The Advertising Specialty Institute® (ASI), a leader in technology and innovation, today launched ESP+ Websites, a dynamic online platform empowering distributors to drive more traffic and sales. Featuring user-friendly navigation, customization options and more robust SEO, ESP+ Websites will help set distributors apart from the competition.

Seamlessly integrated with ASI’s ESP+ platform, ESP+ Websites enable distributors to efficiently manage projects and orders, get real-time notifications and fulfill quote requests in a single, unified place. No need for rekeying and extra systems, just more time for selling.

“Secure ESP+ Websites liberate distributors from the need to be computer geniuses, allowing them to focus on sales, build client relationships and pursue new business,” said ASI CEO Tim Andrews

“At ASI, we understand the pivotal role a superior website plays in transforming a distributor business,” said Timothy M. Andrews, president and chief executive officer of ASI, the leading technology, marketing and information provider in the $26.1 billion promotional products industry.

“ESP+ Websites set a new standard for e-commerce excellence by incorporating sales, design and marketing functionalities, offering distributors a comprehensive solution to elevate their online presence and drive growth,” said Andrews. “Secure ESP+ Websites liberate distributors from the need to be computer geniuses, allowing them to focus on sales, build client relationships and pursue new business.”

Here’s what ESP+ Websites deliver:

• SEO-Friendly Design: Easily applied keywords yield higher search rankings and drive more traffic to the website, attracting and engaging more clients.
• Up-to-Date Data: Automatic updates ensure product accuracy and availability.
• Quick Launch and Edit: Setup by ASI in collaboration with distributors, the new ESP+ Website goes live quickly. A modern, intuitive platform lets distributors choose from a portfolio of templates. Simply update, manage and edit content and images moving forward.
• Superior Customer Experience: ESP+ Websites are optimized for any device so end-buyers can effortlessly search, browse and buy from an ever-expanding inventory of promo products 24/7.

ASI is hosting a webinar April 16, 2-3 p.m. ET to showcase the many features and capabilities of ESP+ Websites. Register now for “Mastering Your Online Presence: ASI’s E-commerce Website Solution.”

ESP+ Websites are available to any new ASI member who wants one. Distributors who already have a website and are interested in transitioning to ESP+ Websites should email movemywebsite@asicentral.com.

About ASI
The Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI®; asicentral.com) serves a network of 25,000 suppliers, distributors and decorators in the $26.1 billion promotional products industry. ASI’s flagship product, the technology platform ESP®, manages the industry’s entire supply and marketing chain. ASI also produces award-winning digital and print content, live events and educational programs that enable companies in 53 countries to be more efficient, productive and profitable. ASI’s media and research operation provides the most authoritative business content in the industry, and the ASI Certification Program features 200+ live and online education courses for industry professionals. The company, family-owned and -operated since 1962, is proud to have been consistently ranked among the “Best Places to Work” in Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA.

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TREVOSE, PA – March 6, 2024

ASI Show^® Fort Worth – the biggest promo show in the Southwest – electrified attendees with an unforgettable blend of energy, education, entertainment and opportunity across three whirlwind days.

The 2024 show grew the number of distributors and exhibitors over 2023. Held at the Fort Worth Convention Center in the heart of a thriving downtown, the show attracted promo products professionals from 44 states and eight countries, showcasing the global reach and influence of the $26.1 billion industry. Attendance included 281 women-owned and 112 minority-owned companies.

“ASI Fort Worth was a Texas-sized celebration of the promo industry’s vitality and growth,” said Timothy M. Andrews, president and chief executive officer of ASI, the industry’s leading technology, marketing and information provider. “From the deals and discussions happening across the show floor to the non-stop entertainment at the ASI Gala at River Ranch Stockyards, our event provided ample networking and valuable insights, further solidifying Fort Worth’s position as a must-attend event for the industry.”

ASI Fort Worth (#ASIFortWorth) was ASI’s second major show of 2024, held later this year in the fastest growing big city in the country to better prepare distributors to jump into the second quarter and second half of the selling year.

Angela Benn of Safeguard (asi/316203) raved about her first ASI Show. “I absolutely love this show! The number of vendors allows for longer conversations, the event schedule is fantastic and I just loved the keynote speaker. I’m excited to learn more about the Orlando and Chicago shows.”

Texas, one of the leading states in the nation for promo, grew annual sales by 23%, for a total of $3.8 billion, according to ASI’s annual State and Regional Sales Report. With annual sales of $9.9 billion, the South remains the dominant seat of promo commerce after another year of aggressive growth, accounting for over 41% of all promo sales in the U.S.

The show featured numerous Top 40 suppliers like SanMar (asi/84863), the biggest supplier in the industry, Koozie Group (asi/40480), PCNA (asi/66887), HPG (asi/61966) and SnugZ (asi/88060). Five distributor groups held their sales meetings in Fort Worth, including AIM/ACS (asi/522700), Proforma (asi/300094), iPROMOTEu (asi/232119), HALO (asi/356000) and AIA (asi/109480).

“Our experience here at Fort Worth has been outstanding,” said Laura Greenwell of SE-KURE Domes and Mirrors (asi/86219), one of 70 exhibitors new to Fort Worth. “The show brought us quite a few quality leads and each person we met was very clear about their customer’s needs and their goals for their business, so we know exactly how we can help them. These in-depth discussions make for a more productive working relationship going forward.”

In addition to a full day of education, attendees had the chance over two exhibit days to snap photos with 2,000-pound Texas longhorns, have fun with giant foam cowboy hats and try their luck at spin-to-win wheels in the ASI Booth, where sales experts offered demos of ASI’s latest innovation, ESP+ Websites, a game-changing e-commerce solution designed to enhance operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

The show floor was prime real estate for meeting exhibitors eager to discuss campaign strategies with their distributor partners through meaningful conversations. Exhibitors went all out, jazzing up their booths with sophisticated backdrops showcasing the latest printing technologies and bold, interactive exhibits featuring TV screens and videos. Suppliers touted the show’s value and productivity, while a steady stream of distributors hit the show floor in search of the industry’s latest products, trends and innovations.

Ellie Spier of Next Level Apparel (asi/73867) said, “This show really stood out to me just in the quality of distributors. The huge turnout was fabulous and the steady flow really allowed us to take time talking with each distributor, something that I don’t get to do at other shows. It’s been an exceptional show!”

Distributors agreed ASI Fort Worth was a wise choice for their business.

“I’ve been in the industry for 40 years and this is my first time at Fort Worth, although I’ve been an ASI member since the start,” said Beth Brackett of Imagewear of Wayzata (asi/490061). “ASI has been a great partner over the years, and helpful as they host our website. We’ve met a lot of new suppliers and fellow distributors and are going home with a lot of new ideas.”

At the ASI Gala, attendees dressed in Western gear and enjoyed ax throwing, bull riding, boot-kicking dancing and plenty of BBQ, along with an on-site exhibitor, Outdoor Cap (asi/75420), imprinting giveaway baseball hats. The gala provided a platform for industry leaders to connect after hours and celebrate in true Texas style.

Two keynote speakers delivered invaluable sales and marketing advice, with Bruce Himelstein, former chief sales and marketing officer for The Ritz-Carlton, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making and prioritizing exceptional customer service.

“Data is your best salesperson. Lead with data,” Himelstein advised.

In addition to the business side, ASI also celebrated the 70th anniversary of Counselor magazine, the voice of the promo industry, providing breaking news, research, sales analysis and the latest advances for seven decades.

In a first for Fort Worth, ASI gave show-goers the chance to join forces for charitable causes. Distributors could choose from Feeding America, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund or the American Red Cross and ASI made a donation on their behalf, a collaborative effort providing a meaningful impact on society.

Up next from ASI: ASI Chicago, Tuesday, July 23, through Thursday, July 25, at McCormick Place Convention Center.

For more info on ASI Show, contact Andy Cohen, senior vice president of events, media and marketing services, at acohen@asicentral.com. For info on exhibiting at ASI Shows, contact Meghan DeFrancesco, ASI’s vice president of supplier sales, at mdefrancesco@asicentral.com.  Check the ASI Show website (asishow.com) for the latest updates and schedules for all ASI shows and events.

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Product Hub is a product-focused page on ASI Central that helps distributors quickly find inspiration in a comprehensive range of resources, including showcases, new supplier offerings, case studies, practical data from ASI research and more. With a focus on market insights, Product Hub aims to empower distributors with the tools they need to excel in today’s competitive promo products industry.

“ASI Product Hub is a game-changer for distributors who want to stay ahead of the curve and deliver innovative solutions to their clients,” said C.J. Mittica, editor-in-chief of ASI Media. “This carefully selected content helps unlock the door to more successful promo campaigns. Whether you’re looking for product trends or real-life case studies, Product Hub has you covered.”

In addition to Product Hub branding on relevant stories posted on ASI Central, distributors will see a Product Hub logo next to titles in Counselor PromoGram – similar to how ASI brands sustainability stories on its resource site, Promo for the Planet.

ASI Product Hub also includes a search function, allowing users to easily find the most up-to-date product showcases. Many of the products featured in stories on Product Hub are linked to ASI’s ESP, a leading technology platform that manages the industry’s entire supplier and marketing chain.

“ASI is committed to ensuring that distributors have access to authoritative industry insights and resources, and Product Hub is a testament to that commitment,” Mittica said.

Bookmark the ASI Product Hub homepage: members.asicentral.com/news/product-hub.

Sara Lavenduski, ASI’s executive editor of digital content, oversees the Product Hub page and helps lead ASI Media’s product coverage. For more information, contact her at slavenduski@asicentral.com.

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ASI’s Counselor, the print and online voice of the promo industry, recognized companies that embody core values such as trust, caring and employee empowerment. “Flexibility” was the highest-ranked field out of the 17 qualities that thousands of promo employees graded their companies.

“These outstanding companies, representing different sizes and locations, collectively contribute to a vibrant, thriving promo industry,” said C.J. Mittica, editor-in-chief of ASI Media, the research and reporting arm of ASI, the leading technology, marketing and information provider in the promo industry. “The leaders of these companies set a high standard, inspiring others to prioritize employee well-being and professional growth.”

Counselor profiled companies categorized by their number of employees: Extra Large, Large, Medium, and Small. Among the 75 recognized companies, here are the top companies in each sized class:

• You Name It Specialties (YNIS asi/365123; San Antonio, TX) Clinching the #1 spot overall and #1 in the “small” category, YNIS prioritizes a people-first ethos with a dynamic, diverse culture characterized by care, compassion and a close-knit familial atmosphere. While support staff work in the office, sales reps are remote.
• Whitestone Branding (asi/359741; New York, NY) As #2 overall, and #1 “medium” company, this fully-remote distributor distinguishes itself with core values centered on collaboration and collegial relationships. Employees praise its receptive, flexible and transparent culture.
• Picnic Time (asi/78065; Moorpark, CA) The #1 company in the “large” category and #21 overall, is family-owned and operated, with a hybrid work model and “Conscious Culture” philosophy that cultivates an atmosphere of collaboration and shared growth.
• Tekweld (asi/90807; Hauppauge, NY) This Top 40 supplier, #1 in the “extra-large” category and #37 overall, champions innovation and creativity, promotes professional growth along with a work-life balance and prioritizes diversity and inclusion.

Below are statistical highlights from the 2024 list of the 75 best places to work in promo:

• Nearly 90% of distributors have a hybrid or fully virtual work policy
• 55 distributors and 20 suppliers
• 25 small companies
• 35 medium-size companies
• 7 large companies
• 8 extra-large companies

ASI’s Counselor magazine has honored top companies in the promo products industry since 2008. To be named a Counselor Best Place to Work, industry firms participated in a months-long survey process where employees evaluated their company on 17 different qualities. The grading occurred on a 1-5 scale, with 5 being most positive and 1 being most negative. Counselor then analyzed the scores to determine the final rankings.

For more information on the 2024 Best Places to Work package, contact C.J. Mittica at cmittica@asicentral.com.

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Distributors demonstrated resilience with a 1.2% year-over-year sales boost, with the total annual tally  surpassing the industry’s previous record of $25.8 billion, first set in pre-COVID 2019. The growth rate has moderated from 2022’s robust 11.4% and falls below the broader U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 2.5% in 2023. Despite the tempered pace, the promo industry maintains its upward trajectory, showcasing stability amid changing economic landscapes.

“Against last year’s backdrop of economic uncertainties, these results show great promise, speaking directly to the unwavering commitment and tenacity of our distributors,” said Timothy M. Andrews, ASI president and chief executive officer. “The positive momentum, fueled by an increasingly robust economy, positions the promo products industry for continued growth and exciting prospects in 2024.”

According to ASI’s sales analysis, the latter half of 2023 saw a deceleration in growth, with larger industry distributors especially struggling. The fourth quarter underscored this trend, reporting a nominal 0.1% year-over-year sales increase for all distributors. Although the quarter marked the 11th consecutive period of growth, the extent of the increase was the most subdued among the post-pandemic recovery phases, reflecting the industry’s nuanced journey through evolving market conditions.

Various factors, including inflation, marketplace uncertainty, recession fears among corporate buyers, and geopolitical tensions, influenced promo investment in 2023, particularly in Q4, promo executives told ASI Media.

“Distributors in our industry did show resilience in the face of what seemed like constant threats to the promo business,” says Nate Kucsma, ASI’s senior executive director of research, who spearheads ASI’s quarterly sales surveys. “Engineering a gain under those circumstances is impressive.”

Mid-sized distributors, with annual revenue between $250,000 and $1 million, experienced the most significant collective gain last year at 3.1%. Notably, 53% of these distributors achieved full-year sales growth, leading among different revenue categories.

Key success factors mentioned by mid-sized distributors included a greater willingness of key clients to spend, effective mining of current customer bases for expanded sales opportunities and successful prospecting leading to new business.

Seth Kaminstein, president of Florida-based mid-sized SK Promotions Inc. (asi/525995), more than doubled his distributorship’s business to $500,000 in annual revenue. His success was attributed to strong sales techniques and effective customer/order management, catering to diverse clients such as universities, high schools, healthcare providers, social media influencers, and social events like weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs.

“Our account base continues to grow thanks to referrals,” Kaminstein said. “There’s plenty of business out there for all of us. It just takes hard work, great communication, dedication, consistency and solid relationships to grow.”

ASI Research surveyed distributor members in January 2024 about Q4 and 2023 sales performance to determine results.

“Looking forward to the rest of 2024, the current positive economy indicators likely mean a transition to a period of more stable and healthy growth,” Andrews said.

For more information on ASI’s sales reports and research, contact Nate Kucsma at nkucsma@asicentral.com.

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TREVOSE, PA – January 5, 2024

A standing-room-only crowd at ASI Show Orlando went bananas when marketing genius Jesse Cole hit the stage in his iconic yellow tuxedo. “It’s show time,” Cole said, instantly captivating the crowd. “How do you stand out? How are you different? That’s what we’re going to talk about today.”

In a first for an ASI Show, promotional products distributors belted out Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” during a sing-off, vying for a pair of Cole’s best-selling banana-branded tighty-whities. “Best promo item we’ve ever had,” Cole said. “Create a moment, get people talking – that’s what people remember…. In your industry, what’s one thing you can do no one else is doing? Stand out, be different, have fun, swing hard.”

Hosted at the Orange County Convention Center from January 3 to January 5, ASI’s trade show featured bustling show floor aisles packed with 4,500 industry professionals creating a dynamic marketplace. The show also attracted 353 woman-owned and 137 minority-owned supplier and distributor companies.

Of total attendance, 97 companies are Orlando based and 668 are from Florida. According to ASI Research, Florida alone contributed $1.7 billion to annual $9.9 billion in Southern regional sales, reinforcing its promotional prowess.

“From the moment we cut the ribbon to the last song played by our DJ, we delivered a show packed with nonstop action, the latest products for a brand new year of selling, proven advice from renowned motivational speakers, plenty of networking opportunities and just plain fun,” said Timothy M. Andrews, president and chief executive officer of ASI, the most authoritative technology, marketing and information provider in the $25.8 billion promotional products industry. “ASI Orlando 2024 – where innovation met inspiration.”

Strategically scheduled as the first industry trade show of the year, ASI Orlando helped distributors set the stage for a robust sales year. More than 800 took sales, marketing and social media classes during Education Day, and 10 distributor companies chose ASI Orlando to host meetings, including AIM (asi/522700), iPROMOTEu (asi/232119), HALO (asi/356000) and Proforma (asi/300094).

Distributors raved about the show experience. “This is the first time we attended an ASI Show and it’s been absolutely wonderful,” said Gina Moon, of Image Marketing (asi/230242). “I love the family feel of ASI and the networking that’s encouraged here. We took advantage of Education Day before we hit the show floor to meet suppliers and it’s fueled us for what’s next for our business. I’m motivated, energized, ready and willing to go home and start increasing and growing my business, knowing we have the support of ASI behind us. We can’t thank you enough.”

Happy suppliers like Hunter Johnson, of C-Slide (asi/43075) were thrilled with steady traffic. “It’s been super eventful and yesterday was impressive,” Johnson said. “I talked to a lot of great people. This show offers a wonderful opportunity to introduce our products to new people and put faces to names of those who have recently discovered our products.”

The ASI Gala at Planet Hollywood provided a platform for industry leaders to connect after hours. And two stellar keynotes left a lasting impact – Jesse Cole’s high-energy presentation and Beth Paretta’s awe-inspiring journey from a five-year-old obsessed with race cars to leading the first women-forward INDYCAR team.

Cole described ways his Savannah Bananas barnstorming baseball team makes baseball fun, via stilt walkers, flaming bats and ball players dancing in bright yellow uniforms and checkered kilts. Overflowing with sales and marketing advice uniquely tailored to promo distributors, Cole repeatedly brought the audience to its feet.

Mary Smith, of I Can Market That (asi/229755), in Maitland, FL, loved the challenge Paretta gave the audience: Consider how much you can accomplish in the same number of seconds her team has during a race day pit stop to fuel up, change tires and send the car barreling back onto the track. “I thought, ‘I could make a cold call in 6.2 seconds,” Smith said. “She was a very good speaker and she made me laugh.”

Up next from ASI: ASI Fort Worth 2024, Monday, March 4, through Wednesday, March 6, at the Fort Worth Convention Center in a walkable, historic downtown. Click here to register for ASI Fort Worth.

For more info on ASI Show, contact Andy Cohen, senior vice president of events, media and marketing services, at acohen@asicentral.com. For info on exhibiting at ASI Shows, contact Meghan DeFrancesco, ASI’s executive director of supplier sales, at mdefrancesco@asicentral.com. Check the ASI Show website (asishow.com) for the latest updates and schedules for all ASI shows and events.

About ASI Show
The ASI Show Family of Events features ASI Show, fASIlitate and ConneX, which foster business-building relationships among ASI distributor and supplier members. ASI Shows, the flagship series, are large-scale, in-person convention center trade shows held in Orlando, Fort Worth and Chicago. fASIlitate is a hosted-buyer event that brings together the industry’s elite – top suppliers and million-dollar distributors – for three days of scheduled one-on-one meetings in select hotels across the country. ConneX is the largest hosted-buyer event in the promotional products industry. Visit asishow.com for more information on the full event portfolio.

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TREVOSE, PA – December 27, 2023

The Advertising Specialty Institute^® (ASI), the foremost authority in the $25.8 billion promotional products industry, has officially crowned the Stanley Quencher as its coveted “Product of the Year” for 2023.

The 40-oz. Quencher H2.0 FlowState tumbler has rapidly emerged as the pinnacle of drinkware trends, seizing the spotlight as a viral TikTok sensation. Garnering hundreds of millions of views under the hashtags #StanleyTumbler and #StanleyCup, the Quencher has become a must-have status symbol in both retail and promo markets, popular for corporate gifting and team incentives, particularly among women.

C.J. Mittica, Editor-in-Chief of ASI Media, emphasized the Quencher’s significance, saying, “There was no debate when it came time to name the Product of the Year. The Stanley Quencher is a slam-dunk choice, as well as the exclamation point to drinkware’s incredible run this past decade. Its runaway success is a high-profile example of the shrinking gap between promo and retail.”

“The Stanley Quencher is a slam-dunk choice, as well as the exclamation point to drinkware’s incredible run this past decade,” said ASI’s C.J. Mittica

In a surprising turn of events, the Stanley Quencher, first introduced by Stanley in 2016, helped the company experience a resurgence over a century in the making. Originally known for its classic steel vacuum bottles, Stanley’s strategic shift towards trendy drinkware, led by President Terence Reilly, propelled the Quencher into unprecedented success.

Despite economic uncertainties, the $50 Quencher defied expectations, transcending recession fears and budget constraints to become a cultural phenomenon. Its popularity reached such heights that consumers camped outside Starbucks locations for the special-edition Stanley x Starbucks style, highlighting the Quencher’s cult-like following.

The Quencher’s impact reverberated across the promo products industry, with Top 40 supplier partners like HPG (asi/61966), Starline USA (asi/89320) and PCNA (asi/66887) actively working to meet soaring demand. ASI’s ESP data indicates a remarkable 4,500% increase in searches for Stanley through November 2023 compared to 2022.

Liz Haesler, PCNA’s chief merchandising officer, told ASI Media, “This has been unlike anything we’ve ever seen…I’ve never seen passion and enthusiasm for a brand like this before.”

Promo drinkware overall has been enjoying a hot streak, nearly doubling its market share since 2008, with drinkware in 2022 accounting for almost 10% of all promo products revenue with nearly $2.6 billion in sales.

For more information on the ASI Product of the Year, contact C.J. Mittica at cmittica@asicentral.com.

About ASI
The Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI^®; asicentral.com) serves a network of 25,000 suppliers, distributors and decorators in the $25.8 billion promotional products industry. ASI’s flagship product, the technology platform ESP^®, manages the industry’s entire supply and marketing chain. ASI also produces award-winning digital and print content, live events and educational programs that enable companies in 53 countries to be more efficient, productive and profitable. ASI’s media and research operation provides the most authoritative business content in the industry, and the ASI Certification Program features 200+ live and online education courses for industry professionals. The company, family-owned and -operated since 1962, is proud to have been consistently ranked among the “Best Places to Work” in Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA.

The post ASI Selects The Stanley Quencher As Its 2023 “Product Of The Year” appeared first on ASI.

TREVOSE, PA – December 21, 2023

The 2023 ASI Sales Compensation Survey released this week by the Advertising Specialty Institute^® (ASI) shows rising operating costs are prompting promotional products distributors to take a bigger cut of sales reps’ commissions. At the same time, intense competition in the job market is propelling sales reps to increasingly demand better benefits and amenities.

Significantly, the number of “very satisfied” sales reps has dropped each year since 2018, from 61% to 41% in ASI’s most recent survey. With more clients moving from job to job, making it difficult to build lasting relationships that lead to bigger sales, frustrated reps often find they need to offer even greater time-consuming service levels and provide extra value to meet changing client expectations.

“Promo businesses continue to evolve, and this year’s Sales Compensation Survey captures the significant changes happening with rep compensation plans, employee benefits and overhead costs,” said C.J. Mittica, Editor-in-Chief of ASI Media, the research and reporting arm of ASI – the leading technology, marketing and information provider in the $25.8 billion North American promo industry. “I hope distributors use this year’s study as a catalyst to examine their own businesses and determine what’s right for both ownership and their employees.”

The survey identifies five compelling trends shaping the landscape of promo product sales compensation in 2024 and beyond:

Job Satisfaction Decline: The number of “very satisfied” promo sales reps has dropped from 61% in 2018 to 41% in 2023. In contrast, according to the not-for-profit Conference Board, 62% of American workers report being satisfied with their job. “This is a fun industry, but we’re dealing with so many changes in the world and it wears on us,” Dominique Volker, executive director of enterprise sales and a 2023 ASI Media Distributor Salesperson Finalist told ASI.

Endangered 50/50 Split: Driven by bigger bills, distributors are reevaluating the traditional 50/50 commission split (where reps and companies each get half). While straight commission remains more common, accounting for 35% of the five different compensation plans, its prevalence has decreased since 2017.

Compensation on the Rise: Median compensation has been on the uptick since at least 2015, reaching $75,000 in 2022. Further, more than half of surveyed reps expected their full-year 2023 compensation to increase.

Boosted Benefits: A tight job market is compelling many distributors to add or beef up benefits like paid time off, health insurance and 401ks, while perks like on-site gyms and more flexible work hours are becoming integral in attracting and retaining talent.

Desired vs. Actual Compensation Plans: Although straight commission remains prevalent, both managers and reps express a preference for a comprehensive model, combining salary, commission, and bonus structures.

“The post-Covid workplace has undergone significant change, extending well beyond just remote work,” said Nate Kucsma, study author and ASI’s senior executive director of research. “For one, job satisfaction has declined, despite increased compensation and heightened expectations for more. Distributors, irrespective of size, should leverage these findings to inform strategic decisions for their future business plans.”

For more information on the Sales Compensation survey, contact Editor-In-Chief C.J. Mittica at cmittica@asicentral.com. Nate Kucsma can be reached at nkucsma@asicentral.com. Michele Bell is vice president of ASI editorial, education and special events.

About ASI
The Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI^®; asicentral.com) serves a network of 25,000 suppliers, distributors and decorators in the $25.8 billion promotional products industry. ASI’s flagship product, the technology platform ESP^®, manages the industry’s entire supply and marketing chain. ASI also produces award-winning digital and print content, live events and educational programs that enable companies in 53 countries to be more efficient, productive and profitable. ASI’s media and research operation provides the most authoritative business content in the industry, and the ASI Certification Program features 200+ live and online education courses for industry professionals. The company, family-owned and -operated since 1962, is proud to have been consistently ranked among the “Best Places to Work” in Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA.

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TREVOSE, PA – December 19, 2023

The Advertising Specialty Institute^® (ASI) today thanked its employees for their generosity throughout 2023, helping provide hot meals, clothing, school supplies and holiday gifts to those in need. Beneficiaries included children in homeless shelters, adults searching for work, disabled veterans, and food-insecure families in the greater Philadelphia area and beyond.

ASI also thanked generous members of the promotional products industry who helped raise over $170,000 during an ASI fund drive to provide humanitarian aid to the people of Israel impacted by a terrorist attack. The total includes employee donations and matching funds contributed by the Norman Cohn family, owners of ASI since 1962, and Timothy M. Andrews, ASI president and chief executive officer.

“Growing up in Indiana, my holiday gifts were often carried into our home by volunteer firemen delivering presents wrapped by neighbors helping neighbors,” said Andrews. “I’m thrilled that helping others remains a cornerstone of ASI’s corporate values and is also at the core of the promo industry, which never fails to band together in times of crisis.”

Added ASI Chairman Norman Cohn, “From a very early age, my parents of blessed memory, Bess and Maurice Cohn, taught us the importance of giving back. As they often said, ‘When God smiles on your parade, it’s important you smile on other people’s parades.’ ASI is a small, family-owned company made up of people with very big hearts, and it’s wonderful that so many of our employees work so hard to help others.”

ASI’s Charity Initiative group, formed by employees in 2021, managed numerous fundraisers this year while broadening its outreach to deserving non-profits and the demographics they serve. The collective efforts underscore ASI’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and community impact, promoting goodwill toward all, including:

• United Way. Over $17,000 donated by employees and matched by the Cohn family to United Way of Bucks County to help fight hunger, feed the elderly, provide emergency shelter and schooling for children.
• 19th Annual Holiday Gift Drive. Purchased a record-breaking $10,050 worth of toys, bikes, art supplies and electronics for area families living in or receiving services through a homeless shelter run by the Family Service Association of Bucks County.
• Promo Sales Event. Raised $3,500 from the sale of promo items and raffle tickets to benefit Disabled American Veterans, K9s For Warriors, Philabundance food bank and Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House, which provides a temporary home and support services for families of seriously ill children treated at local hospitals.
• Employee Turkey and Pie Giveaway. Each November, the Cohn family thanks employees with a choice of a turkey or pie. Each pie they buy helps the MANNA Pie in the Sky charity deliver hot Thanksgiving meals to those facing life-threatening illnesses. Employees opting out of a gift contribute the equivalent cost, resulting in a total donation of $2,820 to Philabundance.
• Clothing Drives. Donated 1,700 articles of gently worn and new clothing, accessories and winter wear to various organizations, including Cradles To Crayons, The Wardrobe and One Warm Coat.
• Letters for Veterans. Collected over 100 thank you letters and cards given to area veterans visiting Washington, D.C. war memorials, an annual trip sponsored by Honor Flight Philadelphia.
• Helping Cure Juvenile Diabetes. Over the past 17 years, ASI Vice-Chairman Matthew Cohn’s daughters, Sydney and Mackenzie (cohnsisters.com), have raised over $4 million for Type 1 diabetes research at JDRF, the world’s largest charitable funder for diabetes research. Matthew Cohn becomes Chair of JDRF’s Global Mission Board in July 2024.
• Community Initiatives. In 2023, Andrews’s efforts in his Hope, Indiana, hometown included the Hawcreek-Flat Rock Area Endowment fund, which he helped establish 15 years ago and which distributed $60,000 in community grants this year. Additionally, the Hope Area Food Bank Endowment that Andrews established annually supports 10% of the food bank’s needs. In 2023, Andrews also endowed the Arts Council of Princeton (N.J.) with funding to establish the Timothy M. Andrews Artistic Directorship to help the council further its mission to build community through the arts.

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About ASI
The Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI^®; asicentral.com) serves a network of 25,000 suppliers, distributors and decorators in the $25.8 billion promotional products industry. ASI’s flagship product, the technology platform ESP^®, manages the industry’s entire supply and marketing chain. ASI also produces award-winning digital and print content, live events and educational programs that enable companies in 53 countries to be more efficient, productive and profitable. ASI’s media and research operation provides the most authoritative business content in the industry, and the ASI Certification Program features 200+ live and online education courses for industry professionals. The company, family-owned and -operated since 1962, is proud to have been consistently ranked among the “Best Places to Work” in Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA.

The post ASI’s 2023 Generosity: Empowering Communities And Changing Lives appeared first on ASI.

TREVOSE, PA – December 4, 2023

The Advertising Specialty Institute^® (ASI) and leading European promotional products organizations Sourcing City and PSI announce an expanded collaborative effort to provide distributors, suppliers and decorators an unparalleled array of benefits to understand international markets and serve intercontinental clients.

PromoAlliance is a strategic coalition among the three premier players in the global promo products industry. Members of ASI, PSI and Sourcing City are all eligible to apply to join the alliance by visiting the website: promoalliance.com. Joining empowers members to seamlessly connect with industry peers in North America, the U.K. and throughout Europe. Beyond serving as an informational hub, an upgraded PromoAlliance website now champions enhanced member benefits, increased networking opportunities, facilitated cross-border trade show attendance, market data access and a revitalized worldwide alliance.

ASI is the leading authority in the $25.8 billion North American promo industry, committed to providing resources and networking opportunities for industry professionals. Sourcing City serves the U.K. promo industry and PSI annually hosts the industry’s leading European trade show. Recognizing the significance of overseas markets, for over 20 years ASI has invested time and resources to building relationships with prominent European stakeholders while providing substantial news coverage of markets, products and trade shows.

“PromoAlliance redefines global promotional networking, offering ASI members engaged in today’s dynamic global business environment tangible benefits on a worldwide scale,” said Timothy M. Andrews, president and chief executive officer of ASI, whose network of over 25,000 members includes nearly 3,000 top-tier suppliers. “Joining this robust international alliance, spearheaded by three key influencers in promo, is crucial for members navigating international markets and catering to clients across continents.”

The revamped PromoAlliance website introduces members to a wide range of new benefits, including:

• Real-time lists of globally positioned suppliers and distributors primed for networking
• Exclusive data on promo markets spanning North America, Europe and the U.K.
• Comprehensive global research on products, trends and market dynamics, featuring pivotal ASI research like the groundbreaking report outlining spending trends in the U.K. and European Union promo markets
• In-depth and continually updated coverage of international industry issues, including sourcing and economics
• Upcoming webinars with top authorities in global promo markets

“Sourcing City, along with ASI and PSI, have major profiles running premium industry trade services in their home markets, and we also each run major industry exhibitions,” said Sourcing City CEO/founder David Long. “This close collaboration is designed to provide practical benefits on numerous levels to the promotional merchandise industry across continents.”

Said PSI Director Petra Lassahn: “Our PromoAlliance partnership with ASI and Sourcing City provides an incredible opportunity for our members to open up new business opportunities. By joining forces with these excellent networks and by exchanging our impressive competences, we can offer best conditions in important markets and can also explore new exhibitor and visitor potential for PSI on a global scale.”

To become a member of PromoAlliance, founded in 2011, and to gain access to the password-protected networking and data pages, visit the website: promoalliance.com. For more information contact Michele Bell, ASI vice president of editorial, education and special events at mbell@asicentral.com.

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About ASI
The Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI^®; asicentral.com) serves a network of 25,000 suppliers, distributors and decorators in the $25.8 billion promotional products industry. ASI’s flagship product, the technology platform ESP^®, manages the industry’s entire supply and marketing chain. ASI also produces award-winning digital and print content, live events and educational programs that enable companies in 53 countries to be more efficient, productive and profitable. ASI’s media and research operation provides the most authoritative business content in the industry, and the ASI Certification Program features 200+ live and online education courses for industry professionals. The company, family-owned and -operated since 1962, is proud to have been consistently ranked among the “Best Places to Work” in Philadelphia and Bucks County, PA.

The post ASI Partners With European Promo Firms To Expand International Benefits appeared first on ASI.