Last week Houston Promotional Products Association (HPPA) and Promotional Products Association Southwest (PPAS) collaborated for Texas Spring Swing 2024. In its third year, the Spring Swing is something like a traveling trade show across the state of Texas with stops in Houston, San Antonio, Austin and Dallas. 

  • The event has grown in all three years.
  • Last week's show included approximately 75 exhibitors representing 150 different factory lines. 
  • The four cities produced about 800 attendees over the course of a sporadically rainy week in Texas. 

"This was a fantastic week for PPAS and our Texas Spring Show," says Chad Rizzo, strategic account manager at Showdown Displays and PPAS president. "By all measures, participation from suppliers, distributors and end buyers was at an all-time high. This is further evidence that the changes the previous PPAS boards have instituted are working. Regional engagement has become an integral part of the promotional product industry, and we are excited for what the future will bring."

A specific tweak to this year's Spring Swing was that end buyers were allowed to attend, creating a different dynamic than past years and other events.  

"What set this event apart was its inclusivity, allowing end buyers to participate alongside distributors fostering partnership and creativity," says Malik Hemani, CAS, president and trade show chair of HPPA and creative director at Graphic Stylus. "Walking the show floor, I couldn't help but be inspired by the plethora of products and creative displays. It was a testament to the power of face-to-face interaction in our digital age. Kudos to the trade show committee and all industry members for upholding a culture of respect and integrity, ensuring a productive and enjoyable experience for all.