This week, Steve Woodburn, former president of Georgia Association for Promotional Products Professionals and current Relationship Manager for Pinnacle Promotions joined us on Midtown Business Radio. GAPPP is a not-for-profit regional association formed to promote the highest level of promotional product standards to their members and to provide a fun, positive environment for professional growth and development with education and support. GAPPP had a very informal beginning in the early 1960’s as the Advertising Specialty Association of Atlanta. Membership was only open to Distributors. In the mid 70’s, they opened membership to suppliers’ reps, who have become an important part of the organization. In 1979, GAPPP was named National Association of the Year and recognized by The Counselor.
In the late 1990’s, the Specialty Advertising Association International changed its name to the Promotional Products Association International. Under the leadership of Lisa Bibb, the SAAGA Board decided to change the name of the Georgia association in 1999. The purpose of the change to Georgia Association of Promotional Products Professionals was to place the association in alignment with the international association; to reflect the changed nature of the promotional products industry, and to emphasize the professionalism of our members. The annual signature event, GAPPP University (then called ESP), began in 1975. Suppliers and hundreds of salespeople join together each year for a full day of education whereby ten suppliers present 20 minutes sessions showcasing case studies of their products. The ten suppliers are chosen by the membership and change each year. The following day is large traditional tradeshow representing hundreds of suppliers – GAPPP Expo. In 2010, GAPPP members will be able to bring their end-users to highlight the year’s newest products and services.
If you are are an employee of a supplier or a distributor in the promotional products industry, GAPPP invites you to join the association and become a part of an organization with over 200 members committed to the promotional products industry and its growth.
Special Guest:
Steve Woodburn, Relationship Manager of Pinnacle Promotions
- Former President, Georgia Association of Promotional Products Professionals (2000)
- Previous Board Member, PPAI (2006-08
- Master Advertising Specialist (MAS) designation for continuing education 2004
- Former Radio show host/traffic anchor
