Jenny Straub, CAS, director of strategic partnerships at Outdoor Cap (PPAI 213485, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 30 supplier, is the latest recipient of the A Woman’s View Supplier Visionary Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions and leadership in the promotional products industry. The award was presented on January 15 during The PPAI Expo.

• Since joining Outdoor Cap in 2019, Straub has transformed challenges into opportunities, spearheading initiatives like the Cappy Hour web series, which connected distributors with their customers during the pandemic. Her creative problem-solving and forward-thinking strategies have strengthened partnerships and propelled the company’s growth.

“Jenny’s passion for serving promotional accounts and delivering customer-focused solutions have made her an invaluable leader,” says Jamie Jeter, head of sales, promotional products at Outdoor Cap.

Polyconcept North America (PPAI 113079, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 3 supplier, has expanded into the golf category with a versatile new collection that spans premium Srixon golf balls and tee-time essentials to event giveaways, performance polos and custom curated kits.

• PCNA’s partnership with Srixon introduces five premium golf ball options, available in three- and 12-ball packs.
• The curated tee-time collection includes essential gear for golfers at all levels and budgets such as the Bamboo Golf Tee Set with Recycled Pouch.
• The giveaway collection is comprised of budget-friendly items for players, spectators and employees, and includes items such as the Golf Bag 6-Can Event Cooler.
• Apparel offerings include unisex options like the AVAS Eco Packable Quarter Zip Anorak Pullover.

“Our impressive entrance into the golf vertical reflects our dedication to providing distributors with the product offerings and services necessary to succeed in this market,” says Mary Furto, senior vice president of marketing at PCNA.

Crystal D (PPAI 112326, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 88 supplier, has hired Courtney Doyle as a territory manager.

• Doyle is responsible for building customer relationships, including coaching distributors on selling awards and helping their clients establish ongoing recognition programs. She brings more than two decades of sales experience in both the promo industry and the eyewear industry.
• The daughter of a distributor who fondly remembers modeling products in her mom’s catalogs, Doyle has been recognized for her sales success and knack for connecting with people.

“We are thrilled that Courtney has brought her energy and expertise to Crystal D,” says Bridget Dahlgren, executive vice president of marketing and sales at Crystal D. “From the moment you meet her, it’s evident that she wants to truly know you and find solutions to support you. She is a fabulous resource and a true sales professional.”

Entrepreneur magazine has named five brands of United Franchise Group, which includes distributor Fully Promoted (PPAI 240143, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 26 distributor, at No. 423, to its prestigious Franchise 500 list. The list also includes distributor Signarama (PPAI 715652, Standard Plus) at No. 174, along with Transworld Business Advisors, Office Evolution and Venture X.

• All five brands returned to the list after multiple years of recognition, including Signarama for 26 consecutive years and Fully Promoted for 23 years. This is the sixth year of ranking for Venture X and Intelligent Office.
• The Franchise 500 is the world’s first and most comprehensive franchise ranking, a highly sought honor by one of the business world’s leading publications.
• The rankings are determined by the magazine’s editorial team who research and assess factors including companies’ costs and fees, size and growth, support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability.

“We are proud to see our brands’ tremendous performance recognized once again with inclusion on the Franchise 500, one of the most meaningful honors in the industry,” says Ray Titus, founder and CEO of UFG. “This ranking recognizes what we’ve always known about our franchisees’ hard work, dedication, and success, but to have it validated by this highly respected publication is a true honor.”

Headwear brand Imperial (PPAI 133496, Standard-Plus) has formed a partnership with Honcho Pickleball that makes it the Official Headwear Sponsor of Honcho Pickleball for the 2025 season. Sportsman Cap & Bag offers Imperial products across North America.

• Honcho Pickleball is a premier amateur pickleball league operating in more than 40 markets across the United States. Each eight-week session allows players of all levels to participate in one of the fastest-growing sports.

“Imperial is thrilled to engage with and support amateur pickleball players. This collaboration strengthens our grassroots initiatives and deepens our commitment to the growing pickleball community,” says Jerry Biag, director of marketing at Imperial.