The Ampersand Group, a network of more than 60 business owners, has launched a new buying group, The Power of One Group, and is inviting independent distributors and vendor partners to join.

The Power of One Group is meant to give distributors in the promotional products, printing services and office supplies industries better buying power. For vendor partners, it will create a larger group of members to sell to; plus, vendors will be able to build a more extensive database with advertising and coupon opportunities to offer to members.

“We saw an opportunity to bring together our three big, similar industries – print, promo and office supplies – combining our strengths to create one big powerhouse buying group,” said Todd Mellon, president and CEO of The Ampersand Group. He added that he hopes the new buying group will help both vendor partners and members “diversify and increase sales simply on one platform.”

Power of One Group members will be able to use its search engine to easily find products and capabilities they need. Vendors can submit a detailed profile, verify a member at any time, educate members on products and services and take advantage of targeted, high-visibility advertising opportunities.

As an added incentive, for every new membership received, The Power of One Group promises to donate a portion of the proceeds to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Buying groups have been a trend in the promotional products industry in recent years, with independent distributors banding together to better leverage their collective buying power and partner with select suppliers.