The Virginia Promotional Products Association (VAPPA) recognized industry professionals’ accomplishments at its annual Pinnacle Award Ceremony and Member Appreciation Event. Held on September 12 in Richmond, Virginia, at the 2017 VAPPA Fall Showcase, the annual event, this year sponsored by Pacesetter Awards, is an opportunity to acknowledge regional industry leaders.

Approximately 70 people attended to congratulate nominees and award recipients selected by member ballot. This year’s winners include:
 
Distributor of the Year – Boost Promotional Branding

Distributor Rep of the Year – Larry Arntz, Artnz Promotions

Supplier of the Year – Suntex Industries

Supplier Rep of the Year – Harold Wood, BIC Graphic

Multi-line Rep of the Year – MAC Marketing

Humanitarian of the Year -  Ron Baellow, Bright Ideas

In addition to the six annual awards above, VAPPA inducted Harold Wood into the regional association’s Hall of Fame. Wood is the fourth person to receive the honor, which is given to a member for contributions to the association and the industry.

Wood began his board service with VAPPA in 2011, and during his tenure held all of its leadership positions. In addition to service to the region, Harold current serves at RAC delegate as well as the RAC Board Secretary.   In inducting him into its Hall Of Fame, the regional association recognizes that under his guidance it achieved membership growth and well as financial stability, and that he has left an indelible mark on VAPPA.

The annual awards ceremony kicked off the VAPPA Fall Showcase. Pre-show education facilitated by PPAI’s Seth Barnett included end buyers and highlighted trends and tactic for managing Millennials in the marketplace. The shows welcomed approximately 195 distributors and 200 end buyers.

“The VAPPA Fall Showcase continues to be one of the strongest regional shows offered,” says Craig Dickens, VAPPA board president. “Virginia distributors are committed to educating their buyers and include them in this event that highlights not only new trends in the industry but also reiterates the effectiveness of the promotional products as an advertising medium.  VAPPA members are elevating the industry. Hosting our Pinnacle Awards in conjunction with this event is a way for us to acknowledge the talent we have in Virginia.”