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PPAI Highlights

PPAI Highlights

The Trends That Stopped Us in Our Tracks

Every year, PPAI brings the best in promotional products, branding, and experiential ideas — and this year did not disappoint. After logging nearly 10 miles on the show floor, we narrowed it down to the jaw-dropping tech, elevated apparel, and unforgettable gifting moments our team can’t stop talking about.

Fully Custom Sublimated Apparel

Custom apparel continues to level up, and full sublimation is leading the charge. We saw:

  • Fully custom shirts, hoodies, and polos
  • Seam-to-seam design freedom
  • Retail-quality finishes that elevate brand presence

Team Spherion full sublimation shirt mockups

This isn’t just logo placement — it’s storytelling through fabric. Perfect for uniforms, team gear, events, or premium merch programs.

Phone Case with Built-In Video Playback

Yes — a phone case that plays a video.

  • Personalized video messages
  • Product demos
  • Sales pitches
  • Event invitations

Imagine handing someone a phone case that literally tells your story the moment they open it. Talk about memorable.

Custom Packaging with LED Interior Lighting

Packaging is no longer just packaging — it’s part of the experience. One standout was custom box packaging with LED interior lights, creating a true “wow” moment when opened.

Think:

  • Hot tub clients receiving a glowing welcome kit
  • High-end client gifts
  • Product launches that feel like luxury unboxings

This is the kind of packaging that turns a gift into a moment.

Laser Engraved Challenge Coin Activations

Challenge coins are now better than ever. On-site laser engraving allows for intricate designs, personalization, and meaningful activations. With ChatGPT, you can even take a photo on-site and generate a one-of-a-kind background to commemorate the event.

Laser engraved coin

Perfect for:

  • Employee recognition
  • Milestone celebrations
  • Sales incentives
  • Event collectibles

These aren’t just keepsakes — they’re symbols of achievement and belonging.

Christmas Village Supplier: Holiday Magic, Solved

One of the most charming finds? A supplier specializing in custom Christmas village pieces — perfect for building branded holiday displays, corporate gifting programs, or seasonal activations.

Custom Christmas village

From storefronts to festive figurines, this supplier can truly help make all your holiday dreams come true.

Let’s Bring These Ideas to Life

PPAI reminded us that promo isn’t just about products — it’s about experiences, emotion, and connection. If any of these ideas sparked something for your brand, we’d love to explore how to bring them to life for you.

Let’s make something unforgettable.