While the worst of Hurricane Harvey's winds have subsided, the relentless deluge of rain from the massive storm continued its assault on southeastern Texas on Monday, causing historic flooding in the region that is impacting the promotional products industry along with everyone else.

>>List of Promo Companies Affected by Hurricane Harvey

The Houston Promotional Products Association (HPPA) has canceled its Hot Stuff Expo, which had been scheduled for this Tuesday, out of concern for attendees and exhibitors.

“The safety of our members, supplier reps, and NRG employees is of utmost importance,” the HPPA board said on its website. “We in Houston know that these hurricanes are often unpredictable and can turn on a dime, which is why we have closely monitored the storm coverage, and wanted to gather as much information as possible before canceling…Once the storm has passed, we will work on the details of rescheduling. Right now, we’d like everyone in the storm’s path to be able to focus on keeping themselves and their families safe.”

Promo companies in the region were being forced to close Monday as a result of the widespread flooding. Pepco Promotional Products (asi/77280) of Lane City, TX, American Zebra Line (asi/35745) of Houston, TX, Hirsch Gift (asi/61005) of Houston, TX,and Promo Pros/Incent Pros (asi/300654) of Spring, TX, were among the firms that are closed to begin the week.

“Our offices will be closed much of the week – possibly the entire week,” said Sean Roark, owner of Promo Pros/Incent Pros. “Flooding will keep our staff from getting in, and virtually all of our clients will be closed.”

Roark said the storm could have an impact on clients’ marketing budgets long after the rains have cleared and blue skies return. “As Houston area businesses struggle to recover from this catastrophe, past experience at our 71-year-old promotional product firm tells us that some discretionary spending by our customers will be diverted to recovery,” said Roark. 

Remaining upbeat, though, Roark said there will also be opportunity for promo firms in the aftermath of Harvey.

“Thousands of companies are going to come back to work with a vital and important message: ‘We're still here, ready to provide our services and products,’” said Roark. “For those of us who understand our industry, the presence of a message that needs to be converted is great news, because nothing is more effective at communicating a brand or message than promotional products.”

Timothy M. Andrews, president and chief executive officer of ASI, expressed solidarity with industry professionals, businessses and families affected by the storm. 

“It will be many weeks of cleanup and rebuilding ahead for the many families and businesses impacted this weekend, and ASI’s entire staff is ready to help in any way possible,” said Andrews. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted in any way by this storm and its aftermath. We will be with you in your recovery, every step of the way.

If your company has been impacted, notify ASI at feedback@asicentral.com.