Arch Promo Group, a Roxana, IL-based promo supplier company whose brands include Gemini (asi/56100) and TK Cups-Sorg’s (asi/88200), has acquired Drum-Line (asi/50873), a Stuttgart, AR-based supplier that specializes in calendars, notebooks, journals and more. Financial terms of the deal between the privately held companies were not released.

Founded in 1928, Drum-Line manufactures more than 500 products in its manufacturing facility – a range that will help Arch Promo expand its offerings. Arch executives said the company shares Drum-Line’s commitment to manufacturing products in the United States.

“We are excited to expand our portfolio of promotional products and services with the addition of Drum-Line’s industry-leading products,” said Arch Promo Group’s National General Manager Steve Ehlert. “Drum-Line will continue to manufacture its products in Arkansas, and we will invest in making our combined company stronger and offering our customers a broader product line.”

Steve Ehlert, Arch Promo Group/Gemini

Drum-Line owners Dennis and Nelda Hansen are retiring following decades in the promo products industry. Going forward, Amberlea Barnes will continue to lead Drum-Line as general manager. 

“I am very pleased to partner with Arch Promo Group,” said Dennis Hansen. “Our customers will benefit from a larger partner with a wider range of products, and our employees will continue to enjoy working for a growing leader in the promotional products industry.”

Arch Promo Group’s expanding line of products includes keytags, air fresheners, magnets, award ribbons, cups, napkins, reusable barware and more. Beyond Gemini and TK Cups-Sorg’s, Arch Promo brands include ProRose (asi/79933) and F&H Ribbon.

Acquisitions have been increasing at a blistering pace in promo of late. This week, for instance, Del Rio, TX-based supplier Venturaline (asi/93520) announced that it has acquired Houston, MN-based supplier Best Way Promotions (asi/40348).

Earlier this month, HALO Branded Solutions (asi/356000), promo’s biggest distributor by revenue, acquired fellow Top 40 firm BrandVia Alliance (asi/145037). Hardly a week later, White Plains, NY-based distributor Zagwear (asi/365552), a large firm with international offices and household name clients, acquired New York City-based distributor Arrow Promotional (asi/124500).

The list of deals could go on. Some promo executives think acquisitions will continue to increase, driven by factors like the rising cost of doing business, technology requirements and an aging executive/owner class in the industry.