Why It Matters

In this Why it Matters conversation, Joel Freet, CEO of Cutter & Buck, and Jeff Solomon, Co-Founder of the Branded Merch Network, discuss what's at the core of this successful brand. Joel highlighted the company's commitment to high-quality, long-lasting sportswear since 1989, emphasizing their use of post-consumer recycled polyester. He noted the significant reduction in air freight, which has improved their environmental impact. The point was made that sustainability matters for three reasons: customers and governments are demanding it, and it creates a better world. Cutter & Buck makes it easy with transparent tracking of recycled materials on their website. Customers appreciate this transparency. Learn more here: https://cutterbuck.com/#brandedmerch #brandedapparel #sustainableapparel #sustainablity #dotherightthing #businessleadershipUploaded on Aug 23, 2025 

Doug Jackson, the President and "Product Visionary" of Storm Creek Apparel, shares "Why IT Matters" to create a quality, sustainable product and the steps they take to make it happen.Learn more about Storm Creek here: https://www.stormcreek.com/#sustainability #sustainableapparel #brandedmerch #brandedapparelReleased on Mar 19, 2024

Drew Holmgren, CEO and President of PPAI, joined Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon for their annual conversation at the PPAI Expo. They discussed the success of the recent PPAI Expo and highlighted the contributions of key staff members. They noted what made the PPAI Ultimate Tailgate Party at Allegiant Stadium special. Drew emphasized the importance of networking and professional development. He reflected on his first year, noting the industry's community-driven nature and the strategic planning for the next five years. He also discussed PPAI's focus on sustainability, citing a forthcoming carbon footprint study, and its international strategy to unify the branded merchandise industry globally.Learn more about PPAI here: https://www.ppai.org/#brandedmerchnetwork #ppai #ppaiexpo #promotionalproducts #brandedmerch #businessleadership #sustainability #internationalbusinessUploaded on Jan 20, 2026 

In another engaging "Why It Matters" conversation, Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon and Cassie Green, Content Director for Apparelist, discuss the importance of sustainability in the apparel industry. Cassie highlights Apparelists role in supporting apparel decorators through educational content and the annual PRINTING United Expo, which had record-breaking attendance despite economic challenges. They discussed the need for better purchasing decisions, reducing textile waste, and addressing the impact of fast fashion. Jeff presses Cassie to put a spotlight on two companies that she feels are doing something special. The companies Cassie calls out are Stanley/Stella and Living Ink for their exceptional sustainable practices. Jeff shares his enthusiasm for quality products that recipients will appreciate and keep. That defines sustainability. Jeff and Cassie discussed the impact of well-executed virtual events that effectively offer insights that drive quality business. They also discuss the importance of live events and the positive changes in the industry driven by consumer demand and legislation. Enjoy the conversation! Take advantage of Apparelist content: https://www.apparelist.com/Learn more about PRINTING United Alliance: https://www.printing.org/Learn more about Allmade here: https://stanleystella.com/en-usLearn more about Stanley/Stella here: https://stanleystella.com/en-usLearn more about Living Ink here: https://www.livingink.co/#whyitmatters #brandedmerch #brandedmerchnetwork #brandedapparel #sustainabilty #sustainablemerchUploaded on Dec 9, 2025 

In this "Why It Matters" conversation, Ben Pawsey, VP of Marketing at HPG, and Branded Merch Network Co-Founder, Jeff Solomon, MAS, discussed his journey into sustainability, inspired by a book at age 15. HPG is a business leader bringing several beloved companies under one umbrella into the industry. Their sustainability focus has enabled them to achieve EcoVadis Certification Platinum status. Pawsey emphasized the importance of sustainable practices, likening every purchase to a vote for a sustainable future. Why does it matter? Quality, sustainable products drive good business. Enjoy the conversation!Learn more here about HPG: https://hpgbrands.com/Learn more about "Sustainability as a Service" here: https://hpgbrands.com/esg/#whyitmatters #brandedmerch #dotherightthing #businessleadership #EcoVadisUploaded on Dec 5, 2025 

Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon sits down with Tim Andrews, President & CEO of ASI, for a candid conversation about his remarkable 23-year run leading the organization. As Tim prepares for retirement in March 2026, he reflects on transforming ASI from a traditional print business into a tech-forward, sustainability-minded powerhouse — including support for initiatives like BMN’s “Why It Matters.”Tim also highlights the ASI internship program, which has helped launch more than 2,000 careers, and shares lessons on technology, diversity, client engagement, and navigating the evolving promo landscape. It’s a thoughtful look back, a focus on what’s ahead, and timeless advice for the next generation of industry leaders.#asi #advertisingspecialtyinstitute #brandedmerchnetwork #businessleadership Uploaded on Nov 24, 2025 

In this "Why It Matters" update conversation, Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon, MAS, and Elizabeth Wimbush, Director of Sustainability and Responsibility at PPAI, discussed emerging trends and key takeaways from the recent PPAI Responsibility Summit. Elizabeth shared highlights from keynotes presented by Dr. Jonathan Foley, Executive Director of Project Drawdown, and Tom Szaky, CEO of TerraCycle, on sustainability and circularity. They emphasized the importance of sustainability in business, noting the upcoming PPAI Expo in January and the shift towards waste-free events. Elizabeth mentioned next year's Summit in Denver and the availability of summit sessions for certification credits. They also discussed the impact of EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) laws on packaging and the need for better product design. Jeff encouraged distributors to embrace sustainability that will drive quality business.Follow content from PPAI on sustainability: https://www.ppai.org/sustainability/Access PPAI education here:https://www.ppai.org/ppai-advance/Learn more about Project Drawdown:https://drawdown.org/Learn more about TerraCycle:https://www.terracycle.com/en-US/#whyitmatters #sustainabilty #circularity #recycling #dotherightthingUploaded on Nov 21, 2025 

In this quick conversation, Branded Merch Network co-founder, Jeff Solomon, talks with Rob Baumgardner, National Accounts Manager for Goldstar, about the power of collaboration to drive sales. Rob talks about a project he did with a large distributor using one of their new sustainable sling backpacks that discriminating buyers love.👉 The discussion addresses how sustainability is an effective selling tool. Rob spotlighted Goldstar's "made better" collection and the digital product passport feature, which provides transparency into the bag's origin and materials. The game is changing. Discover how quality suppliers and distributors are working together to generate quality business in this short video. Learn more about Goldstar here: https://www.simplygoldstar.com/na/#brandedmerch sustainablemerch #sales #sustainabilty #digitalpassport #madebetter #simplybetterUploaded on Oct 21, 2025 

In this "Why It Matters" conversation, David Boger and Lexi Mikkelsen shared the Original Favorites brand story. They discussed sustainability practices, emphasizing their use of high-quality Supima cotton and their decision against recycled cotton due to quality concerns. Dave highlighted their GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standards) certification and the importance of product longevity. They also discussed the ethical implications of sourcing, mentioning issues in China and Brazil. Original Favorites is another quality apparel line that may become one of your favorites! 

n this follow-up conversation from the Branded Merch Network Sustainable Merch Summit, we continue to share more insights on "Why It Matters" to produce clean products. Here, Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon talks with Summit panelist Marshall Atkinson from Atkinson Consulting LLC and Shirt Lab. They discuss the importance of sustainability in the printing industry, emphasizing the need to start with a clear "why" for adopting sustainable practices. They highlighted the misconceptions around water-based inks and the benefits of print-on-demand. Marshall mentioned the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) certification and its comprehensive approach to sustainability. Enjoy these nuggets on this all-important topic. #brandedmerch #brandedapparel #sustainableapparel #screenprinting #businessleadership Uploaded on Sep 22, 2025 

When sustainability drives sales, the numbers speak for themselves. During the live Sustainable Merch Summit, a panel discussion proved that purpose and profit can coexist.👉 “It’s probably close to $1.5 million in new business over the last couple of years from clients that sought us out because of our focus on sustainability,” shared Robert Fiveash of Brand Fuel.👉 And Joseph Sommer of Whitestone revealed, “A client who stopped working with us because we were not EcoVadis-certified came back with a quote for 1.3 million units.”👉 Milissa Gibson from Lane Seven and Julie Schneiderman from EcoStiks were also contributing to the idea that sustainability isn't just good for the planet -- it's a serious sales advantage.The takeaway? Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a serious sales advantage!Uploaded on Sep 13, 2025

The Why It Matters LIVE: Sustainable Merch Summit brought together 400+ industry pros from promo, print, and apparel to spotlight how sustainability drives both positive impact and profitable growth. In this wrap-up video, hosts Jay Busselle and Jeff Solomon are joined by Theresa Hegel (ASI) and Cassie Green (Apparelist/Printing United Alliance) to reflect on key takeaways from the summit. They dive into lessons on transparency, certifications, and how values-driven brands are winning new business. Watch this inspiring recap and see why sustainability isn’t just good for the planet — it’s smart business.

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, Branded Merch Network Co-Founder, Jeff Solomon, talks with Julie Schneiderman, Founder and CEO of EcoStiks. The discussion pulled a few more nuggets from the Summit. Julie shared a bit about EcoStik's role in providing sustainable branding solutions and the importance of environmental consciousness in the branded merch industry.Learn more about EcoStiks here: https://www.ecostiks.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 #MakeMerchBetter #SMS2025Uploaded on Aug 25, 2025

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 #SMS2025Uploaded 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 #SMS2025Uploaded 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. #WhyItMatters #BrandedMerch #SustainableMerch #DoTheRightThing #BusinessLeadership #SMS2025Uploaded 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 edgeKriya 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 #EcoFriendlyFashionUploaded 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