Product Media Magazine - November & December

Sincethe last issue, thecountry hasgone throughalot.Wehave lost ourQueen and gained aKing, been deliveredanew Prime Ministerand seen some of thebiggest market uncertaintyfor decades. Whilst allaroundmay be losing their heads, ourindustryhas seen demand continuetoclimbaswedeliver against theveryfull orderbooks

AttendingaseriesofGovernment roundtablessince thebusinessenergy pricecapswerereleased, theBPMA hascontinued to presshome the combinationofchallengesstill facing theindustryaswefaceaperfect storm of cost,inflation, material andmarket pressures– addcouriersand freight on topmakes forinterestingtimes

ProductMedia Magazine is availabletothe whole promotional merchandiseindustry. It is theofficial magazine of the BritishPromotional Merchandise Association (BPMA)

With pressure to keep sellingand our economymoving, theBPMAhas been delivering keyinformation across the industry on topicsincludingenergy, shared experiencesand essential compliance

Thesectorstill foundtimetogather at Milton Keynes in September. The secondMerchandise Worldofthe year followed relatively soon on theheels of April’sreconvenedevent in Coventry As such,there wassomeconcern as to howwell supporteditwould be.Inthe eventbothexhibitorsand visitors turned outand demonstratedhow dynamic themerchandise market remains. Times have been toughbut oursectoris focusing onwardsand upwardsdespite thecontinuing headwinds mentioned earlier

In this issue of Product Media we take alookatthe drinkwaresector. As more

BritishPromotional Merchandise Association

Fetcham Park House, LowerRoad, Fetcham,Leatherhead,Surrey, KT22 9HD

Allphone enquiries: 01372371183 www.productmediamagazine.co.uk www.bpma.co.uk

andmorecompaniesreturntothe office, it’s aperfect time to look to replaceand renewour drinking vessels. What better waytoplanfor thefuturethanovera cuppawithcolleagues?

Giventhe Queen’spassing,wealso considerthe role of merchandisein celebratingroyalty.Thismulti-million sector is one of ourmostimportant examplesofBritain’s soft poweras we sawfromthe global focusonthe sovereign’sfuneral.WithKingCharles coronationset fornextsummer, theeyes of theworld will againbeonthe country albeit forahappier reason

Abankholidaywill also give businesses reason to celebratealongside thenation, andmerchandise will once again be centre stage.

CareyTrevill BPMA CEO

Editorial editor@productmediamagazine.co.uk

Advertisingand MediaPack advertising@productmediamagazine.co.uk Circulation circulation@productmediamagazine.co.uk

EditorialServices Stuart Derrick

Design andProduction ATGMedia, www.atg-media.com

Printedby Mailing GuyLtd Photography shutterstock.com Freepik.com

TotalMerchandise celebrates18years of breaking therules

Colchester-based promotional products distributor TotalMerchandise has celebrated 18 years in business witha staff event and acharitydonation.

The company, whichemploys around 40 people, wasfounded in September 2004 by directors Jason O’Connor,David Stoddart and Michelle Rae Stoddart. Launched from a spareroom, it has growntobecome oneofthe UK’s largest promotional distributors.

O’Connor said he put thecompany’s success down to “not followingthe rules”.

“Wehad avisionofhow we wanted to do this, and we’vebeensteadfast ever since,” he said. “Sometimes that means going against thegrain of what therest of theindustryisdoing.”

TotalMerchandise markedits birthdaywithstaff receivinggifts to thank them fortheir service and a wood-fired pizza truckproviding a special lunch. Ateam portrait wastaken to markthe milestone.

The business has opted to further celebrateits birthdaybymaking a£1,800donation to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), a charitythe directors areproud to be supporting.

“We’re delighted to be able to sharethe joyofour celebration by making this donation to EACH,” said Michelle Rae Stoddart. “It’sanincredible organisation that workstirelesslyto support poorly children and their families. It’sour honour to be able to support them in this way. ”

As well as thebirthdaycelebrations, TotalMerchandise wasrecently named Sourcing City’sDistributor of theYear forthe thirdconsecutive time.

“The futureofTotal Merchandise honestly excites me,” said David Stoddart. “The team we have around us noware themost hard-workingbunch we’veeverhad andthe possibilities feel endless.”

midocean opens newprintingand logisticsfacility

European promotional supplier midocean has opened anew 40,000m2 logistics and printing facilityinRuda Śląska, Poland.

The new unit is closetoits current warehouse whichopened four years ago and comes as thecompanyisaccelerating its growth plans.

The set up of thecurrent operation will be mirroredonasignificantly larger scale including full automation of theintra logistics in theprinting operation.

midocean is looking to expand its product portfolio,including thewidening of the textile assortment that will be offered after thetake-overofthe companybySolo Group earlier this year

It will also comply to thehighest environmental and sustainabilitystandards.

The new facilitywas built in less than a year and wasofficially opened in September withstaff and business partners present.

After theceremonyinvolving speeches

by CEO Stephen Gibson, general manager

Mohammed Mohammed and Ruda Śląska mayorJacek Morek, aparty washeld.

“This new facilityallows midocean to maintain its high service levels towards our customers. To keep delivering withthe highest speed, we also installed manynew cutting-edge technology printing machines that arecustombuilt and tailored to our printing requirements. We will continue to develop in this area to ensurewecan increase our capacities in line withthe demands of themarket. We areconfident that this new location further strengthens us in continuityand futuregrowthand contributes to our overall sustainable development goals,” said Stephen Gibson, CEO midocean.

One stop solution for growing promo companies is on offer

thefullworks, an IT solutions provider with afocus on thepromotional products industry, launched its latest products at Merchandise World, aimed at making systems runmoreeffectively

The Promo made easy range will help businesses reduce costs, grow their business and reward theirstaff,suppliers and clients, thecompanyclaims.

The subscription-based solutions, CorporateSchemes made easy,Customs made easy and Rewardsmade easy, provide theresources and confidence to pitch fortenders without increasing costs on IT,warehousing or fulfilment, by outsourcing to thefullworks.

Fully integrated withweb stores, storage and globalfulfilment, the Customs made easy,customs calculator solution can be integrated online or taken as astandalone product forquoting.

It allows businesses to send aquote

that includes afully-landed and delivered cost including taxes and duties.

When integrated online, it will display them on check-out. This also savesthe finance team from invoicinganunquoted amount after delivery

Theonline Rewardsmade easy is a subscription-based solution whichhelps businesses to retain staff,clients and suppliers by saying thanks.

Using single use codes, storage and fulfilment it enables arewards solution that would normally cost thousands, at a scalable monthly subscription that won’t break thebank, thefullworks claims.

thefullworks is aglobalsolutions provider,offering ecommerce, storage, fulfilment, kitting, software development, customs, consulting, product on demand, packaging, and arange of other business solutions from its Southend headquarters and distribution centre.

Crystal Galleries back under new roof following blaze

Glass and crystal supplier,Crystal Galleries has movedintoanew 22,000ft2 premises 18 months after afire devastated its previous home.

The firelastApril destroyed£700,000 worthofstock as well as guttingthe production workshop,warehouse and offices in thecompany’sMiddlesbrough base. Engraving and laser equipment was also destroyed.

Crystal Galleries operated out of a smaller building and several shipping containers behind thesiteofits original premises while areplacement wasbeing constructed.

The new premises will allowCrystal Galleries to increase its stockholding to pre-firelevels and to increase daily

production output by 50% compared to current levels.

The entire team will be able to work together under one roof forthe first time since thefire.

JeremyLowes, managing director, said: “Weare thrilled about this new phase of our business and we look forwardtoserving youinthe coming weeks, months and years.”

A25-year BPMA member,Crystal Galleries is one of theleading trophy suppliers forthe promotional sector and has provided trophies formanyBPMA events, including its annual Golf Day.

NewWaveAcquires BTCActivewear for£33m

Stockholm-based NewWaveGroup has acquired 100% of theUK promotional, corporateand teamwear apparel companyBTC Activewear Limited shares. The purchase of theshares is £33 million on acash and debt-free basis and acash transaction.

BTC Activewear wasfounded in 2000 through amerger of three regional businesses. Its distribution centreand head office arein Birmingham. The companyisthe UK’s thirdlargest wholesale distributor within its sector,with50international apparel brands. Ninetypercent of BTC Activewear’s orders areplaced through its website.

CHXisdreamingofagreen Christmas

CHX has redesigned its Christmas eco range to ensureitisabletooffer customers a modernand eco-friendly product.

Christmas and Q4 is an important time forbrands in theUK, and forsome it is the only time they invest in advertising.

CHX’s existing range has had amakeover, introducing aPlusspec to therange that is even moretactile, giving theappeal of a higher perceivedvalue.

The smarter design is a3Dshape designed withthe planet in mind to minimise material used. EachEco-ration Plus also comes withits ownindividual gift box.

The standardand plus eco-ration ranges areavailable in either 100% recycled material or rHIPS.b.The latter is made from recycled polymers including all CHX waste products withabiodegradable additive that speeds up thenatural biodegradable process of plastic. The material has been tested to ISO 15985and ASTMB5511 certification.

As well as tree decorations, CHX is offering Christmas-themed drink stirrers perfect forhot chocolates and Christmas cocktails. Thereisalsoa Winter-Safe Motoring range whichincludes ice scrapers and tyre gauges.

Product Zone launches next day plain stock delivery

Product Zone is delighted to announce its move to new premises in Watford withanon-sitewarehouse enabling thecompanytostore itsplain stock headwear

Managing director,TonyMarks said: “Previously our warehousewas several miles from our office, now, withall our stockunder one roof,wecan pick and pack orders on thesameday,meaning we can offer next daydelivery for customers that order beforenoon.”

As well as storing plain stock, thenew building houses Product Zone’s in-house embroideryand CAD-cut service and globaloperations team.

In 2021,BTC Activewear’s revenue was£53mand theacquisition will positively impact theGroup’s results this year although they will initially negatively impact its gross and operating margins, as theseare lower in BTC Activewear than in NewWave Group

The introduction of NewWave Group’s owned brands to its portfolio is, however, expected to increase its gross and operating margins in the future.

CEO and co-founder of BTC Activewear,Stephen Pope, who will continue as CEO,said: “I am delightedtohavea strong financial owner that is known forits longterm commitment and deep industry knowledge. BTC Activewear will be able to grow andtakefurther steps together withNew Wave Group,wherethe mix between our understanding of and position in the UK marketand NewWaveGroup’s experience and brands will be an unmatched combination.”

Torsten Jansson, CEO and founder of NewWaveGroup,said: “Through this acquisition, we establishNew Wave Group as oneofthe main players in theUKmarket, which, of course, feelsgreat. In addition, we will add averyattractive andwell-run companytoour companygroup,as well as invaluable industryknowledge that will benefit all NewWaveGroup companies.”

NewWaveGroup’s Sports &Leisure segment includes Ahead, Auclair Craft, Cutter &Buck, and Seger.

Torsten Jannson, NewWave Group

20 years and counting for USB2U

Technology merchandise supplier USB2U celebrated 20 years of trading by throwing apizza partyfor staff at its brand-new office and warehouse facilityinNorthampton.

Previous team members were invited along to join thecelebrations, including one of their founding members, Phil Battison. Phil, nowretired, joined Sebastian La Porta, managing director,toreflect on howthe business has changedsince they set it up together back in 2002

From selling technology products to consumers from agarage, to becoming amarketleading B2B technology merchandise supplier,the business has gone from strengthtostrength.

Throughout theday,staff and visitors were presented withgifts to markthe occasion.

Visitors left withgoody bags filled withthe latest in promotional merchandise. Aplaylist from 2002 wasplaying throughout the event, and staff and visitors shared memories together overpizza, cakeand afew drinks.

Managing director,Sebastian La Porta, said: “I am incredibly proud of everything USB2U has achieved overthe past 20 years. The business has adapted to the phenomenal change in technology and buyer behaviour during this time, thanks to thedirection of our management team and thetremendous effort of all our staff.”

USB2U specialises in branded USB sticks, powerbanks, wireless chargers and other technology products and nowfinishes 80% of orders from UK stockwitha24-hour express service.

Prominate rebrand highlights global ambition

Prominatehas completedamajor rebrand withanew logo and identity that better represents thepurpose and values of thebusiness.

Europeanexpansion forThe Outdoors Company

n e for The

The Outdoors Companyisexpan business to corporatecustomers Europe by joining thePSI netwo

From 2023 it will operatefroma dedicated EU distribution hub in Netherlands and will be able to promotional distributors an end-t end service of garment supply wit decoration and delivery direct to end-user client.

Outdoors Company is expanding its to corporate customers across the PSI network 2023 it will operate from a The offer an end-toservice of garment with the Company are excited into the

Paul Morley-Smith, director and founder of The Outdoors Company, said: “The Outdoors Companyare really excited to be expanding proactively intothe European promotional products sector.Having had morethan10years being very successful in theUKsector,tonow be able to offer our premium brands to thewhole of theEuropean market is areal step change forus. We are looking forwardtoreaching manynew customers and distributors to create moreamazing merchandise forEU companies. Withanew distribution centreready to roll from early 2023 the

The business operates across 100locations withateam of global promotional material specialists, workingwithsome of theworld’s leading brands. It specialises in creating innovative promotional experiences forbrands and their customers.

The new logo harnesses thebrand values of connection, discovery,and braverytopioneer change andlead withcuriosity.The ‘P’ sits at theheart of thelogo,showing strengthatthe core. An infinityloop incorporates thecommunityofclients, licensees, partners, and suppliers.

blocks are in place ready, so

building blocks areinplace and ready,so these arecertainly exciting times forour business.”

The Outdoors Companywas set up in 2007 by Paul Morley-Smith and co-director MarkDix to establish partnerships withbrands to lookafter the needs of thecorporatesector

It workswithmanyofthe world’stop retail brands including The NorthFace, Herschel, Columbia, Eastpak, Montane and Patagonia.

Agreen leaf represents dedication towards to asustainable future. All enclosed in aspheretoindicatethe globalnatureofthe business.

Sarah Daniel, globalCEO of Prominatesaid: “This is an incredibly exciting period forour business. Our rebrand is akey to our transformation, truly representing our renewed energy and direction while remaining true to our heritage. Ourgoalwas to createanidentityshowcasing the powerinour community, coupled withour dedication to asustainable future.”

THESHOW

GOES ON

Merchandise World increased visitor numbers on last year as the sector looked to the future

The last time theindustrycame together in Milton Keynes, it was forthe first returntoface-toface exhibiting since aslew of pandemic-induced cancellations.

That showwas awelcome toebackin thewater formanyexhibitors and visitors, and normalitywas expected to break out this time round beforethe sadand untimely loss of theQueen.

Despitewhat wasa traumatic week for thecountry, not to mention an unsettling one in termsofplans of all kind being cancelled, Merchandise Worldwent ahead and wasexceptionally well supported by theindustry.

As amarkofrespect, abookof condolence had aspecial place at the

showwherepeoplecould leave their own thoughts on thepassing of HerMajesty. The BPMA, whichco-hosts theshowwith Sourcing City, will be passing thebook to Buckingham Palace on behalf of the industry.

BPMA CEO Carey Trevill has among the first to sign thebook, along withBPMA BoardMember Andrew Langley,whose companyJuniper provided thecondolences book.

Having had themost recent Merchandise WorldinCoventryinApril earlier this year, after having to move from Januarydue to

Covid, it wasunclear howmanyvisitors would actually makeittoBuckinghamshire. In theevent, theshowreceivedexcellent backing from over 80 suppliers –and any concerns about visitors provedunfounded as morethan 400 industrydistributors attended, whichwas morethan attended thecomebackshowatMilton Keynes last year

As everyone arrived, thefreebreakfast wasgratefully received andverysoon there wasanactive buzz around theshowhall whichcarried on throughout theday.New suppliers proved very interesting to the

visitors, and of course relationships were builtand cemented withexisting suppliers to thetrade.

Once again Eco Worldproved apopular attraction as themarket becomes moreand morekeen to knowthe eco-credentials of products. Plans areunderwayfor this to be an even moreprominent featurein CoventryinJanuary2023.

Showorganiser,Ella Long said: “The enthusiasm and desirefromthe trade to attend or exhibit never ceases to amaze me. It is agreat privilege to organise an event that facilitates positive discussions and relationships in an industrythatis rebuilding from thepandemic, and a pleasuretoenable that face to face contact again. We areverygrateful of thesupport of our exhibitors who attract thequality of visitors who attend theshowtime after time, and we arewell intothe planning for our tenthMerchandise WorldinJanuary. We expect it to be best and biggest yet.”

REPORTS FROM THE SHOW

BPMA chairand regional director UK and Ireland at midocean, HaydnWilletts spoke

DATESFOR YOUR DIARY

The next Merchandise Worldevents areonthe following dates:

• WEDNESDAY 25TH &THURSDAY 26TH JANUARY2023 CBS ARENA, COVENTRY

• WEDNESDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER 2023 MARSHALLARENA, STADIUMMK, MILTONKEYNES Formoreinformation, go to merchandiseworld.co.uk

Theplace to be MARK ALDERSON,MANAGING DIRECTOR,FIRST EDITIONS

EXPLAINS WHY THE SHOWMATTERS

Merchandise Worldwas another well attended show, attracting alarge number of distributors from across theUKand Ireland.

Giventhe uncertaintyaround global shipping costs, logistical risks withFar Easternsourcing, new import regulations and challengingexchange rates, many distributors were on thehunt forUK made alternativesthisgifting season. Therewas agreat buzz at theFirst Editions stand as visitors were eager to find out moreabout our innovative range of UK-made drinkware

Despitethe cost-of-living crisis, the industryremains buoyant withmany companies on bothsides investing in new talent. It wasa pleasure to welcome manynew faces to our sector and make

formanyinnoting abusy showwitha good level of attendance.

“Visitors were most interested in our end of year collection of new products, with requests foreco credential and new tech items,”hesaid.

In termsofinsight to thestate of the market, therewas apositive vibe but some concerns about thefuture, he admitted.

“Every customer seems to be busy but most arewondering howlong this will continue. Courier and inventorylevel questions were frequently asked along with lead time concerns,” he said.

PRODUCT LAUNCH PLATFORM

SowEasy used theshowtolaunchits new range at theshow, presenting its full range of seed and plant promotional products.

“It wasa great showand really great to allbetogether again at abusier show and catch up witheveryone,” said Emma Cooke,events manager,Sow Easy.“We had abrilliant launchday at theshowand there

new connections.

Merchandise Worldremains one of themost important networking opportunities forour industry. On behalf of FirstEditions, I’dliketoexpress our thanks to theorganisers foranother successful show.

wasareal buzz around our new Essentials Range and Express Service whichare a range of fast and affordable promotional products.”

The Essentials range provides an affordable alternative to SowEasy’s most popular eco-friendly promotional products. Withlowerprint runs and simple but effective customisation, it is agreat solution

forclients withsmaller budgets or those requiring lowerprint runs, she added.

BACK IN TOUCH

Aregular at theshow, Oldeani wasglad to be back face to face withclients to gauge industrysentiment, said marketing and sales manager,LucyBennett.

“A number of clients had commented that they were struggling to find time to visit due to workload which is encouraging to hear

after suchuncertain times. Despitethiswe were pleasedwiththe number of clients we sawall of whom were very positive and impressed by thequality of products we were showcasing.”

Talking to distributors pointed to demand forqualityitems,withencouraging signs of busy times ahead, said Bennett.

Withsustainabilitythe word on everyone’s lips suppliers have aresponsibilityto minimise theimpact products makeonthe environment, and distributors wanted to supply good qualityproducts that aremade to last, minimising wasteand theneed to recycle, she added.

“It wasa great opportunityfor clients to handle our products and see what makes them stand out in themarket. It is wonderful to hear clients saying they come to Oldeani forhigh qualityproducts,” she said.

Launching anumberofnew products. Oldeani waskeen to showits bottles which arenow printed in theUKona brand new UV digital machine.

“Clients were extremely impressed by the qualityofthe wrap prints up closeand truly 360-degree prints. The expanded Bottles to Bag range wasa big hit,” she said.

All bags aremade from recycledbottles RPETincluding theinnovative HIPbag that keeps your bottle by your side.

ON THE BALL

Withanunseasonal Christmas WorldCup kicking off in November,AMT Trade was keen to cement its position as amajor supplier of promotional sports balls in the industry.

“Wewerekeen to support our customers in building acampaign that canmaximise thebusiness potential forbothof us. We want to work as ateam withour customers,” said Ben McCarthy,trade sales manager,AMT Trade.

The past twoyears have been amongthe most successful trading years forAMT and thecompanywas glad to have thechance

to thankall thedistributors who backed it during thepandemic and continue to do so nowthings have largely got back to normal, he said.

“Wetry and offer alevel of service that is hard to beat. It wasfantastic to hear so manypositive comments, it makes us feel like we areonthe right track. Thereare manychallenges ahead but if suppliers and distributors work as ateam, we can overcome them,” he added.

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

Preseli had six staff attending theshowand formuchofthe daythey were all busy with customers, said marketing manager Robert Bruce.

“Wewerelaunching awhole wall of new products whichgenuinely surprised many

customers who were expecting thelast couple of years to have stifled innovation,” he said. “The most high profile wasour range of Christmas themed items –the 10-feet high whiteChristmas tree shape wasabig clue. This included awhole range of customisable shapes exclusive to Preseli. These areavailable in high qualitymetals, sustainable wood and UK-made options.”

In addition, Preseli also had new eco accessories to add to its lanyard and wristbands ranges and acompletely new range of Charminspired keyrings.

Bruce noted that theshowseemed to indicateacontinued dropping out of smaller suppliers who have struggled to competeduring thedifficulties of thelast fewyears.

“Having aprovenreputation forreliability has placed Preseli well to ride therecent storms,” he said. “Mylasting impression was of seeing customers eager forsomething new to sharewithclients and genuinely taking our ideas and running withthem. If we can inspirecustomers and sparktheir enthusiasm then it wasareally successful show. We’relooking forwardtodoing it again in January.

The urge to put on thekettle for abrewis never farfromthe average Brit. Apparently,we drink 100million cups of teaa day(36 billion ayear) –and it isn’t even thenation’sfavouritehot beverage any more.

Surveys have shown that drinkers prefer coffee to tea, and thelong term trend is adeclineintea drinking compared withcoffee.

However, it’sall relative and hot drinks remain thegoto‘time out’ option in manyworkplaces. In fact,during lockdowntea drinking increased by an average of two cups perday,one study noted.

All of whichwas greatnews for

winners Cup

The market for drinkware continues to go from strength to strength

suppliers and distributors of drinkware

As theconsumer’s particular preference fordrinks has become ever moreselect, thetypes of drinking vessel catering to them have become ever moretailored. Whether youopt foramug of builder's, adouble espresso,orfruit infused water, thereis acup or bottle foryou.

Businesses sent dispersed work forces branded drinking vessels in their millions during lockdowntohelpmake them feel part of theteam. Nowas morefilterbacktothe office foratleast part of their week, thereis aneed for new cups and mugs to welcome them.

The globalreusable drinkware market is expected to reach$10.6 billionby 2028, according to Verified Market

Research

Witha growingappreciationof the need formoresustainable options has also had an effect, withalarming statistics encouraging us all to play a bigger part in cutting single use waste.

It’sestimated that more than 38.5 million plastic bottles and around seven million disposable coffee cups areused in theUKalone everysingle day.

Plastic waterbottles areone of the biggest sources of plastic pollution in theenvironment, releasingharmful substances and microplastic particles intothe soil and water.

The good news is that thereare plentyofalternatives. Here arejust some of them.

Ahealthierand greenerfuture

Arenewed focus on personal healthand well-being, together withthe urgent need to address environmental issues, has drivenahuge rise in thepopularityof reusable waterbottles.

These products, coming in all shapes, colours and sizes, have become the everyday hydrationcompanions of everyone from tech nerdstomarathon runners.

The trend really hit its stride in the 2010s, as theworld fell out of love with single-use plastic and reusable water bottles became a‘must have’itemfor the environmentally conscious.

Its appeal isn’t limited to itspracticality and healthbenefits. Unlikely as it might have seemed afew years ago,the reusable waterbottle has also become a fashion item. Today’strend-setters and influencers, from topathletes to popular YouTubers, carry them everywhere. Some celebrities have even partnered withtheir preferredbrands.

Withstunning decoration on many high-end products and continuing technological advances suchasintegrated infusers and measurement scales, to larger bottles so youcan trackwater intake, nothing quitecapturesthe zeitgeist of theearly 2020s, combining self-care,

sustainabilityand innovation.

Meanwhile, an extensive network of waterfountains is popping up in towns, cities and parksacross theUK. The Refill app is an excellent wayoffinding free drinking waterinyour area. Social initiativessuch as ‘Refill thePlanet’ have also been amajor driverinthe demand forreusable waterbottles.

This meteoric rise in popularityhas proventobeahugeopportunityfor the promotional merchandise sector,and this has in turndrivencontinuing innovation by drinkware marketleader First Editions.

The company’saward-winning Tritan ‘bottle forlife’ is packed witheco credentials and has revolutionised themarketfor on-the-go hydration.

Tritan features asturdy and shatterproof design and is available in aselection of sizes and colourways. Customers can also choose extras suchasacarry handle, fruit infuser and drinking straw

These reusable and stylish bottles areUK-made, 100% BPA-free, dishwasher-safeand fitted withan easy-clean, leakproof drinking spout.

Precision screen print and award-winning full colour,full wrap branding areavailable across therange. In addition, First Editions has arange of pre-prepared branding templates incorporating measurement scales and can print from toptobottomof their bottles formaximum visibility.

First Editions is firmly focused on energy efficiency(witharenewable supply) and a‘zero waste’ production process –all helping to mitigateits environmental impact and reduce thecompany’scarbon footprint.

Laltex on what’s hot –and cool-indrinkware

Q. Whatproductsare proving popular withcustomers?

Double walled stainless steel bottles. These areperfect promo gifts forthis time of year as they can maintain ahot temperaturefor up to 12 hours. They also keep cold drinks chilled forupto24hours making it agreat choice all year round.

Q. What’snew?

The MG0335 AshfordShine is adouble walled stainless steel drinks bottle formerly known as theAshfordBlanc. Previously available in whiteonly,we have added threenew colours for customers to choose from.

Widely popular withfans of ITV’s Love Island,the MG0134Alice has been ahot favouritefor many reasons since its launch earlier this year.Inaddition to being very similar to thebottles used on thehit TV show, this sought after corporategift boasts an impressive branding area, large 580ml capacityand will maintain hot or cold temperatures forhours.

Q. Tell us about branding options?

Drinkware items in general have alarge area forbranding whichisgreat news for your message. Branding options include full colour wrap around printing, spot colour printing and laser engraving. For atruly personal touchwhy not engrave

eachbottle withanindividual name? It has been proventhatrecipients aremuch morelikely to keep usingtheir bottle for longer if it has theirname on it meaning extrabrand exposure. It’salsoveryuseful in theworkplace to prevent anymix ups.

Q. Arereusabilityand sustainability selling points?

Areusable bottle of anykindhas a positive impact on theenvironment as it reduces theneed forsingleuse plastic. However, stainless steel has theadded benefit of being infinitely recyclable meaning your drinks bottle can be reused and recycledtime andtimeagain. Stainless steel is one of themost durable and easily cleaned materials meaning it will last foryears before having to be replaced.

Opting fora double walled drinkware item canbeareal energy savertoo Maintaining hot temperatures of beverages for

up to 12 hours and coolfor up to 24 hours, it removesthe need forheatingor refrigeration which can be beneficial to boththe environment and fuel costs.

ANY COLOUR ON ANY COLOUR!

Drinkwarethat’sset to stay

As an industry, we’reseeing an ever increasing demand forhighqualityand useful corporategifts that offer exceptional returnoninvestment thanks to high desirabilityand value formoney.Listawood offers an extensive selection of coffee to go and thermal drinkware lines that fit this brief; thanks to investment in innovative processes and technology

Traditional ceramic products remain a staple product line, but demand forthermal and coffee to go products continues to grow,due to threefactors:

thedesirabilityand practicalityofthe product line

theincreased awareness and demand for sustainable and long lasting retail quality items

their highly innovative and extensive branding opportunities.

High quality, reusable drinkware fits withListawood’s‘Actively Sustainable’programme which has become increasingly popular bothinthe UK and across Europe.

Along withstandardcolours and finishes across theportfolio,uniquely Listawood offers UK-produced Pantone matched thermal bottles and coffee-to-go drinkware in achoice of finishes. It has recently launched anew 360-degree full colour digital print whichcan be applied to its entiremetal drinkware collection; including Pantone matched ColourCoat bottles.

Whereclients want theentiresurface of the drinkware decorated, Listawood can use its digital ColourFusion process. Developed in the UK,thisinnovative process is protected by US and European Patents and has proved to be phenomenallypopular forthermal bottles.

We re seeing in the marketplace trends towards what we refertoas‘ultra-personalisation’where customers arewanting morethan just a silver bottle, whiteCambridge or black Spartamug forexample. They arelooking forcustom coloured products matching exactly theircorporatecolour palette that can be branded withtheir logo or advertising message. Or equally they maybelooking fordrinkware that can be branded from toptobottomthat can be personalised quicklyand in very small quantities,” says Listawood managing director Alex Turner

Better throughdesign

Premier Brands is nowsupplying Klean Kanteen BPA-free, stainless steel, reusable bottles as anon-toxic alternative to single use plastic and lined aluminium bottles: a safe, healthy,lightweight,reusable bottle free of toxic BisphenolA(BPA).

Klean Kanteen invests 1% of everysale intoorganisations workingtomakethe worldamoreresilient and sustainable place. They have already donated morethan $3.6million to organisations working in their keyareas of focus: plastic pollution, safeconsumer products, land and waterconservation, and outdoor stewardship

The food-grade products can be engraved or printed, and aredishwasher safe.

Thanks to moderntechnologies, each person can reduce theamountofpolymer wastebyusing reusable and sustainable products. The new Ecoffee Cup range is made with100% PLA, or Polylactic acid, whichisa100% renewable material biopolymer created from plant-based materials suchassugar beet, cornand potatostarches

Made from fully traceable, single-origin rawmaterial, thecup is European Food safecompliant 2023 and has ahost of

features, including producing less C02 in manufacturethan stainless steel, glass or injection moulded plastic. It is commercially compostable, or recyclable via afreeclosed loop service, dishwasher safe, and suitable fordaily use to more than 100˚C.

Premier Brands also supplies the Circular Cup,whichisthe world’s first reusable coffee cup,made from recycled single-use paper cups. By switching to Circular Cup,you save hundreds of single use cups from landfill and contributedirectly to the recyclingofthe used coffee cups that slip through thenet.

The company’sReseller Hub helps distributors promotetheir offering to customers. It’sfullofuseful resources including social posts, white-label brochures, and photography –all of which can be branded withyour companylogo and details.

Qualitywinsthrough

Insulated bottles and cups aregoing from strengthtostrength, according to Oldeani. The trend towardsreusable drinkware is stillgrowingwithconsumers making a conscious choice to move away from single use plastics.

Moreand moreevent organisers are doing theirbit by providingrefill stations wherepreviously large volumes of single use bottles would have been sold.Thames Waterset up refill stations in GreenParkas visitors flockedtolay flowers in memoryof Queen Elizabethunder thestrapline ‘Less plastic moretap tastic’

“Demand forgood qualitydrinkware has continued to grow,” says Oldeani’sMalcolm Fritschy.“Bottles arebecoming apopular accessorywithmanyofusowning bottles in amultitude of colours and designs. We stockanumber of accessories sucha interchangeable flip lids foruse withcold drinks whichwe’re finding people arenow regularly asking for.”

The classic design Oasis bottle remains thebest seller,but other models suchasthe K2 whichoffers slightly larger capacitywith differentlidsisproving popular Coated in an up to theminute, super matt, powder coating, theFuelisa600ml insulated bottle witha316 stainless steel interior.Itcomes in agiftbox withaflip

lid forcolddrinks and second screw lid for keeping hot drinks toasty.

Bottles can be either rotary printed, laser engraved or printed witha360-degree full colour in theUK. Thereisafully bespoke service from theFar East.

Reusabilityisahuge selling point and extremely important when sourcing bottles.

reusable bottle needs to be made o last. Oldeani’sbottles aremade ompremium grade stainless steel nboththe inside and out, witha higher nickelcontent that is less susceptible to corrosion.

Plastic bottles aremade from Tritan, whichhas thecrystalclear appearance of glass but sshatterproof.Drinks in Tritan bottles stay fresh just likedrinking from glass. Notonly is Tritan BPA free it is also free from BPS (bisphenolS) and all other bisphenols whichcan interfere withthe body’s hormones.

Prices have gone up,but it remains popular withcustomers, who arewilling to invest in qualityoverprice so thecompany has decided to increase therange withthe new Nero Tritan bottle for2023.

A t fr o i

THE ENTRIESARE IN…bringont he judges

Entries closed for this year’s BPMA Product Awards on 1st November and with araftofexciting entries across 15 categories, we have our best panel yet of senior industry judges. Assessing the entries over two rounds before afinaljudging panel in late November,let’s find out who has the task of awarding this year’s best.

Hailing from as farasAustralia, US and Canada, to manymorecloser to home, this year theBPMAhas wheeledout thebig gunstomakesurethe Product Awards areassessedbymorethanjustour industry. Awards Chairand longstandingBPMABoard Director,Brian HaywardofPAGEfame said: “We’ve takenthe Product Awards through considerable

developmentinthe last fewyearstoimprove the entryprocess, thescope of thecategoriesand bring rigour to our judging process.Opening up thecategories this year to anyqualifying supplier has meant we have seen more entriesfroma wider supplier base too. Investing in anew awards platformthisyear has meant entering hasbeen easier andsimpler forour judges to take part.”

WHO’S WHO ON THE JUDGING PANEL?

Thisyear judges aregatheredfromsenior professionalsinour industry, plus associates in otherindustry bodies,professional organisations, thecatalogue groups and the BPMA Board.

Will

RegalREMEMBRANCE

In September we mourned the passing of Queen Elizabeth II after her epic reign as our longest serving monarch

For most of us the only monarch we ve known in our lifetimes, she was celebrated as so many members of the Royal family through souvenirs and memorabilia, marking the many milestones in her reign with permanence

BOOK OF CONDOLENCES

As the death of the Queen was announced just before Merchandise World this September, we were in the privileged position of being able to host a Book of Condolences for the Queen Donated by Juniper this beautiful book has been travelling with the BPMA, collecting additional signatures and will be archived to mark the end of this era

FAMOUS IMAGE

Hailed as the most famous woman in the world her face and cypher has graced our world for a very long time She has had a reign marked by a staggering array of merchandise over her lifetime From weddings to coronations to jubilees, there are very few households who won’t have a mug tea towel or some form of royal memorabilia and whether you were a Queen Charles Diana or William fan, we have loved our Royal family through merchandise for many years

Writing on behalf of the BPMA for this article, it was appropriate to mark the occasion of her passing and welcoming our new King Charles III by reflecting on the role the promotional merchandise industry has played in marking so many special Royal occasions

WHAT MAKES THE MEMORABILIA SO SPECIAL?

Reflecting on my own personal experiences of merchandise I realised I have a lot of examples at home I’m lucky enough to live just a mile or so from Windsor and visiting the castle has been a family tradition over the years

Recently my mother’s house has been sold and we ’ ve been collecting all the precious china together to keep those special pieces that mean so much to our family In one cupboard was a collection of coronation cups and mugs for King George and Queen Elizabeth In perfect condition one mug had my mother’s name on the base as she used it at every street party jubilee and royal celebration to drink her tea from since Queen Elizabeths coronation Sharing this find with a few friends, we found we had mothers who did the same as coronation mugs were given to many children on the event of the Queen’s coronation in 1953 and they were considered very special gifts to be treasured and kept

Marking these occasions has been a tradition going back to Victorian times and if you ever watch Antiques Roadshow, you ll often see Royal memorabilia coming to the show as we find surviving examples of mass produced gifts presented on the show in pristine condition It reminded me of just how much of a place the monarchy has in our lives, whether we are monarchists or not

The Queen’s passing and the forthcoming coronation of the new King shines a light on the role of merchandise in celebrating royalty

OFFICIAL MERCHANDISE IS TREASURED

With a Royal contribution tag of £1 8bn to the UK economy in the last detailed reports in 2017 with £550m coming from tourism alone go into any London or Royal linked attraction and there is merchandise everywhere Whether you wanted a tea towel with Elizabeths face or perhaps one of our King in waiting, you ll be just as likely to pick up a Royal corgi plush with a lovely collarwith its name on (hint; it’s the Queen’s corgis Muick and Lissy in furry form) merchandise linked to the Royal household comes in every possible form and is very sought after

ROYAL APPROVAL

As you can expect, the rules around use of the Crown cyphers and images of the Royal family are pretty closely guarded This year the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee released guidelines for the widespread use of the logo A generous act the guidelines around the use of the simple and elegant logo were clear, with the Lord Chamberlains office on hand to give some advice We spent quite a bit of time this summer advising members on logo use with some timely reminders on what you should and shouldn’t do plus reminders about good taste

The Committee of Advertising Practice regularly issues guidance and advice around Royal events; weddings and births in particular The rules are quite tricky but the best rule of thumb is to remember members of the Royal Family should not normally be shown or mentioned in a marketing communication without their prior permission but an incidental reference unconnected with the advertised product, or a reference to material such as a book, article or film about a member of the Royal Family, may be acceptable If you want to read up on this, it’s covered in CAP Rule 6 2

You are far more likely to get into Royal hot water if you claim endorsement or a relationship with the Royal family Those By appointment seals are very

hard to come by for areason Not all the new guidelines are out yet for theimpending coronation, but you can be certain there will be very clearguidelines for thisnational event Keep an eye on royal uk and asa org.uk for the latest updates and the BPMA will also be updating the industry when the guidelines are issued

A NEW KING, CORONATION AND MERCHANDISE?

The new cypher for Charles Rex was released on 27 September and as we await plans for the King s Coronation on 6 May 2023, we can expect a slimmed down affair according to comments from the Palace. Whatever the style of occasion there will be a celebration the bonus of some bank holidays and the request for merchandise for the events BPMA member Nick Humphrey Smith of Ancestors has been producing merchandise for this market, supplying the likes of palaces and major tourist attractions such as St George’s Chapel (Windsor Castle) for many years alongside a myriad of beautifully crafted keepsakes During a discussion at Merchandise World Nick revealed one of the most popular items produced were replica favourite earrings belonging to the Queen, her button earrings which were a gift from Queen Mary which she wore often We quizzed Nick on what he was expecting to see

“Traditional is always sought after and you may be surprised items such as commemorative spoons are so popular of the late Queen and of course now the King Spoons are one of the collectable items which are accessible to most as they are a lower price point The Queen was really adored so it’s no surprise we are seeing thousands of items like this being produced and we think we will see this continue for a long time to come Just think of the sheer numbers who watched the funeral We all

Royal

want a little piece,” he said.

Thinking about the kind of things we might see being popular, Nick reminded us that of course replica crowns are really popular with some pieces in excess of £100 to just a few pounds. Understanding thatthe Queens jewellery willnow be worn by the Queen Consort and the new Princess of Wales, he expects to see a surge in popularity of some of the pieces we are already very familiar with When discussing the impending coronation, Nick made some very interesting observations on how Charles looks like hes playing this.“King Charles is of course very environmentally conscious;we can expect to see a heavy steer to sustainability for the event and supporting British companies We are waiting for the date the longer the announcement is left the less likely it will be that Far East companies will be able to supply for the event in 2023 This is good news for companies like mine and those in the Briman group, he added

He also had some words of wisdom for the industry as we prepare for orders for the coronation “Do your own artwork or buy images you can use rather than wait for the official as this may come out later than usual for an event this large, take care in using Royal emblems and make friends with the Lord Chamberlain And if you are expecting the need for lots of blanks to brand keep a decent stock ”

It's anticipated that the death of the Queen and a new King will drive not only tourism hospitality and events but it will be good for the nation After all, the Queens coronation in 1953 happened in a post war period, in great austerity and uplifted the nation

However you marked the sad passing of our Queen, we know her image will live on in merchandise for many more years to come And as we suspect King Charles may have a simpler approach during his reign and as most of us are likely to see at least two monarchs in our lifetime, we can be certain merchandise will continue to play a role long into the future

Written by Carey Trevill, CEO on behalf of the British Promotional Merchandise Association

THEBPMA AWARDS AREBACK

After averystrange fewyears wherenothing washappening at theusual time, theindustryisgetting ready foran action packed fewdaysinCoventryinJanuary2023at Merchandise World, dusting off those dancing shoes ready forthe BPMA’s Annual Awards Dinner at theCBS Arena in Coventry.

It wasonly April this year that we finally celebrated theAwards so youcould be forgiven forhavingadéjà vu moment thinking ‘has it really been ayear?’ As BPMA members get ready to vote fortheir suppliersand distributors of theyear, we will be welcoming back theindustryfor aglittering dinner plus find out who has wonthe covetedBPMAProduct Awards Grand Prix.

Members will be keepinganeye on their inboxes in early December as withonlyafew short weeks to vote,there will be the usual scramble forticketsand tables. PM has been told ticket sales arealready open so if youwant to bagthe best seat in thehouse, get in touchwiththe BPMA events team via events@bpma.co.uk wheremembers can secureanearly birdbooking.

ENERGY CONFIDENCE

With spiraling bills affecting all businesses, what are your options?

Open EnergyMarkethas revolutionised theprocess of energyprocurement, and net zero planning withits proactive and effectivemanagement of business energystrategies

Designedbyenergy buyers, its awardwinningOpen Platformisdrivenbythe need to simplifythe energy buying and management process,allowingcustomers to mitigate their risk in avolatile market.

In an industry saturated withdata, theOpen Platform does thehardwork and delivers keyinformationthathelps businesses makedecisionsquickly

With80% of itscustomersnot having to rely on taxpayer support viathe energy price cap this winter,OEM hassaved the taxpayer over £0.25bn andhas enabled OEMtoprotect businessesand thetaxpayer.

OEM’s fund has consistently outperformed themarket, delivering substantial savings across gas and powerto hundreds of businesses throughoutthe UK

Chris Maclean, CEO of Open Energy Marketsaid OEMwas havingareal impact on boththe economyand their customers “Asweapproachour tenthyear,this data validates thekey role we play in bringing

cost savings, confidence,and control to avolatilemarket. Ourexpert traders, risk management team andproprietary platform represents aunique capability whichcontinues to outperformthe markets on both commodities forour customers, savingmillionsacross ourclient base and over£250m forthe taxpayer this winter.”

Onebusiness that enjoys thecost savings, confidence and control broughtis brewer ShepherdNeame.

Jonathan Neame, CEO, said: “Open EnergyMarkethas provided us with excellent advice throughsome very turbulent times. Thishas savedusmaterial sumsaswehavebeenabletofix utility suppliesatbelowthe marketrate. This has

giventhe business sufficient stabilitytobe able to thinkbeyond thecurrent volatility for thelong term.”

Followingthe recent announcements aboutenergysupport forbusinessesby Government andcallsthe BPMA has undertakenwithGovernmentteams, it has invited OEM to speak to theindustryabout thecap and what happens afterthe sixmonth support package stopsplussome practicaladvice.

Thisismostrelevant forcompaniesusing over100,000KWh. Checkout bpma.co.ukfor thewebinar date.

FormoreinformationonOEM, call 01483 492600 or email sales@ openenergymarket.com.

TOUCHINGA

ex perience

The tenthHaptica live event took placeinBonn, re-emphasising the importanceofbeing able to get handsonwithmerchandise again, after two years of everything beingata safedistance.

Acelebrationofthe importance of sensation in productmedia, theshow brought together suppliers, distributors, agencies,buyersand marketingdecision makers to exchange ideas, network, and crucially,touchand feel,new and imaginativemerchandise options.

There were 117exhibitors on show for the865 visitorsfrom605 companies to interact with.Withnoobligation to wear a face mask this year,itwas possible to see theexplosionofpositive emotions that haptic advertisingtriggers

The exhibitor mixunitedbrand name companieslikeVilleroy&Boch, koziol, Titan, Stabilo,Sigg, Leonardo or Gefu with established specialists and innovative startups and nicheplayers. Vegan marzipan,

water-free,solid cosmetics, take-awaysystems, pet supplies, construction kits forminiature models, entertainmentelectronics fanitems,workwear,rewritable notebooks or foldable straws madeof stainless steel –there wassomethingto suit all occasions andall tastes

Visitorsalso received inputfromthe show’slectureprogramme. Featuring Kristin Bässe from Reporterswithout Borders,Jens Polkowski from Miles&More, Torsten Pfennig from theKölner Haie ice hockeycluband Anke Erpenbeck from the Cologne transportauthorityKVB, thecast of speakers wasdiversified.

Allfour providedfascinatinginsightsinto howthe potentialofhapticadvertising can be implemented: as ameansof involvement(Reporterswithout Borders), forimage profiling(KVB),toconvey Lufthansa styleorsimply to “saveone’s arse”through thechallenging Covid times usingmerchandising,asthe icehockey managerPfennig put it bluntly

Eachofthe companies that took part in thelecture programme were also represented in theBest PracticeShow with aspecial campaign, accompanied by furtherexamplesofhapticcampaigns that

had been executed with great attention to detail –fromshoelaces forthe aid of theUkraine,through to atrue-to-detail, mohaircuddly replica of Angela Merkel

In cooperationwiththe bagexperts Halfar,the show organisers WA Media hadten courierbags sewn outofold tradeshowbanners to commemorate theanniversaryevent. At atime when sustainability is ever moreimportant, theseunique andfun upcycling products were raffledoff amongthe tradeshow participantsaspartofa prize draw

In addition, theexhibition forthe award winners of thePromotional Gift Award 2022 pointed outwhat distinguishes successful promotional products. The public wasabletoexamine and try out all 41 award-winning products andcampaigns. Furthermore, prize winning popcorn drew attention to the newPublic Prize, whichisgoingtobe presented at thecoming edition of the PromotionalGiftAward in addition to the Jury Prize.

The next editionofthe show is coming roundsoon. Everyone who is interested in hapticadvertising shouldsavethe date of 15 March, 2023 in theirdiaries. Formoredetails, go to haptica.live

Germany’s celebration of haptic advertising was back in Bonn with the chance to get hands on once again

CHRISTMASISBACK

The first mince pies appeared on shop shelves about amonth ago –aclear sign that the Christmas countdown had begun

Supplying festive promotional merchandise to our industry, time really is of theessence, especially if it is bespoke manufacture, as it’salmost too late forclients to order withguaranteed delivery forDecember

End user clients often don’t have an appreciation forthe really tightturnaround times and deadlines of our sector.It’shardto imagine thescheduling, planning and manic production that comes withChristmas season unless you’ve seen it withyour owneyes.

It’snever tooearly to ask clients about special Christmas promotions they have coming up to give them apositive nudge towards placing their orders. This part of the year can be theperfect time to maximise opportunities and revenues and gain those extrasales.

FESTIVE WEAR

spar

CONSIDER BRANDING

Gold is alwaysgreat for moresubtle touches and offering metallic or glitter print finishes forabit of festive kle will catch theeye of all.

Withthe branding revolution of direct to film (DTF) and direct to paper (DTP) in transfer printing it opens aworld of branding options and digital colours.

be hosting. Whether it’sbranded blankets forfestive outside events, promotional messages on short and long-sleeved T-shirts, hoodies, soft shell jackets or beanie hats. Be suretoask about planned Christmas events or parties –think printed bags and giveaways likegloves, socks and scarves. After all the Covid restrictions of 2021 this Christmas is suretobecelebrated in grand style.

Ourbiggest seller everyyear arebranded assorted coloured Santahats and every year we all miss orders due to stockissues and last-minuteplanning. Don’tleave it to chance –start selling nowand work with your clothing supplier to get theproduct in ready forthose Christmas orders.

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP

Work closely and maintain open lines of communication withyour supply partner to ensuredeadlines aremet Bespokeand customised can take up to 12 weeksfromorder to delivery.This means thereisverylittle time left for guaranteed delivery in December

If ordering off-the-shelf products to be over-branded it will certainly be faster,but when it comes to Christmas orders, the earlier thebettertoavoid stockissues.

Happyselling, Clive (The Clothing Guru).

Think about what events end users might

Don’t be the elf on the shelf. Get your customers on boardwith early Christmas planning, sayys Clive Allcott

Growt h

Due to recent growth in headcount, SowEasy has movedtoanew office at Bell Farm,Wexham. Joining thebusiness therewillbe one of its most recent new recruits KevinCoote, operations manager (pictured right). He has manyyears of experience in similar rolesand his expertise will be an asset to theSow Easy team. The companyhas also added Caroline Dumont as business development manager

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

SowEasy is constantly seeking to develop products and services that it canoffer to its customers, who in turncan offer to their own. They have recently launched thenew Essentials Range and Express Service.

ESSENTIALS RANGE

Forthe Essentials Range SowEasy has takenits topselling products and simplified them, reducing theminimum order to 100 units, making it themost cost-efficient range that SowEasy offers. As standard, these products areavailable on atwo-tothreeweek production lead time from receipt of thecustomer logo

EXPRESS SERVICE

The Express Serviceisfor those times when customers need theirproducts now, anda two-to-three week lead time just doesn’t cut it. SowEasy has developed therange to meet these tight deadlines withlead times from

threedaysdepending on product and quantity.

SowEasy workswithdistributors large and small, including Brand Addition, Total Merchandise, Fluid Branding, Pellacraft and Product Network.

Established in 1988, SowEasy is an innovative supplier of seed and plant promotional products, specialising in creating items that grow intoflowers, herbs, fruit, vegetables andtrees

The creative items it offers include promotional plants, branded plant pots, printed seed packets, and its famous Seedsticks –the matchstickgarden. The promotional products and corporategifts arefor anybusiness that caresabout the environment. All of thegiveaways that Sow Easy offer aresustainable.

Sow Easy is growing its team as well as its product offering

VICTORIASIGNATURE BRIEFCASE SAYTHANK YOU

Thank your clients, partners andemployees with Victorinox corporategifts Fortheir efforts, successes andcommitment

Send your inquiryto: corporatebusiness.hq@victorinox.com

Find more ideasand options online: www.victorinox.com/corporate-gifts

FESTIVE FINANCES

Aswehead for year’s end, have you prepared for the other ‘C’word... ‘cashflow’, asks Mike Collins

Whisper it quietly but thefestive time of theyear will soon be upon us. The question is, in these tough times have you prepared forthe inevitable delays Christmas brings?

Finance is at theforefront of everybody’s minds these days and this renewed focus is vitally important because the monies yourecovernow will be your ‘Christmas Cash-Flow’

December is notoriously a troublesome and expensive month. Bills and wages arenot thesame as in ‘normal months. Add seasonal factors suchas Christmas bonuses, gifts and so on, and all tooquicklyyour expenditureishigherthanusual.

Couple this with thefact that most businesses close

foraperiodoverthe holidays and you’re suddenly faced withthe perfectstorm of having to fund an increased four-week expenditure period whilst perhaps only having athree-week working period to raiserevenue.

The actions youtakenow become so muchmore important. As we all know, thereisnocastironway of guaranteeing that an invoicewon’t be paid late but thereare ways that you can minimise that risk

1. Make surethat your invoice holds thecorrect written information.

List thecustomer’s information correctly.Makesureany description of goods/services provided is accurate. Ensure

theprice is as quoted and theinvoice is dated correctly Don’tprovide an excuse for theinvoice to be delayed.

2. List on theinvoice the payment information the customer needs to payyou. Makesureyour completebank details areonyour invoices: bank name, account name, sort code and account number Include your payment terms and most importantly,the datefor payment.Without a place to pay, people can’t pay.

3. In December,have aledger to hand to see what invoices areowed…. and action it! In most cases businesses will only be trading forthree weeks

in December.Beproactive withyour ledger,don’t delaywhen an invoiceis overdue. If theinvoice is fair it deservestobepaid. Don’t be scared to ask foryour money.You’veearned it and youcertainly deserve it.

If youdon’t have aplan to action your debtors, or you struggle to implement your processes, then don’t delay, use your BPMA peer support network and contact us

Direct Route/Account Assyst forall thehelp, advice and guidance you’ll need to enjoy astress free end to 2022.

MikeCollins is managing director of Direct Route/ Account Assyst

Local Support Contact Details

Please contact amember of our local support team for advice on any matter related to debt and credit management

London and South David Barker dbarker@directroute.co.uk 07766545871

Midlands and East Anglia KenBrown kbrown@directroute.co.uk 07795214426

Wales and North West Ian Jenkinson ijenkinson@directroute.co.uk 07860 197476

North East,Scotland andNorthern Ireland MikeCollins mike@accountassyst.com 07866 427363

LATEST BPMA NEW

The BPMA is delighted to announce its newest members. Don’tforget that being part of theBPMAcomes withmany perks suchasthe use of thelogo to represent your membership status. Unlike manyother tradeassociations, theBPMA is amember-to-member organisation and requires references from other

members as part of theprocess. This means astrong referral base and importantly,exemplarystandards are maintained. Together withthis rigorous process whichalso includes BPMA Boardapproval, financial checks form an important part of theprocess. Likemany good things in life, BPMA membership is reassuringly hardtosecure.

ATWIST LUNCHWITH

Don’t miss the upcoming BPMA Networking Lunch in Birmingham

Likemost industries, we love agood lunch: theconversation, networking andlearning and of course great food. Deciding that getting people mingling at great events is one of the most enjoyablewaystobring our industry together prompted thelatest BPMA event, theMember NetworkingLunchwhich takes place on 15th November in theveryswish surroundings of Gaucho in Birmingham.

Withtough messages hitting theindustry from all sides, Membership Director Tom Robey said: “It’simperative we keep communicating and selling. Noises from thewider communications industrymean we arestill amarketverymuchindemand and responding to this call, is it is essential we work together to deliver. Networking is an integral part of this process, and we knowwhen our industrygetstogether, great ideas and work happen.The seating forthis event will also ensureeveryone gets to catch up withcontacts, makenew ones, get involved withdiscussions and debates as we navigatethe economic landscape.”

GREATPEOPLE, BRILLIANT CONVERSATION AND AMAZING FOOD

When youarriveatGaucho,you’llenjoy awelcome drink as younetwork with your peers followedbyadelicious three course lunch. Guests will be seated on tables supported and sponsored by BPMA member suppliers and guests will find this is anetworkingevent withatwist as they change tables with each course

Guest Speaker James Sandbrook: The Marketing Meet Up co-founder and founder of agency, This is Human Searchingfor inspiring speakers forthe BPMA Member NetworkingLunchled them down some interesting paths. Withsome potential rockyperiods ahead, looking at theskills theBPMAbelievemembers need to thrive andnot just survive was at thetop of theshoppinglist. Discussing thenecessitytoget creative andtell the

stories

James recommended man BPMA members.

James is the founder of agency This is Human and co-founder of The Marketing Meetup James has worked bothclient side and within large agencies. He found his passion forstorytellingand could see thevalue it had in driving revenue... so turned it intoabusiness.

15 November 2022 Birmingham

ownYouTube channel when time allows, sharinghis love for mountain biking.

Alongside The Marketing Meet up which he runs from Birmingham, James’s agency This is Human nowcreates non-corporate, relatable, videos forbrands’websites and social media channels. James also runs his

James has been spying on many of themembers attending thelunch and is going to help those gathered forthe lunchtounderstand why and howweshare themagic of merchandise really does matter when we use thoseall-important social platforms. PM will be reporting moreabout theNetworking Lunchinthe next issue.

Last bookings forthis event are nowbeing taken. BPMA members only and limited to amaximum of 4 tickets per distributor.Contact events@ bpma.co.uk formoreinformation or visit bpma.co.uk/events

DANIELA

Just over14years ago,a fresh-faced promotional merchandiser walked into theBPMA’soffices, ready to start anew career looking after theindustryshe wasalready so familiar with. She never looked back.Now taking apause in her career since thebirth of her son in 2021, we look back overDaniela Arena’s journey withthe BPMA

In thelast decade, it’sfair to say theindustryhas changedalot and thepersonclosest to those changes hasbeen Daniela. Starting her career withthe BPMA in Membership and Events, her day-to-dayduties varied immensely,helping members withqueries and introducing new members to our wonderful industry.

EDUCATION THE INDUSTRY

Progressing intoaneducation and training role, theindustrygot to knowDaniela during education courses, calmly steered through exams and pep talks during tough course work.Danielahas been ever present at all themajor BPMA calendar events over theyears; shows and Awarddinners through to manymembernetworking gatherings up and down theUK.

Working closely withprevious Director General, Gordon Glenister formanyyears, Daniela rose to becoming asolid right hand in her operational role at theBPMA supporting theBoard Directors to achieve their strategic goals. Daniela held arespected and close relationship withthe BPMA Board seeing manyChairs during her tenure including myself overthe last six years.

TIME OUT

It’sbeenagreat pleasure to work alongside Daniela overthe years and watchher develop her skills and knowledge of theindustry, whichissecond to none. She has been agreat support to the industryand will be muchmissed.

Daniela and husband Stuart were over themoon to find she wasexpecting a little boy. Daniela and Stuart welcomed baby Ethan intotheir family in August 2021. Daniela has decided to nowtake an extended break to enjoymotherhood beforeshe sets off on her next career move

Daniela will be muchmissed at the BPMA and wishing her well on her next steps, theBPMABoard and team wish her everysuccess forthe future.

Angela Wagstaff is BPMA President

From educating the next generation to supporting the Board and celebrating with the industry,Daniela Arena has been an ever present at the BPMA, says Angela Wagstaff

IT’S GOOD TO

September sawthe returnof Merchandise World’speak season event in Milton Keynes and as co-hosts theBPMAteam were present. Locatednexttothe EcoWorld stand, it wasa great to have achance to catch up in person withmembers and familiar faces. Witha10% increase on visitors from last year’s September show, theevent wasa success that has solidified its place in theindustrycalendar

BRIMAN MEETUP

The following day, theBritish Manufacturing group (Briman) met for aseasonal meeting. As well as group discussions on industrywideeconomic challenges currently faced, guest speakers coveredinteresting topics on succession planning, employeeretention strategies, sales and online product indexing possibilities.

Later in themonth, Iaccompanied trade suppliers to bothHeathrow and Manchester shows to meet manyaBPMA member distributor

Coming soon is thelatest ‘In conversation with…’ session on 20th October.This time, my BPMA webinar welcomes Eat My Logo,willbe

accompanied by Geiger to lookatthe futureofconfectioneryproducts in the promotional merchandise sector.Ifyou are interested in taking part in these sessions, please contact me directly

TAXING TIMES

Aweek later,we’ll have spokenwithHMRC fora special industrysession to explain more about plastic packaging taxtomembers. Thereisalso an upcoming session with Open Energy to speak to theindustryabout theenergy cap and what happens after the

six-monthsupport package ends.

Coming up in person, theBPMAis holding aProfessional Development Dayin Milton Keynes. November sees apostponed Juniper Trading factoryvisit,tying in to the BPMA Educationplatform.

And Ipromise to take as manyphotosas possible at theverymuchanticipated BPMA Member Networking LunchatGaucho’s in Birmingham on November 15th

All our events arelisted on theBPMA events page online, so please head on over and register to save your places.

TomRobey is BPMA Membership Director

Whether the meeting is face to face or online, there huge value in speaking with colleagues and peers, says TomRobey

TheIndustry’s Whoand How. My PSI. Live.

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