PPAI Expo 2026 Recap: Trends, Takeaways & Team Lahlouh’s Favorite Finds

Every January, the PPAI Expo sets the tone for the year in branded merchandise. As the largest promotional products trade show in North America, it's where ideas come to life, innovation is on full display, and future trends start to take shape.

This year, Team Lahlouh came together in Las Vegas to walk the floor, connect with key partners, and experience firsthand what’s driving the promo world forward. What we saw confirmed what we already knew — this industry is evolving fast, and it’s more creative, more thoughtful, and more brand-focused than ever.

Big Takeaways from the Show Floor

We asked our team what stood out — and everyone had a slightly different perspective. But the overlap was telling. The same few themes kept rising to the surface, painting a clear picture of where promo is heading in 2026 and beyond.

Personalization & Experience Are Everything

Christine Lahlouh summed it up best:

“The product is important. The decoration method is elite.”

That shift — from focusing purely on the product to emphasizing how it’s branded and presented — was echoed by many of our team members. Whether it’s intricate embroidery, puff printing, laser engraving, or custom patches, the way a product is decorated can completely transform how it’s received.

Clients want branded items that look and feel like retail. Something people will actually use. And in many cases, it’s the personalization or the delivery that makes it stand out — not just the item itself.

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Activations Drive Engagement

Ivonne Lahlouh noted that the energy on the floor was different this year — more connected, more creative, and finally feeling distant from the post-COVID reset.

“People were happy to be there and the suppliers were excited. The show floor looked amazing.”

That was especially obvious in the activations. Booths that offered interactive elements — like personalizing a journal, choosing your own patch, or watching a product being made — drew consistent crowds. These experiences turn passive giveaways into memorable brand moments, and they’re clearly becoming a must-have at any event or campaign.

It’s a trend we’ve embraced at Lahlouh through Merch Maker, our customizable activation that allows users to select, personalize, and receive branded merch in real time at live events. It brings that same “choose your own swag” energy clients loved at PPAI, and transforms it into a scalable, brand-controlled experience.

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Product Highlights: What Stood Out

Let’s talk specifics. Across tech, apparel, wellness, and desk essentials, these were the standouts from the show floor — according to our team.

Sustainability Meets Style

There was a noticeable increase in products that looked good, felt premium, and also checked the sustainability box. One of the favorites mentioned was GOT BAG, a company turning ocean plastic into minimalist, everyday bags that are both stylish and functional.

Rather than gimmicky “green” products, the sustainable options this year were more refined — focused on longevity and daily use. Think: recycled packaging, reusable drinkware with ergonomic design, and textiles made from recycled cotton or rPET.

Christine noted this shift:

“Be more intentional about your gifting or giveaways.”

It’s not about giving less — it’s about giving better.

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Retail-Inspired Apparel

If there’s one category that’s been completely redefined over the last few years, it’s apparel. Corporate and casual have finally found a middle ground, and it’s showing up in the promo space through elevated basics, sustainable materials, and fresh decoration methods.

Michelle Irwin’s favorite? The Marine Layer Cloud 9 Sueded Jersey Tee — super soft, retail-ready, and effortlessly wearable. Tina Shamieh pointed out the rise of DTF + Puff decoration, creating textured, 3D prints that pop off the fabric. And patches — mentioned by both Tina and Christine — continue to dominate, offering a high-impact branding option at a surprisingly accessible cost.

Ivonne observed a clear rise in “work leisure” styles — clothing that feels like loungewear but presents professionally. Perfect for remote teams, event staff, or high-end client gifting.

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Tech That’s Sleek & Smart

Tech continues to be a top performer in the promo world, but the bar is higher than ever. No more clunky power banks or generic speakers — clients want polished, intuitive, and brand-worthy gadgets.

Michael Lahlouh pointed to the Mophie Slim Powerstation Wireless 5K as a standout.

“I really liked its simplistic design — super slim and fits in a pocket with ease. Plus, it’s got a great MagSafe hold.”

Also spotted: Aura digital frames, solid state chargers with gorgeous packaging, Bluetooth speakers with custom branding, and sleek desktop accessories that blend tech with design.

The common thread? Simplicity, portability, and smart branding.

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Build-It-Yourself Desk Pieces

Katherine Hartlove loved the interactive aspect of the show — especially when it meant you walked away with something you built yourself. One standout was the Infinity Blocks from Joco Innovations — modular kits that allow you to construct anything from a mini structure to a desktop toy.

It’s the kind of promo item that invites creativity and stays on someone’s desk — a win-win for brand visibility.

She also highlighted the customizable Numo Taskpads, where attendees could design and build their own notepads on site, and the bold, energetic look of Spector’s Primary Colors line.

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Trends to Watch for 2026

While much of what we saw at the PPAI Expo is already relevant in 2026, several trends clearly signal what’s coming next.

• Intentional Gifting — The era of “stuff” is over. Clients want items that are thoughtful, useful, and aligned with their brand values.
• On-Demand Merch — Personalized products produced in small batches or made-to-order are gaining traction (Michael)
• Interactive Experiences — Brands aren’t just giving things away — they’re inviting people in. Whether it’s choosing your patch or building a product, engagement matters.
• Modern Workwear — Comfort and polish can (and should) coexist. Expect to see more performance fabrics and fashion-forward fits (Ivonne)
• Leather is Back — Both vegan and genuine options are trending in executive gifts, bags, and accessories (Christine)
• Creative Decoration — From puff prints to layered textures, how your brand shows up on an item is just as important as the item itself

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Our Team on the Ground

This year, we had strong representation across multiple departments — from ownership and product management to account executives and marketing. The cross-functional presence helped us approach the show from every angle — creativity, strategy, execution, and client impact.

Team Lahlouh at PPAI Expo 2026:

• Tony Lahlouh — President & Owner
• Michael Lahlouh — Product Manager & Owner
• Ivonne Lahlouh — Account Executive & Owner
• Christine Lahlouh — Account Executive & Owner
• Tina Shamieh — Account Executive
• Michelle Irwin — Account Executive
• Katherine Hartlove — Marketing & Business Development Specialist
• Norma Arbulu — Brand Experience Manager
• Anya Kabushka — Account Executive

Special shoutout to Anya, who created a visual recap of product highlights. View her curated presentation here.

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What This Means for You

We didn’t just walk the floor — we brought the future of promo back with us. From product ideas and supplier insights to trends in decoration and packaging, we’re more equipped than ever to help our clients stand out in meaningful ways.

If you’re planning:

• A product launch
• A corporate gift
• A client onboarding kit
• A high-impact event giveaway

Let’s talk about how we can help you deliver something that people remember — not just something they take home. Our team is ready to bring ideas, strategy, and execution to the table — all with the creative energy that came out of this year’s show.

Let’s Build Something Better

Looking for ways to level up your brand experience? We’re here for it.

Reach out to your Lahlouh rep — or contact us directly — to start planning something bold, meaningful, and completely custom for 2026, 2025, and beyond.

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