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Posts tagged advertising specialty institute
Backstage Pass: Stiches Swimwear Shoot
01 day
Ever wish you could see what happens behind the scenes at a swimwear photo shoot? Thanks to the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), you can now see exactly what went on backstage at Stitches magazine’s bathing suit photocall. Check out the video below, hosted by Stitches Editor Nicole Rollender:
As you can see, a lot of work goes into such a photo op. From selecting the perfect location to prepping those beautiful models, a shoot can begin as early as 6 a.m. and last all day. Subjects not only don the season’s hottest bikinis and swimming trunks, but also bags, hats and more. After all, according to Rollender, “What’s key is really creating head-to-toe looks for your clients.”
In the end, it will all pay off in the form of a gorgeous cover story for Stitches magazine. Look for the swimwear issue which will be out in March!
ASI Dallas: Everything Really Is Bigger in Texas
016 days
Last week, the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) Dallas Show broke records, proving that everything really is bigger in Texas.
According to an ASI media release, ASI Dallas’ attendee list grew to 1,556 distributors this year, making it an all-time high. And that’s no surprise — as the industry continues to grow, more distributors are attending the ASI Show in hopes of networking with top suppliers, viewing the best new products, and attending top-notch educational seminars.
Overall, over 800 distributors sat in for educational sessions. A favorite among attendees was “The Industry’s Biggest Speed Networking Session.” But the best part about the ASI Dallas classes is that, according to the media release, “All sessions were eligible for credits toward BASI (Bachelor of Advertising Specialty Information) and MASI (Master of Advertising Specialty Information) certification.” High enrollment shows us that the industry certification is a valued one.
There was also an increase in the number of suppliers that participated in this year’s show. ASI reports that ASI Dallas saw 125 new suppliers in 2012. This is great news for both distributors and suppliers — after all, “Partnering suppliers with distributors helps promote success within the industry and is the primary goal of ASI.”
Did you make it to the ASI Dallas show? What are your thoughts?
ASI Brings New Products from Orlando to Your PC
123 days
Unfortunately, not everyone was able to make the hugely popular Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) Show in Orlando, which took place January 16 – January 18. Attendees watched a thrilling debate between journalist Bill O’Reilly and author James Carville, learned skills and information during educational seminars, and most importantly were introduced to exciting, new promotional items.
Couldn’t travel to Florida for the show? No need to fret — ASI has posted some of the show’s highlights on its YouTube page!
In this episode of “The Joe Show,” Joe Haley showcases some stand-out new products from the ASI Show in Orlando. We love the new items, which include wallet readers, golf kits, and more. Check out all of Joe’s favorite products in the video below:
My favorite? The Smencil Co.’s scented pens and pencils are great. Not only will their aroma attract customers, but they’re also made from recycled newspapers — how eco-friendly!
What are your preferred items from the ASI Orlando Show?
Survey Says: Promotional Products Industry Continues to Grow
026 days
Did you know that the advertising specialty industry has grown for eight straight quarters? That’s based on distributor sales research released earlier this week by the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI).
According to an ASI press release, total industry sales amounted to $18.5 billion in 2011, a growth of 6.2% from 2010. In the fourth-quarter of 2011 alone, sales increased by 6.5%, making it the biggest increase since the year’s first-quarter.
The research provides some reassurance in a time of economic uncertainty. According to Timothy M. Andrews, ASI President and CEO, “This latest ASI sales survey proves the ad specialty industry continues a strong rebound begun two years ago on the heels of the worst economic downturn in recent history.” Distributors are looking forward to a successful 2012 for what Andrews calls “a recession-proof industry.”
Let’s look at some of the most noteworthy statistics:
- 85% of major distributors reported an increase in sales, as did 70% of distributors overall
- The fourth quarter of 2011 was particularly successful for distributors; more than 50% saw an increase in sales
- Over 75% of distributors are optimistic about sales growth in 2012
Do you think ASI’s research is accurate? Share your comments below!
New ASI Study: Are You Delivering the Products They Really Want?
0103 days
On Tuesday, the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) released a study documenting how buyers and end-users of promotional items really feel about what’s being delivered. It’s being hailed as a “landmark study;” it is the first of its kind.
ASI’s report, entitled “Defining the Disconnect: An Analysis of Channel Beliefs vs. Customer Needs in the Advertising Specialty Industry,” is a detailed analysis that reiterates the importance of delivering what your customers want and need.
Here are some of the study’s most significant findings:
1. Customers expect high quality
According to ASI, “Distributors understate the importance of high-quality shirts to males.” The report even asserts that men have higher expectations about the quality of their promotional products.
2. Brand isn’t everything
ASI reports that 75% of distributors and suppliers thought branded items were a priority for customers. However, only a third of end-users agreed. This shows a major disconnect.
3. End-user participation
If you’re not interacting with your customers, you’ve got to make a change. According to ASI, end-users would like to take surveys, visit trade show booths, and communicate via social media platforms in order to receive giveaways.
For a full look at ASI’s report, click here. Are the findings surprising to you? Share your thoughts!
ASI Presents: ‘Digital Power Player’ Randi Zuckerberg
0117 days
by Brandon
in Brand Strategy
Randi Zuckerberg is not just the older sister of Facebook CEO and co-founder, Mark Zuckerberg. Indeed, Randi has been building a legacy of her own. The former Director of Market Development for Facebook was recently named to Hollywood Reporter‘s list of “Digital Power Players,” and has a lot to say about branding, social media, marketing and more.
Don’t you wish you could pick Randi’s brain? Now you can come close to it; the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) announced this week that Randi will be “a special guest on ASI Radio” this December. Tune in on December 6, 2011 at 10:30 a.m. EST to hear what Randi’s got to say about “everything from building a strong brand to the future of social media.”
Additionally, Randi will be speaking at The ASI Show in New York in May, 2012. This is an exciting opportunity to get an inside look into a master of marketing’s opinions and strategies. Don’t miss out; save the date today!