"Branding Your Image"!

Each year we start with great expectation and optimism that the next 12 months will be better than the last. And most of the time it is, but we might lose that perspective if we miss out on the "happy" part of the greeting.  From reflecting on how much we are surrounded by; new babies, health, opportunity to be on the net and read this post and so much more.  New fashions, foods, means to travel and engage our world sure are "happy" highlights to 2025- the challenge and excitement to engage new technologies and expand our world/ work views. Let's start taking note and embrace what 2026 has for us, may be some tough times, sad ones, but a lot of "happy" points sprinkled in and though each day.  Have a "Happy" New Year and let's work together is making it special as well!  

  Many businesses invest in recycled and biodegradable swag but overlook the impact of their print materials . Sustainable printing isn’t just about reducing waste - it’s a chance to reinforce your brand values, inspire employees to embrace sustainability, and show customers that your commitment goes beyond words.   Switching to eco-friendly print collateral is now simpler and more affordable than ever. Here’s how: • Choose paper with 10-100% post-consumer recycled content     • Work with energy-efficient, zero-waste production facilities     • Request eco-conscious or plant-based inks     • Opt for 100% recycled packaging materials     • Support reforestation initiatives by planting trees to offset paper use     • Choose carbon-neutral shipping services   Sustainable Print P...

What the heck is going on with Tariffs? What steps is your company taking to avoid higher costs on swag, apparel, and event materials? New tariff increases on Chinese imports, along with upcoming tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, are set to drive up costs across our industry and many others. Price increases are expected to impact a wide range of branded merchandise including promotional products, custom apparel, event materials, recognition items, and business printing. How can you stay ahead of these changes? • Take advantage of bulk pricing. Larger orders often qualify for deeper discounts - ask about price breaks to maximize your budget. • Plan your branded merchandise for the full year. Lock in pricing now for upcoming events, gifting programs, and company store items. • Ask about alternative products. We can recommend similar, cost-effective items that fit your brand and budget. • Consider domestic production options. We source from...

 It's a new year and now is the time to change habits or patterns- how we advertise often falls back into what we think is working vs what really does- A quick drive down most streets will expose you to bad habits, poor marketing- we think our logo is so important, our name matters but till we become an industry known player its wishful thinking. Break the habit of me, myself and I- work to promote what your buyers need- answer "what's my service", "how can I be found" and "have I made it easy to read, so they can find me?" This was brought to mind as I drove home a few days ago and passed a number of yard signs- it struck me that I couldn't see what they were advertising, so I stopped, backed up and took a picture less than 20 feet from one just to figure it out. I am sure this is a nice person even a good company but till I blew up the image, didn't have a clue what they did- Next time you have an ad done, a sign made, etc., be critical w...

It's the holiday season and the bad guys are hard at work and the costs get pushed to all of us! How much less expensive would products be without the fraud and counterfeiting (not including the salaries of the 15,000 employees they hire to fight this crime). One of the recent crazy stories is those who figured they could clone the Promotional Products Industries 2023 Product of the Year-  Knockoff Stanley Tumblers As we move into the season, and into 2025, this is a great reminder to choose your providers carefully, purchase from known reputable suppliers who are committed to you and your good will-  Be reminded that "if it seems too good to be true, it probably is."   Say no and move on to a better and safer provider. Wishing you a blessed Merry Christmas and a successful New Year!

Chef Ule- Mikuni Sushi  A counselor once told me, "you can play it safe but life can be boring"- taking a risk, mixing up the norm and trying something new brings color and excitement each day. For businesses, doing the same thing the same way is a rut, and a rut is a "grave with the ends kicked out." Look for ways to change your processes, ask: Who you are presenting your solutions to? What you are offering that's unique today? Where are you showing up or offering solutions? When are you in touch, their best time or yours? How you engage your clients, in person, email, virtual or? For me, I like to try new foods- like eating the whole fish, bones and all- brings great fun, wonderful looks and special interactions- step back and reflect on the last risky, challenging thing you have done and look for another this week! Need some inspiration, checkout what the Savannah Bananas are doing- lots online from Jesse Cole Jesse Cole’s Marketing Strategy Behind the Savann...

ECO IS HOT! According to industry surveys, 45% of consumers in the 11 Western states have a stronger impression of advertisers who use and promote environmentally friendly products. *                   It's not like the "old days" when eco products were scratchy, poor quality and unappealing.

  NDS is 2 days away from hosting one of the largest promo shows in NorCal- some call what we sell "trash-n-trinkets", but the size and impact of the industry shows it's far more than that- just look at what the ASI Industry Impressions Study* revealed for the lifetime number of impressions by product.  What else can you think of that has the reach and impact as promotional items, most of us aren't "influencers" but we still influence many around us by what we wear, handout or sell.  As you walk about, consider all the billboards (people you pass) and what they are advertising and ask, "how can I get them to rock my brand?" Maybe a lot easier than you think, just need to find the right product and message and you can be memorable!  Oh, we'd be honored to help you along the way~ *Source ASI 2023 Impressions Study

 Sometimes life feels like speedway bikes, 0-60mph in 3 seconds, with NO BRAKES! Part of being successful in business and life in general, is to not let the rush overwhelm you that you lose sight of the goal, that you miss the journey as well. Coach John Wooden said it best, "Be quick but don't hurry"  It's summer, lot of great opportunities ahead, kick it into gear and enjoy the ride!

When you live and work in a branded world everything becomes the canvas to show off your pride. Why rock retail brands when you can add your company or personal logo to almost anything. Today with new technologies and the rush to provide custom manufactured pieces that reach an audience of one, your imagination is the only limiting factor. Now with AI, even that can be overcome- NDS Solutions IdeaBot (nds-solutions.com) Have fun, may be design a branded beach themed get-away, i.e., canopy, swim gear, drinkware and towels... yeah that sound like a fun, more fun to test live at the coast! 

  Wishing everyone a wonderful and blessed Christmas from NDS!  And an even better 2024~

 On a recent trip to Seattle, I was exposed me to a really unique taste experience- savory ice cream, who knew! From "Creepy Crawly Critters" to "Turkey Stuffing & Cranberry"- though samples were offered, did I try... nope 😀 Traditional flavors for me, Chocolate and Cinnamon got my attention, but those who tried it said it was amazing. In this diverse country, at this amazing time when we celebrate the blessings we enjoy, maybe a small step outside of our normal pattern would grow our worldview, enable us to understand others better- think I missed a chance to have something unique to discuss with those in line, to find a common joy of new things. I hope that this Thanksgiving, Christmas season brings a wealth of new experiences, even "Prime Rib sherbet!"  Blessings! 

  In 2021 the South Lake Tahoe region was impacted by wildfires, driving into the region is much like our current business environment- some lost areas, isolated, abandoned stands without any life. But areas are green oasis of life, that are still vibrantly standing, offering shelter to animals and birds. Part of what we do as a Company is help business promote themselves, so clients know they are still around and ready to assist.  So the question is, what is representing your current business health, what is setting you apart from those who have gone under?  We'd be honored to assist you stand apart!

Small Things Add-Up  I believe we succeed by how faithful we are 1st in how we handle small things, then we are entrusted with bigger things. There are many stories of those getting the "golden" ring to implode on the rock of fame and fortune. This became clearer when I relooked at my favorite Saturday habit, my cheat day run to BJ's, baked pecan rolls, donuts and more- The owners are special people, running a loyal staff who churn out donuts so good that people will wait in line 40 deep to get their fix. It boggles my mind to get a handle how many donuts they sell to afford to have a comfortable lifestyle (they talk about pounds of dough vs donut count)- Many of us look for that "homerun sale", "BIG DEAL" but steady and consistent equates to success by any measure. Take a moment, grab a donut and reflect on how small things really do add up t bigger things!

 

 There seems to be a lot of debate about the need to "go back to the office"- part of the argument is centered around the synergy of team interaction. Yet many businesses have been successfully navigating the work from home scenario- the biggest challenge is how do we stay connected and not lose key employees, the brain trust, assets that make us successful! NDS can assist making sure you can touch both groups with an online store, these powerful tools can help you keep your team connected, your company brand upfront and help you with employee retention. We have been offering to help you establish your own site, at no charge, during these still challenging times- our offer still stands.  Our goal is to help you be successful... ask us how, we want to help~

 After 25 years in business, each day I am reminded how much I am grateful for the NDS family, our clients and vendors- we have been through much and share an amazing journey. Like so many, I recently realized how much of what I do is in the daily challenge to let GO. The old man wants to hang-on, be in control, but the act of trusting others, to step out (maybe even take time-off) and allow the team to make decisions and set another direction is what has held us through it all. In these challenging times, as I was reflecting the more I let go, the more freeing and fun "work" was.  It is easy in a managerial role to think "the buck stops here" or "unless I decide, it's not happening"- what a mistake, trusting others,, the step of faith in trusting co-workers is a powerful management action, allowing mental well-being, emotional health and overall a better outcome, even opens the door to a more stress-free lifestyle. So I recommend we all stop what we a...

  Just a reminder, promo is still the best method to connect your name/brand to your team or clients- to that end PLEASE take time to start your orders for any 4th quarter needs. Like most industries we are being impacted by shipping congestion, warehouse shortages, staffing issues. Those who order today will have the advantage of lower prices, more to choose from and less stress overall. America's biggest warehouse is running out of room — it's about to get worse (nypost.com)

Part of staying positive is keeping the focus on a better future- to that end NDS is hosting largest promo show in NorCal the Branding Expo! Over 100+ providers, leaders in the industry are exhibiting- great day to focus new ideas, friends and new goals! https://lnkd.in/dazZrnUE

  Making plans to succeed in a post-Covid business environment- while we all wish and want for past years ease of supply and demand, we must adapt to the current cycle dealt us all. The lockdowns in China have all but stopped their major ports from being able to ship products, and when it does open up, the US ports will be again overwhelmed, forcing more delays in getting products to the warehouses- ultimately to our clients. Again, patience, proactive planning and flexibility will be the keys to moving forward and staying relevant to you consumers. When Mikuni began (my fav!), now the largest sushi restaurant chain in NorCal, they couldn't buy fish, so they offered and stayed in business selling veggie rolls :) Relook at what inventory you do have, what you can get and rethink of your own business as a side hustle; be renewed, refocused and refreshed at the challenge to breakout of the rut we have unconsciously fallen into- hungry, want a roll?