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This recent industry post, p ublished April 1, 2025, by Elizabeth Wimbush, Director of Sustainability & Responsibility for PPAI caught my attention. Reposting her article here. Which sustainability credential should you aim to achieve? Let’s go to the tale of the tape. B Corporation certification and EcoVadis ratings are becoming more and more prevalent in our industry. Why are they so important? How do they differ? And which one is better for your business? Considering that we’re in the middle of WrestleMania season , get ready for a sustainability smackdown – minus the sweat and spandex. In the world of promotional products, sustainability credentials can feel like a game of alphabet soup. You’ve got ISO, LCA, GRI and, of course, today’s main contenders: B Corp and EcoVadis. Both are heavyweight champions in responsible business, but they serve different audiences and have different impacts. Let’s break it down, promo-style. In The Blue Corner, We Have B Corp: The End-User Darling! If B Corp were a promotional product, it’d be a cool recycled material tote bag with a bold statement: eye-catching, mission-driven and a clear declaration of values. (It would likely also have a digital product passport, but let’s save that for another article.) B Corp certification is like the gold star for companies that “walk the talk” when it comes to fair governance, as well as environmental and social responsibility. It’s rigorous, holistic and importantly, public-facing. Certified B Corporations meet high social and environmental standards , demonstrating a commitment to balancing profit with purpose. The certification process, overseen by the nonprofit B Lab, evaluates a company’s impact across governance, workers, community and environment, with a focus on continuous improvement. Companies need to recertify every three years, so it’s not a one-and-done process. Whether you choose B Corp to woo consumers or EcoVadis to land corporate contracts, both frameworks can help your business thrive.” Elizabeth Wimbush- Director of Sustainability & Responsibility, PPAI Why B Corp Matters Brand recognition: Customers (and employees) love it. If your brand carries the B Corp badge, you’re speaking directly to conscious consumers who vote with their dollars and attracting employees who are purpose-driven. Credibility boost: Achieving B Corp status signals a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, not just a greenwashing attempt. Competitive differentiation: In an industry where buyers increasingly ask about ethics and sustainability, B Corp helps you stand out from the swag pack, and being able to point to your company’s B Corp directory listing allows anyone to see for themselves how you stack up, including against your previous scores. Downside? The process isn’t for the faint of heart. The B Impact Assessment is comprehensive, time-consuming and requires ongoing improvement to maintain certification. It also doesn’t provide the level of supply-chain mapping that certain levels of EcoVadis subscription can get you, which is an increasingly important feature as demands for transparency increase. And In The Red Corner, EcoVadis: The B2B Power Player! If EcoVadis were a promotional product, it’d be a functional tech corporate gift – less flashy but deeply valuable in the right business circles. Think of it as the LinkedIn of sustainability credentials: It might not mean much to the general public, but in supply chain conversations, it’s a game-changer. EcoVadis is a sustainability ratings platform used by businesses to evaluate suppliers across environmental, social and ethical criteria. Companies undergo a structured assessment and receive a scorecard ranking their sustainability performance. Why EcoVadis Matters Supply chain credibility: Many large brands and corporations require their suppliers to have an EcoVadis rating. If you want to work with corporate giants, this may be a ticket in. Risk management: EcoVadis ratings help businesses track supplier sustainability performance, flagging potential risks and areas for improvement. Business opportunities: Companies with high EcoVadis scores often gain a competitive edge in B2B relationships, as many buyers prioritize working with highly rated suppliers. Downside? While incredibly valuable in B2B procurement, EcoVadis doesn’t carry much weight with everyday consumers. You won’t see an end buyer choosing between two promo companies based on their EcoVadis scores – it’s built for corporate procurement teams, not retail shoppers. Also, it’s not a certification, meaning it doesn’t provide a distinct marketing edge in the same way B Corp does. Choose Your Fighter The million-dollar question: If you’re in the promotional products industry, should you go for B Corp or EcoVadis? The answer depends on who you’re trying to impress. If your customers are end buyers, retail brands or the general public, B Corp is your best bet. It’s recognized, respected and an excellent marketing tool. If your customers are corporate buyers, procurement teams or supply chain managers, EcoVadis is your golden ticket. Many large companies require it to do business. How is this article relevant to your relationship with Promotional Partners? We know which of our partners are B Corp Certified and which are EcoVadis. When you have specific certifications you are seeking in partnership- we've got you covered.

April is associated with celebrating the earth, trees and gardening, as well as a focus on mental health & awareness. We need the oxygen, and plants create oxygen for us. Google it - if you need more facts! What do trees, plants, flower gardens and park spaces have to do with your mental health? There's a lot of scientific literature supporting the benefits of adding more "green space" to your life. Key reasons include: Reducing stress & anxiety Boosting your memory & creativity & intellect. Here are some simple kits to get your recipient started on a wellness journey. Each is ready to ship out to each person on your list. Both are perfect editions to wellness programs, new hires, volunteer gifts, new interns to the company or key business relationships in the community. Start planting outside with this growing kit Then head inside - perhaps taking up Bonsai tree care is the solution to a stronger mind! What's behind this ancient Japanese tradition? Take a look at the kit . Even watch this video  about how to get started and the benefits! After all of the planting, weeding & pruning- sit back & relax with this Tiki inspired wireless speaker ! Since this item can be ordered as few as 1 unit- it's perfect for employee or key referral acknowledgements or added to your on-demand store program. Looking for more ways to add a green thumb to growing your brand awareness & engagement? Set up a time to visit our showroom & design studio. Ideas like today's post are some of our quirky enough to work options! Be #orginal Follow these blog stories. Explore our website. Follow our socials- Instagram , Facebook & LinkedIn for some April shower garden perks and mental health product specials this month. You never know when a spring shower will occur, so make sure you're following us now!

Own space anywhere? Point the way to go- wayfinding! Share good news! Welcome home. Actually mark the herb garden Spread some joy with fun saying in the garden Hometown & Home team pride When you've got something to say, we make it simple! A few as 1 unit, these garden stakes have limitless possibilities for creatives like us! The imaginative properties of this type of promotion also fit for our quirky enough to work series of branding & marketing ideas. Task us with something fun. Then let's design in our showroom & studio space. Point the way or mark your spot with these beautiful decorative wood garden stakes. Custom profiled & engraved, they are available in three sizes to fit any need. Besides the creative fun, each order plants a tree in partnership with Evertreen , making this product a win for your brand and the environment. Know what else is a win? Blog followers & social followers have just scored a discount on their April or May order!

Finding the force behind your brand identity relies on the right touch. Developing a brand takes consistency & a partner that understands how to create connection. Promotional branding relies on the power of touch. We make sure the touch points behind your campaigns drive the green! The past few weeks have been busy preparing our clients for charity & business golf tournaments. Before they get to the links, it's important to determine how to keep them standing out among the teams. Our Top 10 Requests Include: Quality metal divot tools-ball markers; multi- functional Unique towels that will be kept & used Name brand golf balls Umbrellas Tents Club protectors Can Coolers- including magnetic ones for the cart Tees & tee holders Cart signs- hole signs- pin flags Caps! There will be a flurry of activity that day- stay ahead of the pack by shipping your top clients a box ahead of the event or as a follow up to remind them of the day. Not sure what to pack inside? Watch this video . Let us design a custom box kit to ship that fits your preferences & budget. Our showroom is full of new samples to compare. When you need inspiration & we are closed, check out our blog. There's over 40 posts about golf !

By weeding out distractions, focusing on what matters- your brand will grow to new heights! We love providing unexpected ways to engage your brand with new target markets. It's National Gardening Month - let's lend your brand a helping hand. Gloves for gardening provide long term use one- on- one time with nature. We have palm dipped, cut rated and suede work gloves to name a few styles. The options featured in this link , are one of our favorite NC partnerships. There's never a set up fee. We can decorate in full color. Plus you will be helping two businesses grow through our partnership. A vibrant economy relies on commerce. Commerce comes from relationships & connection. Just for reading this post, you've found a "four leaf clover", a discount on gloves till the end of May! Collaborations in our showroom & design studio provide you access to samples and our experienced certified team!

Sometimes we all need a break- Mittens decided to have some fun today. If you don't follow our socials, then "Mittens" will seem like a strange reference. Today is April Fool's Day, so we googled to find the back story. According to History.com the back story is a bit like a "kick me sign" from grade school. If you're up to pranks or a hoax today, you're in good company. Since 1563 when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, individuals have been the "butt of jokes". Who was the target? Anyone out of the loop about the calendar switch. Remember no texting, internet or phones- so, news traveled only as quickly as encountering someone new to share this switch, Let's face it, in 1582- a calendar switch, did it really matter? Take a look at the history page if you want more of the backstory behind why April Fool's Day " is a thing". Do you like to have fun on this day each year?

PATH®’s mission is to inspire the world to #refillit. One PATH®, one iconic bottle, all powered by the human spirit to do better. Next time you have a conference, give out water in a re-useable container that's already filled- ready to use. Aluminum bottles keep liquids cold and cost a fraction of the double wall stainless tumblers. Their also durable and USA MADE! No Tariffs! What's in this bottle? Includes Ultra-Purified, Reverse Osmosis Filtered Water With Electrolytes Water Packaged In Refillable Single-Wall Aluminum Bottle 100% Recyclable Screw On, Spill-Resistant Lid Wide Mouth Opening You Can Refill With Your Favorite Beverages Water Is pH Level 7.5pH Designed For Cold Liquids Only Ingredients Printed On Side Meets FDA Requirements Hand Wash Recommended BPA-Free Made In USA Check Your Local Recycling Abilities Before Adding To Your Recycle Bin Looking for more ways to reuse, recycle and sustainability? Check out this section of our blog.

The older I get, the more I FEEL like a mom & pop business. The responsibility of operating a business is similar to parenting, requiring consistency, vision, care & passion. Parents guide & nurture, providing the tools necessary for kids to blaze their trail. Similarly, as a marketer, blazing the right path for your message to reach it's destination requires shared vision & purpose; plus trust. Like parenting, it's fun when we see your brand "shine"- resonating & making connections. Internally, teaming is an essential part of what makes our promotions "click". Our unity of purpose provides the visionary assurance to create successful outcomes. Being that today is National Mom & Pop Business Day- let's reflect on our journey. Keith and I never planned on being in business together. We were partners, parents and then entrepreneurs together. At each step we trusted each other. Keith wanted me to take the reins for the vision of our company- believing my creativity, drive and ingenuity would make us succeed. Success is not as much a number, as an ability to support life. Sure, we'd all love a huge pot of gold. Raising a family, insuring your kids are happy, secure & feed who become amazing adults is a pot of gold. Becoming the fabric of something larger than yourself requires inserting your heart into relationships. Entrepreneurship consumes immense time, so it should be spent in places that matter. Working from your heart produces a golden force. The heartbeat of your life will be paved with golden moments to remember long after you're no longer an entrepreneur. What are some of my tips for the future entrepreneur? Raise your hand to volunteer Don't shy away from leadership Challenge yourself Stay curious Adapt to change Don't let failures define you or keep you immobile Focus Innovate Authenticity means being yourself- not a copy of another Find your path, there is more than one way to get to a destination- carve your path. Create goals- take each step by step Trust your instincts, but listen to reason See the journey- visualize it in a way you can share with others Instill confidence in yourself & in others Image. Indulge in possibility, dream and embrace some ambiguity along the way Surrounding yourself with pursuits in your leisure that feed your soul. Invest in value of laughing at yourself. Laughter will keep you centered, resolute and help chase away doubt; leaving space for imagination, passion & possibility to thrive instead.  Love life, and the destination to your pot of gold will easily be found!

Meet Wellable- a new way to think about achieving the state of relaxation that re-charges us. Who doesn't need more ways to reduce stress & relax? As we head into April & May our partners will need ideas for Volunteer Appreciation, Teacher Appreciation and Nurses Week. Show some appreciation for individuals making an impact in the community with products that remove distractions & allow our mind & body to relax. Explore our new Wellable collection of products here . Sleep peaceful Enjoy therapeutic moments Keep your cool Make a plan Remove distractions Enjoy ambient light Technology has allowed products to have value added benefits. For example, this sleep mask. Sleep in peace with the Wellable™ Bluetooth Sleep Mask , designed to provide ultimate relaxation and comfort. Crafted from extra-soft nylon with added cushioning around the eyes, this mask blocks out light while ensuring a comfortable fit. The adjustable strap accommodates different head sizes, making it suitable for everyone. Hidden Bluetooth speakers on the sides of the headband connect to your phone or any Bluetooth-enabled device, allowing you to enjoy soothing sounds while you rest. In addition to streaming music or podcasts, the speakers feature ten built-in white noise options to help you drift into peaceful sleep. Built-in music controls let you adjust the track or sound without reaching for your connected device. The Wellable LED Mirror - add value with each purchase, you're contributing to environmental nonprofits through our partnership with 1% For The Planet.

Space to explore. Yep- visiting our showroom & design studio in 2025 will require some exploration for new places to park. Today we offer some guidance. Reading this post will help you to navigate the changes.   You need to know about parking changes! We are located around 801 marker in red. Street front. The Highline building is the 3 story building on the corner, with 206 in blue to the side.   The back lot behind our building will start construction on January 6th and is expected to take 8 months to complete.   Work will occur- Monday- Saturday 7am- 7pm. PARKING will be limited.   Historically, the best time of day to secure spots will be early am before 11 and after 2 in the afternoon. Mondays are the lightest day. The gravel lot will be accessible all day, but likely will stay full throughout the day. The project will be completed in three phases, rather than closing the lot entirely.   Where can you park and for how long?   The simple answer is in the spots in the Saunders lot or on the street in designated 3-hour parking. Fortunately, the pickup spots in front of our building will still be an option and one has been added behind the building. Current notes: Free shuttle services will be from areas further from our business. which may not continue in the months ahead if it's not utilized more. Read more in  this document  about the parking mitigation. Read about the downtown master plan for improvements and changes over the next few years here . Access the map for parking  here. Soon an app will launch to help you find parking. Read more here and access that app.   If you have not been to visit us yet- during these changes, access us street front North Salem Street. We are located next to the large 3 story building call the Highline on the corner of Saunders & North Salem. You can park behind our building- you can't miss the construction zone off Saunders. Till around the end of July you can park in the timed spaces facing the building or the gravel lot, then use the long sidewalk to enter in the back the building, coming street front to find our door - outside on your left when facing the street. Across the street you will see The Depot lot, with the fire station to the right. In August you should be able to park in part of the new lot or the timed spaces facing the building and around September enter only the new spaces while they re grade the spaces closest to the building. When you visit- pick up your FREE support local gear!

Access to clean water, starts by making choices. Today's post is about products and efforts to keep our local communities and global communities healthy. March 18th is Global Recycling Day, a day to focus attention on the importance of recycling & sustainable practices inspiring us to share how your brand become part of the conversation. Recycling not only helps the environment, but produces the materials we use for promotional products for your campaigns. From the packaging to the actual product, recycled materials are now found in clothing, plastics, coolers, totes, journals, pens, umbrellas, and drinkware! The products & the brands: Our blog is full of brands making a difference- sustainable construction, giving back to global organizations committed to the environment and making sure water scarcity is not an issue. Read more about these brands here. We have posts  about plastic waste diverted from our oceans and how those plastics are being used to make products. Our blog is full of brands making a difference- sustainable construction, giving back to global organizations committed to the environment and making sure water scarcity is not an issue. Read more about these brands here. Increasing concern around water scarcity, has put a spotlight on wastewater recycling efforts. In fact, this effort has emerged as a crucial step toward sustainable water management. Recycling wastewater not only helps conserve precious water resources but also has a positive impact on the environment and our communities. This blog , by Water Today, explores the importance of wastewater recycling, its key benefits, and how it can shape a better and more sustainable future. Locally, Southwest Wake municipalities are working to keep our water clear of unwanted pollutants is a critical step to keeping our environment health. Each has recycling locations, helping to keep waste & pollutants out of our water! Town of Apex Town of Fuquay-Varina Town of Holly Springs . Besides recycling- Clean water  helps prevent disease, keeping individuals healthy- especially our most vulnerable populations. Saturday marks World Water Day, putting a focus on clean water, sanitization and hygiene. Growing the reach of your brand message relies on amplifying what you want to say. If your company is focused on recycling efforts- let's make some noise! Today's social post featured this speaker. Read more here about how we help our partners share their message.

Elephants are imposing figures- massive in size, full of personality. It's nearly impossible to go throughout your day without "the elephant in the room"- the increasing presence of AI as a partner. For many driving innovation, solving complex challenges and improving efficiency means embracing what AI can do for you personally and your business. In fact, while writing this blog, I'm prompted to consider the help of AI. Prompts to use AI are already part of our e-mails, text messages and even as we form our social media posts. If I allowed AI to write for me, my spelling errors & omitted words would disappear. Yet, I'm still drawn to telling my own story- even if it's flawed. My social media is filled with two topics: The reduction in remote work- bringing people back to work for collaboration. Classes around how to identify social, non-verbal cues of communication. Is there anyone else besides me that finds it ironic we want to teach people how to identify the nuances of human connection, yet promote the benefits of AI for telling our stories? Perhaps one day, like Sonny in I Robot, robots will start to emote and feel emotions. Right now AI seems more like an elephant about to sit on me. As a creative it's hard for me to embrace how "Sonny" will ever learn to think like me; understand what winds my mind or keeps me up at night. It's said, "an elephant never forgets"- encoding information along their lifetime. Elephants can live up to 70 years, exist alone or in a group. They communicate by touch, sight, smell and sound. Scientists have determined they have self-awareness and show concern for dying & dead among their species. Visit behind the scenes of a zoo and keepers will share different personalities among the herd. Take a look at a family and you'll find family members that repeat patterns, probably due to both genetic & environmental encoding. Yet, you'll also find families where members forge a different path, creating unpredictable outcomes. We tell individuals needing to remove negative behavior, the only person that can change their narrative & ignore triggers- is you. When we surprise our self, metaphorically, we're no longer trapped by the weight of expectation. If AI becomes an essential partner in business, I'll be curious if it AI will ever become unpredictable. Will we need to take classes to learn the nuances of non-verbal cues? For now, I'll keep relying collaboration. One-to-one interactions encode new ideas and lead me to unexpected outcomes! I like surprises and defying convention. Story telling through visual arts, music and the written word relies on an artist seeing the nuances in life often missed. An artist draws us in, wanting to know more and seeing the world from their perspective. Brand identity requires knowing you - what makes you tick. Brand story tellers, like us, have a talent for drawing in new relationships eager to learn what makes you special. Together, let's keep crafting stories that are often as unpredictable as compelling!