CHESHIRE, CT, USA, May 14, 2024

Barker Specialty, a leader in the promotional products industry since 1951 is pleased to announce the acquisition of Wolfepromo, a Connecticut based distributorship for over 35 years. David Wolfe, managing partner of Wolfepromo, developed a reputation for creativity backed with excellent customer service throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York. He noticed early in his career that the way promotional products were marketed did not resonate well with him. He took this opportunity to differentiate himself by focusing on each client’s individual needs, understanding the clients’ goals, and envisioning their logo on products that would be differentiators. From there Wolfe’s tagline “Creatively Disruptive!” was born.

"We are so excited to join with David Wolfe! David is exceptionally creative and has built a great business. Our entire staff is looking forward to working with David.” - Gerry Barker

The hyper focused client experience that Wolfe led his company with is a natural fit for Barker Specialty. “I wanted to partner with a great company, I was very selective in inviting possible partners to discuss opportunities,” Wolfe said. As a family-owned business of more than 75 years, Gerry Barker fully understood and valued the importance of the client relationships Wolfe built over the years. “I’ve always thought highly of David. His company is small, highly respected and well run. This is just a terrific fit”, says Barker. Amy Serrano, Chief Revenue Officer for Barker Specialty added, "As soon as I met David, I knew the synergy between our companies would be perfect. We both have the same goals--- giving our clients peace of mind while providing the best solutions using promotional products."

Wolfepromo clients will continue toexperience the same level of customer care, with the benefit of additional resources that Barker Specialty offers.This includes implementation of company stores, on premise warehousing, artwork services, on-site production, in-house kitting, global sourcing, and much more, all while providing competitive pricing. Furthermore, Barker Specialty's commitment to a diverse work force and supply chain, sustainable product sourcing, safe and vetted products, and intellectual property protection, all enhance the value of the Wolfepromo and Barker Specialty combination. 

About Barker Specialty Company:

As one of the leaders in the promotional products industry, Barker Specialty quickly grew to be a multi-million-dollar company. Recognized with numerous prestigious awards, such as "Greatest Companies to Work For," "Top 50 Distributors of Promotional Products in the USA," "Top 20 Best Places to Work," and "Family Business of the Year," Barker Specialty is committed to excellence in every aspect of its operations.

www.barkerspecialty.com

Click here for City Apparel's Impact Report Infographic

City Apparel+Merch Achieves Certified B Corporation Status, Pioneering Social and Environmental Excellence

City Apparel+Merch, a leading provider of branded apparel and promotional merchandise, is proud to announce its certification as a B Corporation, joining a global community of businesses committed to social and environmental excellence. This prestigious certification reflects the company's steadfast dedication to not just being the best in the world but being the best for the world.

A Journey to Excellence Amid Challenges

The journey towards B Corp certification began in earnest in 2019, spearheaded by City Apparel+Merch's dreamer President, Andrea Kramer. Despite facing unprecedented delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company's commitment to achieving this goal never wavered. "Our journey to B Corp certification was both challenging and deeply rewarding," said President Andrea Kramer. "Despite the setbacks caused by the pandemic, and delay in changing our business structure to a Benefit Corporation in the State of Ohio, our team's resilience and dedication to our core values of sustainability and social responsibility have been unwavering. This certification is a testament to our commitment to make a positive impact on the world."

The Rigors of B Corp Certification

Achieving B Corp certification is no small feat. The process requires companies to meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. Businesses must undergo a rigorous assessment that evaluates their impact on their workers, customers, community, and environment. City Apparel+Merch excelled in these areas with a score of 123, demonstrating an exemplary commitment to creating a positive impact.

Championing Social and Environmental Initiatives

City Apparel+Merch has long been a champion of social and environmental initiatives. From implementing sustainable sourcing practices to engaging in community outreach and development programs, the company has set a benchmark for corporate responsibility. "We believe that business can be a force for good, and our efforts in sustainability and community engagement reflect this belief," remarked Kramer. "From reducing our carbon footprint to supporting local communities, we are committed to making a meaningful difference."

Products and Services with a Purpose

City Apparel+Merch offers a wide range of products and services designed to meet the needs of businesses and organizations looking to both radically elevate their brand and make an impact. From eco-friendly apparel options to sustainable promotional merchandise, each product is curated with the environment and social responsibility in mind. The company's innovative approach to branded merchandise and apparel not only sets it apart in the market but also underscores its commitment to the planet and its people.

A Legacy of Recognition

City Apparel+Merch's efforts have not gone unnoticed. The company has received numerous awards in recognition of its commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community engagement. In 2023 they were recognized in the Business Hall of Fame for Social Impact, PPAI’s Greatest Companies to Work For, and PPAI’s Responsibility Recognition. These accolades serve as a testament to City Apparel+Merch's leadership in the industry and its unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on the world.

About City Apparel+Merch

City Apparel+Merch is a leading provider of branded apparel and promotional merchandise, offering enterprise solutions with curated merchandise, inhouse design and decoration and company stores; dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, City Apparel+Merch offers products and services that help businesses and organizations radically elevate their brand and make a positive impact on the world. As a Certified B Corporation, City Apparel+Merch stands at the forefront of a global movement of people using business as a force for good.

For more information, please contact:

Kelsey Jones

419-434-1157

Kelsey@cityapparel.com

www.CityApparel.com

JH Specialty believes in hiring talented people and creating an environment in which they can grow and prosper.

Evidence that the firm is turning that belief into action comes as the Fort Wayne, IN-based provider of promotional products and digital marketing solutions this week announced nine promotions.

Those moving up the ladder include Darren Lichtsinn, who is rising to vice president of JH’s promo products division. He joined the firm as a director in 2022 following a near 21-year sales career with T-Mobile.

JH Specialty (asi/232445) promoted the following employees: Darren Lichtsinn, Patrick Florea, Sarah Englert, Nate Kaiser, Miranda Haney, Reed Nicholson, Jamie Nicholson, Tyler Bearman, and Jim Coughlin.

Another new VP is Patrick Florea, who is now vice president of professional services. Sarah Englert has elevated to production manager, while Nate Kaiser is senior project manager and Miranda Haney project manager. Other promotions include Reed Nicholson to warehouse associate and Jamie Nicholson, Tyler Bearman and Jim Coughlin to senior account managers.

Beyond branded merchandise solutions, JH Specialty provides web design and development, enterprise ecommerce, digital marketing, digital recruiting services, app development and more. Company Founder/CEO John Henry III was Counselor’s 2019 Distributor Entrepreneur of the Year. He earned the honor, in part, for his work diversifying JH’s offerings to include a range of tech solutions.

 [CHESHIRE, CT, April 4, 2024]
Barker Specialty Company, of Cheshire, CT, a worldwide leader in the promotional products business, is proud to announce the promotion of Karen Heiligman from Vice-President to Chief Operating Officer (COO) effective April 1, 2024. Karen, currently VP of operations, has been with Barker Specialty for 21 years, after graduating from Central CT State University. During those 21 years, Karen has worked in many of the operating areas of the company, including customer support, sales, logistics, and most recently as director of fulfillment operations. Son of company founders, Herb and Gloria Barker, President Gerry Barker states, “I am so proud to recognize and promote Karen to the critical position of COO. Karen is a strong leader and diligent worker. Her innate commitment to succeed is one of her many impressive qualities, and her compassion, empathy and concern for others are traits that my Mom recognized when she hired Karen. I remember how excited Mom was when Karen joined us, and I know my folks would be thrilled seeing the success Karen has achieved." In her new role as COO, Karen will be responsible for overseeing the company's day-to-day operations, developing strategic initiatives, ensuring operational success throughout all areas of the business, and expanding international opportunities through IGC Global Promotions. Karen commented, "I am excited to take on this new challenge and greatly appreciate everyone's confidence in me! This business is difficult and has so many moving parts.... but I am determined to build on our 75 year history, while still maintaining our company values of respect for all, excellence in service, and competitive pricing." Karen’s constant strive for excellence can be attributed to her numerous athletic victories throughout her high school and college career as a competitive swimmer. She is a passionate reader, averaging 30 books a year, fueling her love for knowledge and personal growth. Karen is deeply committed to her family and finds joy in the companionship of her beloved dogs Kenzie and Bella. 

 About Barker Specialty Company: Barker Specialty is dedicated to assisting clients in promoting their brands and achieving marketing success through innovative and creative promotional merchandise. As one of the leaders in the promotional products industry, Barker Specialty has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, such as "Greatest Companies to Work For," "Top 50 Distributors of Promotional Products in the USA," "Top 20 Best Places to Work," and "Family Business of the Year," Barker Specialty is committed to excellence in every aspect of its operations. 

See original PR here.

September 22, 2023
Barker Specialty proudly announces the reveal of its new brand identity! The new design embodies BarkerSpecialty’s cutting edge and contemporary position as a leader in the world of branded merchandise, company webstores and proprietary marketing strategies.

The choice was made to maintain similar color schemes, secondary design elements and the company name in order to preserve the recognition of the family-owned business that Herb and Gloria Barker started in 1951. By introducing a completely new logo, Barker Specialty demonstrates the importance of being able to adapt and modernize. The new logo is intentionally subject to varied interpretations, with the overarching goal to represent the concepts of caring and concern for customers, company and community.

Along with the brand refresh, Barker Specialty has reframed its mission,vision and values to highlight its commitment to an enhanced client experience, focus on the environment and continued emphasis on employee growth.“Adapting to an ever-changing world, while maintaining core values isthe driving focus behind the excitement of this rebranding. We are thrilled to reintroduce ourselves with a fresh, modern and vibrant persona.” –Chelsea Fishman, Director of Marketing

Gerry Barker, president, stated, " I have so much respect for our marketing team who have led this initiative and worked diligently to ensure a smooth transition. Removing our revered dog from our logo wasn't an easy choice but reflects our growth as a worldwide supplier of promotional marketing products."

The new brand identity can be found throughout the Barker Specialty website and social media channels.

About Barker Specialty

Barker Specialty has been the one-stop source for all promotional and marketing needs for over 70 years. We are an innovative promotional marketing agency, specializing in branded merchandise and e-commerce solutions for items such as promotional products, apparel and uniforms, gifts and awards, tradeshow displays,print media and signage. Call (800) 227-5377 or visit barkerspecialty.com for more information.

Pittsford, NY, June 21, 2023—Cooley Group, Inc., an industry leading branded solutions provider in promotional, print and fulfillment for over 75 years, is pleased to share that its President, Phil Yawman, has been selected by the Small Business Council of Rochester, New York as a Business Person of the Year finalist.

Since 1983 the Small Business Council, a Greater Rochester Chamber affiliate, has honored accomplished individuals within the for-profit business sector in Greater Rochester. These individuals are recognized for their exceptional achievements, expansion, effective leadership, and contributions in both civic and professional domains.

Yawman joined Cooley Group in 2018 as the President and Board Chairman of the Cooley Group. During his tenure, the company has earned numerous awards for customer satisfaction and employee engagement, including the “Best Companies to Work For” designation from the New York State Society for Human Resource Management. In recent years the company has seen tremendous growth—2022 was a record year, achieving the highest revenue and net income in the employee-owned company’s 78-year history.

Yawman’s expertise lies in strategic planning and positioning; executive leadership coaching and mentoring; start-up, expansion, and growth management; marketing, sales and business development. He previously held executive positions at Annese and Associates and co-founded Choice One Communications, a telecom start-up which grew rapidly under his leadership.

Yawman serves as the Vice Chair of the St. John Fisher University Board of Trustees and sits on the boards of Monroe Community College Foundation and Constellation Brands Performing Arts Center (CMAC). He was also on the Executive Committee of the 2023 PGA Championship, which put Rochester in the national spotlight and brought hundreds of millions of dollars to the local economy.

Expressing gratitude for those who have supported him both personally and professionally, Yawman said, “I am extremely thankful for the great mentors I have had throughout my life and career who modeled the value of purposeful work, community service and who defined success as making an impact on the growth and achievements of the entire organization.” He went on to add, “It was important to me to bring these values to Cooley Group, and I am extremely

proud of the success the company has achieved in the past several years. As a lifelong resident of this community, thank you to the Small Business Council for acknowledging the contributions and accomplishments of small businesses in our area.”

Sarah Compter, President of the Small Business Council, a Greater Rochester Chamber affiliate, expressed her excitement about this milestone anniversary and the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable finalists. She stated, "As we mark the 40th Annual Business Person of the Year Awards, we reflect on the incredible growth and success of our small business community. It is an honor to recognize the talented entrepreneurs who have displayed innovation, resilience, and dedication over the years. We are particularly thrilled to host this year's ceremony with an exciting 80s theme, reminding us of the award's inception and the inspiring journey that brought us to this point."

Bob Duffy, President and CEO of Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the pivotal role played by small to midsized businesses in the Greater Rochester region. He said, "Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and shaping the unique character of our region. The Business Person of the Year Awards highlight those who have made significant contributions to our business landscape while inspiring others to reach new heights. We thank the Small Business Council for bestowing this recognition and hosting this 40th annual celebration of our vibrant local small business community."

ABOUT COOLEY GROUP, INC.

Cooley Group is a leader in customized promotional, print and fulfillment solutions. With its mission to “Showcase Your Brand”, Cooley Group customizes products and services which drive brand awareness and growth for its clients. Founded in 1945, Cooley Group is an employee-owned company that is recognized for award-winning client service and has been named a “Best Company to Work For in New York State”. The company has offices in Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Utica and the Hudson Valley area. To learn more about Cooley Group and how we can help your business, visit www.cooleybrand.com. Contact: Patricia Lipari: plipari@cooleybrand.com

Premier Group Network is pleased to announce the announce the recipients of the 2022 annual awards presented during the 2023 Premier Group Annual Meeting in Cancun Mexico.  The Premier Group annual awards celebrates excellence of members in all categories.

Awards were presented to the following members:

SUPPLIER AWARD Highest Sales Volume (In Group)

Awarded to suppliers in each category with highest sales volume with Premier Group Network distributors.

Towel Specialties             (Up to $20M in annual sales)

Cap America                     ($20 M-$50 M in annual sales)          

SanMar                              (Over $50 M in annual sales)

 

DISTRIBUTOR AWARD: Highest Purchase Volume (In Group)

Awarded to distributors with highest purchase volume with Premier Group Network suppliers.

Skylight Creative Ideas         (Up to $3.5M in annual sales)

Bacon & Co.                            ($3.5 M-$7.5M in annual sales)

Barker Specialty                     (Over $7.5M in annual sales)

 

SUPPLIER AWARD: Paul Smith Award
Awarded in honor of PG Co-Founder Paul Smith to one supplier in each category who partners well with PG members and exhibits excellence on all fronts.

Pop! Promos                            (Up to $20M in annual sales)

NC Custom                                ($20 M-$50 M in annual sales)                            

SanMar                                       (Over $50 M in annual sales)

 

DISTRIBUTOR AWARD: Doug Bruce Award

Awarded in honor of PG Co-Founder Doug Bruce to one distributor in each category who partners well with PG members and exhibits excellence on all fronts.

1338 Tryon                           (Up to $3.5M in annual sales)

TK Promotions, Inc.              ($3.5 M-$7.5M in annual sales)

The Callard Company        (Over $7.5M in annual sales)

 

SUPPLIER AWARD Highest Sales Growth Over Last Year 2022 vs 2021 (In Group)

Awarded to suppliers in each category with highest sales volume with Premier Group Network distributors.

Visions                           (Up to $20M in annual sales)

Cap America                   ($20 M-$50 M in annual sales)

The Magnet Group           (Over $50 M in annual sales)

 

DISTRIBUTOR AWARD: Highest Percentage of Spend with PG Suppliers

Awarded to distributors in each category with highest percentage of spend with Premier Group Network suppliers.

Skylight Creative Ideas                         (Up to $3.5M in annual sales)

W.S. Emerson                                         ($3.5 M-$7.5M in annual sales)

Creative Studio Promotions                 (Over $7.5M in annual sales)

 

MVPG: Most Valuable Premier Group Volunteer

Michelle Guetle, The Callard Company

Awarded to a distributor or supplier member who does NOT sit on the board but contributes and supports the group in very significant ways.

                

Wingman Award

Sarah Pollard, Hit Promotional Products

Awarded to the supplier member representative that is a go-to partner for tough projects. A trusted mainstay, source of inspiration nd collaborator to be counted on.

 

Allstar Award

Jonathan Prevatte, Team IP

Awarded a distributor sales representative that is building business and exemplifies excellence and professionalism at every turn.

                 

MacGyver Awards

Awarded the distributor and supplier member that made the impossible happen resulting in a great case study or significant sales.                 

Richard Hill, The Promotions Dept.

Lisa Schepis, alphabroder

All winners received awards generously donated by Visions.

***** 

Premier Catalog Group AKA Premier Group Network is the leading supplier-distributor networking group in the promotional products industry and the only one that grants full and equal membership to both suppliers and distributors.  Membership is selective and based on a recommendation of the membership committee and approval of the Board of Directors.  Now in its 26^th year, it is among the oldest “buying groups” in the industry.  Founded in 1997 by Paul Smith and Doug Bruce, it has evolved and grown over the years.  It is recognized under Internal Revenue Service code as a 501(c)6 non-profit organization.  More information about Premier Group Network may be found at www.premiergroupnetwork.com. 

Premier Group Network, the leading partnering network in the promotional products industry, is pleased to welcome Ohio based distributor City Apparel + Merch to the membership.  

City Apparel + Merch is an award-winning uniform, apparel, and logo’d merchandise company in Findlay, OH; with a mission to “Outfit partners to create positive community impact and lasting relationships.”

City Apparel President, Andrea Kramer, and her team are committed to delivering solutions for their clients that radically elevate their clients’ brands by connecting people. The company’s “Do Good” philosophy aims to positively impact associates, customers, and communities, balancing profit with purpose. 

“Joining Premier Group is exciting for our entire team. We look forward to building with other members of the group as we continue our mission to serve clients and our community. I believe the resources available to us through this organization will help fuel our growth as individuals and as a company. Those that collaborate well, win!” remarked Kramer.  

Premier Group Network Board Chair Matt Wagner of Fields Manufacturing welcomed City Apparel to the group.  “We are so excited to welcome Andrea and her team to the Premier Group family. Premier Group continues to be an integral piece of member success. We are excited to grow with like-minded businesses like City Apparel + Merch who we know will bring a fresh and unique perspective to the group.” 

***** 

Premier Catalog Group AKA Premier Group Network is the leading supplier-distributor networking group in the promotional products industry and the only one that grants full and equal membership to both suppliers and distributors.  Membership is selective and based on a recommendation of the membership committee and approval of the Board of Directors.  Now in its 26^th year, it is among the oldest “buying groups” in the industry.  Founded in 1997 by Paul Smith and Doug Bruce, it has evolved and grown over the years.  It is recognized under Internal Revenue Service code as a 501(c)6 non-profit organization.  More information about Premier Group Network may be found at www.premiergroupnetwork.com. 

Media contact:  Dana Geiger | Dana@premiergroupnetwork.com

BREAKING NEWS: Towel Specialties lowers prices of products, reduces shipping costs

Leading industry supplier Towel Specialties is ringing in 2023 with an average price reduction of 12% across the entire line. This is on top of additional average savings of 37% on all domestic shipping charges.

“We’re looking to offer a bright spot in the form of price relief for our customers,” said Towel Specialties' President and CSO Shawn Kanak. “COVID-19 globally disrupted the supply chain and caused major price increases from 2020 to 2022. Container shipping costs were six-fold what we were paying in 2019. Raw material costs soared during COVID-19 but have stabilized recently. Since things have settled down over the last few months, we determined it is time to do the right thing and give back on our towels, blankets, bags, and robes.”

The price reduction arrives on the heels of a November switch from UPS to FedEx as Towel Specialties’ designated carrier. This change allowed distributors to enjoy discounts from 25-55%, depending on where orders ship.

www.towelspecialties.com

Pittsford, NY, November 29, 2022—Cooley Group, Inc., an industry leading branded solutions provider in promotional, print and fulfillment services for over 75 years, announced today that it has donated $10,000 in product to several nonprofit organizations across New York state.

“Cooley Group is proud to support these organizations which work tirelessly to create a positive impact in our communities,” said Cooley Group President, Phil Yawman. “We’ve had our Cooley Cares program in place for many years and I truly believe that the power of giving benefits us as much as the organizations we support.”

The Cooley Cares program demonstrates the company’s commitment to serve and enrich the communities in which it operates. In addition to charitable donations, the program also gives employees paid time off to volunteer their time and talent to the community.

This year’s benefiting organizations include:

Loretto Foundation—comprehensive continuing healthcare organization dedicated to transforming eldercare in Central New York, focusing on person-first, affordable care.

Mercy Flight Central—independent, non-profit organization of air medical professionals, devoted to integrity, compassion, and excellence providing critical care to the sick and injured.

Volunteers of America—empowers people in the community to rise out of poverty, move toward self-reliance, and reach their full potential.

Integrated Community Alternatives Network—strives to empower children, families and individuals who have high service needs, to enable them to live in ways that are productive and healthy, and to keep families together.

The Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center—the region’s only children’s hospital, devoted exclusively to the medical needs of infants, children, and adolescents.

Alzheimer’s Association—through many initiatives and worldwide reach, the Alzheimer’s Association leads the charge in Alzheimer’s care, support, research and advocacy.

David’s Refuge— provides respite, resources and support to parents and guardians of children with special needs or life-threatening medical conditions where they will be refreshed, restored and renewed in their role as caregivers.

Person Centered Housing Options—committed to addressing, preventing, and alleviating chronic homelessness within Monroe County, New York and surrounding communities using the housing first model.

House of the Good Shepherd—leading provider of treatment, education, and support services to the children and families of the community that it serves.

Camp Good Days—strives to improve the quality of life for families affected by cancer or sickle cell anemia through residential camping programs and year-round recreational and support activities.

ABOUT COOLEY GROUP, INC.

Cooley Group is a leader in customized promotional, print and fulfillment solutions. Cooley Group brings clients’ brands to life with programs that enable them to grow their business. Cooley Group has offices in Rochester, Syracuse, Albany, Utica and the Hudson Valley area. To learn more about Cooley Group and how we can help your business, visit www.cooleybrand.com. Contact: Patricia Lipari: plipari@cooleybrand.com