Lookin’ Fine in ’09

(Editor's note: To view the full story with photographs, download the PDF version by clicking on the link at top right.) The word “Change” has been on the lips and tongues of Americans for months, but those winds have been blowing across the country far longer, and the need extends far beyond a simple election cycle. An economic crisis at home, political conflicts abroad, health and environmental hazards the world over—the challenges escalate from difficult to seemingly insurmountable. What the world needs is more than a mantra, but concrete, positive change.

Fortunately, this nation is one to rise to a test. Where fiscal fears are found, employers and manufacturers are bringing more jobs back to the United States to bolster the economy and job market. Imports made with dubious chemicals and materials are being inspected and monitored by watchdog groups concerned with safety and purity. Companies are responding to consumer fears, not merely for the sake of good PR, but based on principle. “Green” evolved from a niche market, to a marketing buzzword, and now, to an industry standard with ever-rising expectations that are met with ever-rising quality from suppliers across the board. These adaptations and renovations can be seen and felt across the continent—although it is not industry specific, promotional products suppliers and distributors have more than met the challenges of the modern age. In many ways, they have lead the charge for change.

Accordingly, the unifying theme for the newest products of 2009 is “change.” The following items reflect the growing sense of responsibility and stewardship found in the promotional products industry. “Environmentally friendly,” “Made in the USA” and “BPA-free” are seen across the spread in greater numbers than ever before. A lot has happened in the last 12 months, and in many ways, it is uplifting to see what has come on the winds of change. PPR

(This article originally appeared in the February 2009 issue of Promo Marketing, a sister publication of Print Professional. For more information, visit www.promomarketing.com.)