Spotlight On Stran
Learning, Growing, & Building Connections at the PPAI Expo 2025
Every January, the PPAI Expo brings together the best in the promotional products industry. But for Stran, it’s about more than discovering new trends and products—it’s about investing in our team and preparing for the year ahead.
How did we make the most of our time in Vegas? Click to find out 👇
This year we incorporated leadership training and collaborative sessions into our tradeshow schedule. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what we worked on:
- Perfecting Elevator Pitches
We challenged our team to craft concise, impactful pitches that clearly communicate Stran’s value—ensuring we can quickly and effectively align with client needs.
- Collaborating on Real-World Scenarios
Groups worked together to tackle mock client challenges, brainstorming creative solutions and refining strategies in a team environment.
- Mastering Storytelling
By blending credibility, emotion, and logic, we focused on creating more engaging, relevant conversations—helping us connect meaningfully and tailor solutions that truly resonate.
Why Training Matters
This wasn’t just about skills—it was about building trust, confidence, and stronger connections within our team. Here’s why we think it’s so important:
- It empowers our people to deliver the best possible experience for our clients.
- It fosters creativity and collaboration, sparking new ideas and solutions.
- It reinforces our commitment to growth—not just as a company, but as individuals and teammates.
We’re proud of the energy, creativity, and dedication our team brought to this training. It’s this investment in our people that makes Stran stand out, and we’re excited to see how these lessons shape what’s next for 2025 and beyond.
Product Picks:
What products stood out at PPAI?
From high-end apparel to smart tech integrations, this year’s show was packed with fresh ideas that push branded merchandise forward. Our team explored the best of the best, and we’re highlighting a few standout finds. Check out what caught our attention below! 👀
Apparel: Original Favorites
We spotted Original Favorites swanky booth setup in Vegas, and were blown away by the quality of this luxury apparel brand. In addition to the exceptional quality and timeless aesthetic, this brand is committed to cleaning up 6 pounds of ocean plastic with every product sold.
Tech: ShareTag
Looking to take advantage of NFC-enabled tech? ShareTag™ builds NFC into customizable products, allowing instant access to digital experiences with a simple smartphone tap. Whether it’s an interactive photo album, digital business card, or business-focused content, ShareTag™ transforms promotional items into dynamic, engaging touchpoints. This brand is also committed to setting 1% of profits aside to the organization No Kid Hungry.
Bags: Solgaard Carry-On Closet
Lauded by our creative team as "the most unique product design in the bags category," this innovative luggage is perfect for business travelers. The suitcase features a polycarbonate hard shell to keep your clothes safe from jostling and the elements, but the real value is the built-in closet system inside. File this one away for tradeshow season!
Drinkware: Fill It Forward
This new-to-us brand combines custom drinkware, sustainability, and interactive tech into one innovative product. Whether branding new drinkware or applying the Fill-it-Forward approach to existing items, users can scan the built-in QR code to track their environmental impact and unlock donations—turning everyday reuse into a force for good
Industry News
🚨 2025 Trends Are Here
The promotional products industry is evolving fast, and staying ahead means knowing what’s coming. This year’s PPAI Expo made one thing clear: branded merchandise isn’t just about products—it’s about purpose, experience, and impact.
What’s shaping the future of branded merch? Tap the + to see for yourself.
✨ Glimmers – Everyday Joy in Small Moments
More products in 2025 will blend function with sparking joy. We're talking colorful personalized drinkware, quirky desk accessories, and creative gifts that bring unexpected delight. These small moments of happiness are key to creating lasting impressions this year.
💎 Lasting Luxury – Premium, Timeless, & Built to Impress
Luxury is no longer about excess; it’s about quality, design, and longevity. Think sleek, minimalist branding, high-end materials, and products that blend style with function. The best swag items for 2025 will be on-trend and timeless.
🌱 Mindfully Made – Thoughtful Sourcing for a Better Future
Sustainability isn’t a buzzword anymore, it's a necessity. More brands are turning to ethically sourced materials, lower-waste production, and eco-friendly alternatives that align with conscious consumer values.
❤️ Giving Back – Swag with a Purpose
Promotional products can do more than advertise a brand—they can fuel a movement. From products that support charitable initiatives to brands that give a percentage of sales to good causes, merch with a mission is more powerful than ever.
From The Blog
Celebrating Work Anniversaries the Right Way 🎉
Finding the perfect milestone gift isn’t just about marking another year—it’s about making employees feel valued and appreciated. In our latest blog, we’re breaking down the best employee milestone gift ideas to help you celebrate your team in a way that’s meaningful and memorable.
Read the blog below!
