Whether you\u2019re a newcomer to the promo industry or a longtime veteran, there\u2019s always something exciting to experience at ASI Shows. That was true at the recent ASI Show Fort Worth, which took place from March 9 to 11. \u201cThere was a lot of energy, a lot of excitement and a lot of curiosity. That was something that really struck me,\u201d says Tara Lerman, Counselor news editor, who was attending her first promo trade show.<\/p>\n
In this postshow recap episode, Lerman and Counselor Editor-in-Chief C.J. Mittica recall their highlights from the show, including strategies from Education Day (building relationships is crucial) and top trends spotted on the show floor (Made-in-USA merch and elevated drinkware).<\/p>\n
To wrap up the episode, we spoke to Koell Collins, founder of STBL Strategies (asi\/300412), about her show experience and how she\u2019s elevating sustainability with her clients.<\/p>\n
Podcast Chapters<\/p>\n
2:28: <\/a>Education Day takeaways on building relationships Key Takeaways<\/p>\n \u2022 ASI Show Fort Worth education speakers stressed building strong relationships and showing personality sets distributors apart, since many are selling similar products.<\/p>\n \u2022 Despite economic uncertainty and tariffs, most attendees feel optimistic, with the vast majority expecting higher sales in 2026 than in 2025.<\/p>\n \u2022 Fort Worth keynote speaker Nick Friedman, co-founder of College HUNKS Hauling Junk, advised distributors to act more like advisors by recommending a few strong options instead of overwhelming clients, positioning themselves as experts.<\/p>\n \u2022 Key product trends at the show included a surge in Made-in-USA and patriotic merchandise, along with more creative and transparent approaches to sustainability.<\/p>\n \u2022 New opportunities are emerging in areas like modernized workwear and evolving product categories, driven by changing preferences, regulations and end-user needs.<\/p>\n Stay Ahead of the Curve<\/p>\n
6:17: <\/a>Attendee optimism about 2026 sales
9:16: <\/a>Keynote message: Take a prescriptive approach to sales
11:48:<\/a> Top trends from the show
19:00:<\/a> Interview at ASI Fort Worth with Koell Collins of STBL Strategies<\/p>\n