Spotlight On Stran
PPAI x Stran Promo: Welcome Drew Holmgreen!
We recently had the pleasure of welcoming Drew Holmgreen, CEO of PPAI (Promotional Products Association International), to our Quincy HQ.
It was a chance to dive into where the promo industry is headed, how technology is shaping the future of branded merch, and what role organizations like PPAI can play in helping us all grow smarter and stronger together.
We left the conversation energized, aligned, and inspired. Click the + to see what we discussed! 👇
We could’ve talked merch, marketing, and the future of the industry all day! Here are a few highlights from our conversation:
🎉 Bringing Branded Merch to the Forefront
Drew emphasized the need to elevate promo in the broader marketing landscape, and we couldn't agree more.
We discussed how it's time for branded merch to get a seat at the marketing table, with Drew noting, "The cost per impression for merch is the best among any marketing mechanism."
📚 Education and Thought Leadership Are Key
From new certification tracks to leadership development, PPAI is doubling down on education.
Drew sees professional development as a key strategy to bring in new talent, empower current pros, and help the whole industry level up.
🌎 Boosting the I in PPAI
PPAI stands for Promotional Products Association International, and the organization's future is looking very global.
Drew's long-term vision includes more diverse voices, stronger partnerships, and a more robust international strategy.
🎙️ Stran x PPAI Content Collabs Are Coming
Stran and PPAI are both clear on the power of content to shift perceptions. Whether it’s through thought leadership, case studies, or podcast collabs, we’re excited to explore ways to partner with PPAI and amplify what makes this industry so unique.
Product Picks:
Your Summer Swag MVP Has Arrived
Need a new adventure bag for beach days, pop-up shops, or summer events?
For a limited time, we’re offering major savings on custom canvas totes (plus a free setup, valued at $65)!
With three sizes and four fresh colors available, these durable and stylish totes are perfect for printing.
🚨 Order by 5/31 to take advantage of this deal!
Industry News
What Gen X Wants from Swag
Gen X may be the quiet middle child of the generations, but they’re sitting in key decision-making seats—and that includes calls around marketing, branded merch, and more.
New end-buyer research from the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) uncovers what resonates most with this group, and how to deliver swag they’ll actually want.
Click the + to explore the insights.👇
🧰 Usefulness Is King
Nearly 8 in 10 Gen X buyers say they keep promo items because they’re useful—more than any other generation. This is one more case for swag that goes beyond "trinkets and trash" to be innovative, practical, and more relevant to the end-user's daily life.
📈 The Bottom Line
92% believe branded merch is an effective tool to improve brand awareness. This is a group that values ROI, and swag can be a powerful way to drive brand goals.
💡 It Moves the Needle
73% say they’d view an advertiser more positively after receiving branded merch. When it comes to swag, it's not just about stuff! It’s about perception.
🌎 Values-Driven Choices
72% say it’s important that items are made in the USA and that sustainability matters when it comes to the products they choose.
🐾 Standout Items
Pet leashes, high-end coolers, cozy blankets, and binoculars were among the most memorable items received—proof that well-chosen swag leaves a lasting impression.
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From The Blog
The Best Ways to Build Brand Recognition in 2025
Looking to increase visibility, spark engagement, and leave a lasting impression? Merch can help.
In this blog, we break down five of the most effective ways to build brand awareness using promotional products—like using merch to create moments, extend your brand experience, and show up in ways that stick.
Read more on the Stran blog! 👇
