Faces of iPROMOTEu

FACES

2018

Ross

Wayland MASSACHUSETTS iPROMOTEu

an adjective that describes me: FAMILY-ORIENTED

Initially, I founded iPROMOTEu to provide me with professional satisfaction. Over the years, despite the company’s ups and downs and the associated stress, I did find professional satisfaction in building iPROMOTEu from nothing but an idea to one of the promotional products industry’s leading distributor organizations. In time, iPROMOTEu provided me and my family with financial security enabling me to send my four wonderful children to college. More recently, iPROMOTEu has provided me with personal satisfaction as well. Hearing the many stories from affiliates about how iPROMOTEu has strengthened their businesses and enhanced their lives has been personally fulfilling. I am also proud to have been able to provide jobs for the company’s staff allowing them to provide for their families as well. All in all, iPROMOTEu has touched many facets of my life in extremely positive ways. I truly am very fortunate. Hi, my name is Ross Silverstein, and I am the Founder, President and CEO of iPROMOTEu. In addition to iPROMOTEu’s dedicated staff and its remarkable preferred suppliers, iPROMOTEu owes its tremendous success to the company’s amazing independent distributor affiliates. I’ve heard numerous stories over the years how iPROMOTEu has positively impacted the businesses and lives of so many affiliates. I thought it would be nice to memorialize some of these stories. Hence, I am proud to introduce to you “Faces of iPROMOTEu.” I want to thank those affiliates who took the time to participate in this undertaking, and I want to thank all affiliates for their trust and confidence and for their contribution to iPROMOTEu’s growth and success over the years. I am sincerely grateful. Thank you. YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1999 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 1999 THANK YOU how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

Rick

Duxbury MASSACHUSETTS iPROMOTEu

an adjective that describes me: EXPERIENCED

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1973 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 1999

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

Looking back, we all have those moments in life. In 1999, I was 46 years old with a wife and two children. We had moved to Boston two years earlier for what I thought was an opportunity of a lifetime. Well, it wasn’t the opportunity I thought it was for me and my family. How fortunate I was that Ross contacted me about joining him at iPROMOTEu. The timing was right. It has been a great run for the past 19 years with plenty of twists and turns. In the end, I am part of top 10 distributor that is changing the industry. I am very proud to be part of this wonderful organization. iPROMOTEu has changed my life by enabling me to do what I enjoy – working with and helping affiliates. It also has changed my life by affording me the opportunity to be part of a unique business platform that continues to transform the industry. The journey continues, and I believe the best is yet to come!

John

Averill Park NEW YORK

CAPITAL MARKETING

an adjective that describes me: INTENSE

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1996 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2004

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has given me the ability to provide for my wife and four children while still having the freedom to create wonderful memories with them. iPROMOTEu staff and technology support gave me the flexibility to coach high school football for eight years as my three sons were growing up. Last year when my wife was battling cancer, iPROMOTEu gave me the freedom to be with her every step of the way without worrying about taking time off or neglecting my clients. The level of support from iPROMOTEu was incredible. I truly am excited to start work every morning. I enjoy my business and the life it has allowed us to live. I’ve been in this business for 21 years now and have had the chance to look back and reflect on decisions that I’ve made. The BEST decision I ever made was joining iPROMOTEu. What a great ride it has been!!! iPROMOTEu has changed my business by giving me the opportunity to leave a bad situation behind and become my own boss. I can’t imagine ever working for someone else again. iPROMOTEu has helped me work with vendors, take care of my customers, and become a full partner in my business. I came from a franchise situation that did not feel like a collaborative effort. Our business felt more like a subordinate to the franchisor. With iPROMOTEu, it is like a family business in which we are all pulling in the same direction. how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

Ken

Atlanta Georgia

LOGOED

an adjective that describes me: STEADFAST

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1997 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2015

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? Being an army of one, iPROMOTEu services, like the Affiliate Services team, allow me to enjoy my vacations with less worry and work! I choose to affiliate with iPROMOTEu primarily to maintain my independence, however, what I get most from my affiliation is the sense of belonging to something bigger. The relationship gives me the tools, support and motivation I need to keep moving my business forward. I affiliated with iPROMOTEu after severing a partnership of over 16 years with a friend. It was a tough decision both personally and professionally. At events like the Supplier Showcases and the PPAI Show, I get a chance to interact with other iPROMOTEu affiliates and staff to share and learn. I also engage with suppliers at a level that would not be possible if I were not part of iPROMOTEu.

Bruce

Sacramento California

A4 Promotions & Incentives

an adjective that describes me: MOTIVATED

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1977 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2011

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has made our business more streamlined, and organized. It has allowed for more focus on sales and customer service. iPROMOTEu has saved us time in vendor set-up and vendor relationships, and has made downsizing possible in support areas, such as accounting, order follow-up, accounts receivables and payables. iPROMOTEu services have helped increase our bottom line.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

iPROMOTEu has relieved the stress of having to run a business, with its various aspects. It has allowed me to focus on the area that I love, which is sales and customer service.

Richard

Rancho Cordova California

EyeOn Promotions

an adjective that describes me: FOCUSED

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1978 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2016

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? Excitement was brought back into my life. I developed a greater commitment to the success of iPROMOTEu and a greater desire to replace hours in the office with more hours with my family. My wife found that this desire makes our marriage better and gives us more time to talk about anything but work, while knowing that I now have business security in my life. I have more time to invest into the lives of my children, my son-in-laws and granddaughter. I once heard someone say at a funeral, “Most people will not remember what you said, let alone what you did. What they will most remember about you is how you made them feel.” I don’t want my family to remember me being at work all the time, but rather, how I made them feel when I was around them more. The question should be “How has iPROMOTEu changed my view of business.” For me, it brought new life into how I felt about staying in the industry. As an independent distributor, I had no real connection with the industry. It was not until I affiliated with iPROMOTEu that a sense of business family started to grow within me. I started to feel connected to a firm that respected me, considered my suggestions important and was dedicated to my success. Within months, I was fully committed to the iPROMOTEu system of doing business and was proud to tell factories, clients and others how important iPROMOTEu was to me and how I would never go back to the way I used to do business. Words that I associate with the word iPROMOTEu are excitement, financial stability, creativity, dedication and family.

Lara

Ferndale Michigan

Prestige Promotional Products

an adjective that describes me: LOVING

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2000 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2005

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? I am a single mom with 2 children, aged 7 and 11. Being affiliated with iPROMOTEu gives me time to spend with my children. Their father unexpectedly passed away recently and I now have to pick them up from school every day. Without iPROMOTEu, I don’t believe I would have the flexibility that I need to take care of my family. I am so very grateful to have iPROMOTEu as part of my life. Before I affiliated with iPROMOTEu, I had to turn down very large orders because I didn’t have the money to back them up. With the help of iPROMOTEu, that is no longer true and I have been able to secure what I consider large orders. In addition, I have been able to grow my customer base because I now have more time to cold call instead of spending the time checking up on all my orders.

Ed

Saratoga Springs New York

SOUDERS PROMOTIONS

an adjective that describes me: ADAPTABLE

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1987 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2012

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has helped us to scale our business by providing a user friendly platform for ordering and invoicing, a team that works to support our efforts where we need them most, superior vendor relations, opportunities for acquisitions, and an overall genuine interest in our success.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

iPROMOTEu allows me to run our business from anywhere. Prior to iPROMOTEu I was tied to the office. Now our sales reps, art services, and back office are all handled remotely.

Naomi

Osseo Wisconsin

The Source House

an adjective that describes me: OPTIMISTIC

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1983 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2006

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? IPROMOTEu has changed my life, by giving me more security, growth and opportunity in my business. With that security, growth and opportunity has come more financial, personal and professional freedom. I believe that this industry attracts “independent personalities”, and iPROMOTEu has allowed me to enjoy even greater independence than I had ever thought possible. The combination of being an independent entrepreneurial business owner, AND the security of a strong and consistent business model, is truly the best of both worlds! I find great satisfaction in being able to confidently handle larger corporate projects, and great joy in being able to take more liberties with my time and energy! Whether it is spending today with my 92-year-old Dad while he is hospitalized, or attending my grandson’s mid-afternoon Halloween Parade, the flexibility of having a built-in support staff creates a lifestyle that is more balanced, complete and joyful! iPROMOTEu has changed my business in so many ways, but perhaps the most important way is that it has allowed me to keep pace with our ever-changing industry! I operated completely independently for over 20 years, but my greatest professional and economic growth has come since I affiliated with iPROMOTEu. I spend less time on office work and more time on client relationships. The staff support, technology updates, opportunity for authentic relationships with other affiliates and vendor principals, continuing education and networking options, have all helped to give me more confidence. With that confidence, has come greater integrity with clients, and more opportunities to serve my clients in a very meaningful way. I don’t worry about invoicing, cash flow, or vendor relations so much anymore because iPROMOTEu’s competent staff provides those services. I have more time to think about a business plan, marketing, and more consistent pro-active client contact! Growing my sales and profit margin are goals that I have achieved in large measure, because of the many resources that iPROMOTEu affords its affiliates.

Andie

St. Marys Iowa

Sunrise Promotions

an adjective that describes me: GREGARIOUS

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2003 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2010

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

The opportunity to run my business through iPROMOTEu has brought me great happiness. I was partnered with another business that didn’t have the same business strategies and goals as myself and iPROMOTEu allowed me the opportunity to go out on my own to do things my way. Working with iPROMOTEu is fun, creative, supportive and collaborative. My business has flourished and, in fact, has tripled since I affiliated with iPROMOTEu. The opportunity to cover large orders without financial issues has taken my business to the next level. I am able to work with large companies with large order needs without fretting if our credit can cover it. Special pricing from my favorite vendors has also allowed me the greatest flexibility in pricing for my customers and maximizing my profits. I have also learned a great deal by working with other terrific promotional product distributors in the network. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some great iPROMOTEu staff to brainstorm ideas. Another great aspect of iPROMOTEu has been the opportunity to discuss issues and best problem solving solutions.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

iPROMOTEu has helped me look like a rock star!!! iPROMOTEu has been great in supporting me as an individual and I feel appreciated every day. With my other partnership, I never felt that or was told that my business was an important contribution. I’m so grateful and look forward to the next seven years together.

Robin

Ki gsport Texas

PromoPro

an adjective that describes me: DEPENDABLE

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1997 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2013

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? Joining iPROMOTEu has given me the freedom to spend more time with my customers as well as my family. It has also given me the stress relief of not having to worry about paying my vendors. I am now able to concentrate on the important aspect of the business, my customers. I am also able to spend quality time with my family. I am very appreciative of all the support that I receive from iPROMOTEu! I would recommend this company to anyone!!!! iPROMOTEu has given me the flexibility to grow my business. I am now able to get out of the office more and promote my business. Before joining iPROMOTEu, I was tied to the office with all the day-to-day operations - paper work, accounting, following up with vendors and getting shipping information. With iPROMOTEu taking over all that responsibility, I have a sense of freedom. If I had known about iPROMOTEu when I first started my company, I would have never gone to work for another distributor. Finding and joining iPROMOTEu has been the best decision I made

Leah

Toronto, Ontario Canada

The Planet Group

an adjective that describes me: HAPPY

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1999 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2013

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has given me the freedom to operate my business in the way that works best for me. Accounting and administrative functions have never been my strong suit. I’ve tried hiring staff to manage these tasks but found it still took a significant investment of my time and money, and in the end, never ran as smoothly as it should. Since affiliating, I am completely confident that these tasks are being done while I’m out taking care of the most important part of my business – my customers.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

I no longer feel intimidated by competing against the big players in our industry. With iPROMOTEu by my side, I am a big player, while keeping that unique and personalized boutique quality that our company is known for.

Kevin

Alamo California

Matrix Promotional Marketing

an adjective that describes me: PERSISTENT and CONSISTENT

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1981 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2008

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has changed my business by allowing me to concentrate on building my business without financial restrictions that can paralyze growth and profit in our industry. iPROMOTEu also provides me with buying advantages I could not have on my own. As one in a large group of affiliates, our buying power is stronger. Finally, the iPROMOTEu team is a great back end support system for order processing, production and accounts receivable. All of this has created less overhead, greater profits and a better way of life.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

iPROMOTEu has changed my life by giving me peace of mind, both with financial backing and back end support. Vacations come more often and are less taxing. Partnering with iPROMOTEu has been the single best decision I have made in my over thirty years of business.

Duane

Clovis New Mexico

Sir Logo

an adjective that describes me: HAPPY and BLESSED

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1995 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2003

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu enabled me to think bigger and go after bigger accounts and more business because they fund my orders.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

For me, one word says it all – “relationships.” I live in a very remote place and many times through out the year I feel very alone, like it’s me against the world. The friendships I have made over the years, from iPROMOTEu staff to affiliates, have been the thing that has changed my life the most. I know everyone is an email or phone call away and I know that at least once a year I will get to see and talk to them in Vegas at The PPAI EXPO. I cherish iPROMOTEu and all the relationships!!!

Greg

Appleton Wisconsin

ProMark

an adjective that describes me: ENGAGING

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2002 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2004

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? By providing me the tools to be successful in my business as it grows and helping me to use my time and resources wisely, they have allowed me to spend the time I desire traveling and with my family. iPROMOTEu gives me all the back end support I need to handle any and every order, no matter the size. My support team helps me to get and keep my orders moving, and they help to ensure every order gets delivered on time. They also help to ensure all orders are paid by my customers and to my vendors, allowing me the time I need to be in front of my clients. iPROMOTEu has helped me build a brand new business into almost a half-million dollar business capable of growing even bigger. They have allowed me to grow professionally as well as to enjoy my personal time with family. They have been there to support me every step of the way.

Sonya

Tunnel Hil Georgia

SDC Promotions

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2000 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2010

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has made my business run so much smoother than ever before and I never feel like I’m alone on this journey. It feels like iPROMOTEu is my partner and I have an entire support team, not just one assistant! I would do it all over again!! Just wish I would have known about iPROMOTEu long before.

Chrissy

Walnut Creek California Brand Original

an adjective that describes me: DISCIPLINED

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1997 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2016

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has not only made me a happier person overall because I’m in control of my own destiny and how I treat my clients, but I’m making substantially more money for myself and my family. I don’t work fewer hours, but I’m able to work more efficiently with the high quality systems that are in place, and if I process fewer orders, I’m still making more money than I did at my previous distributorship. This creates an overall sense of happiness. to me to always be honest with my clients, and I feel that iPROMOTEu is an environment where we can offer clients the best pricing, extra service and more than reasonable shipping rates. This is not always the case with distributorships because they are focused on profit, not people. iPROMOTEu is focused on the affiliates and positive growth for everyone. I love the people at iPROMOTEu, and feel that they’re constantly working for me and my team versus working for their own best interests. This means a lot to me. I feel like we’re all a team even though I own my own business and am able to reap the benefits. iPROMOTEu has changed my business by allowing me to work in a reputable and honorable environment where I treat my clients fairly and service them well. It is important

Michele

Scottsdale Arizona

Six Twenty Six

an adjective that describes me: DRIVEN

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1998 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2017

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? I am more focused on what I can and will do, rather than dwelling on stodgy limitations that may stand in the way. I am thrilled to be a part of your [business] family! Having modern, high quality business tools, as well as engaged, effective service team members, all focused on supporting me, makes this business affiliation a huge win! I am thrilled to further deepen my relationships and grow our businesses together exponentially over time. iPROMOTEu allows me to feel free and in control of my business, while offering amazing support, both interpersonally as well as professionally. Ross’s mantra, “tell me what you want or need and we will make it happen,” is truly the company culture. It is clear from day one, and even before officially onboarding, that everyone at iPROMOTEu is focused on providing their business partners -- both independent distributor affiliates and supply chain partners – with the best and most reliable services possible.

Josh

Round Rock Texas

Dynamite Promotional Products

an adjective that describes me: GREAT

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2003 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2006

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has helped me take smart risks and achieve my dreams. I’m not just talking the typical home ownership, cars, fun toys, etc. Thanks to iPROMOTEu’s support, I now own two homes outright (one on the lake); I own my cars outright; I have a FAT retirement and my family is set up for greatness for a very long time. I don’t say this to brag personally, but more to give thanks and recognition to iPROMOTEu for the part they’ve played in my life over the past eleven years. It is so valuable to me to know that there are people in the world (team iPROMOTEu) that have my back and fully support me. I am proud to call everyone at iPROMOTEu my friends. Thank you! iPROMOTEu allowed me to go from being a sales rep to being a successful business owner, FAST. Before iPROMOTEu all my efforts went towards creating a bright future for the owners of the company I worked for. iPROMOTEu allowed me to jump right into business ownership and build a BRIGHT future for my family and myself. Before iPROMOTEu, starting my own business meant that I would have had A LOT of overhead with accounting, invoicing, order follow up, etc. Fortunately, Ross and Rick created the perfect solution for me and every other promotional products salesman wanting to become a successful promotional product business owner. Thank you!

Susanne

Larkspur California

Moxie Promotional Marketing

an adjective that describes me: TENACIOUS

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1986 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2010

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

My business has grown immensely due to the pricing and perks that iPROMOTEu has negotiated on behalf of their affiliates. I love having dedicated customer service representatives with the larger suppliers as it makes the ordering process so much easier. I like to tell my clients that they have the best of both worlds . . . I’m a small, boutique agency, but I have a much larger company behind me that takes care of all the financial details. That leaves more time for selling and customer service on my part.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

It sounds cliché, but I work hard to play hard. Having iPROMOTEu in my corner means I have happy clients and I make more money. This affords me the time and resources to spend more time with family and friends. Nothing makes me happier than to travel with my family.

Steven

Las Vegas Nevada

Vela Promos

an adjective that describes me: DEPENDABLE

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2008 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2014

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu helps me enjoy the freedom that comes with owning a company. I make my own schedule; I come home when I want; I go on vacation when I want. Success is correlated to how much I work but I don’t have someone telling me how much I have to work. Without iPROMOTEu, the road to success would have been a lot rockier. Using iPROMOTEu’s back office support has really saved me a lot of time. I don’t have to worry about finding and hiring trustworthy employees, setting up guidelines, handbooks, procedures, etc. I feel like I have the back office support that I need to grow our business exponentially.

Christopher

Fenwick Island Delaware

Wicked Promotions

an adjective that describes me: LOUD

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1996 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2008

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has truly changed my life in so many positive ways. The biggest thing that iPROMOTEu has done for me is allow me to spend more time with my family, which is my number one priority. The increase in my profit margins, the tremendous resources and the technology systems they have in place allow me to save time and execute so much more efficiently. These things have provided me with opportunities to take vacations and have wonderful experiences with the people I love. Joining iPROMOTEu is the single best decision I have ever made in business. It has given me the freedom to focus on growing my business and doing the parts I like: creating and executing programs and projects. I used to be so bogged down in the accounts payable, accounts receivable, follow- up calls and the entire back office part of the business that I didn’t have the time to be creative and do the parts I like. Working with iPROMOTEu has taken all that off my plate, so that I have been able to expand my product offerings, develop creative ideas for my clients and focus on new business. The team, systems and resources at iPROMOTEu have made my life so much easier over the last nine years; I can’t ever imagine doing it without them.

Harry Walnut Creek California

PERFECTION PROMO

an adjective that describes me: HUSTLE

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2001 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2010

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has helped me grow my business substantially but still enabled me to work from home. I can focus on sales without hiring employees or renting office space but I still get all the back-office support I need.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

Because of iPROMOTEu I have time to spend with my son and be a more involved parent. I can coach his baseball team, pick him up from school and go to park while still running a successful business.

Emily

Tiburon California

Bridgetobridge Marketing

an adjective that describes me: TENACIOUS

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1997 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2006

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu allows me the autonomy to run my own business with flexibility and ease, and earn a respectable living. I love that I can work in the morning and then head out for a hike or bike ride, and know that the team at iPROMOTEu is maintaining my business. iPROMOTEu has helped me to elevate my game. I am now able to offer more services and capabilities which translate to winning new business and clients. The internal support I get from the iPROMOTEu team is tremendous and most often surpasses my expectations. The partnerships that iPROMOTEu has built with our suppliers is another huge advantage that I had not previously experienced. Our industry partners treat us with great respect and go above and beyond to help support our business and inevitably grow our revenue. Finally, I have enjoyed getting to know the other iPROMOTEu affiliates and truly feel that I have gained new friendships and knowledge from getting to know them. It takes a village!

Jonathan Carlsbad California

DOVETAIL MARKETING

an adjective that describes me: OUTGOING

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1994 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2009

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has given me much more time to enjoy life. Spending additional time with my son is priceless, and had I not partnered with iPROMOTEu, I probably would have missed out on so many special occasions due to the workload associated with owning a company. I was able to enjoy coaching baseball and football and spend thousands of hours forming a special bond with my son for which I am forever grateful. In addition, I have the freedom to participate in the other activities I enjoy including deep sea fishing and surfing. Being available for my family is paramount, and partnering with iPROMOTEu has afforded me that freedom. Partnering with iPROMOTEu has changed my business in many ways. First and foremost, my business has become much more profitable. iPROMOTEu removed the burdens of invoicing, accounts receivable, accounts payable and collections that my company handled, and reduced the monies spent on employees to handle those facets of the business. These changes allow me and my sales team to do what we do best, sell!

Chuck

Chicago Illinois

Promo Monster

an adjective that describes me: OUTGOING

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1981 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2008

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has helped me make a much better living for my family without the headaches and burden of back office responsibilities, lines of credit and employee turnover. This decision has allowed me attain a very nice income and, after some very hard times prior to my affiliation, I have been able to surpass even my best years. I enjoy working as an iPROMOTEu affiliate. Everyone there helps me attain my goals and I am excited to get up and go to work every day. iPROMOTEu’s assistance, from the financial support to the back office, has made our vision of operating a boutique distributorship with the power of an industry leader come to fruition. iPROMOTEu’s excellent industry reputation and innovative vendor relationships give me a major competitive advantage over my competition. Since my affiliation with iPROMOTEu my business has grown more than five times its original size. The overall sense of being on the absolute BEST team in the business has given me the confidence to go after larger and better accounts.

Ken

Wi ter Springs Florida

KBG Promotes

an adjective that describes me: DECENT

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2001 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2007

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? My business is important, obviously, but my first thoughts are always about the people with whom I work. I won’t start naming names because it is a lengthy list, and it would bug me to no end to leave someone out, but between the iPROMOTEu associates and affiliates … the relationships have been so personally rewarding. Just as friendships are so wonderful, iPROMOTEu made an impression on family, too. I recall the first iPROMOTEu Affiliate Forum, in Boston, in June of 2007. It was my first time meeting much of the crew and affiliates. My older daughter, Stacey, had just moved to Boston to start her career, post-college, and iPROMOTEu went out of their way to include her in activities and make her a part of their “family”. She attended the outing at Fenway and Ross, Rick, Brian, and a few others took my daughter and me out for lunch. Ross even followed up with a couple of Red Sox tickets for my daughter to enjoy - just some warmth shown to the “new” guy that was appreciated. That same guy is now the “old” guy and I still see that thoughtfulness from the iPROMOTEu team. I stepped away from an untenable situation in 2007 to give iPROMOTEu a chance to show me what it could do. Together, we both grew and I became fully aware that I could take on all challenges. Eager support, smart folks, and open minds have provided comfort when I feel like I’m swimming upstream. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the steps iPROMOTEu has taken to spur affiliate interaction, too. My decision to affiliate with iPROMOTEu was affirmed when I stepped away for a couple of years and saw a different operation. I knew I had to come “home” one day and returned after less than three years!

Cindy

Longmont Colorado

Big Fish Branding

an adjective that describes me: ACTIVE

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2003 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2005

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has enhanced every aspect of my life because I have been able to successfully grow my one-woman business for the past twelve years, while living life to the fullest. I am blessed to have an amazing husband and two daughters who have always been by my side. With my partnership with iPROMOTEu, we have been able to travel quite a bit and we can enjoy our family activities, skiing at Winter Park in the winter and spending time on the boat in the summer. I have also never skipped a beat with my most passionate hobby, riding and showing horses. I’m pretty sure there are not many opportunities like mine to own and operate a successful business and play as hard as I do. I feel extremely grateful for my relationship with iPROMOTEu as it has allowed me to do everything I love. Since day one, iPROMOTEu has been a part of Big Fish Branding. So it’s not that iPROMOTEu has changed my business; rather, iPROMOTEu has always been an integral part of my business identity. I don’t know what I would have done without this incredible partnership as it is part of who I am and what my business has become. In a million years, much less when I started my company twelve years ago, I would have never imagined the success that my business has had and the incredible client and vendor relationships that I have developed.

Mark

Beverly Massachusetts

MAG Promotional Products

an adjective that describes me: RELENTLESS

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2003 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2006

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has allowed my business to grow without having to worry about inventory, financing and accounts receivable. iPROMOTEu’s order management system is a perfect system for creating and keeping track of my purchase orders as well as my accounts receivable. Plus, I almost always get EQP and the production staff does a great job of following up on my orders.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

I am able to relax and take more time for myself and my family knowing there is a terrific team of professionals at iPROMOTEu to back me up.

Steve

Rolling Meadows Illinois

PromoMonster

an adjective that describes me: APPRECIATIVE

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1987 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2008

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? One of the most important ways that iPROMOTEu affiliation has changed my life is the sense of pride that I feel personally and professionally. A confident “swagger” is expressed and exhibited more often in my overall persona . . . both at work and at home. Even more important is the pride that my family has in me for taking on, and running with, the challenge of being a business owner/partner after we were close to having nothing and our backs were against the wall. As PromoMonster continues to move forward and grow, we feel pride and gratitude. I can now present myself, and PromoMonster, as affiliated with a $100+ million company in the marketplace, which enables me to work with larger entities and handle any size project proposed without worries about financial issues. I have a wonderful team of iPROMOTEu professionals behind me supporting all initiatives from marketing to creative to sales support and assistance. And, I have many more opportunities to take advantage of supplier resources I ever had before joining forces with iPROMOTEu. I never wanted to be in business for myself. I was a very successful sales person and sales manager but, due to various factors, the distributorship I worked for went out of business. I had to start over after losing about half my book of business when the recession of 2008 hit. That being said, I reached out to Chuck Feldman, who also was hard hit by the recession. We asked each other what we were doing given our situations and each replied, “Don’t know – not sure. What are you thinking?” PromoMonster was born and I was a business owner/partner and iPROMOTEu affiliate.

Theresa

New Fairfield Connecticut

Stay Visible

an adjective that describes me: OPTIMISTIC and POSITIVES

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2000 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2009

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? I no longer have to wear a million hats myself!! And, I finally started taking some vacation time because iPROMOTEu is able to provide the best back- up support I could ever ask for. Three years ago, my company became the primary source of income for our family and if it weren’t for all the ongoing support and attention I received, we would not be in a position to continue in the lifestyle to which our family was accustomed. Affiliating with iPROMOTEu has been life changing – my only regret is that I didn’t join sooner! I have also been able to represent my company as a much larger entity, which is critical to certain clients that we work with. I am proud to say we have an invoice team, a production team and industry thought leaders at our disposal, as well as the financial backing that provides more opportunities and credibility. iPROMOTEu has completely changed the way I approach my business. When I first joined iPROMOTEu in 2009, my sales had been somewhat stagnant. In a few short years, I was able to increase my revenue and profit margin to exceed what I could have ever imagined possible. From unique marketing campaigns, to sales support and strategizing, iPROMOTEu has provided a platform that has helped me focus on growth and potential. There are many contributing factors to my company’s success but none of it could have been possible without the staff members and the resources at iPROMOTEu. iPROMOTEu has managed to become my “work family” and it’s nice to be part of an organization that doesn’t have a “one-size fits all” mentality.

Nenette

Baton Rouge Louisiana

Lemonade Creative Marketing

an adjective that describes me: OPTIMISTIC

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2010 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2011

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has significantly reduced the amount of time that I spend doing administrative work, increasing the amount of time I have to spend doing the things I enjoy! My stress level has also decreased because many of the things that stressed me out before, I no longer have to worry about. By being an affiliate of iPROMOTEu, I am part of a larger group with valuable business resources. On the strategic side, Cliff Quicksell has helped change our mindset and approach to our highly competitive and ever changing industry. Cliff’s assistance with marketing is second to none in the industry. On the tactical side, Guy Dupuis has helped me dive into the day-to-day activities that can help grow the business. Having Guy on the team is like adding a Business Development Manager without incurring the payroll expenses. All in all, I could not imagine what my business would look like without iPROMOTEu. Ross Silverstein and the entire crew of iPROMOTEu are not just business associates but are like an extension of my family. iPROMOTEu has changed my business in so many ways. One important example is by removing the administrative limitation of financing for large orders. This has allowed me to pursue any size account without the stress and hassle of being concerned with how I’m going to get the order financed. Additionally, iPROMOTEu takes care of all of my accounts payable and accounts receivable functions. This is huge because they have taken this very vital task and made it more efficient with timely billing and collections. If there is ever a delay in payment, iPROMOTEu provides a very professional and courteous representative to gently remind clients about their payments and collect. On the accounts payable side, I do not have to fret about lines of credit with our suppliers. Not only that, the pricing that I receive from the suppliers through iPROMOTEu is better, with greater benefits than I could get without being a part of such a powerful buying group.

Gwen

Cumberland Maine

Logo Owl Promotional Advertising

an adjective that describes me: GRATEFUL

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2002 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2008

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? I am very grateful for the support I receive from the staff, but just as important are the friendships I have developed with other affiliates. There are affiliates I keep in regular contact with for advice, venting, and lots of laughs; these relationships are so important to me as working alone can be very isolating. I love that I can attend industry events knowing I will always have a group of people to hang out with and share the experience. It was always my dream to own my own business and work from home. iPROMOTEu came along at the right time and made that possible - for that I am always grateful. I am often reminded of the power of iPROMOTEu when I contact suppliers and receive their special treatment, better pricing and quick responses; those are things I did not get when I worked for my previous employer, a small distributorship. iPROMOTEu allowed me to leave a job working for another distributor and hit the ground running with my own business. I am convinced this would not have happened so quickly and easily if I had tried to do it on my own. iPROMOTEu allows me to take on projects of all sizes quickly and efficiently. I appreciate knowing there is always support and advice available from the iPROMOTEu staff and my fellow affiliates. I am grateful that I can have my own business and run it the way I want, yet have the financial and back office support that helps it all run smoothly.

Christiane

Hideout Utah

MCM Productions

an adjective that describes me: ENERGETIC

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1987 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2005

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? iPROMOTEu has helped me on so many levels. It allowed me to grow when opportunities presented themselves. It allowed me to slow down when I needed to. iPROMOTEu was there to support me when serious health problems struck our family and I was not able to focus on business as usual. With the help of the sales support team, I am able to enjoy extended family vacations knowing that business was taken care of. iPROMOTEu has really helped me to enjoy life. More specifically, with the help of iPROMOTEu’s preferred vendor program, I am able to obtain support and pricing which helped me secure a very large account, something I would not have been able to do as a small distributor. I joined iPROMOTEu after moving to Utah from Massachusetts in 2005. I had a wonderful assistant, but her plans did not include moving to Utah. I was not sure how I would be able to continue at the same rate without her. I thought I’d slow down but business kept coming my way and the next questions was: How will I manage? One day during a phone call from Pat Caccamo, I thought, “this is too good to be true!” After looking carefully at the paperwork, I decided to simply jump in and I never regretted it! As an affiliate, I now have more time to devote to my customers; all the back-office transactions are taken care of.

Brown

Houston Texas

Urban Circle

an adjective that describes me: CHARISMATIC

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2011 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2013

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has changed our business in many ways. First, it has allowed us to do business with higher education and with unlimited resources available. Second, iPROMOTEu has allowed us to have the impression of a top competitor within our local market. And last, the affiliation has allowed us to hire talent and given us time to work within our industry towards building a multimillion-dollar company.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

iPROMOTEu has changed our life by allowing us to grow our business far beyond what we envisioned before we became partners. I can manage our growth and scale five to ten years down the line with confidence because of the assistance of iPROMOTEu.

Gayle

Honolulu Hawaii

G WIZ! PROMOTIONS

an adjective that describes me: FRIENDLY

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1987 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2011

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu allows me to be self-employed without having to spend time on back office work and, at the same time, offer pricing competitive with larger companies.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

I have the flexibility to do as I please.

Ardys

Elko Nevada

Absolute Promotions

an adjective that describes me: BUBBLY

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 1997 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2010

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

iPROMOTEu has changed my business immensely by enabling me to provide the best customer service through firsthand knowledge of products, excellent pricing options and constant education.

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE?

iPROMOTEu has changed my life considerably by allowing me the flexibility to have the life I love. Having my own business allows me to make my own hours, giving me the extra time to spend with my family, friends and pets. I am my own boss and love the challenge of making daily decisions.

Marlene

Lafayette Louisiana

MJL Promotional & Print

an adjective that describes me: DETERMINED

YEAR STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY: 2012 YEAR STARTED WITH iPROMOTEu: 2014

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY BUSINESS?

how has iPROMOTEu changed MY LIFE? Because of this group, which I consider my extended family, I am able to enjoy life to the fullest. For the last five years, I have been caring for my dad, soon to be 90 years old so my sales work is mainly part time. I also have ten grandchildren and I LOVE the free time I am able to spend with them. Without all the services that iPROMOTEu provides me, I would not be able to do all that I need to do for my Dad and clients and also find some personal “me time.” THANK YOU for giving me the opportunities that I have! Eventually, I knew I had to do something to help Tommy’s clients with orders. They were starting to call and needed their goods but I had no idea how to help. Ross and Rick assured me that I knew more than I thought I did. They felt I could do the work and encouraged me to try it. The staff had patience with me and taught me a great deal. My husband was in the industry for several years before learning about and joining iPROMOTEu as an affiliate. As a stay-at-home housewife at that time and a caregiver for my sick mother-in-law, I only knew that my husband sold promotional items with clients’ names imprinted. That was the extent of the industry information I had until I made the trip to Las Vegas and attended the largest trade show I could imagine. Tommy neglected to tell me just how much walking I would do those days! Little did I know how much iPROMOTEu would change my world. In September 2011, my Tommy suddenly died in his sleep. At the funeral home for Tommy’s service, the first visitor I sawA waiting to see me was Ross. He hugged me, shared kind memorable words of the Tommy he knew and wanted me to know how the iPROMOTEu family was there for support. If I wanted, they would do anything they could to monitor Tommy’s orders for me. Ross told me to just take my time and call WHENEVER I had concerns and questions. I received calls and emails letting me know I was being thought of often.

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