: the back sac. It’s a padded stadium seat you can brand on the front and back.
What’s your best advice for sales reps in this industry?
ABL: Always Be Learning. Never stay consistent with what you’re doing because the industry, economy, technology and marketing are constantly changing. I am constantly pivoting my business to adapt to change. What’s hot in January will most likely fizzle out by June, so it’s important to keep your pulse on trends in retail, technology, social, digital and pop culture.