Tom Watts
Tom Watts is the Editor of Promotional Directory. Read how we research and check our articles in our editorial policy.
Articles
PenCarrie buys outdoor clothing specialist The Outdoors Company
News · 30 October 2026
PenCarrie has bought The Outdoors Company, the Cheshire supplier of premium outdoor brands with in-house embroidery and printing. It keeps trading under its own name.
The BPMA names the shortlist for its 2026 Product Awards
News · 27 October 2026
The BPMA has shortlisted products in ten categories for its Product Awards 2026, with winners announced in London on 10 December.
How to brief a promotional merchandise supplier
Buying guides · 26 October 2026
What promotional merchandise is, what to put in a brief, which artwork files suppliers need, how proofs, minimum orders and lead times work, and how to compare quotes.
Eco-friendly promotional products and how to check the claims
Buying guides · 26 October 2026
How to check eco claims on promotional products using the CMA Green Claims Code, what common labels such as FSC, GRS and OEKO-TEX cover, and what to ask suppliers.
Embroidery, screen printing, DTF or sublimation? Choosing a decoration method
Buying guides · 26 October 2026
Compare embroidery, screen printing, DTF and DTG, sublimation, pad printing and laser engraving, and find the right method for your products and quantity.
Exhibition and trade show giveaways that people keep
Buying guides · 26 October 2026
How to choose exhibition and trade show giveaways people keep, how many to order, when to order them and what to check before you hand them out.
Staff welcome packs and swag boxes that new starters use
Buying guides · 26 October 2026
What to put in staff welcome packs and swag boxes, how to budget per person, how long orders take and how HMRC rules on staff gifts apply.