Last Updated: July 18, 2025
In The News - July 2025
SanMar Canada/The Authentic T-Shirt Company (asi/84864) has appointed Kaitlyn Bell as regional sales manager for Alberta and Robert Plante Jr. as regional sales manager for Quebec. “Both Kaitlyn and Robert bring valuable industry experience, fresh perspectives and a strong commitment to customer success,” says the company. “Known for their hands-on approach and creative problem-solving, they are ready to deliver exceptional service and support to clients in their respective regions.”
Stormtech Performance Apparel (asi/89869), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, has appointed Lianne Macrae as eastern sales manager. Macrae has more than 20 years of experience in the corporate headwear and apparel market, and will now support Stormtech’s expansion into Quebec and the Maritimes. She’ll also work closely with multi-line agencies Agence NORDIQ and EAST RIDGE as Stormtech prepares to open its new Toronto distribution center later this year. “We are thrilled to welcome Lianne to the Stormtech team,” says Chris Turner, vice president of sales. “Her deep industry experience, leadership capabilities and customer-centric approach will be key as we deepen our commitment to our customers in Eastern Canada.”
Outdoor Cap Company (asi/75420) announced the release of its 2025 promotional and sports catalog, including a new selection of performance apparel and headwear styles.
StickerYou (asi/89791) will launch its Gold Foil UV Direct to Film (DTF) Image Transfers at ASI Show Chicago, taking place from July 22 to 24, 2025. The scratch- and water-resistant transfers’ peel-and-stick application method and durability make them perfect for adding branding to packaging, apparel and hard goods. “Our new Gold Foil UV DTF technology reflects StickerYou’s commitment to helping brands and distributors stand out,” says Rich Corvalan, vice president of sales. “By merging the elegance of foil with the versatility of UV DTF, we’re opening up a whole new avenue for brand expression in the promo space.” Attendees at ASI Chicago can see live demonstrations of the transfers and receive exclusive launch samples at StickerYou’s booth #416 on July 23 and 24.
PCNA (asi/66887), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, has partnered with pickleball equipment brand ONIX to offer new products to U.S. distributors, including the ONIX Recruit Composite Pickleball Set (1801-03), Recruit Beginner Pickleball Set (1801-04), V2 Pickleball Paddle (1801-01) and V3 Pickleball Paddle (1801-02). “ONIX’s commitment to the game is proven by their investment in technologically advanced equipment that is innovative and dependable,” says Liz Haesler, global chief merchandising officer at PCNA. “By adding four ONIX products to our sport/fitness assortment, we are ensuring that our distributors have the highest performance options available. Pickleball is continuing to experience rapid growth in the U.S. and has become the fastest-growing sport in the country. Thus, we are proud to provide high-quality, in-demand products in this space – elevating branding on the court.”
Doug Fregolle Promotions (DFP; asi/198365) has joined The Peernet Group, a national network of promotional products distributors. Founded by Doug Fregolle and headquartered in Dallas, DFP has been in the promo industry for more than two decades. The distributorship has expertise in print-on-demand, low-minimum ordering and custom online stores – all supported by robust global fulfillment capabilities. DFP is the 21st member of The Peernet Group.
Natural Trends (asi/73497), a supplier of national co-brands and wellness and personal care products, has launched the Tide to go Pen + OXI, in partnership with Nehemiah Manufacturing. The next-generation pen includes the stain-fighting power of an advanced OXI formula, designed to remove over 100 types of stains.
Outdoor Cap Co. (asi/75420), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, has released its 2025 catalog, which includes a selection of performance apparel, new American-made and camo cap styles, trend-driven colorways and enhanced sales tools for decorators.
PCNA (asi/66887), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, now offers select tech accessories from four retail brands, including the Nimble Fold 3-in-1 Wireless Charger (7125-07), mophie Cable Travel Kit (7124-28), Sony MDR-ZX110AP Wired On-Ear Headphones (7195-62) and Skullcandy Dime Evo True Wireless Earbuds (7196-35). The company has also launched new styles from in-house brand Leed’s, including the Allcord 5-in-1 Charging Cable With Apple Watch Charger (7143-79). “We’re proud to expand our tech assortment with new offerings from trusted retail brands,” says Josh Shields, PCNA’s senior category manager for tech. “By adding in-demand products … we’re delivering innovative, high-quality offerings that align with the needs of today’s consumers. These additions combine smart design, reliable performance, and a focus on sustainability – further strengthening our tech category with functional, travel-ready promo options.”
American Solutions for Business (ASB, asi/120075), a Counselor Top 40 distributor, has promoted Alyssa Sullivan to human resources director. In the new role, Sullivan will take on expanded responsibilities, including oversight of HR functions for both ASB and Dubow, the contract decorator ASB acquired earlier this year. Sullivan joined ASB in 2016.
Chocolate Chocolate (asi/44897) has appointed Kristina Beal as national account manager. Beal will be focused on strengthening Chocolate Chocolate’s sales and marketing efforts across the industry, beginning with a renewed emphasis on distributor relationships and its dedicated multi-line sales rep team. In the Southeast, Chocolate Chocolate will now be represented by MAC Marketing; in the Northeast, by JSA Promo; and in southern Ontario, by Monarch Marketing.
SRG (asi/84592; Canada, 84595), a Counselor Top 40 supplier, now offers select luggage and mini-bags from Rollink, known for its line of ultra-lightweight and foldable bags. “Our partnership with Rollink aligns with SRG’s commitment to delivering premium, design-forward solutions to our customers,” says Merrick Falkenstein, CRO at SRG. “We’re excited to bring these innovative travel products into our offering.”
LBU Inc. (asi/65952), a supplier of cut-and-sewn promo products based in Paterson, NJ, has released its Love Letters collection, a line of fully customizable bags and accessories that customers can add chenille-style letters or symbols to and make their own.