The Sustainable Merch Summit, happening virtually June 10, 2025, brings together forward-thinking leaders to share how transparency, certification, and sustainable practices are reshaping branded merchandise.

This two-hour event will feature live panels, mini keynotes, and real-world insights from some of the people making sustainability work in promo, print, and apparel. If you’re a supplier, decorator, distributor, marketer, business owner, or someone pushing for better practices — this summit is for you.

Sustainable Merch Summit Details

The event is free to attend, but you do have to register. Here are the details:

📅 Tuesday, June 10, 2025
⏰ 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT
🌐 Virtual | Free to attend
📝 Register now: brandedmerchnetwork.com/sustainablemerchsummit

The mix of panels and mini key notes invite attendees to engage with some of the industry leaders in sustainability in a variety of ways. Check out the following lineup of live panels that will take place during the virtual eveetn:

Real Merch. Real Impact. – Why Transparency Matters

Moderated by Theresa Hegel (ASI) – A conversation about clear sourcing, honest storytelling, and the ethical choices that build lasting trust.

“When brands are clear about how their products are made and where they come from, it builds lasting trust. Transparency isn’t optional anymore. It’s a business advantage.”
— Theresa Hegel, Executive Editor, Special Projects & Sustainability, ASI Media

Featuring:

  • Ben Grossman, Swag Cycle
  • Brianna, Mazze, SRG
  • Michele Dando, Facilisgroup

Why Certification Matters – Breaking Down the Standards

Moderated by Cassie Green (Apparelist)

Demystifying sustainability certifications so you can use them as a business tool, not a buzzword.

“Certifications can feel overwhelming, but they’re one of the best tools we have to build transparency and trust in the supply chain. This panel is all about helping our industry use sustainability standards with more clarity and confidence.”
— Cassie Green, Editorial Director, Apparelist

Featuring:

  • Tim Sherry, Hohenstein Institute America
  • Marshall Atkinson, Atkinson Consulting
  • Laura Smith, Storm Creek

Sustainability Sells – Good for the Planet, Great for Business

Moderated by Jay Busselle (Branded Merch Network)

A candid discussion about meeting client demand, driving sales, and making the right call without sacrificing values.

Featuring:

  • Robert Fiveash, BrandFuel
  • Jospeh Sommer, Whitestone
  • Milissa Gibson, Lane Seven Apparel
  • Julie Schneiderman, EcoStiks

In addition to the live panels, the summit will also feature pre-recorded mini-keynotes. These are quick, inspiring stories from industry leaders on what’s working, what’s changing, and why it matters.

Featuring:

  • Ryan Moor & Mel Lay – Allmade Apparel
  • Sara Osorio – PRINTING United Alliance
  • Steven Baumgaertner – Cybergroup International
  • Josh Ellsworth – STAHLS’​
  • Garry Bell – US Trust Cotton Protocol
  • Eric Henry – TS Designs

Who Should Attend?

This event is designed for professionals across the promo, print, and apparel space who are ready to move beyond buzzwords. If you’re looking for ways to lead with values, improve how you source and sell, and meet growing client demand for sustainability — you’ll want to be in the room.