Craftsman At Work
David Rosenbluth
Vice President, Sales & Marketing
Old Toledo Brands/Utility Pro High Visibility Apparel
PPAI #663241 UPIC: OTB01
How did your company get its start?
The company got started in the workwear world. In a business that does not have much difference in the look of the garments between brands, we wanted to establish an inherent value that was a true difference. For us, that became our association with the Teflon Fabric Protector. That got people at Sears excited, and since then we have been making Craftsman workwear for Sears—about 10 years now.
What led your company to enter the promotional products market?
High visibility has become a widely accepted safety product, cutting across many industries and markets, from school bus companies to event security, public works departments, construction, police and fire, etc. Most folks like to have their company name or slogan imprinted on the garments, so it seemed natural to pursue the promotional markets where so many decorators operate and gain further acceptance and market share for our brand: Utility Pro.
What’s your favorite thing about being in the promotional products industry?
We like the vast variety of customers and potential customers and their ability to bring our products to people and parts of the country we may not have much visibility in. These businesses are part of their local communities and have a strong connection to their customers, which then extends to us.
Why did you join PPAI?
To be associated with the acknowledged voice of the promotional products industry, to stay abreast of industry issues and to gain greater awareness and acceptance of our brand: Utility Pro High
