WHY IT MATTERS SUSTAINABLE MERCH SUMMIT FOLLOW-UP VIDEO SERIES: We continue to go a bit deeper with some of our presenters at the Branded Merch Network Inaugural Sustainable Merch Summit, hosted by ASI, Apparelist, and The 2 Regular Guys.

In this conversation, Jeff Solomon talks with Milissa Gibson, Director of Sales for Lane Seven Apparel. Milissa was on a panel moderated by Jay Busselle, entitled "Sustainability Sells. It's Good for the Planet and GREAT for Business."

The discussion centered on the increasing importance of sustainability in the apparel industry, with a focus on how younger generations are driving demand for eco-friendly products. Companies like Lane Seven are adopting sustainable practices as a core part of their business strategy. They discussed reducing waste, improving manufacturing processes, and understanding customer needs while navigating the challenges of meeting demands between the European and American markets.

The discussion concluded with insights about the broader business implications of sustainability, including its impact on profitability. Sustainability does sell. Yes, it's good for the planet and GREAT for business.

Learn more about Lane Seven here: https://lanesevenapparel.com/

We want to acknowledge the supporters of our efforts to advance the "Why It Matters" movement: Goldstar, Allmade, and Stahls. More good stuff is coming!

#WhyItMatters #BrandedMerch #SustainableMerch #DoTheRightThing #BusinessLeadership #MakeItBetter #SMS2025

Uploaded on Jul 9, 2025

Following up on the "Why It Matters" Sustainable Merch Summit, Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon and Michele Dando from Facilisgroup took a deeper dive into the importance of transparency in the branded merch industry. Michele was on the "Why Transparency Matters" panel facilitated by Theresa Hegel from ASI.

Jeff and Michelle emphasized the need for distributors to understand their value beyond just selling merchandise. They highlighted the role of suppliers in driving sustainability efforts and the opportunity for distributors to differentiate themselves by choosing responsible suppliers. Michele stressed the importance of building relationships with suppliers and being proactive in incorporating sustainability into business practices, as it may become a requirement in the future.

"The small movement we nurture today will become the industry standard tomorrow. Let’s keep disrupting, asking questions, and telling stories of progress. Remember, not long ago, sustainability was just a trend — now it’s a core part of our industry’s future.” MIchele Dando

We also want to acknowledge the supporters of our efforts to advance the "Why It Matters" movement: Goldstar, Allmade, and Stahls—special thanks to our media partners ASI, Apparelist, and The 2 Regular Guys.

More good stuff is coming!

Learn more about Facilisgroup here: https://facilisgroup.com/

#WhyItMatters #BrandedMerch #BrandedMerchNetwork #SustainableMerch #DoTheRightThing #BusinessLeadership #SMS2025

Uploaded on Jul 7, 2025

Drew Holmgreen, Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) President and CEO, and Kara Keister from Social Good Promotions join Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon, MAS, to discuss the L.E.A.D. (Legislative Education and Action Day) trip to Washington D.C. Learn Why It Matters that PPAI and a group of passionate colleagues in the promo products industry are investing in this annual trip. The conversation focused on emphasizing our role in advocacy and increasing visibility on Capitol Hill. Drew and Karie shared their experiences discussing key issues, such as tariffs and the "Swag Act," while highlighting the impact of diverse voices and personal stories in advocacy efforts. The work being done by PPAI and engaged businesses is positively impacting our industry. Enjoy the conversation.

Learn more at: https://www.ppai.org/

#brandedmerch #promotionalproducts #PPAILEAD #PPAI