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

We are excited to delve 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.

Here, Joseph Sommer, founder and CEO of Whitestone, shared his company's journey toward sustainability, emphasizing its importance for businesses of all sizes and the growing demand for eco-friendly practices. He discussed Whitestone's initiatives, including earning certifications, implementing circular impact programs, and partnering with sustainable suppliers. Sommer highlighted that sustainability can be integrated into existing business operations without changing core focus and emphasized the availability of resources for companies to measure and reduce their carbon footprint.

Joseph offered shoutouts to many companies and individuals who are doing brilliant work. Here are a few of them: Ben Grossman-SwagCycle, Brianna Mazze-SRG, Goldstar, Storm Creek, Gemline, PCNA, SanMar, HPG, Pop Promos, Spector & Co, Cap America, Hit Promo, Cutter and Buck, NC Custom, Logomark, Ariel, Gordon Sinclair, Maine Layer, and Osprey.

We also 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 #SMS2025

Uploaded on Jun 26, 2025

Join Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon, MAS, and econscious Director Kriya Stevens, MBA, for an insightful discussion on the critical role of sustainability in the apparel industry. This engaging conversation explores:

• econscious journey: Founded in 2006, pioneering organic and sustainable products

• The growing demand for eco-friendly branded merchandise

• The power of sustainable fibers: Organic cotton's climate-smart, chemical-free appeal

• How sustainability offers distributors a competitive edge

Kriya shares insights on effectively communicating the benefits of sustainability, while both speakers emphasize how improved products enhance brand messaging. Discover why sustainable apparel matters for your business and the planet.

Ready to make a positive impact?

• Explore econscious: https://www.econscious.net/

• Watch more "Why It Matters" conversations: https://www.brandedmerchnetwork.com/why-it-matters

#WhyItMatters #SustainableApparel #BrandedMerch #EcoFriendlyFashion

Uploaded on Jun 25, 2025

In this "Why It Matters" conversation, George Morgan, Director of Marketing at HIRSCH, discussed the company's evolution of doing good things with Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon, MAS. Working with great companies that do great things and offer quality products is a win for distributors and their end-user clients.

HIRSCH recently achieved a platinum certification from the Green Business Benchmark, highlighting its commitment to sustainability. Morgan noted the industry's positive response to these initiatives and expressed excitement about HIRSCH's future in the promo space, aiming to create transformational client experiences.

Learn more about HIRSCH here: https://hirschpromo.com/

#whyitmatters #brandedmerch #corporategifting #techgifts #productdesign

Uploaded on May 9, 2025

James Guan, CEO of Acehigh, engaged in a wide-ranging conversation with Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon, MAS, covering sustainability in business practices, product design, and corporate gifting. James shared his company's sustainability story, focusing on thoughtful design and packaging. Jeff emphasized the value of doing business with companies that consciously try to be different and meticulous. They discussed the need to make it easy to do business, which is a focus of Acehigh, including its one-piece minimums.

Learn more here: https://www.acehighpromo.com/

#brandedmerch #corporategifting #techgifts #productdesign

Uploaded on Apr 21, 2025

Theresa Hegel, Executive Editor for Special Projects and Sustainability at ASI, discussed the importance of sustainability in the promotional products industry. She highlighted "Promo for the Planet," a resource for industry updates on sustainability. Hegel emphasized the growing demand from clients for socially responsible and eco-friendly products, citing ASI Research, where 88% of end buyers prioritize socially responsible products, and 86% value eco-friendly ones. She also noted the rising importance of third-party certifications like EcoVadis and bluesign. ASI is revamping its resources and tools to better support sustainability efforts in the industry. This conversation offers valuable information. Enjoy!

Take advantage of ASI's resources on their Promo for the Planet page: https://promofortheplanet.com/

Learn more about ASI here: https://members.asicentral.com/home

Uploaded on Apr 4, 2025