Every January, the PPAI Expo brings together the best in branded merchandise. But for Stran, it’s about more than just discovering new products and industry trends—it’s about investing in our team and setting the foundation for a strong year ahead.

This year, we made the most of our time in Vegas by integrating leadership training and collaborative sessions into our week. We didn’t just walk the show floor; we focused on sharpening our skills, building confidence, and refining the way we tell the Stran story.

How We Approached Training at PPAI Expo

We designed hands-on, interactive sessions to challenge our team and push them outside their comfort zones, creating an environment that encouraged learning through experience. Here’s what we worked on:

Perfecting Elevator Pitches

First impressions matter. Whether in a crowded expo hall or a boardroom, being able to communicate Stran’s value clearly and concisely is essential. Our team practiced delivering compelling, adaptable pitches that not only introduce what we do but also connect with the needs of potential clients.

Collaborating on Real-World Scenarios

A good salesperson can blend the art of presenting with creative problem-solving. We ran teams through mock client challenges, testing their ability to think outside the box, adapt on the fly, and work together to deliver strategic solutions under pressure.

Mastering Storytelling

Beyond features and benefits, the best sales conversations create emotional connections. We explored how to craft compelling narratives that blend credibility, emotion, and logic—ensuring that every interaction resonates with clients in a meaningful way.

Why Training & Continuous Improvement Matter

At Stran, we believe that investing in our people is one of the most impactful ways to invest in our clients. Sales training isn’t about checking off a box; it’s about continuous learning, adapting, and improving. Here’s why this focus is critical to overall growth as a company: 

• Building Long-Term Partnerships: Our approach isn’t just about one transaction. Instead, we focus on helping our team maximize opportunities and deepen relationships over time. With ongoing training, our team is equipped to provide smarter, more strategic solutions tailored to each client’s evolving needs.

• Choosing the Right Tools & Strategies: Great sales professionals know that success isn’t about using a one-size-fits-all approach, but about choosing the right tool or strategy at the right time. Through training, our team refines their ability to assess client needs and deliver solutions that drive results.

• A Culture of Growth & Investment: Our commitment to training is part of a larger investment in our people. Reflecting on Stran's growth and evolution over our 30 year history, one executive summed it up well: "We continue to invest in the business, for the betterment of our clients and our team.” By developing our team’s skills, we’re ensuring they have the tools and confidence to succeed—not just for today, but for the long run.

"We continue to invest in the business, for the betterment of our clients and our team.” — Stran Executive

Should You Invest in sales training?

Stran isn’t alone in this philosophy—companies across industries can benefit from making sales training a priority. Think it's time for your team to dive into professional development and training? Here are a few reasons why ongoing training and development matter for any business:

• Higher Employee Retention & Satisfaction: Investing in employees shows them they are valued, leading to better job satisfaction and long-term retention. A well-trained team is more engaged and motivated to perform at a high level.

• Stronger Client Relationships: Sales isn’t just about selling—it’s about solving problems. Training ensures sales professionals are equipped with the skills to build genuine, long-term relationships with clients rather than focusing on one-off transactions.

• Staying Competitive in a Changing Market: Industries evolve, client expectations shift, and new technologies emerge. Companies that commit to continuous learning ensure their teams stay ahead of trends and remain adaptable in an ever-changing landscape.

• Improved Business Performance: A well-trained sales team translates directly to higher revenue, improved conversion rates, and better overall business outcomes. When employees are confident in their skills, they perform at a higher level and bring more value to their clients.

Beyond Training: The Stran Culture

Sales training is just one piece of how we invest in our people. From networking events like NEPPA to company-wide open houses, we prioritize fostering a culture where learning, collaboration, and growth thrive. Being part of Stran means being part of a team that values connection—not just with clients, but with each other. Expect more invitations, more opportunities to engage, and a culture that’s as dynamic as the industry we serve.

What’s Next?

We understand that investing in our evolution doesn't happen overnight. We're working every day to build a culture of growth, learning, and continuous improvement. As we take these lessons into 2025, we’re excited to see how they shape our client relationships and the work we do every day.

Here’s to a year of bold ideas, strong connections, and next-level branded merchandise solutions!