Toronto-based Redwood Classics Apparel (PPAI 696010) has announced a partnership with Vantage Apparel (PPAI 113235, Platinum) making Vantage its exclusive U.S. provider.

• Vantage was recently named PPAI 100’s No. 12 supplier.
• Redwood Classics is a women-owned and minority-owned certified promo supplier founded in 2009.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Redwood Classics’ exceptional products into the Vantage family,” says Rob Watson, CEO of Vantage. “Redwood Classics’ commitment to quality, craftsmanship and innovation aligns perfectly with our values at Vantage. This partnership will enable us to offer our customers an expanded selection of value-driven options that are both stylish and meticulously crafted.”

• Watson recently returned to Vantage as CEO last November, following a trend of returns at the company, including Fred Durand (chief operating officer) and Chris Alfano (chief digital officer) in July of last year.

Redwood Classic offerings are immediately available through Vantage, and inventory will be stocked in Vantage’s New Jersey warehouse.

• The news follows another recent development for Vantage, which opened a Santa Ana facility in June.The new location is intended to expand Vantage’s contract decoration services along the West Coast.

From Redwood Classics’ perspective, founder and president Kathy Cheng says that Vantage’s distributor network in the United States puts Redwood Classics products in the hands of more end users.

“Partnering with Vantage Apparel marks a significant milestone for Redwood Classics,” Cheng says. “Vantage’s extensive network and industry expertise will help us reach new heights and continue to grow our presence across North America. We look forward to collaborating with Vantage to bring our unique, made-in-Canada designs to a broader audience.”

An Aligned Mission of Sustainability

Redwood Classics has a long history of prioritizing sustainability efforts in its practices while also promoting diversity with its platform within the industry. Vantage’s shared values helped make the partnership between the two suppliers possible.

“The path is clear: Whether you’re a multinational corporation or a local startup, championing social causes can be both a moral commitment and a strategic advantage,” Cheng has written for PPAI Media.

• Redwood Classics introduced upcycling programs into its processes in 2014.
• Vantage received a high mark for Responsibility in the 2024 PPAI 100.