Creativity in the promo world is ever-evolving and developing, and this year is certainly no exception. Companies are constantly proposing new solutions for clients looking to communicate their brand message, and clients are continuously experimenting with design, color and functionality to do so. The result is innovative products that are purposeful and memorable while leaving a positive, lasting impression on recipients.
With more than 700 exhibiting companies launching and showcasing new and popular promo products at The PPAI Expo 2022, and thousands upon thousands of products on display for your client’s next order, the magic of creativity is even more expansive than the show floor it’s held in.
Here are a few sweatshirts, pullovers and everyday-wear items from exhibiting companies that have caught our attention already.
Selecting the right wearables for a large group, such as a company’s employees or graduating class, requires product types that are complementary to different body types, lifestyles and personal tastes, but are functional and flattering, nonetheless. The Franconia Quilted Pullover and Jacket from Sharon, Massachusetts, supplier Charles River Apparel may be a sleek-enough option to suit everyone. The body of the pullover is made from a blend of 73-percent cotton and 27-percent polyester CVC-quilted sweatshirt fleece, and the sleeves are made from 58-percent cotton and 42-percent polyester CVC sweatshirt fleece. Diamond quilting adds style to the body, which is complemented by its solid sleeves, side panels and collar. Additional details include a quarter-zip design with a mock neck collar, and secure zippered side pockets with durable metal zippers. Available in unisex sizing—sizes S-3XL in men’s and sizes XS-3XL in women’s—and in black, navy and heather grey (shown). Expected to arrive February 2022. See it at booth 2033.
Charles River Apparel / PPAI 111644, S10 / www.charlesriverapparel.com
At the show, Burnaby, British Columbia, supplier Stormtech USA is showcasing its Pure Earth collection, featuring apparel and bags that are made using recycled fibers and packaged sustainably. One of the apparel selections being shown is the Dockyard Performance Hoody. Its shell is made from a tri-blend of 47-percent polyester, 47-percent cotton and six-percent spandex, and its lining is made from 60-percent cotton and 40-percent polyester. The hoodie’s performance fabric is treated with Polygiene Stays Fresh® technology to control odor for extended wear, and details include ribbed cuffs and a ribbed hem, an adjustable hood with a drawcord, on-seam hand pockets and articulated action elbows for full range of motion. Available in unisex sizing—men’s sizes S-5XL and women’s sizes XS-3XL—in dolphin and black (shown). The product will be available for purchase online within the coming weeks, but can be seen at booth 1711.
Stormtech USA, Inc. / PPAI 260245, S4 / www.stormtechperformance.com
Having announced its latest acquisition of ACE USA, Hicksville, New York-based supplier NC Custom is introducing a new line of apparel with a give-back component. One of the items included, and a cozy one at that, is the Ladies’ Burnout Wash Sweatshirt. Made from a blend of 65-percent polyester and 35-percent French terry, the midweight, relaxed-fit pullover features a ribbed collar, bottom hem and cuffs, and a V-notch at the collar. A percentage of proceeds from each product is donated to the National Parks Foundation. Available in women’s sizes S-2XL in antique rose, army, smoke and antique jade (shown). See it at booth 2926.
NC Custom / PPAI 111662, S7 / www.nccustom.com
And for those long days—at the office, at the beach, or simply in your backyard catching some sun—the Polarpack will become recipients’ newest can’t-leave-the-house-without item. The backpack cooler bag, which Hixson, Tennessee-based supplier Gold Bond is officially launching at this week’s show, is ready for all-day use. Recipients will remember the associated branding with a laser-engraved logo, a full-color decoration on a metal plate or a full-color epoxy dome decoration. See it at booth 5604 and 5605.
Gold Bond, Inc. / PPAI 113974, S10 / www.goldbondinc.com