Platinum SUPPORTER

STAHLS’ was known as Commercial Art Products when it was founded in 1932 in the family garage of the husband-and-wife team of A.C. and Ethel Stahl. One of its first products sold was chenille lettering sewn on a felt background. The felt was cut by hand and A.C. eventually developed the process of cutting material by using a die and punch press. STAHLS’ is well-known and respected throughout the sportswear, custom apparel, and promotional products industries for high-quality and innovative equipment, materials and services. The family values that helped STAHLS’ succeed are rooted deep in its culture and helped build the foundation to set up customers for success. The success was also recognized with the induction of Ted Stahl into the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame in 2011.

helped to grow a team dealer’s product assortment. This past year, we have been focused on improving product access and eliminating friction. The speed of shipping is faster than ever and there are no order minimums. Add this to the development of a complete suite of APIs and we are positioned to help dealers build a leaner and more scalable model.

How does working with the dealer/retailer network help enhance your brand?

We enjoy the active collaboration with team dealers and retailers. The ongoing dialogue around opportunities and challenges that each person is facing in their specific role helps us to innovate. Innovation and customer success are a key part of who we are as a brand.

What drives the passion your company and your team members have for sports and the sporting goods industry?

Sports and entrepreneurship create stronger communities. Sporting goods dealers know their hometown and its coaches and athletes better than anyone. If we can play a small role in helping a sporting goods dealer succeed, they can employ more, give more and make a difference. This is meaningful work that keeps us all driven.

What are you looking forward to at this year’s Management Conference? Why is it important to attend?

The main reason to attend the conference is the people. Collaboration is so critical to success in any market. This year we’re looking forward to deepening some existing relationships and starting some new ones. Each year the conference sessions and networking opportunities present new actionable insights. We are hopeful to trade notes in between sessions and find some new win/win scenarios to invest in.