THEROADTO SUSTAINABILITY
Heather told herstory in atotally transparent and vulnerable way, from suffering from anorexia as achild as she set her heart on becominganOlympian, thesubsequent impact that losing her hair from alopecia hashad on her,through to winning more than 150 caps forEngland rugby. During her journey,she has played at WorldCups and Olympics games, switched sports to thebobsleigh forTeamGB, and embarked on apost-elitesport career, whichhas included participation on SAS: Who Dares Wins.
It wasalso agreat privilege to be joined by MabintyEsho,headofDEI at Comic Relief.Mabintydelivered an insightful talk on managingdifficult conversations, bothfrom employeetomanager andvice versa.
Reinforcing theimportance of us all calling out inappropriateactionsand behavioursand making aconcerted effort to think inclusively in everything we do This wasanother exampleofhow the BPMA’s year-long partnership withComic Relief can benefit members, and it is
hoped that Mabintywillbeatthe BPMA Conference in June to runasession based on her IWDpresentation.
Summing up theday as agreat success, Goodmanurged everyone to puta marker down fornext year to makeaspecial effort to supportthe BPMA IWD
“The event wasa great exampleof how, in arelaxed and informal setting with great food and brilliant speakers, we can cometogether as amembership,enjoy timewithone another, and leave feeling inspiredand motivatedtocreateapositive impact,”heconcluded.
WHATDOES IWDMEAN TO YOU?
Aheadofthis year’s International Women’s Day, theBPMAasked members what it meant to them
SPOTLIGHTONOUR ROLE MODELS
As partofIWD, the BPMA sharedthe stories of
someofthe women in ourindustry who help to make it what it is
MARAYA SLAVOVA, MERCHANDISER,KINGLY
Forthe past two years Maraya has been amemberofthe Kingly team, involvedinclient communication, order management,and production oversight to deliver seamless experiences.Indoing so,she has developed organisational skills.
“One of my most rewarding moments waswhen my manager recognisedmydedication,telling me Iwas his best employeeata time when Ihad lost confidence. This acknowledgmenthad a profound impact on me,” she says.
Maraya’sgoalistoestablish herself as arespected professional in theindustry,continuously expanding her skills,knowledge, andexpertise.
SUSANNELANGLEY,
JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR, JUNIPER TRADING
As afamily-owned SME and UK manufacturer,Susanne’s role incorporates everythingfromHR, compliance, marketing, health& safety, plus day-todaymucking in.
Atrained nurse, her NHS career saw herspecialise in paediatric intensive care beforeadapting herskills in acompletely different setting.
The company is proudofthe female leaders withinits business, shesays.
FLORENCEMOSNIER,
GENERAL MANAGER, IPPAG
IPPAG is aglobalorganisation that brings togetherproduct media companies from around theworld. Florence coordinates morethan 1,000 people from around 35 countries to help set and achievecommon goals.
“Overthe years this has helped me develop an abilitytotalk to people of all backgrounds, countries and positions, in companies of all sizes, and to then act to bring them together, to facilitateprojects and generatereal impact,” she says.
Thehighlightofthe IPPAGyear is the annual general meetings whichisheld in adifferent host countryevery year Mosniercollaborates witheachhost to createa memorable and educational experience.
“In recent years, I’ve facilitated meetings in an ancient fort in Rajasthan, journeyed outtothe jungle on quad bikes, held afireceremony
“Weare majorityfemale owned,our production manager is female,our operations manager is female,our sales lead is female. Ourproduction in China is led by afemale.”
Juniper has workedtoreshore manufacturing to theUK, enablingit to employmorethan40local staff, maintaining traditional skills of leather craft and bookbinding.
“Sincecreating Juniper just over 20 years ago we have been through some really tough times,COVID probably the worst. We have fought on, re-grouped and come back stronger,” shesaid.
and then hiked up avolcano in Guatemala, or hosted agala dinner in apavilion in theworld’soldest zooin Austria,” shesays.
She is proud to be helping steerthe industrytowards conscious innovation and sustainable growth by enlisting the help of its changemakers.
KANUPRIYADAS, THREAD CUTTER,DTB
As theperson in charge of thread cutting Kanupriya oversees and manages precise cutting,maintaining machine operations, and ensuring qualitycontrol for cotton bagproduction.
“Withthe same passion and dedication Ibring to my work today, Iaspiretoone daybuildmy ownbusiness.” and skills quality and she says.
“In my role Ihave developed strong leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills Iamproud of my abilitytoefficiently oversee thethread cutting process while
ensuring high qualityand minimal waste,” she says
OneofKanupriya’s professional goals is to furtherenhance her leadership andtechnical skills to become amore effective and wellrounded manager
further enhance and technical skills become a more rounded manager more sustainable our thread process, which aligns with the company’s
“Additionally,Iaim to implement more sustainable practices in our thread cutting process, whichaligns withthe company’s growth and commitment to quality,” sheadds
PLAY AROUND WITH DYESUBLIMATION
Changes to sports clothinghas improvedthe look and performance of players,says CliveAllcott
Dye sublimation has evolved significantly overthe years, impacting boththe functionality and aestheticsofathletic apparel.
Dyesublimation is aprinting process that uses heat to transfer dyeontomaterials, typically polyester-based fabrics. Thedye turns intogas and permeates thefabric, whichresultsinvibrant, long-lastingprints that areintegrated intothe material rather than sitting on topofit.
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS
Fabric quality: Early dyesublimation garments relied on lower-qualityfabrics that could limit thevibrancyand durabilityof prints. Today’shigh-performance polyester materials arelightweight, moisture-wicking, andmorecomfortable.
Printing technology: High-resolutiondigital printers haveenhanced theprinting process allowing forintricatedesigns and colour gradients that were difficult to achieveinthe past. They’realso faster and morescalable.
Inkinnovation: The inks used in dye sublimation have improved in terms of colour qualityand environmental impact.
DESIGN IMPROVEMENTS
Customisationand personalisation: Names, numbers, and specific designs have become astandardexpectation in team sports and cannow be facilitated.This has drawngreat demand from manysports teams due to their ‘tour shirts’culture.
Complex designs: The abilitytoprint full-colour designsand photographs has expanded thecreative possibilities with unique, eye-catching patterns along with the opportunitytomaximise sponsorship with the additionofmultiple logos.
Trendy aesthetics: Designtrends have shifted from simple and bold logos to more intricateand colourful designs. The use of gradients, patterns, and even textureshas enhanced thevisual appeal of sportsapparel.
PRACTICALAPPLICATIONS
Performance enhancements: Moderndye sublimation techniques canincorporate performance features directly intothe fabric. Forexample, moisture-wicking properties and UV protection.
Sustainability: Manymanufacturers have startedusingrecycled materials in their dye sublimation processes.
HappySelling Clive theclothingand bagguru
tulip tumbler
MarrowMug
Rio tumbler
LEARNAND PROGRESS
Aday of learning, inspirationand networking beckons at this year’sBPMA conference
The BPMA AnnualConference returns this year bringing together industryleaders, suppliers, and distributors foraday of insight, innovation, and networking.
Held on Wednesday4June2025at theCrowne Plaza, Marlow,the conference is akey event in thepromotional merchandise industry, offeringa unique opportunitytogainexpertknowledge, engage with thought leaders,and explore thelatest trends shaping thesector.
This year theconferencewillhave an expanded format featuring an inspiring keynotespeaker and interactive breakout sessions that allowdelegatesto match content to theirneeds.Itisset to be themost engaging yet.
INSPIRATIONALENTREPRENEUR
The keynotespeechwill be delivered by TomLawton, an “inventor,artist,and wonderer”, who blends art, science,and spiritualityinhis creations.
AFellowofthe RoyalSociety of Arts and arecipient of theprestigious US Green DotAward forenvironmental excellence, Lawton hasalso presented television series, Tom’sFantastic Floating Home.
BUSINESSUPDATES
As well as inspiration, theconference will include essential updates on keybusiness areassuchastrade, compliance, copyright, and sustainability.
BPMA PARTNERS
June’s enhanced programme introduces sessions led by BPMA service providers
and partners,offeringattendees anew way to connect withindustrypeers and gain actionable insights.
The 2025 Annual Conferencewill feature12separatesessions across four satelliterooms,covering awiderange of keytopics
BOOKING DETAILS
Where: Crowne Plaza Marlow When: 4June2025from9am
PRE-CONFERENCE BBQ
As many participants aretravelling to attend this not-to-be-missed day, theBPMAhas organised aBBQ buffet dinner on sitethe night prior to theconference on 3June. To booktickets forthe conference, and forthe BBQ,gotobpma.co.uk.
Cost: £125+VAT forMembers, £105+VAT forChartered Members
Thepre-conference BBQ takesplaceatthe hoteland costs £55+VAT per head Book at bpma.co.uk
9:00am Conference Opens
10:00am Welcome withBPMACEO Phil Goodman
10:30am To Be Confirmed
Mabinty Esho,head of diversityatComic Relief
11:30am Comic Relief Product Design Challenge Phil Goodman, CEO,BPMA
12:05pm Generating Impactfor Your Business on TikTok Oli Hills, Nonsensical
Keynote Speaker
1:45pm
Breakout Room 1
An Inventor’s Tale –Tom’s Epic Journey from WakeYooto Wonder: Howimagination inspires creativity,unlocks genius, andbuilds asustainable future, together TomLawton, MaverickInventor
Timings Agenda
10:30am MakingYour Mark: UsingTrade Marks in theMerchandisingIndustry
Laura Newbold Breen,CEO,ACID 11:30am InnovateUKBusiness Growth –Support to help businesses grow and scale Graeme Beaver, InnovateUK 12:00pm ReviewingProgress HalfwayThroughaDecade of Critical ClimateAction James Shorey,partnershipsmanager,PlanetMark
Breakout Room 2
Timings Agenda
10:30am ManagingRiskunder GeneralProduct Safety RobHutchcliffe, SGS UK hardlines manager,SGS 11:30am Growing your business through international trade AngusMurray, international tradeadviser,Departmentfor Business andTrade
12:00pm SpeakerSlot Deaf AwarenesstoBusiness NancyWeatherson, director,Feel Hear
Breakout Room 3
Timings Agenda 10:30am Howtomakeimpactful video withyour smartphone Oli Hills, CEO,Nonsensical 11:30am Inheritance Tax– What’s next foryour business?
Simon Cook, director,StrataFinancial Limited 12:00pm Tips andtools forworkplace wellbeing Robert Rowe,relationship manager,The PrintingCharity
LauraNewbold
Oli Hills
NancyWeatherson TomLawton
MOVE WITH THETIMES
The road to amore sustainable future is neverstraightforward
ProductMedia examines thepolitical landscape,the policy and the practicalitiesofdelivering for the planet
Despitepushbackfromcynics, sustainabilityremains something that consumers expect, corporate clients remain committedto, and merchandiseplayers arereshaping their industryaround.
In recent years thebattle to become moresustainable has beenconsidered an unalloyedgood. Who couldargue against efforts to cut carbon emissionsto tryand reachnet zero and ultimately save theplanet?
Enter Donald Trump forhis second
presidency, and suddenlyitseemsasifthe tables have turned.
The 47thpresident of theUSA has made no secret of hissuspicion of climate activismand efforts by companiesto become‘greener’. He withdrewthe US from theParis ClimateAgreement in one of his first acts as president and haspromised to accelerateoil and gas production as opposedtomoreprogressive energy initiatives.
Wherethe mostpowerfulman in the worldleads, do othersfollow?
ASHIFT IN SUSTAINABILITY?
In theUK, politicians from all parties seem to have equivocalfeelings about sustainability.Populists have alwayspoured scornonnet zero initiatives, but major partieshavealsoshiftedtheir positions. Tory leader Kemi Badenochcallingthe 2050 net zero target “impossible”,and theLabour Government hasrolledbackonprevious climatecommitments, according to some. Butwhatdoconsumers think?
As recently as lastyear,PWC research found80% of consumers wouldpay
asustainabilitypremium of 9.7% for sustainably sourced or producedgoods. This despitethe cost-of-living crisis.
Research by Deloitte forits ongoing
The Sustainable Consumer report noted achange in theattitude of consumers. While themajorityare stillcommittedto personal actions suchasreducing energy consumptionand recycling, thereisa renewed focus on affordability. Consumers also want to see Government and industry taking thelead, offeringsustainable products and services as normal
The BPMA’s ownresearch found that consumers have concerns about greenwashing, with78% sayingthat they would either reduce purchases or stop buying products that were deceptively portrayedasbetter forthe environment than they really are.
Morethan half (55%) said they wouldbe prepared to paymorefor aproduct with demonstrable environmental claims. There wasalso strong support formoreregulatory action, with77% wanting Government intervention.
It seems clear that consumers stillcare about environmental issues, and in some ways, concernabout climate emergency has increased, so businessescannot consider themselves to be off thehook. Certainly,inthe field of promotional merchandise, thedirection of travel seems to be towardsevermoresustainable options, withmoresuppliers and distributors offering products that nod in that direction. Surely this can onlybethe result of demandfromtheircustomers who areinturnbeing influenced by theattitudes of their customers and stakeholders.
STEPPING UP
The BPMA’s StepForward Pledge has had agalvanising effect on thesector, helping members begin or acceleratetheirown journeystowards amoresustainable future. Athousand pointsof lighthave encompassed new and excitingproducts, productionprocesses that cut down on, and even makeuse of waste, businesses dialling down their energy consumption, efforts to educatecustomers, and many moreinitiatives.
Thereisnopanacea to being more sustainable. Likethe questfor qualitythat manybusinessesundertake, it is an ongoing processrather than adestination. Youdon’t get there, but youdoget better
An upcoming demonstration of this new wayofdoing business willbeatthe next Merchandise WorldShowin MiltonKeynes on 10 September
The showhas beenrenamed Sustainable Merchandise Worldand will haveanew environmentally friendly product focus, anew unique format, and anew name (see p23).
From our industry– certainly in theUK and Europe –the message seems to be that sustainabilityisheretostay. Lets take alook at howthe landscape is changing
STEPFORWARD LOOKSAHEAD
Afterasuccessful launchlast year, BPMA sustainabilityand compliance manager JennyDawes explains howthe Association’s heralded Pledge initiative is goingfurther andfaster in year two
What haschanged this year?
Nowwe’re in thesecond year of the StepForward Pledge, we have been checking in with members on howtheir targets and actions areprogressing. Part of thecommitment whentaking thePledge is updating us on your journey every12 months.
Accountability is acrucialpartofthe initiative,asithelps to turn targets and promises intoreal, impactful change.
Theoverall response to this has been positive,withcurrently an 80%response rate of thoseasked forupdates–which we areproud of
Comments suchasthisfromJoy Puor, ESG director,XDConnects,demonstrate howmembers arefocused on change. She said: “Good to see that BPMA is seriousinfollowinguponthiseachyear Yousooften see initiativesthat require an assessment withnofurther(timely) followup.
Whilst checkinginwithmembers they havebeen sharing various ways the Pledge has helped their business move forward. Some of these include providinga frameworkfor tracking their environmental and socialimpact, setting targets in areas thebusiness hadnot previously considered or discussed, and providing a resource to share and discuss withclients.
Howisthe BPMA supporting members in their efforts to become more sustainable?
To further support members, the ‘Sustainable Merchandise’ module from our TPMEducation course is nowavailable
to member businesses free of charge. This is avaluable resource that explores an entry-level understanding of sustainable manufacturing,terminology, certifications and greenwashing.
Over 150 individuals from member organisations have already takenthe module, including business directors and entireteams. Some businesses have even opted to makethis mandatorytraining for all new starters.
In 2025 we have already seen ahuge disruption in sustainabilitypolicy, with proposal of theEUOmnibus Package –simplification of major EU sustainability regulations (see box, p16). We aim to ensurewekeep members informed on crucial developments suchasthis through thenewssection of thenewly upgraded BPMA website, and through our weekly newsletter
Diving deeper intoenvironmental regulation, BPMA partners Planet Mark joined us foramembership webinar titled SustainabilityPolicyin2025: Insights to future-proof your business. This is available formembers to stream on thewebsite.
BPMA sustainabilityjourney
Measuring carbon emissions is a fundamental step in creating astrategyto reduce emissions
If youhaveattended aBPMAevent in thelast 12 months, youmay have been notified that we arenow measuring theenvironmental impactofour major industryevents –sowecan thereby reduce our impact year-on-year
In addition to this, theBPMAhas achieved itssecond year of business certification with Planet Mark.Tomaintain this, we measured theBPMA’sannual carbon emissions and committed to a5% annual reduction.
FOR GOOD AFORCE
AllCastelli products feature FSC® certified paper FSC® Certified Products
100% Carbon Neutral
We have achieved 100% carbon neutral status.
NetZerowith Carbon Capture®
We have helped raise over £1.83mfor the Woodland Trust, with the planting of morethan 480,000trees, capturing 110,580 tonnes of Co2.
BCorp™ Certified
We successfully passed on our first attempt with a scoreof94.5, while the average first-timescore is 50.9*.
Castelli haswon theBPMA Stationery Productofthe Year award twoyears running
EcoConscious Packaging
We offer eco friendly paper based options.
*source:www.bcorporation.net
HighEnergy Efficiency
We continue to upgrade machineryand run full energy audits for maximum energy efficiency
We are dedicated to agreener promotional industry andwill continue to support the BPMA Step ForwardPledge. BPMA Step ForwardPledge
Discover more
PRODUCTS TO in pire YOU FROM THE be t TRADE SUPPLIERS
• Meet 50 keysuppliers
• Seehundredsofnew products
• Discover allthe latest eco, green andsustainable itemsand ranges
• Refreshments provided allday
• Free parking
The show team and exhibitorsare delightedtoinvite youtoyour localshow! We can’t waittowelcomeyou to seeour fantastic and diverse rangeof promotional productsand wearables. Ourshows areopentodirectors, managers, internalsales andadmin staff.Anyoneinvolved in sourcing promotional merchandisewill benefit in some waybyspending quality time with suppliers committedtoprovidingthe best possible support to their distributors
• Our local events mean traveltime is minimal, making it much easier for more staff to attend, without too much disruption to day to day business.
• See the current best-selling and latest innovative products and services
• Have proper discussions with 24 leading suppliers in a less formal, relaxed environment
• Over £1500worth of special offers only available by attending.
• Parkingisfree; lunch is provided; refreshments areavailable throughout theday.
MERCHANDISE WORLDGETSNEW FOCUS
This September’s Merchandise World will have anew environmentallyfriendly product focus,a new unique format, and a new name, Sustainable Merchandise World. The showhas previouslypractised what it preached through itsEco Worldproduct showcase which has been runningfor a number of years. The exhibition has also undertaken other initiatives suchaslanyard recycling withpartner Preseli, and reusable drinks cups at past shows
Withthe growth in thenumberofmore sustainable promotional products, the Sustainable Merchandise Worldexhibition will featurethe bestofenvironmentally friendly promotional merchandise.There will also be theUK’sbest selection of popular qualitypromotional merchandise that will be of interest to allvisitors.
The showwillalsofeature speakers on sustainability issues and opportunities. A range of speakers will educateand inform on important sustainability issues and opportunities. Speakerswillbecourtesy of theindustry’strade association, and jointowners of MerchandiseWorld, the BPMA (British Promotional Merchandise Association).
This September’s show is settoprovide theopportunityfor distributors to invite a selectionoftheir ownclients to theshow foranominal cost. This willcreatean opportunity forthese clients to witness the promotional merchandiseindustryatclose quarters
Only invitedand pre-registered distributor clients willbeadmitted in September.The January2026showwillnot admitclients.
ABETTER CUP FORTHE PLANET
Apartnership approach to new product development has createdanew product withexcellentsustainability credentials
Everyyear,the UK uses morethan 2.5 billion single-use coffeecups –and most of them end up in landfill
The absurdityofthis situation wasn’t lost on First Editions boss Mark Alderson.
“There’sawidespread misconception that these cups areeasilyrecyclable,”he said. “In reality, less than one per cent are recycled –and that’sthe issue we set out to tackle.”
First Editions, whichmanufactures drinks bottles in theUK, decided to tryand createareusable coffee cup whichwould significantly increaserecycling and lower environmental impact. The result is anew cupcalledFoamo
“Our goal wastopush theboundaries. To do this, we explored everystage of Foamo’s lifecycle to ensurethat we minimisedits environmentalimpact,” said Alderson.
Arevolutionary foaming technologyisat theheart of theproduct.
ensuresitwillbeacost-effective solution as well as an environmentally-friendly one.
West Midlands-basedFirst Editions received smartfundingfromthe governmentagency Innovate UK,aspart of awider visiontobring new jobs to theregion.
Foamo is thefirstfruit of FirstEditions collaboration withBirmingham Energy Institute’sClimateInnovation Platform (CIP), whichissupported by HSBC UK and deliveredbythe Universityof Birmingham, in partnershipwithEnergy SystemsCatapult.
FirstEditions hasalsorecently joined a series of development masterclasses led by Birmingham and Solihull Growth Hub's LowCarbon team
Alderson said: “The fundingwereceived waskey to therapid commercialisation of theconcept, with significant investments
in world-leading, energy-efficient machineryand zero wastehot runnerbasedmoulds.”
He believesthatthe revolutionary foaming technologysetsFoamo apart from competitors,drastically reducing theamount of plasticusedineachcup whileproviding excellent insulation and durability
Avariety of branding options includes In-Mould Labelling(IML),which Alderson describes as a“game-changer” Unliketraditional labellingmethods that must be removedbeforerecycling, Foamo’s IML embedsthe branding into thecup itself,creatinga durable, eye-catching label whichensures the entire cup is stillfully recyclable.
Theproduct triggered huge interest when it debutedatthe Merchandise WorldshowinMarch
and since the show,” said Alderson. “The
The foaming process uses ablend of polypropylene based materials to create gaseouspockets within thewal structure, whichforms arobust, self-insulatingframework.
gaseous pockets the wall which forms a robust,
“Weaim to develop aprocess which uses astate-of-the-art recycled polymer created from wastecooking oil, thus diverting further wastefromlandfill,” said Alderson.“This technologynot reduces thevolumeofvirginp needed to make thecup by 85 also produces asturdy structur offers improvedthermalprope
“We aim develop a process created waste cooking oil, thus waste from landfill,” said Alderson. “This technology not only the volume of virgin plastic the cup 85% but also produces a sturdy structure and offers improved thermal properties.”
The lightweight natureofthe pr
The lightweight nature of the product
“We’ve hada steadyinflux of inquiries and significant volume orders sincethe show, saidAlderson.“The product’saffordability is settodisrupt themarket, makingreusable products accessibletoawider audience.”
making reusable products accessible to a wider
Whilethe initial focusis on theUK’sB2B market, he hopesFoamo will reshape consumer buying habits and bring about asea change in eretail sectortoo,aswell extending theproduct’s fluencebeyond theUK’s ores
the UK’s B2B he hopes Foamo will reshape consumer buying habits and bring about a sea change in the retail sector too, as well as extending the product’s influence beyond the UK’s shores.
He added: “Our company dedicated to setting new andards in theindustry, inspiring positive changefroma foptimism,and building a nitythatshares ourvision for om single-useplastic waste."
“Our company is dedicated to setting new standards in the industry, inspiring positive change from a place of optimism, and building a loyal community that shares our vision for a world free from single-use plastic waste."
DON’TGET LEFT BEHIND
Technology has not changed at its currentspeed fora generation andthe merchandise industry needstokeep up, says Matt Pluckrose
Marketing spend and the promotion of brand is constantly fighting forbudgets withother departmentsin theorganisation. So,toensuremarketing secures theright levelof budget, its campaigns have to be connected and measurable.
To stay in tunewiththeir target audience,marketers have to understand what’shappening in theconsumer tech markettoensuretheir promotional spend reflects what consumers will keep,use and appreciate.
The consumer electronics industryis rapidly evolving, withseveral emerging trends poised to significantly impact themarket. These trends then knockon to our industrywiththe development of accessories and products which complement theglobalgiants of tech such as Google, Apple, and Microsoft, guaranteeing product adoption and satisfaction forthe brand/companywithits target audience.
KEY DEVELOPMENTSINCLUDE:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration
AI is becomingacentral component in consumer electronics, enhancingdevice intelligence and personalisation.From AI-poweredvoice assistants to smart home hubs that adapt to user preferences, devices areincreasingly intuitive,offeringtailored experiences.
This is thelatest and newest area for product development in our industryso lookout soon forproducts that ‘listen’, think and react to brand names, logosand messaging. Withthe huge growth of AI start-ups this area will become alucrative one forpromotional marketing.
for promotional marketing.
Sustainability andeco-friendlydesigns
Environmental concerns aredriving manufacturerstoadopt sustainable practices. Thisincludesusing recyclable materials, designing energy-efficient products,and implementing eco-friendly production processes. Consumersare showing apreference forproducts that align withenvironmental values,influencing purchasing decisions.
This is finally happening in theretail sector which willineffect openupmorechoice for retail brands to be usedinthe B2Bmarket. Brands that areadoptingthis focus now includePhillips, Polaroid, andBose.
Expansion of theInternetofThings (IoT)
Flexible and Foldable Devices
Innovations in displaytechnology are leadingtofoldable and flexibledevices, such as smartphonesand tablets. These products combine portability withlarger screen sizes, offering enhanced functionalitywithout compromising convenience.
Transitionfrom5Gto6G
While5Ghas significantly improvedinternet speedsand connectivity, research into 6G technologyisunderwayand likely to be aroundwithinfiveyears,promising even faster data rates, lowerlatency,and the potential fornew applications likereal-time holographic communication
RiseofAI-powered robotics
Advancements in AI areleadingtomore sophisticated consumer robots, including personal assistants and interactive companions. Theserobots can perform tasks, provideentertainment, and offer companionship,integrating into daily routines
Allofthese trends reflect ashift towardsmoreintelligent,sustainable, and interconnected consumerelectronics aiming to enhanceuserexperiences and meet evolving technological demands
TheIoT is creating interconnected ecosystemswheredevices communicate seamlessly.Smarthome systems, health monitoring devices, and wearable technologies arebecoming integral parts of dailylife, enhancingconvenience and efficiency. Alldevices willbecomesmarter and connected but of course needtobe poweredand charged. Thiswillcontinueto drive demand forchargingcables,battery packs, wirelesschargingand thenext generation of Bluetoothdevice.
Thesetrends willdrive innovation in promotional products around technology and as we areseeing this is buildingthe demand forthese products withinour sector.Stayconnected and keep your clients up to date to take advantage of them
● MattPluckroseismanaging directorof DesktopIdeas
and connected but of course need to be powered and This will continue to for charging cables, battery wireless charging and the next Bluetooth device.
Advanced wearable technology
Advanced wearable technology
Wearablesare evolving beyond fitness tracking,incorporating healthdiagnostics, augmented reality(AR) features, and interactive functionalities. These devices offer real-time healthinsightsand immersive experiences, integrating smoothlywithother smart devices. Healthwillcontinuetobeastrong focus forour sector and hydration, monitoring and reporting gadgets willbecome more popular overthe next six months.
Wearables are evolving beyond fitness tracking, incorporating health diagnostics, reality (AR) features, and health insights and immersive smoothly with other Health will continue to be a strong focus for our and hydration, monitoring and reporting gadgets will become more over the next six months.
THE REAL DEAL
Bonn’s Haptica Live event is the annualopportunity forEuropeans to get hands on with merchandise
Haptica Live ’25got real this year withanew slogan to reflect the effectiveness of tangible product media.
Claiming to be ‘Advertisingfor Real’,the show, at theWCCBinBonn wasashowcase forhaptic advertising media’s abilityto fascinateand engage.
As always, theshowput theemphasis on promotional media that youcan touch, feel, hear,see and taste–characteristicsthatare increasingly powerful as campaigns swingto amoredigitalapproach.
“Wewant to demonstrateand makeit tangible that haptic advertisingisn’t losing significance in today’sdigital era,” said Till Barth, HapticaLiveprojectmanagerof organiser,WAMedia. “Onthe contrary, what haptic advertising standsfor –authentic experiences in thereal world, direct sensual experiences,immediate touchpoints with thetarget group –isbecoming more and morevaluable in an increasingly virtualised environment and attracts atotally different kind of attention compared to digital or classic media.”
REASONS TO BE HAPTIC
The organisers stampedhome the Advertising forReal message withan ebooklisting eight reasons to use haptic advertising in themarketingmix. Eachreason wassupported by an appropriateitem. For example, sun cream demonstrated that promotional products are‘Really effective’,a
annual opportunity
ballpoint pen witha relief imprint made the message ‘Really tangible’, while ‘Really cute’ displaycleaners in theformofsweet plants withhuge eyes showedhow charmcan be utilised in haptic advertising.
The showfeatured 105exhibitors presentinga wide spectrum of products, from high-qualitybranded items, through to thefresh ideasofyoung start-ups.
Fascinating products included Finnish designer goods, individual emojis for thedecoration of mobile phones, and multifunctional drinking bottles.
Recycled and upcycled products were a major trend,withpens made of newspapers or discarded teamwear,bottle openersfrom reused tradeshowcarpets,and cupsfrom coffeegrounds.
BEST PRACTICE
Within theshow, theBest Practicestrand demonstratedhow suchitems can be successfully integrated intocampaigns from all over theworld.This hasbeen an integral part of theevent ever since thefirst Haptica live in 2013
This year visitorsfound inspiration from themerchandising programmes of Bayer 04 Leverkusen,Rhein FireDüsseldorf,and Seattle Kraken. They alsodiscoveredhow erotic playing cards or matryoshkadolls supportawarenesscampaigns about skin cancerand species protection.
Lectures from organisations as varied as theNorth Rhine-Westphalia Department
revealed how they
of Justice and PepsiCo revealed howthey utilised merchandiseeffectively
Meanwhile, twocompanies,cyber-Wear and GlobalBrand Concepts invited the audience to jointhem in what they claimed wasprobablymostsensual barinthe world, as part of theHapticologist Initiative.This aims to present hapticadvertising to the online marketing worldatthe OMR festivalin Hamburgthis May.
In total1,134 visitorsattended the showwhichhas an open visitor concept that addresses all target groups that areprofessionally involved with haptic advertising: from corporatebuyers to marketing specialists andHRManagers, through to theemployees and executives from advertisingagencies,the promotional products tradeaswell as from printing companies, embellishersand other marketing service providers.
Barthsaid:“This year’s event demonstrated that our offerwithits open visitor concept and theextensivesupportingprogramme is well-accepted and appreciated by the market.”
Thenext edition of theHaptica Live is scheduled to take placeonMarch 18,2026 at theWCCBinBonn. Formoredetails, go to haptica.live
KIAISBPMALATESTADDITION
What did youdobeforejoining theBPMA?
Beforejoining theBPMAIworkedasa social media marketingassistantinthe local tourism industrypromoting the Surrey Hills, so aslightly differentworld to promotional merchandise.Prior to this I workedinthe NHS forthree years. What is your role?
Iamthe BPMA marketingexecutive and I'll be keeping members informed about thelatest promotional merchandise trends, consumerbehaviours, and industrynews through our weekly newsletter,emailsand social media. Plus of course marketing our BPMA events
What areyou most looking forwardto aboutthe job?
I'vejoined theBPMAatsuchapivotal and exciting time as we have just launched ournew brand image. I'm reallylooking forwardtoworking withand developing this to give our membersthe best experience.
Have youattendedany BPMA events yet?
During my second week at theBPMA Iattended ourInternational Women’s Dayevent at theBrix London. Ithought theevent wasfantastic –wehad two outstanding speakerswho really captivatedthe room in away I'venever seen before.Itwas also lovely to meet
someofour members there and I'm reallypleased to have joinedsuch afriendly and welcoming industry
Whatare your interestsoutside of work?
Ilove visiting new places and I'mabig foodie –Ioften combine thetwo.I'm keen to visitMexiconextasI'm ahuge fanofMexican food.I'm also lucky enough to live in thecountrysideso Ienjoylots of long walks withmy viszla, Poppy.
SIGN UP FORTHE BPMA GOLF DAY
This year’s BPMA GolfDay will again be held at The Nottinghamshire Golf& Country Club,onTuesday 24 June.
Four-member teams will be taking part in theever-popular eventwhichcombines aspirit of competitivenesswithfun and friendship.Individual players arealso welcomed andwill be teamed up Teams will meet forapre-morning round breakfast of coffeeortea and bacon rollsbeforeteeing offonthe Championship Course for9holes of golf
The latest member of the thriving BPMA team is Kia Mooneywho is bolstering the Association’s marketing efforts as as pin, the longest drive competitions, and more. with awards
Players will grab alunch of sandwiches and chips before theafternoon session of 18 holesonthe Signature Course. As always, therewillbe awards forthe winners of boththe morning andafternoon sessions as well as nearest the pin,the longest drive competitions,and more. Winnerswillbe presented withawards during atwo-course evening meal with awards in The Lakeview Restaurant.
Costsfor theevent are:
Member: £145+VAT per personora 4-ball team for£560+VAT forBPMA members.
Chartered Member: £135+VAT per person or a4-ball team for£520+VAT Non-Member: £175+VAT per person or a4-ball team for£700+VATfor BPMA non-members. Golf buggies can be hiredfor £45.
Thereare alimited number available, so please letthe BPMA knowassoon as possible if youwould like one reserved The Residence at TheNottinghamshire offers accommodation from only £105 per room, per night. Pleasequote BPAM2406 when booking.
Thereare anumber of sponsorship opportunitiesavailable forthe event. If youwouldliketodiscovermoreabout sponsorship opportunities, emailTom Robeyontom@bpma.co.uk.
BUILDING BONDS
With time precious for both distributorsand suppliers,anew event in Essex aims to useitmore effectively
Three BPMA distributor businesses came together to create anew platformtoimproverelationships withtheir supply chain network
TAPexwas an eventthat brought together 55 suppliers to meetwiththe staff of TC Branding, Allwag Promotions, and Premier Print& Promotions (the T, A and Pinthe name) to better understand their products and services.
Ryan Askew,managing director, Premier Print, said theideacame about following conversations withAngela Wagstaff,marketing director,Allwagasa moreeffective wayof coordinating meeting withsuppliers.
LET’SMEET
“Wewerefinding that supplierswerevisiting eachofusseparately even though we are bothrelatively localtoeachother in Essex. The idea of having onebig house fair where staff could meet everyone at once, seemed to makesense,” he said.
Askew thought that theevent would attract 15 to 20 suppliersbut interest mushroomed suchthat it went from onehall at a Colchester hotel to threetoaccommodate all those who wanted to attend.
As well as providing staff withan opportunitytomeet multiple suppliers, TAPexalso savedsuppliersmorethan 6,000 miles of excess travel,Askew said Feedbackfrombothsuppliers and staff waspositive and TAPexisset to be repeated next year,headded. Constructive comments have been takenonboard to makeitevenbetter
GIVINGBACK
To topoff asuccessful inaugural event, TAPexcollected £4,500 worthoffood for Essex foodbanks, whichwas deliveredtothe Chelmsforddistribution hub to be sent on to charities throughout thecounty.
“Wewanted to leverage theevent to do some good as well, and requested that suppliers bringalong adonation. It wasan incredible and impressive sight to see so muchdonated food,” said Askew
The TAPexteam who deliveredthe food were treated to atour of theTrussell Trust’s Chelmsfordfacility.
PRO-AD DELIVERS GREENSHOWCASE
Newcastle provided an eventfor marketing and procurementprofessionals fromacross theNorthEast as thePro-Ad Merchandising Expo 2025 returned The biennial showcase washeld at Kingston Park,the home of theNewcastle Falcons, and promised to be Bigger, Better,Greener
Morethan 30 suppliers presented live product demos andpersonalisedsourcing sessions, plus insight-packed seminars. The Expo offered visitors a hands-on lookathow merchandise is evolving, and howsustainabilityis shapingthe futureofbrand marketing
Visitorscollectedgoodybags filled witheco-conscious takeawaysthat left a lasting impression.
Overall, therewere463 product enquiries and follow-up conversations in thedaysthat followed.
Carlo Nardini, founder of Pro-Ad, thanked suppliers fortheir energy, productknowledge and enthusiasm.
“Every stand brought something unique, and together helped show just howexciting and effective promotional merchandise canbe. We’reproud to work alongside suchpassionateand forwardthinking partners.”
7– 9 JAN2026 Exhibition DüsseldCentreorf
