The way executives at Top 40 distributor Proforma (asi/300094) see it, superior technology will be ever more essential to the success of promotional products distributors.

That’s why the Cleveland-headquartered promo and print franchisor has spent four years and $12 million developing ProVision – a new business management technology platform for its affiliate owners. And, it’s why Proforma hosted Envision -- its first ever technology user conference -- in Orlando, FL last week.

More than 50 pros from Proforma’s 75-member internal technology team helped to lead and participate in Q&A panels and hands-on demonstrations at Envision.

The conference brought together what Proforma described as thought leaders, technology innovators, executives, supplier partners, current affiliate owners and prospective affiliate owners. ProVision and best technology practices were key topics.

“Business success powered by technology is the future of this industry,” said Proforma CEO Vera Muzzillo.  “Our annual Envision User Conference provides the forum for us to work hand-in-hand with our affiliate owners to provide the right combination of technology, data, training, and support to ensure our owners’ success.”

More than 100 affiliates were in attendance at Envision on a single day. They had the chance to meet professionals from Proforma’s 75-member internal technology team to discuss the newest system updates on ProVision. The first ProVision beta users began entering orders more than three years ago, and the system entered the pre-release phase last fall. It’s set for full, official rollout in November.

Early adapters of ProVision say they’re reaping the benefits.

Steve Flaughers, Proforma Multi-Million Dollar Club Owner

“Being a user on ProVision for the past year has allowed me to (grow) my sales by over 32% and gross profits by over 22%, all while giving me more time to focus on other aspects of my business and personal life,” said Steve Flaughers, a Proforma Multi-Million Dollar Club Owner. “Our CSR’s are more efficient and our sales professionals are more motivated than ever. I’m excited about the newest system updates that Proforma is rolling out for ProVision, and can’t wait to see how this further increases the efficiency of my business processes.”

With reported 2018 North American promotional product revenue of $378.8 million, Proforma ranked sixth on Counselor’s latest list of the largest distributors in the industry.