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:

  1. 85% of major distributors reported an increase in sales, as did 70% of distributors overall
  2. The fourth quarter of 2011 was particularly successful for distributors; more than 50% saw an increase in sales
  3. Over 75% of distributors are optimistic about sales growth in 2012

Do you think ASI’s research is accurate? Share your comments below!