West Berlin, NJ-based Proforma Dynamic Resources (asi/490558) hosted its first Customer Appreciation Day on Thursday to give clients face time with 15 top suppliers, all of whom were showcasing their latest products ahead of the holiday season.

The team from West Berlin, NJ-based Proforma Dynamic Resources.

Dozens of customers toured the second floor of the Flyers Skate Zone in Voorhees, NJ, munching on free sandwiches and discovering new items for upcoming projects. “When we go out to see our clients, we’re really talking about everything that Proforma offers, rather than specific products,” said Victor Mogell, partner at Proforma Dynamic Resources. “This is a chance for our clients to see the products up close and drum up ideas for their business.”

Just two weeks after the Global Climate Strike, environmental activism remains a hot button issue. Top 40 supplier Polyconcept North America (PCNA, asi/78897) is capitalizing on the sustainability movement by offering a variety of eco-friendly products: bags and umbrellas made of recycled plastic water bottles; stationery and utensils made of bamboo fiber; collapsible, reusable stainless steel straws; and more. In addition, PCNA now has a membership with 1% For The Planet, an organization whose mission is to build an alliance of businesses financially committed to creating a healthier planet. PCNA has agreed to donate 1% of sales from its EcoSmart products to environmental nonprofits.

Alphabroder (asi/34063) presented an assortment of seasonal products.  

“We’re trying to educate distributors, telling them don’t wait for inquiries,” said Gary Cervi, field sales manager at PCNA. “Be proactive and ask corporations and schools if they have sustainability initiatives. Millennials and Gen Z are super passionate about the environment. Millennials, in particular, are in important procurement and buying positions and are willing to spend the money for eco-friendly products.”

Another Top 40 supplier involved in cause marketing is Sweda Co. (asi/90305). The California-based firm donates a portion of sales from its outdoor adventure line Basecamp – which includes backpacks, bear-tested coolers, drinkware, multi-tools and tents – to help fund double-amputee-wounded Iraq War veteran Dan Nevins’ Warrior Spirit Retreat, a place where veterans learn to heal from the physical and mental wounds of military service. Sweda has also added apparel to its product mix this year, offering Made in America basics and wearables from well-known brands like Adidas, Oakley and Champion. “By providing American-made apparel, it gives us an advantage as the tariffs increase,” said Lee Feinstein, regional sales manager at Sweda.

Drinkware remains a popular category at Hit Promotional Products. 

With autumn upon us, Trimark (asi/92121), the apparel division PCNA, has unveiled its retail-inspired product line. Influenced by Nike, Under Armour, Patagonia and Columbia, Trimark’s outerwear comes without those brands’ higher prices, according to Lisa Folts, field sales manager. The supplier’s newest product is a heated vest with a power bank and panels in the interior that are warmed up at the touch of a button. “Technology in apparel is growing, and we want to be at the forefront,” Folts said.

Although only 10% of suppliers consider social media their most successful marketing method, according to Counselor’s 2019 State of the Industry data, Trimark is doubling down with its new #LoveMyTrimark social media campaign. Customers, whether they be distributors or end-users, are encouraged to share photos on Instagram of their Trimark apparel with the hashtag. “It just builds off all the positive feedback we’ve gotten over the years for our lifestyle brand,” Folts said. “Rather than showing the apparel in fixed photoshoots, it’s going to be a case of people wearing it in their everyday lives.”

EuroFit banners are the hot new item from Showdown Displays (asi/87188). 

Top 40 supplier Hit Promotional Products (asi/61125) presented a bevy of holiday-themed products, such as new winter scarves, knit beanies and food storage containers. The company also spotlighted its range of printing capabilities and patching options. “When people see new trends in the retail world, they want to see that in the promo world as well,” said James Przybyszewski, account manager at Hit and member of Counselor’s 2018 Hot List.

This heated panel vest is Trimark’s hottest new product.  

PCNA offers bags and umbrellas made from recycled water bottles.  

Brian Deissroth of Vantage Apparel (asi/93390) shows off the supplier’s various decoration techniques.