SAAGNY News

As the promotional products industry moves into 2026, momentum continues to build. Brands are placing greater value on meaningful connections, and promotional products are playing a more strategic role in how those stories are told.

What was once viewed as a simple giveaway is now an essential brand touchpoint — combining creativity, purpose, and personalization. Sustainability remains a key focus, with buyers expecting responsible product choices that reflect their values, while technology continues to enhance how we engage, manage relationships, and deliver smarter solutions.

As we look ahead, SAAGNY enters 2026 with confidence and enthusiasm. With a strong calendar of education, events, and opportunities to connect, the year ahead reflects a shared commitment to growth, collaboration, and the continued evolution of our industry.

2026 is shaping up to be a year of possibility — and SAAGNY members are well positioned to lead the way.

I am incredibly honored and excited to step into the role of Chair of the SAAGNY Foundation. This organization holds a special place in my heart because it embodies the generosity, compassion, and sense of community that define both our association and the promotional products industry as a whole. For many years, the Foundation has served as a symbol of how our members come together not only to support one another professionally, but also to extend kindness and care to those in need.

As we continue our charitable mission, I am proud to share one of our first initiatives of the year. At the SAAGNY Winter Show, the Foundation will be collecting unopened jars of peanut butter and jelly to support People to People, Rockland County’s largest food pantry. This simple act of giving can have an enormous impact, providing children and families with essential food items that are both meaningful and accessible. I encourage everyone attending the show to participate in this effort. A small donation from each of us can collectively create a significant difference for our local community.

I am deeply grateful to the leaders, volunteers, and supporters who have built such a strong and vibrant foundation over the years. Their dedication has paved the way for meaningful charitable work, and I am committed to honoring that legacy while bringing new energy and ideas to our mission. I look forward to working closely with our Board, volunteers, and the entire SAAGNY community as we continue to expand our outreach and strengthen the impact we make together.

With your support, I am confident that the year ahead will be filled with generosity, connection, and continued service to those who need it most.

Sincerely,

Mike Leone

Fort Lee, NJ — The Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with OrderMyGear (OMG), SAAGNY’s preferred online store vendor for suppliers and distributors. OMG is a leading online platform for custom branded merchandise and apparel stores. Through this partnership, SAAGNY distributor and supplier members will receive preferred pricing on OMG’s services, delivering measurable value and expanded opportunities for their businesses.

John R. B. Cudahy, MAS, MASI, Executive Director of SAAGNY, stated “Our mission is to bring added value to our members. Partnering with OrderMyGear gives our community access to enhanced benefits on a proven platform that helps them grow sales and better serve clients.” Josh Sawyer, Director of Sales at OrderMyGear, added, “We’re excited to partner with SAAGNY to offer members discounted pricing on technology that streamlines their efforts and helps grow their business.”

SAAGNY members can learn more about the partnership and access their preferred pricing by logging into their member profiles at www.saagny.org. Full details are available in the SAAGNY Savings section of the website.
To highlight the partnership and showcase the benefits available to SAAGNY members, OrderMyGear will be exhibiting at the upcoming SAAGNY Fall Show on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Park Hotel at Meadowlands, East Rutherford, NJ. Register today to attend the SAAGNY Fall Show: https://saagny.org/SAAGNY-Fall-Showcase.

About SAAGNY
The Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) is the largest regional trade association in the promotional products industry, serving distributors, suppliers, business service companies, and multi-line representatives across the Northeast. SAAGNY provides education, networking, and resources to help members grow and succeed in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Learn more at www.saagny.org.

About OrderMyGear
OrderMyGear (OMG) is the market-leading technology for promotional product distributors, apparel decorators, team dealers, and suppliers to sell branded merchandise across channels. For more than 20 years, OMG has been on a mission to help businesses sell branded merchandise to groups with flexible, secure, and easy-to-use tools. OMG powers sales for over 4,000 clients generating more than $4 billion in online sales. Learn more at www.ordermygear.com

Imprint Marketing Concepts, a premier provider of branded merchandise and corporate apparel, today announced that industry veteran Joe Carey has joined the company as a key member of its team. In his new role, Carey will be responsible for fostering new business development and nurturing strategic client and vendor relationships, leveraging his extensive experience to further enhance the company's market presence.

Carey brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in sales and marketing. He previously served as Director of E‑Commerce & Technology at Axis Promotions - later acquired by HALO Branded Solutions. More recently, he held roles in business development and corporate marketing at HALO, deepening his expertise in large‑scale program management and data‑driven merchandising. His expertise aligns perfectly with Imprint Marketing Concepts' commitment to providing clients with exceptional service and impactful branding strategies.

"We are thrilled to welcome Joe to the IMC family," said Brett Coplin, President of Imprint Marketing Concepts. "Joe's reputation for building lasting client and vendor relationships and his deep understanding of the marketing landscape makes him an invaluable addition to our team. His energy and strategic vision will be instrumental as we continue to grow and evolve, and I am confident that our clients will greatly benefit from his contributions."

For decades, Imprint Marketing Concepts has been a trusted partner for businesses seeking to elevate their brand story. The company was founded on the principle of providing more than just branded merchandise; it delivers comprehensive marketing solutions. With a focus on creativity, quality, and customer service, Imprint Marketing Concepts has grown from a local provider to a nationally recognized firm with a diverse portfolio of clients. The company has consistently adapted to the ever-changing marketing landscape, ensuring its clients receive cutting-edge solutions that yield measurable results.

Carey's appointment comes at a time of significant opportunity for Imprint Marketing Concepts. His leadership will be pivotal in expanding the company's reach and reinforcing its position as a leader in the promotional marketing industry.

About Imprint Marketing Concepts

Founded in 1986 and headquartered in Ramsey, New Jersey, Imprint Marketing Concepts turns ideas into meaningful brand moments through thoughtfully designed merchandise and apparel. From single custom items to global, multi‑touch campaigns, IMC’s creative approach delivers merch and apparel that connects, inspires, and endures.

Contact:

For media inquiries, please contact:

brettcoplin@imprintmarketing.com | 201‑934-6868

The Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) is excited to announce the launch of its Referral Bonus Program, a new initiative designed to incentivize member-driven recruitment efforts by rewarding those who help grow the association’s vibrant community.

Beginning this month, any current SAAGNY member in good standing will receive a $20 American Express Gift Card for every new member they refer whose application is approved and membership dues paid in full.

“There’s no greater ambassador for SAAGNY than our own members,” said John R. B. Cudahy, MAS, MASI, SAAGNY Executive Director. “This program not only rewards engagement but helps us amplify our mission of educating, connecting, and inspiring promotional products professionals throughout the region.”

Program Highlights Include:

• $20 Bonus Per Referral – Gift cards awarded after the referred member's approval and payment.
• No Referral Limit – Members can refer an unlimited number of new applicants.
• Eligibility – Referring members must be in good standing at the time of referral.

This initiative is part of SAAGNY’s broader effort to expand its membership, increase industry collaboration, and deliver more value to current and future members.

For more information or to refer a new member, visit www.saagny.org or contact info@saagny.org.

The Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) proudly announces a special limited-time offer in celebration of its 70th anniversary: $70 off membership dues for both new and renewing members.

From July 1st through July 31st, companies at all membership levels are eligible to receive the anniversary discount. This initiative underscores SAAGNY’s commitment to accessibility, community growth, and celebrating a milestone moment in the association’s history.

“We are thrilled to celebrate 70 years of serving and supporting the promotional products industry,” said John R. B. Cudahy, MAS, MASI, Executive Director of SAAGNY. “This offer is a thank-you to our members and an invitation to new professionals to experience the value of being part of SAAGNY.”

Offer Details:

• $70 discount on membership dues for new and renewing members
• Valid for all membership levels
• Active from July 1 – July 30, 2025
• Membership valid for one year from the date of approval under standard terms

To take advantage of this limited-time offer, visit www.saagny.org or email info@saagny.org for more information.

The Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) proudly announces the launch of its newly redesigned website, offering members and visitors a cleaner, more modern look and improved functionality.

The upgraded website provides a streamlined, user-friendly experience, making it easier than ever to access resources, register for events, and engage with the SAAGNY community.

“Our goal was to create a digital experience that reflects the professionalism and energy of the SAAGNY community,” said John R. B. Cudahy, MAS, MASI, Executive Director. “The redesigned website puts the most important tools and information right at our members’ fingertips.”

Key Features:

• Sleek, modern design with improved readability and navigation
• Simplified menu and page structure for faster access to core services
• Optimized performance across desktop and mobile devices
• Enhanced access to membership benefits, educational programs, and events

Members and guests are invited to explore the new website at www.saagny.org.

May 23, 2025 – Fort Lee, NJ — The SAAGNY Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 college scholarships, awarded annually to the children of individuals employed by SAAGNY member companies in the promotional products industry. This year marked a record number of submissions, reflecting the continued growth and impact of this important initiative.

After careful review of an exceptional pool of applicants, six outstanding students have been selected as scholarship recipients:

• Madisen Jensen, daughter of Annette Jensen, MacKenzie-Childs
• Kayla Inahuazo, daughter of Myrian Romero, Peerless Umbrella
• Emma Terveen, daughter of Mark Terveen, Fey Industries
• Adalyn Madl, daughter of Amelia Madl, PromoCorner
• Skylar Cohen, daughter of Jamie Cohen, Zagwear
• Sawyer Jacobs, son of Nate Jacobs, Zagwear

“We were thrilled to see a record number of submissions this year,” said Deborah Gaspar, Chair of the SAAGNY Foundation. “Each application showcased the hard work and aspirations of the next generation. It was an honor to support these students as they pursue their academic and professional dreams.”

The SAAGNY Foundation is the charitable arm of the Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY), committed to enriching lives through educational scholarships, community outreach, and industry support. Guided by a mission to make a meaningful impact, the SAAGNY Foundation provides financial assistance, promotes volunteerism, and fosters goodwill throughout the promotional products industry and beyond.

Scholarship applications for 2026 will open in March 2026.

For more information about the program, visit: https://saagnyfoundation.org/scholarships

About the SAAGNY Foundation: The SAAGNY Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that engages and supports the promotional products community through charitable and educational efforts. To learn more about the non-profit organization or, to get involved, visit their website at www.saagnyfoundation.org.

The Specialty Advertising Association of Greater New York (SAAGNY) is pleased to announce the appointment of Josh Goodelman, President and CEO of Liqui-Mark Corp., to its Board of Directors. Goodelman joins the board by presidential appointment to fill a recently vacated position.

A respected leader in the promotional products industry, Goodelman brings decades of experience, strategic vision, and a strong commitment to innovation to the association.

“We are thrilled to welcome Josh Goodelman to the SAAGNY Board of Directors,” said Sara Levinson, SAAGNY President. “Josh’s deep industry expertise, coupled with his leadership at one of the most respected companies in our region, makes him a valuable addition to the board. His voice and vision will help SAAGNY continue to serve its members and grow our impact throughout the industry.”

Goodelman also shared his enthusiasm about joining the board, stating:

“I’m honored to join the SAAGNY Board of Directors. SAAGNY has always played a vital role in supporting our industry, and I’m excited to contribute to its continued growth and help shape the future of our community.”

Goodelman’s appointment continues to solidify SAAGNY as a leader in the regional community and reinforces SAAGNY’s ongoing efforts to provide members with top-notch events, education, and resources.