PCNA (PPAI 113079, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 6 supplier, has announced the appointment of Josh Militello as CEO.

Effective July 13, Militello will succeed Neil Ringel, who is retiring after more than seven years of leading the New Kensington, Pennsylvania-based company. Ringel will remain actively involved as an advisor and member of PCNA’s board of directors.

Ringel tells PPAI Media that this transition is taking place from a position of strength, adding that PCNA is experiencing a strong 2026 and continues to outperform the industry based on supplier growth data from PPAI Research.

“Leading PCNA has been the privilege of my professional career,” Ringel says. “I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished together and grateful for the dedication, resilience and passion of our employees.

Leading PCNA has been the privilege of my professional career.”

Neil Ringel

Exiting CEO, PCNA

“Over the past several years, we’ve assembled an exceptional leadership team, strengthened our portfolio of brands, modernized our technology platform, diversified our supply chain and built a clear long term growth strategy through our Fans First Customer Experience Plan. I’m incredibly proud of what the team has accomplished and believe the company is exceptionally well positioned for the future.”

After more than 30 years leading businesses, including nearly eight years leading PCNA, Ringel says it simply feels like the right time to make this transition. In addition to remaining involved as a member of Polyconcept’s board and as an advisor, he plans to dedicate more time to serving on outside boards, advisory work, mentoring leaders, and, just as importantly, family and friends.

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“As I retire from the day-to-day responsibilities of leading PCNA, I do so with tremendous confidence in the future of our company and genuine excitement for what’s next, both for PCNA and for my next chapter,” Ringel says. “Josh is an exceptional leader, and I couldn’t be more confident in his ability to lead this company forward.”

Militello’s Background

Militello has spent nearly three decades leading consumer products, branded goods and go-to-market organizations.

Most recently, he served as president of Dometic Mobile Cooling, where he led the global Dometic, Igloo and Cool Gear brands. Prior to Dometic, he served as senior vice president of Igloo Products and held senior leadership roles with Masco Cabinetry, Bang & Olufsen America, HoMedics, Coleman and Lava World International.

“We’re excited to welcome Josh, a customer-centric leader with a track record of growth,” says Jesse Ge, managing director at Charlesbank Capital Partners, an investor in PCNA. “We look forward to supporting Josh and the PCNA team as they continue to grow and innovate in their industry.”

I’m looking forward to getting to work with this team and continuing to build something our customers and partners can count on.”

Josh Militello

Incoming CEO, PCNA

What drew Militello to PCNA, he says, is the quality of the business Neil and the team have built – the brands, the relationships and the people.

“I’ve spent my career in businesses where staying close to the customer is what drives growth, and that’s exactly how I intend to approach this role,” Militello says. “I’m looking forward to getting to work with this team and continuing to build something our customers and partners can count on.”

Ringel’s Impact

Upon manning the helm of PCNA, Ringel abbreviated the name Polyconcept North America because of negative connotations with Poly – among other possibilities, it could be associated with polymers (the chemical compounds that make up plastic). It didn’t tell the sustainability story that the company has developed into an ethos.

When Ringel first arrived, the company sold 19 products that it called eco-friendly. It now sells over 600 through the ProudPath channel, in the meantime reducing its overall product offering to eliminate items it considers likely to be thrown away.

Neil and the team have built a great business at PCNA – an industry leader with marquee brands, loyal distributor relationships and a commitment to operational excellence.”

Jesse Ge

Managing Director, Charlesbank Capital Partners

Under his leadership, PCNA has reported record employee engagement, with response rates as well as Glassdoor and Indeed ratings exceeding its targets. The company has also tackled potential issues in the workplace by implementing fair-chance/second-chance employment measures and employee resource groups.

• In 2024, PCNA launched Givee Select, an online store platform aimed at improving gift giving.
• Last year, the company also became the exclusive supplier and decorator of new Stanley 1913 products in the branded merch industry, expanding its reach with a high-demand retail brand.

“Neil and the team have built a great business at PCNA – an industry leader with marquee brands, loyal distributor relationships and a commitment to operational excellence,” Ge says. “We’re deeply appreciative of Neil’s leadership over the years and look forward to continuing to partner with him on the board.”

Before joining PCNA, Ringel spent 23 years at Staples, where he held various executive roles with responsibility over the salesforce, digitization and mergers and acquisitions activity, as well as oversight for the Staples Promotional Products business.

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

ASB (PPAI 101656, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 11 distributor, has announced the promotion of President Justin Zavadil to CEO. His father, founder Larry Zavadil, will transition from his role as CEO to chairman of the board.

While stepping away from day-to-day executive responsibilities, Larry will remain focused on the company’s culture and people. He will also continue serving as president of Canadian Solutions for Business.

“My dad has built and nurtured an incredible culture,” Justin says. “We listen to our customers, treat everyone with kindness and always ‘do the right thing for the right reason.’  I couldn’t have had a better mentor and role model.”

We’ll always do what’s in the best interest of our stakeholders and what’s needed to be the last company standing.”

Justin Zavadil, President/CEO, ASB

Larry launched American Solutions for Business in 1981 and has grown the Glenwood, Minnesota-based company into one of the largest employee-owned distributors of branded merchandise. After 45 years at the helm, he’s ready for the next generation of leadership to step up following extensive succession planning with ASB’s board of directors.

“I’m so proud of Justin’s transition to CEO and president of ASB,” Larry says. “It’s been our vision for quite some time, and over the past year specifically, Justin and I have worked closely with the board to ensure a seamless leadership transition.

“As I step into my role as chairman, I look forward to continuing to add value to the American family while supporting Justin and our leadership team. I’m excited to continue working alongside Justin to preserve the culture that has made ASB so special while helping it evolve for the future.”

I’m excited to continue working alongside Justin to preserve the culture that has made ASB so special while helping it evolve for the future.”

Larry Zavadil, Founder/Chairman, ASB

Justin has been in leadership roles at ASB for 18 years and has served as president for nearly a decade.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue to drive our culture forward,” Justin says. “As long as I’m here, that direction won’t change. We’ll always do what’s in the best interest of our stakeholders and what’s needed to be the last company standing.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Sock Club, the Austin-based custom sock manufacturer known for fully knitted branded merchandise made in the USA, today announced the addition of custom grip socks to its product lineup. The new off ering pairs fully custom knit artwork with anti-slip soles, giving brands, studios, healthcare organizations, and wellness companies a functional and highly branded option for environments where traction matters.

“Unlike printed or sublimated socks where designs are applied to the surface of a blank sock and may stretch, fade, or distort with wear, Sock Club's grip socks are fully knitted, meaning the artwork is woven directly into the fabric using yarn,” said Chloe Tabler, VP of Marketing. “The result is a more durable, premium product that looks intentional and holds up through normal wear and washing.”

Grip socks are particularly well-suited for Pilates studios, yoga studios, barre studios, physical therapy clinics, hospitals, senior care programs, wellness retreats, and athletic recovery spaces. A Pilates studio might sell them at the front desk or include them in new member packages. A hospital might use them for patient comfort, staff appreciation, or fundraising. A wellness brand might package them in launch kits, subscription boxes, or infl uencer mailers.

Custom grip socks are available starting at a 120-pair minimum per design. Standard production is 15 business days from design approval, plus shipping. There are no setup fees, design fees, or rush fees. Design support is included with every order. Custom branded packaging is also available for retail, gifting, or launch kit applications.

Leadership rarely allows time to slow down. But this week in San Diego, senior executives from across the branded merchandise industry are doing exactly that – stepping away from day‑to‑day execution to focus on long‑term direction, shared challenges and the future of the channel they collectively shape.

Those conversations are unfolding at the 2026 PPAI North American Leadership Conference, which opened Tuesday and concludes Thursday. The event is being held at one of the country’s most historic hotels, The US Grant, where roughly 180 distributor, supplier and services provider leaders are gathered for peer engagement and strategic content examining how the industry must evolve in a fast‑changing world.

“For me, NALC is really about connected communities, but focusing that time on strategic thought leadership,” says Kate Alavez, president of distributor PromoShop and a PPAI Board member. “Whatever we’re doing in this room is looking forward to elevation of the industry. Discussions are around where we want to be in one, three, five, and even 10 years, and how our organizations are doing that collaboratively to make sure that we’re mindful of our employee values, our organizational needs and the growth opportunities we have.”

For me, NALC is really about connected communities, but focusing that time on strategic thought leadership.”

Kate Alavez

President, PromoShop

That long‑range lens is shaping a program that acknowledges rapid technological change – particularly around artificial intelligence – while repeatedly returning to more enduring leadership questions around trust, governance and intentional growth.

Kicking Things Off

The event opened Tuesday evening with a reception and exclusive preview of the 2026 PPAI 100 at Snapdragon Stadium.

In a nod to the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaders from the 40 leading supplier and distributor firms each received a customized soccer ball displaying their ranking.

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The full 2026 PPAI 100 list will roll out publicly later this month, with suppliers announced Tuesday, May 19, and distributors unveiled Tuesday, May 26.

Trust, Ethics And Leadership Under Pressure

Conference sessions began Wednesday morning with an opening keynote from Tyler Shultz, an entrepreneur and whistleblower of would-be health innovator Theranos, which crumbled amid massive fraud. His presentation underscored the consequences of leadership failures and the enduring value of trust.

Drawing from his experience as a young employee at Theranos, Shultz walked attendees through the rise and unraveling of one of Silicon Valley’s most notorious corporate scandals, examining issues of corporate governance, business ethics and organizational culture tensions. His message resonated beyond the tech world, offering cautionary lessons for leaders navigating innovation, growth expectations and emerging technologies.

As enthusiasm around AI and automation continues to accelerate across industries, Shultz’s story served as a reminder that innovation absent accountability and ethical clarity can carry long‑term costs.

Repositioning Merch In The Marketing Mix

Later Wednesday, the conversation shifted from leadership caution to strategic opportunity during Making Merch Part Of The Marketing Mix, a fireside discussion moderated by PPAI Board Chair Danny Rosin and featuring Julie Schnidman, vice president of alliances at the American Marketing Association, and Cayce Myers, a public relations author, professor, thought leader and board member of the Public Relations Society of America.

The discussion explored how branded merchandise must evolve to earn a more intentional role within integrated marketing and PR strategies.

MORE | PPAI Strategic Plan: Reaffirming Mission To Elevate The Branded Merchandise Industry

“It’s a million‑dollar question,” Schnidman said, when asked how the industry can become more thoughtful and meaningful in marketing campaigns. “It really is about how you’re positioning merchandise to marketers. Are you just talking about your products and your solutions, or are you talking about the business impact and the values, and how it can function to extend and build your brand in a sticky way?”

Schnidman emphasized intentionality as both a theme of the conference and a differentiator for branded merchandise when positioned effectively.

“We live in this very fragmented social, online landscape,” Myers said. “There is, I think, a real desire for that interconnection and for that interpersonal connection…. There’s a lot of opportunities for things like AI in terms of research and audience segmentation and being able to understand what resonates with what group, and how do you reach these people and communicate?

“But there’s also, I think, a reverse side of that, where it is trying to return to some of these older practices that may be lost in the digital shuffle, where we want to come together, we want to have relationships, and we know that there’s value added in that.”

The session reinforced a recurring message throughout NALC: Moving merchandise from a tactical execution to a strategic asset requires clearer articulation of business impact, brand values and long‑term return.

From AI Theory To Real‑World Decisions

Across multiple sessions on Wednesday and into Thursday, speakers and panelists examined how innovation is reshaping workflows, organizational culture and leadership expectations throughout the industry.

Wednesday sessions pushed discussions beyond abstract AI theory toward practical decision‑making. The focus consistently returned to governance, clarity and alignment rather than adopting technology for its own sake.

Additional programming scheduled for Thursday addresses broader economic and operational pressures, including the state of the economy, PPAI’s forthcoming Global Economic Study conducted by Oxford Economics, and responsible supply chains. Executive‑level roundtable discussions and devoted networking time allow leaders to compare strategies.

While innovation featured prominently throughout the agenda, many conversations ultimately circled back to leadership itself, particularly how executives navigate uncertainty that increasingly feels structural rather than temporary.

“Global destabilization, I believe, is here to stay,” says Frank Carpenito, president and CEO of supplier Gemline, who is attending his first NALC. “I don’t think we’re suddenly going to have calmness around the world. I don’t think we’re going to have calmness in our supply chain. So, I think that’s a big task for everybody.”

I don’t think we’re suddenly going to have calmness around the world. I don’t think we’re going to have calmness in our supply chain. So, I think that’s a big task for everybody.”

Frank Carpenito

President & CEO, Gemline

Industry Support And Looking Ahead

Numerous industry companies contributed to the success of the 2026 North American Leadership Conference, supporting programming designed to challenge, connect and prepare leaders for the work ahead.

As sessions conclude Thursday, NALC once again reaffirmed its role as a space for industry leaders to engage honestly with complexity – not simply to react to change, but to shape the future of branded merchandise with trust, intention and shared responsibility.

Numerous industry companies contributed to the success of the week’s event. View the 2026 NALC sponsors.

Written by: Josh Ellis

Published with Permission from PPAI

S&S Activewear (PPAI 256121, Platinum), PPAI 100’s No. 2 supplier, has announced the launch of ApparelSoft IQ, a proprietary intelligence layer designed to anticipate customer demand, optimize inventory decisions and improve how the business operates at scale.

• An intelligence layer is the tier in your enterprise stack in which humans and agents collaborate to reason about, query and act on your data, according to Kyle Langham, an engineer-turned-data executive at DFINITY.

ApparelSoft IQ has been in production for more than six months, driving out-of-stock levels to the lowest in company history, S&S Activewear says.

The tool is focused on demand forecasting and inventory optimization – one of the most complex challenges in the business – while designed to expand intelligence and automation across the entire ApparelSoft platform over time.

Having deep and reliable inventory is the most fundamental thing we can do for our customers.”

Frank Myers

CEO, S&S Activewear

“Inventory planning has been near and dear to my heart since my first day at S&S,” says Frank Myers, CEO of S&S Activewear and a member of the PPAI Board of Directors. “It was the first project I worked on with our Chief Transformation Officer, Brian Beale, back in 2009. We believed then, and know now, that having deep and reliable inventory is the most fundamental thing we can do for our customers.

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“ApparelSoft IQ is a milestone in that journey and a testament to what happens when long-term commitment meets the tools of today.”

Anticipating Demand

Developed by S&S Activewear’s data science team, ApparelSoft IQ combines more than 35 years of the Bolingbrook, Illinois-based firm’s historical data with information from alphabroder, which was acquired in 2024.  

• By applying machine learning directly to this data, ApparelSoft IQ generates highly accurate purchasing recommendations and inventory positioning decisions, the firm says.

We’re not just reacting to demand; we’re anticipating it and positioning inventory ahead of it.”

Josh Clark

COO, S&S Activewear

ApparelSoft IQ is built into S&S Activewear’s proprietary ApparelSoft ERP platform, which powers its e-commerce experience, customer tools and distribution network. As a result, its insights translate directly into action across the supply chain, from vendor purchase orders to inventory transfers between distribution centers. The goal is to ensure faster response times, more efficient allocation and more consistent product availability.

RELATED: S&S Activewear: Into The Big Room

“This starts with a highly sophisticated forecasting system built specifically for the blank apparel industry,” says Josh Clark, COO at S&S Activewear. “We’re not just reacting to demand; we’re anticipating it and positioning inventory ahead of it. That allows our customers to operate with more confidence and less disruption.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

The leading supplier in branded merchandise is getting even larger.

Late Monday, BELLA+CANVAS (PPAI 304892, Silver) announced it had entered a “definitive agreement” with SanMar (PPAI 110788, Platinum) that would see the Issaquah, Washington-based apparel giant take ownership of BELLA+CANVAS while preserving it as a distinct and independent brand.

PPAI Media has confirmed the announcement with sources close to SanMar.

Executive Vice-President Megan Spire will retain her leading role at BELLA+CANVAS.

Founded in 1992, BELLA+CANVAS has become known in the industry for its fashion-driven basics, such as T-shirts and hoodies. SanMar is the largest apparel supplier in branded merchandise, driving an estimated $4.1 billion in 2025 revenue. It has ranked No. 1 among PPAI 100 suppliers since the inception of the measurement of industry leaders in 2023.

“As the fashion leader in the industry, BELLA+CANVAS has earned the trust and respect it holds today,” says SanMar President and CEO Jeremy Lott. “Our commitment is simple: Give BELLA+CANVAS the focused ownership and resources it needs to keep doing what it does best and to deliver even more of what the market expects from this exceptional brand.”

Our commitment is simple: Give BELLA+CANVAS the focused ownership and resources it needs to keep doing what it does best and to deliver even more of what the market expects from this exceptional brand.”

Jeremy Lott

President & CEO, SanMar

Headquartered in Los Angeles where it bases its dye and cut operations, BELLA+CANVAS has two additional distribution facilities in Nevada and Maryland.

According to the announcement, BELLA+CANVAS will be “maintaining the creative autonomy and clear point of view that have always defined the brand.”

“BELLA+CANVAS has always operated with a simple conviction: The people who print, decorate and sell our products deserve the best blank apparel in the world,” Spire says. “That belief is not changing. With focused ownership and additional investment behind the brand, we will be able to bring more newness, more innovation and an even stronger commitment to the partners who make BELLA+CANVAS what it is while staying true to who we’ve always been. I have never been more excited to lead this brand.”

Megan Spire

Executive Vice President, BELLA+CANVAS

Departing the company in the change of ownership are Danny Harris and Marco DeGeorge, who co-founded BELLA+CANVAS as a garage screen printer in 1992. Their apparel empire also includes billion-dollar retail brand Alo Yoga.

Harris and DeGeorge cited the importance of finding the right owner for BELLA+CANVAS in an acquisition, mentioning SanMar’s family-owned structure.

• “SanMar believes deeply in this brand and is uniquely positioned to support its growth through inventory depth, service, and operational excellence. The BELLA+CANVAS legacy lives on, and I can’t wait to see what comes next,” Harris says.
• DeGeorge says: “We know SanMar will be exceptional stewards of the brand and of the BELLA+CANVAS team who continues to shape it today.”

While BELLA+CANVAS has maintained privacy over its blank and decorated apparel revenue, the company is among the largest sources of wearables in the industry. As recently as 2023, it employed more than 700 people across its facilities and boasted nearly 1.5 million square feet of operations.

Written by: Josh Ellis

Published with Permission from PPAI

Fully Promoted (PPAI 240143, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 51 distributor, has named Walter Miska as its new brand president, effective immediately.

Miska, a former Fully Promoted franchise owner and regional vice president, succeeds Andrew Titus – the youngest son of founder Ray Titus.

• A 2024 PPAI Rising Star, Andrew was appointed president in late 2022 and led the brand through a significant growth period that included its 25th year in business.

“We’re super excited to welcome Walter back to the Fully Promoted family,” Andrew says. “As we made this decision, we ultimately wanted someone who has a proven track record of business ownership experience and can take the momentum we’ve built to the next level. I couldn’t be more confident in Walter, and I’m excited about the brand’s trajectory as we continue investing in the resources and people needed to grow it further.”

Andrew will fully transition into his role as president of United Franchise Group – parent company of the West Palm Beach, Florida-based distributor – a position he was appointed to in January as part of an executive realignment at the company. 

I’m excited about the brand’s trajectory as we continue investing in the resources and people needed to grow it further.”

Andrew Titus

President, United Franchise Group

He will remain involved in the growth of Fully Promoted, particularly focused on strategic acquisitions and partnerships in the branded merchandise industry, as Miska’s direct report.

Miska’s Background

Miska became a Fully Promoted franchise owner in 2005 and grew his location into one of the top-performing businesses in the system, earning induction into the company’s hall of fame, its President’s Award and the Extraordinary Mentor Award. 

He later served as regional vice president of United Franchise Group. Most recently, he helped build a franchise in the culinary staffing industry, adding to a career that also includes launching and growing several businesses as an entrepreneur. 

ICYMI: Fully Promoted Expands Global Network Into India

“We’re thrilled to have Walter back in the UFG family,” says Ray Titus, chairman and CEO of UFG. “Andrew will remain involved with Fully Promoted as he oversees the growth strategies for all our UFG brands, and he and Walter have built a strong working relationship over the years. We’re confident this will be a smooth and natural transition, and we’re more excited than ever about the future of Fully Promoted.”

Fully Promoted is an outstanding brand that has continued to thrive in recent years.”

Walter Miska

President, Fully Promoted

Miska says it’s an honor to be appointed president of Fully Promoted, a brand he’s deeply passionate about and that has played such an important role in his career.

“Fully Promoted is an outstanding brand that has continued to thrive in recent years – a direct reflection of Andrew’s innovative and strategic leadership, the team he has built and the dedication of our franchise owners; many of whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years,” Miska adds. “I’m looking forward to reconnecting with many of them and learning more about what’s working well across the brand today.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI

Norman Cohn, the longtime leader of Advertising Specialty Institute and one of the most consequential figures in the history of the branded merchandise industry, died Friday at the age of 93, ASI has announced.

Norman Cohn

For more than seven decades, Cohn’s career traced – and in many ways defined – the evolution of the branded merch marketplace. From his earliest days as a teenage distributor selling holiday gifts to his tenure guiding ASI into the digital era, Cohn’s influence reached virtually every corner of the industry.

His passing marks not only the loss of a business services leader, but of a figure whose vision, competitive drive and ethos helped shape the relationship between distributors, suppliers and service providers.

Industry leaders, including from PPAI, have begun to share their remembrances.

“Norm Cohn was the patriarch of the advertising specialties, promotional products, swag and branded merch industry,” says Danny Rosin, CAS, PPAI Board Chair and co-owner of North Carolina-based distributor Brand Fuel. “He and the Cohn family helped build a foundation for our industry. He was a gentleman, statesman and entrepreneur.

He and the Cohn family helped build a foundation for our industry. He was a gentleman, statesman and entrepreneur.

Danny Rosin, CAS

PPAI Board Chair

“He will be missed, and yet his legacy will live on through the many people and companies who adored and respected him.”

Drew Holmgreen, CAS, PPAI president and CEO, called Cohn “a titan.”

“I had the privilege of spending time with him on several occasions, albeit briefly,” Holmgreen says. “And in those conversations, he was generous with his perspective and his advice. I’m thankful for the guidance he shared with me. He truly was a godfather to the modern branded merchandise industry, and his influence will be felt for generations to come. All of us at PPAI and throughout the market are grateful for his service to the industry, and share our heartfelt support for his family and the entire ASI team.”

All of us at PPAI and throughout the market are grateful for his service to the industry, and share our heartfelt support for his family and the entire ASI team.”

Drew Holmgreen, CAS

PPAI President & CEO

A Monumental Leader

Cohn entered the merch business while still in high school, an origin story that has become part of industry lore. What began with assembling and selling food gift packages soon expanded into a family enterprise before pivoting toward media and services.

In 1962, Cohn and his father acquired ASI from founder Joseph Segel, a move that would ultimately position him at the center of the industry’s infrastructure. Five years later, he was named chairman. He would hold this role, in various forms, for the rest of his life.

During that time, the industry expanded from a niche business measured in tens or hundreds of millions to a multi-billion-dollar global marketplace. By the time Cohn received ASI’s Counselor Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023, the industry had grown roughly 50-fold over the course of his career.

READ MORE: Promo Congratulates Norman Cohn On Lifetime Achievement Award

Colleagues frequently pointed to the market’s growth as inseparable from Cohn’s work. “No single person has played a more significant role in our mutual success,” said Gene Geiger, Board Chair of Maine-headquartered distributor Geiger, when presenting the award.

Building The Business

Cohn’s legacy is perhaps most visible in the systems and platforms that underpin the industry today. Under his leadership, ASI introduced innovations that helped modernize how business was conducted – from early demonstrations of fax technology to the development of computerized business systems and digital product search tools now ubiquitous to the industry.

Yet even as he championed technology, Cohn remained a steadfast advocate for the industry’s human dimension. He consistently emphasized that merch is, at its core, a relationship-driven business.

READ MORE: ASI Names New CEO With Background In Technology Platforms

That dual focus, on innovation paired with interpersonal connection, became a defining characteristic of his leadership style.

Yet across that competitive dynamic, there was broad consensus about his impact. Industry leaders routinely described him as both a fierce competitor and a generous collaborator, someone capable of driving his organization forward while maintaining a long-term view of what was best for the industry as a whole.

A Legacy Of Humanity

If Cohn’s professional accomplishments are widely known, it is his personal qualities that colleagues may remember most fondly.

Stories of quiet generosity, from mentoring executives to recognizing employees in deeply personal ways, became part of his reputation. That approach extended beyond business into civic and philanthropic work, where Cohn and his family supported a wide range of causes, from education and cultural institutions to health research and community relief efforts.

As a father, he and his wife of 61 years, Suzanne, brought children Matthew Cohn and Stephanie Cohn Schaeffer into the fold at ASI. The two were named co-chairs of the company in March.

“He always said, ‘The best is yet to come,’ and he made you believe it,” Cohn Schaeffer commented in ASI’s Saturday announcement of the passing. “I carry that forward as I continue his legacy – taking care of our customers and employees and helping them grow and succeed – determined to always make him proud and to make those words true.”

Written By: Josh Ellis

Published with Permission from PPAI

Almost 60 industry volunteers joined PPAI staff in our nation’s capital this week to ask for a clear and predictable trade policy and to educate lawmakers on how our global supply chain supports hundreds of thousands of American jobs.

Each year, a dedicated group of industry professionals travels to the nation’s capital to advocate for the needs and interests of the branded merchandise industry. PPAI revamped and intensified its advocacy efforts in 2025, with a new lobbying partner in Washington, new guidance for advocacy at the regional association level and much more.

ICYMI: PPAI Advocacy Report Card: Expanded & Intensified Efforts In 2025

“LEAD is a critical annual moment for PPAI because it elevates our medium through advocacy on Capitol Hill, amplifying our collective voice and showcasing an industry that powers lasting connections, supports jobs and strengthens communities,” said Drew Holmgreen, PPAI president & CEO.

• LEAD 2026, on April 21, took place less than three months after our first-ever LEAD ECHO, or Executive Capitol Hill Outreach, where a small cohort of PPAI 100 executives met with federal agency leadership and key members of Congress in February.

“The thing that impressed me a lot was some of the people we met with today remembered us and some of the things we talked about last year, and they asked us about them, which tells me our messages are resonating,” said Joe Michmershuizen, owner of Promotions By Design.

LEAD is a critical annual moment for PPAI because it elevates our medium through advocacy on Capitol Hill.”

Drew Holmgreen

PPAI President & CEO

Our Messages

A crucial part of the annual Legislative Education and Action Day, better known as LEAD, is explaining who we are and our economic impact in the U.S. This year was no different, as LEAD attendees helped lawmakers understand that although most promo products are imported, the value is largely created in the U.S. – by American workers – through design, decoration, customization and more.

“As a first-time LEAD participant, what stood out to me is how important it is to bring real business stories into these conversations,” said Brenda Speirs, founder & CEO of Buzztag. “Policy decisions aren’t abstract. They directly impact how we plan, price and grow. Being here gives our industry a voice, and that matters. I encourage everyone to participate when they have the opportunity.”

Members also urged lawmakers to oppose efforts to restrict federal agencies to purchasing only products made in the USA. Such efforts are based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the critical role of American workers in the branded merchandise industry – but a prohibition also would restrict the choices available to federal buyers, as many of the most popular blank products buyers want are not made in the U.S., such as double-wall stainless steel drinkware.

“This year’s LEAD was exceptionally well executed and deeply impactful, bringing together experienced advocates and new voices in a way that strengthened our entire community,” said says Kara Keister, MAS, head of GOOD for Social Good Promotions and PPAI Regional Relations Committee board liaison. “The depth of preparation, real‑time engagement and collaboration on display made this one of the most meaningful LEAD events yet and a powerful representation of our industry.” 

Capitol Hill conversations also focused on asking for clear, deliberative and predictable trade policy, such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement that’s up for review this summer, and the African Growth & Opportunity Act, which expired Sept. 30, 2025, but was renewed retroactively on Feb. 3 through the end of this year.

Policy decisions aren’t abstract. They directly impact how we plan, price and grow. Being here gives our industry a voice, and that matters.”

Brenda Speirs

Founder & CEO, Buzztag

Members shared how tariffs and the uncertainty caused by rapid changes have affected their businesses over the past year. Many noted pricing challenges and reduced revenue from absorbing increased costs, as well as import delays and deferred hiring.

• Our most recent member survey found that more than half of PPAI 100 distributors and suppliers experienced cost increases in 2025 due to tariffs.
• Tariff relief under USMCA for goods from Canada and Mexico provided important pricing stability for many American businesses in 2025.

“What an incredible day of advocacy, connection and impact!” said Mark Gammon, vice president of national accounts and buying groups at PCNA and a PPAI Board member. There’s nothing quite like seeing our industry show up in force, sharing our story, championing the power of promotional products and making sure the voices of our businesses are heard on Capitol Hill.”

Gammon added that he felt energized after the conversations with lawmakers: “I think we had more receptive ears this year. Last year, everybody was nervous about tariffs, but today it was a very open conversation on both sides.”

Renewal of AGOA was an important win for PPAI, and we continue to ask for a longer-term renewal, which would provide important stability and predictability for American businesses with ties to the continent. Members also asked lawmakers to encourage stability as a top priority during the scheduled joint review of USMCA and to pursue renewal of the agreement with minimal changes.

“It’s an honor to be remembered in these meetings, and especially meaningful when congressional staffers reference past challenges we’ve raised and ask how policy changes have impacted us since,” said Mark Shinn, MAS, a former regional association president and longtime attendee who was at the first PPAI LEAD in 2010.

There’s nothing quite like seeing our industry show up in force, sharing our story, championing the power of promotional products and making sure the voices of our businesses are heard on Capitol Hill.”

Mark Gammon

PCNA VP of National Accounts & Buying Groups and PPAI Board Member.

What’s Next?

LEAD is a critical part of our advocacy efforts, which are a marathon, not a sprint. An upcoming PPAI Media webinar at noon Central on April 30 will provide a comprehensive recap of the event with a clear view of how the branded merchandise industry is represented on Capitol Hill – and how you can help.

Mark Your Calendar: Webinar Recaps PPAI Legislative Concerns & How You Can Help

Attendees will hear directly from PPAI advocacy leaders, along with our lobbying partners in Washington and LEAD volunteers who took part in meetings with elected officials. Here’s a sneak peek:

“This is the best LEAD I’ve attended,” said Bill Petrie, founder & creative director of brandivate and longtime LEAD attendee who’ll be sharing more in our webinar. “Representatives and senators from both sides of the aisle made it clear that not only do they appreciate the efficacy and value of our medium, but that they understand the challenges we face – especially those of the 98% of us who work for or own small businesses. PPAI and our lobbying partners at Thorn Run did a truly phenomenal job of preparing us to ensure that our message was clear, united and powerful.”

Written by: Rachel Zoch, CAS

Published with permission from PPAI

Fully Promoted (PPAI 240143, Gold), PPAI 100’s No. 51 distributor, has named Walter Miska as its new brand president, effective immediately.

Miska, a former Fully Promoted franchise owner and regional vice president, succeeds Andrew Titus – the youngest son of founder Ray Titus.

• A 2024 PPAI Rising Star, Andrew was appointed president in late 2022 and led the brand through a significant growth period that included its 25th year in business.

“We’re super excited to welcome Walter back to the Fully Promoted family,” Andrew says. “As we made this decision, we ultimately wanted someone who has a proven track record of business ownership experience and can take the momentum we’ve built to the next level. I couldn’t be more confident in Walter, and I’m excited about the brand’s trajectory as we continue investing in the resources and people needed to grow it further.”

Andrew will fully transition into his role as president of United Franchise Group – parent company of the West Palm Beach, Florida-based distributor – a position he was appointed to in January as part of an executive realignment at the company. 

I’m excited about the brand’s trajectory as we continue investing in the resources and people needed to grow it further.”

Andrew Titus

President, United Franchise Group

He will remain involved in the growth of Fully Promoted, particularly focused on strategic acquisitions and partnerships in the branded merchandise industry, as Miska’s direct report.

Miska’s Background

Miska became a Fully Promoted franchise owner in 2005 and grew his location into one of the top-performing businesses in the system, earning induction into the company’s hall of fame, its President’s Award and the Extraordinary Mentor Award. 

He later served as regional vice president of United Franchise Group. Most recently, he helped build a franchise in the culinary staffing industry, adding to a career that also includes launching and growing several businesses as an entrepreneur. 

ICYMI: Fully Promoted Expands Global Network Into India

“We’re thrilled to have Walter back in the UFG family,” says Ray Titus, chairman and CEO of UFG. “Andrew will remain involved with Fully Promoted as he oversees the growth strategies for all our UFG brands, and he and Walter have built a strong working relationship over the years. We’re confident this will be a smooth and natural transition, and we’re more excited than ever about the future of Fully Promoted.”

Fully Promoted is an outstanding brand that has continued to thrive in recent years.”

Walter Miska

President, Fully Promoted

Miska says it’s an honor to be appointed president of Fully Promoted, a brand he’s deeply passionate about and that has played such an important role in his career.

“Fully Promoted is an outstanding brand that has continued to thrive in recent years – a direct reflection of Andrew’s innovative and strategic leadership, the team he has built and the dedication of our franchise owners; many of whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with over the years,” Miska adds. “I’m looking forward to reconnecting with many of them and learning more about what’s working well across the brand today.”

Written by: John Corrigan

Published with Permission from PPAI