Following its recent acquisition by Touchstone Merchandise Group, Scottsdale, Arizona-based distributor, Freestyle Marketing (PPAI 233758, D6) has become a part of the Touchstone brand. Touchstone is a 24-year-old full-service promotional agency based in Mason, Ohio, with 21 offices across the U.S. and two in Asia. The acquisition was announced last Friday.

In an exclusive interview with PPB Newslink, Freestyle Marketing’s founder and chief operating officer, Michael Stoll, explains what drew the companies together. “The crucial element that makes this acquisition outstanding for both companies is that we have very similar approaches for our clients and industry,” he says. “Our fit of servicing clients with successful and creative solutions using branded merchandise, print, custom packaging, company stores, tech solutions and more will only increase with Touchstone’s personnel, technology, creative service department and warehousing expertise.”

Freestyle’s client services include promo merchandise, print, digital, ecommerce and fulfillment, incentives and brand strategy. However, Stoll says that the services and capabilities of Touchstone far exceed those Freestyle has been able to offer clients.

Stoll started Freestyle 20 years ago with his wife and daughter, and with the help of his sales force and support staff, created a successful operation that was looking to grow even more. “We are extremely excited about the future together with Derek Block, president and founder of Touchstone. My position will be lighter than what I have had in the past, but will concentrate on sales training, mentoring and growth,” says Stoll.

All of Freestyle’s personnel, including sales and support staff, will continue with the company and existing offices will remain in Scottsdale; Irvine, California, and New York City.