Last month, thousands of promotional product professionals descended on the Windy City for ASI Chicago for three days of education, inspiration, and new connections. The Facilisgroup team came back from the tradeshow ready to take on the rest of the year. What did they learn at ASI Chicago? And what tips do they have for first-time visitors? We asked some of our leaders who attended ASI Chicago for a deeper dive into this year’s event.

Matthew Cromar, Chief Product Officer

Although this was your first ASI Chicago, how did this compare to other tradeshows you have attended in the past in different industries? What stood out most to you?  

Matthew Cromar: ASI Chicago was a unique experience compared to other tradeshows I’ve attended in different industries. The promotional products industry has a distinct energy, with a strong focus on creativity and innovation in marketing. A standout aspect was the variety of products and the creativity that goes into how they can be decorated. The event also had a strong community feel, with exhibitors and attendees eager to connect and collaborate. The passion and enthusiasm was inspiring. I was also proud to see many of our Distributor Partners come out on top in the 2024 Counselor Awards.

As Facilisgroup’s CPO, what was your overall goal for attending ASI Chicago? 

Matthew Cromar: My primary goal for attending ASI Chicago was to gain a deeper understanding of the latest trends and innovations in the promotional products industry. As Facilisgroup’s Chief Product Officer, it’s crucial for me to stay ahead of industry developments and identify opportunities to integrate new ideas into our product offerings. I also wanted to network with industry leaders and potential partners and explore collaboration opportunities that could benefit our clients and the industry as a whole.

What was the most impactful piece you took away from your experience at ASI? 

Matthew Cromar: The most impactful takeaway from ASI Chicago was the importance of sustainability in the promotional products industry. Many exhibitors showcased eco-friendly products which highlighted this growing trend towards sustainable practices. This aligns with a broader shift in consumer preferences and provides valuable insights for Facilisgroup as we work with suppliers that incorporate sustainable options into their offerings. The emphasis on sustainability underscored the industry’s commitment to not just innovation but also responsible practices.

What’s something you’ll do differently for the next ASI event? What piece of advice do you wish someone had told you before going to the show? 

Matthew Cromar: For the next ASI event, I plan to allocate more time for attending educational sessions and workshops. I learned a lot from these sessions about market trends and best practices. I would advise future attendees to schedule meetings in advance with key exhibitors and industry leaders in order to maximize networking opportunities. I would also advise that you bring comfortable footwear as the exhibit hall is huge!

Final Thoughts? 

Matthew Cromar: I’d like to highlight the role of technology in transforming the promotional products industry. From digital platforms that streamline ordering processes to innovative tools for product customization, technology is definitely driving positive change. At Facilisgroup, we are committed to leveraging technology to enhance our client’s experiences and provide them with cutting-edge solutions. ASI Chicago was a great platform to see these technologies in action and get inspired by what’s possible in the future.

Michele Dando, Vice President of Supplier Relations

How many ASI Chicago Shows have you attended in your promo career? 

Michele Dando: This was my 1^st ASI Chicago. I’ve attended ASI Orlando previously and while that is a fantastic experience, I feel this mid-year ASI is so important as we prepare for the second half of the year.

What does a typical tradeshow appearance, especially ASI, look like for you as Facilisgroup’s VP of Supplier Relations? 

Michele Dando: For me and my role, the tradeshow experience gives me the opportunity to see many of our Preferred Suppliers, what new products and product lines they are offering, and an opportunity to layer in strategic meetings in a condensed time frame. The show also gives me the chance to catch up with our Distributor Partners who are attending and scope out potential suppliers to bring into the Preferred Supplier Network. I am an observer and as I walk the floor, I note whose booth is getting a lot of attention and then why….new product line?  New concept? Is marketing pulling them in? It's truly an opportunity for me to review the past, present, and future in the span of a few days.

What else happened during ASI Chicago when the tradeshow floor lights turned off? 

Michele Dando: The Counselor Awards are presented during ASI Chicago and it’s great to see who is making an impact in our industry. Suppliers host great events in the evenings so be sure to not skip out on those — great opportunity to network and have fun.

What does attending ASI Chicago mean to you and your team? 

Michele Dando: It’s our community in action and to be a part of the experience elevates how we can contribute to and support our Partners and Preferred Suppliers. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and network.

What advice do you have for folks who have never attended ASI Chicago? What should they expect and prepare for? 

Michele Dando: As with any show, your shoe game is crucial, and being comfortable is key to surviving! I went the Puma sneaker route and thank goodness because I tripled my step goal daily. Build a plan before the show, no matter your role there is so much happening, and you want to maximize your time. I go into the show with meetings in place along with everything I want to attend blocked out. I leave times open in the event that something pops up.   

Rodney Kelly, Vice President of Sales

How many ASI Chicago Shows have you attended in your promo career? 

Rodney Kelly: This is my 3^rd time attending ASI Chicago.

What does a typical tradeshow appearance, especially ASI, look like for you as Facilisgroup’s VP of sales? 

Rodney Kelly: We aim to make a splash with our booth, engaging demos, and awesome team. At ASI, you'll find us sharing insights about our innovative solutions, networking with industry leaders, and, of course, having a bit of fun along the way. It's all about showcasing how Facilisgroup can elevate businesses in the promotional products industry while building lasting relationships.

What does attending ASI Chicago mean to you and your team? 

Rodney Kelly: Attending ASI Chicago is one of the highlights of our year. It’s our chance to connect face-to-face with current and potential partners, share our latest developments, and soak up the latest industry trends. For my team, it's an opportunity to demonstrate our passion and expertise while learning from the best in the business. Plus, the Chicago vibe always adds an extra layer of excitement!

What’s a good piece of advice for attracting people to your booth at a big tradeshow like this? 

Rodney Kelly: Make it interactive and engaging! People are drawn to booths where they can experience something hands-on. Whether it’s a fun game, a live demo, or a presentation, creating an interactive experience will make your booth a must-visit. And don’t forget the power of a friendly smile and a warm welcome — hospitality goes a long way!

What stood out to you this year compared to in years past? 

Rodney Kelly: Besides the weather this year, the sense of community and innovation really stood out. There was an incredible buzz around new technologies and sustainable solutions, reflecting the industry's forward-thinking mindset. It’s clear that everyone is excited about the future and eager to collaborate and grow.

What advice do you have for folks who have never attended ASI Chicago? What should they expect and prepare for? 

Rodney Kelly: ASI Chicago is a hub of activity with opportunities to learn and connect. Wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of business cards, and have a game plan for which booths and sessions you want to hit. Be open to new experiences and take advantage of the chance to network — some of the best connections are made in casual conversations. And, most importantly, have fun!

Final thoughts? 

Rodney Kelly: I’d just like to add how grateful we are to be part of such a dynamic and supportive industry. ASI Chicago is more than just a tradeshow for us; it’s a celebration of our shared passion for promotional products and the incredible potential we have to make a difference. So, if you haven’t heard of Facilisgroup yet, give us a call —we’d love to meet you and share how we can help your business thrive!