
Education: July 21, 2026
Exhibits: July 22-23, 2026
McCormick Place
North Building
Discover all the sessions and events to make the most of your ASI Show experience.
View/Print PDF of Schedule Download Education Handouts|
Track |
![]() Entrepreneur's Essentials |
![]() Marketing Success |
![]() Product Decoration |
Business-Building Fundamentals |
Factory Tour of Soardist |
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Sponsor |
asi/88984 |
asi/88083 |
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8 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
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8 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
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9 - 9:50 a.m. |
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10 - 10:50 a.m. |
N231
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N229
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10 a.m. - 1:20 p.m.
of Soardist Meet in the Registration Lobby by 9:50 a.m.
Bus seating is limited.First come, first served. |
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11 - 11:50 a.m. |
N231
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12 - 1:20 p.m. |
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1:30 - 2:10 p.m. |
1:30 - 3 p.m.
N231
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N229
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2:20 - 3 p.m. |
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3:10 - 4 p.m. |
N231
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N229
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4:10 - 5 p.m. |
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5 - 6 p.m. |
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8 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
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8:30 - 9:45 a.m. |
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10 a.m. - 5 p.m. |
EXPO HALL OPEN |
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11 - 11:50 a.m. |
Booth #1500
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12 - 12:50 p.m. |
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1 - 1:50 p.m. |
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2 - 2:50 p.m. |
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3 - 3:50 p.m. |
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4 - 4:50 p.m. |
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6:45 - 10 p.m. |
Spirit of Chicago
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8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. |
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8:30 - 9:45 a.m. |
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10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. |
EXPO HALL OPEN |
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11 - 11:50 a.m. |
Booth #1500
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12 - 12:50 p.m. |
Booth #1500
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2:30 - 3 p.m. |
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Grow your business with information-packed sessions to help you stay ahead of the competition, connect with clients and close more deals.
These sessions will show you how to successfully market your business - and yourself. You'll learn to use social media tools to achieve your goals, and leave with strategies and tips to really stand out from the crowd.
Taught by decoration experts, these interactive sessions feature innovative heat press techniques, decorating machinery in action, and advice on choosing the best products and printing methods for your clients' campaigns.
In these sessions you'll dive into the latest version of ASI's ESP+ – the industry's largest, most accurate sourcing and marketing service – and see how AI can help grow your sales. Plus, you'll find out how you can enter the printing industry, and see the product trends that will drive Q4 and holiday gifting.
Take a break from the show floor and discover ways to improve your sales and social media skills, and dive into the latest version of ASI's ESP.
Take a break from the show floor and dive into the latest version of ASI's ESP, see how AI can help grow your sales, and learn how to make the best product recommendations for your buyers.

With so many great events taking place at the ASI Show, it can be a daunting task trying to fit everything in. As a new attendee, we know how important it is for you to get the most out of the time you have - but where do you start? Join ASI Co-Chair Matthew Cohn as he shares great tips for working the show more effectively, and hear about all the free services and amenities available to distributors/decorators while at an ASI Show.

Starting out as a promotional products distributor is an exciting time, and with a little help from our experts, it can be a seamless transition for your business. Learn all about the industry and the first steps to take to ensure your success, including establishing a business plan, targeting the correct markets, using the right tools and resources, continuing your industry education and so much more.

If you've ever wondered exactly what AI is – and how can it genuinely help you run your distributorship more efficiently – this session is for you! Cutting through all the hype and jargon, this session will break down the essential AI concepts you need to understand, and show you three powerful, free or low-cost tools that can automate key daily tasks, predict future trends and instantly clarify your business data. This is your practical, fear-free introduction to the future of small-business success.
During this event you'll enjoy lunch and conversation with your distributor peers, and see the latest products and trends from suppliers - plus, you'll learn the best ways to pitch them to your clients.
PLEASE NOTE: A ticket is required to guarantee your free lunch. Pick up your ticket (1 per person) at the Education Desk starting at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 21. Ticket holders must arrive by 12:05 p.m.

Tired of waiting for leads to come to you? This session will break down a simple, repeatable outbound sales process that gets results – without grinding you and your team into the ground. Whether you're starting from scratch or need to reboot your outreach, this is where predictable sales growth begins. Don't miss this chance to discover:

Building a successful distributorship requires a thoughtful approach throughout the life of the company. This session will share the steps you need to take to make your company as profitable and as valuable as possible. Even if your business is brand-new, you'll be confident you're on the right path to building a resilient and prosperous distributorship while planning for the future of your employees, your customers and yourself. You'll leave knowing:

Too often, distributors mistake their daily point-of-contact for the person who holds the power to approve a deal. In this session, you'll learn how to tell when you're stuck too low in the organization, how to respectfully navigate upward and how to tailor your pitch to resonate with the real decision-makers. You'll leave ready to:
During this interactive final session of the day, you'll hear from many of the ASI Show's speakers as they recap the most important takeaways from their sessions. Don't miss this chance to pick up some effective strategies you may have missed.
Don't miss this exclusive preview of NEW products that suppliers will highlight in their booths on both Exhibit Days. You'll enjoy free beer, wine and soft drinks while getting insider sales tips from suppliers.

The way people buy, trust and engage with businesses has changed more in the last five years than in the last 50. Big companies are still relying on volume and carefully polished slogans, but small firms are winning by being real, agile and relatable. In a world flooded with messaging and consumer skepticism, buyer behavior data proves that showcasing your authenticity is the new competitive edge. This session will reveal practical strategies to help you:

Trying to serve every customer can halt your business growth. In this session, you'll learn how focusing on a specific niche can drive more revenue, deliver better clients and create faster momentum. You'll hear real strategies used by top distributors who scaled by going narrow, not wide, and leave knowing:

Responding to RFPs doesn't have to be frustrating. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, this session will explore how AI tools can streamline your process and help you respond faster, smarter and more strategically – even with limited resources. Whether you're just starting to use AI or looking to optimize your current tools, you'll walk away with a practical plan to modernize your RFP process, including how to:

You know AI can help you write a blog post, but that's just the start! In this session, you'll go deeper and discover how to use AI to uncover hidden customer needs, automate competitive analysis, rapidly A/B test your entire sales pitch, build highly targeted ads and even conduct targeted outreach – all without needing a large team or a marketing degree. Don't miss this chance to learn five strategies to grow your client list starting today.

Today's buyers crave authenticity over traditional advertising, and the old model of one-size-fits-all messaging is falling flat. This session will explore the Marketing Mosaic, a fresh approach that replaces the single-message mindset with a dynamic collection of micro-stories. These small strategic narratives reveal the real people, values and moments behind your brand – building trust, sparking connection and creating a lasting impression. You'll leave ready to:

Details coming soon

Details coming soon

Dave Conner is the director of product marketing for Stahls' Fulfill Engine. With over 15 years in the apparel decorating and custom print industry, he blends creativity, technology and market insights to help brands and decorators succeed in the evolving world of print on demand.
In Conner's role at Stahls' Fulfill Engine, he leads product marketing and education, making it easier for businesses to sell, scale and fulfill custom products. He has helped thousands of apparel decorators of all sizes achieve their goals and become confident, capable professionals in control of their businesses.
Details coming soon

Dave Conner is the director of product marketing for Stahls' Fulfill Engine. With over 15 years in the apparel decorating and custom print industry, he blends creativity, technology and market insights to help brands and decorators succeed in the evolving world of print on demand.
In Conner's role at Stahls' Fulfill Engine, he leads product marketing and education, making it easier for businesses to sell, scale and fulfill custom products. He has helped thousands of apparel decorators of all sizes achieve their goals and become confident, capable professionals in control of their businesses.
Details coming soon

Details coming soon


Summer is more than a season – it's a mindset. From outdoor experiences to wellness routines to on-the-go lifestyles, today's consumers are embracing products that enhance how they live, travel and connect during the warmer months and beyond.
In this session, the experts at PCNA will reveal the top trends shaping merch demand and how they translate into sales opportunities. Backed by market insights and real-world examples, you'll discover what's resonating with end-users now and how to turn those insights into sales. You'll walk away with fresh ideas, trend-forward product inspiration and the strategies you need to spark engagement, win clients and drive sales throughout Q3 and Q4.

Details coming soon

Selling print doesn't have to be intimidating, but many promo distributors hesitate to recommend print-heavy products due to misconceptions surrounding cost, complexity and consistency. In this session, you'll debunk the myths and gain the knowledge and language you need to confidently present print solutions to clients. Plus, you'll hear case studies of distributors who grew their business by leaning into print and discover how sharing your knowledge can help you stand out in a crowded market.

Details coming soon
Kick off the first Exhibit Day with engaging, energized networking. This interactive session opens with an easy stretching session led by Lori Bolton, a licensed yoga instructor, wellness coach and VP of key accounts at Counselor Top 40 supplier The Magnet Group (asi/68507). After loosening up body and mind, you'll dive into small-group problem-solving with other distributors to work out key business concerns, pain points and obstacles to overcome. Mark your calendar for this dynamic mix of discussion and discovery, plus a free breakfast!
First come, first served.

Details coming soon

Are your social posts getting lost in the feed? In this actionable session, you'll discover the real-world strategies that helped PCNA transform its social presence into a powerful marketing tool. From time-saving content planning to finding the right platform mix and boosting engagement with minimal spend, you'll get expert insights to cut through the noise and connect with customers. You'll walk away with fresh ideas, sample post frameworks and practical tips you can immediately apply to grow your own business on social, no matter your team size or budget.
Sponsor
asi/78897

Responding to RFPs doesn't have to be frustrating. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, this session will explore how AI tools can streamline your process and help you respond faster, smarter and more strategically – even with limited resources. Whether you're just starting to use AI or looking to optimize your current tools, you'll walk away with a practical plan to modernize your RFP process, including how to:

Building a successful distributorship requires a thoughtful approach throughout the life of the company. This session will share the steps you need to take to make your company as profitable and as valuable as possible. Even if your business is brand-new, you'll be confident you're on the right path to building a resilient and prosperous distributorship while planning for the future of your employees, your customers and yourself. You'll leave knowing:

Selling uniform programs offers distributors a powerful opportunity to create long-term, predictable income through ongoing replenishment, seasonal updates and employee turnover. These programs also strengthen customer relationships by embedding your services into their daily operations, making you a trusted partner rather than a transactional vendor. In this session, you'll discover tips and tactics for selling uniforms to some of the top promo markets, and see how programs also encourage upselling of complementary products like PPE, footwear and branded accessories.
Sponsor
asi/98258

Allee Bruce is an editor at PRINTING United Alliance, where she leads content for Promo Impressions and contributes across the Alliance's portfolio of print-focused brands. With eight years in the printing industry, she has covered various segments, including apparel decoration, wide-format and promotional products.
Promo distributors may not print products themselves, but their reputation hinges on the quality and consistency of the print partners they choose. In this session, you’ll learn how to build and maintain a strong, diversified printer network that supports your business goals and delivers exceptional results for your clients. From vetting suppliers to managing proofing and quality control, you’ll hear practical insights to help you become a trusted print consultant and grow your sales without added overhead.
This invitation-only event honors outstanding individuals in the promo industry including the Person of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, Distributor and Supplier Entrepreneurs of the Year, and many more, as well as recognizes the Top 40 suppliers and distributors.
Set sail for an unforgettable evening aboard the Spirit of Chicago. Enjoy a night of music, great food and high-energy fun as we celebrate America250 in true patriotic style!
The experience begins at 6:45 p.m. with boarding at Navy Pier. At PROMPTLY 7:15 p.m., the ship departs for a spectacular dinner cruise, culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display over the Chicago skyline. Stars, stripes and celebration – this is one night you don't want to miss.
Purchase tickets in registration.

Damola Adamolekun is a globally recognized business leader and dynamic speaker whose journey from Nigeria to the boardrooms of America embodies resilience, excellence and bold leadership.
He is the Chief Executive Officer of Red Lobster – the world's largest seafood restaurant company – where he's leading the iconic brand's transformation for a new generation. Widely regarded as one of the most influential executives today, he was named to Fortune's “100 Most Powerful People in Business” and has been featured by The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, Forbes, CNBC, CNN, Bloomberg and the Harvard Business Review, among others.
At age 36, Adamolekun became the youngest CEO in Red Lobster's history and was previously the youngest CEO in the history of P.F. Chang's, where he steered the company through the COVID-19 pandemic and revitalized one of America's most beloved Asian dining brands.
Born in Nigeria and raised across Africa, Europe and the U.S., Adamolekun's story is one of grit, global perspective and relentless pursuit of excellence. A graduate of Brown University, where he studied Economics and Political Science and played on the Ivy League Champion football team, he also earned an MBA from Harvard Business School, fueling his belief that success is built on discipline, action and the habit of excellence.
At just 36 years old, Damola Adamolekun took the helm of Red Lobster as it navigated rough waters that threatened to sink it – including bankruptcy, shuttered locations and more than $1 billion in debt. Under his leadership, the company has reset its course, and sales are on the rise as younger guests discover the iconic brand.
In this candid Q&A, Adamolekun will share how he helped steady the ship – what he tackled first, what he cut loose and what he rebuilt from the keel up – offering practical moves you can use in your own business. You'll discover how to:
Don't miss this opportunity to gain a proven strategy for winning customers, restoring relevance, earning loyalty and driving profitable growth – no matter the size of your ship.

Details coming soon

Details coming soon
Come experience the action firsthand! Soardist USA (asi/88083) is inviting you to visit their domestic production facility in the heart of Chicago. Join the team for an expert-led tour and discover how Soardist creates popular, affordable display and apparel products.
You'll follow a full production life cycle from artwork to final product, showcasing industry-leading print technology from Durst. Plus, you'll learn about the full product lineup, including tents, table covers, flags, fabric displays, bags and apparel. All attendees will receive Soardist samples and a special discount offer. Free transportation and lunch from a Chicago-favorite taco truck will be provided.
Meet in the Registration Lobby by 9:50 a.m. with your Show ID Badge. Tour attendance is limited and is strictly first come, first served.
The best way to end your ASI Show experience is at the Closing Celebration, where you can collect new friends' business cards and relax before heading home. Enjoy beer, wine and other beverages while the DJ spins some tunes.
Exciting prizes will also be given away during the ASI Passport drawing.
While at ASI Shows, ASI distributor members can participate in the ASI Passport. Don't just scan the show floor - this is your opportunity to learn more about the participating ASI Passport exhibitor participants and their products, and your chance to win amazing prizes. When visiting each participating exhibitor, ask them their question provided on your ASI Passport, fill in the answer, get a sticker and add your information. Then, drop off your completed Passport at Registration and you could win one of a variety of exciting prizes! Winners are chosen at each ASI Show during the Closing Celebration.
Must be 18 or older to win.
Winner must be present to receive the prize.
Winner must be present to receive the prize.
Submit your questions here and we'll be in touch. Need assistance registering for an event? Speak to our Registration Specialists at (800) 546-3300 or asishowregistration@asicentral.com.