APPA: Tell us a little bit about yourself- what is your role at your company and what does this involve?
Glen Greenberg: I am a 30-year industry veteran and current Director of ASB Branded Merchandise Sydney.
APPA: What made you want to work in the promotional products industry and why?
GG: I am originally from the sporting apparel industry and my path naturally moved into the corporate apparel market. I haven’t looked back since!
APPA: What did you want to be when you were growing up?
GG: A lawyer.
APPA: What is your prediction for the promotional products industry in 2024?
GG: I can definitely see sustainability playing a big role in the industry this year. From a Board perspective, APPA’s role is to alter the perception of the promotional products industry to reduce what we are sending to landfill. This is up to all of us- suppliers and distributors.
APPA: What's the most unusual or interesting request you've ever received from a client in the promotional industry?
GG: When Katy Perry came to Australia a few years ago, we received a request for branded toilet paper with songs printed throughout the roll. Very bizarre.
APPA: What is the biggest misconception people have about the promotional industry, and why is it not true?
GG: There is a popular belief that our industry is full of cheap, giveaway products. This, as we all know, is so far from the truth. The industry has changed so much that in reality our offering is now lead by brand name products and genuine, quality items that are both premium and perfect for high-end, corporate gifting.
APPA: Can you share a funny or memorable experience you've had at an industry event or trade show?
GG: APPA trade shows are always buzzing and packed with activity, but the fun really starts at the Awards night when we all get together as one to celebrate what we all do best. There are no competitors here, only friends regardless of whether they are distributors or suppliers.
APPA: If you could create a promotional product for a famous celebrity, who would it be and what would the product be?
GG: It would be great to design and supply a unique, quality lifestyle product for one of my all time favourites Jamie Oliver. Anything to be able to work closely with a guy like that! If not, then something sport related for Pat Cummins (Australian Cricket Captain).
APPA: If the promotional products industry had a theme song, what would it be and why?
GG: “Hit me with your Best Shot” by Pat Benatar. Every day we get pushed to provide miracles for our clients, hit a certain budget, meet an impossible deadline, or find the right solution – you name it, we have to find a way to do it. So I say "Hit me with your best shot", and I’ll make it happen.
