
Returning for a second year, the BPMA Emerging Talent and Recognition Awards are designed to spotlight both up-and-coming professionals and long-standing contributors across the promotional merchandise sector. Following a review of last year’s awards, we evolved the category criteria for 2026 to ensure we better recognise the breadth of talent across our industry.
Nominations were open for two categories:
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Emerging Talent Award – Open to individuals who have been in their current industry company role for up to 5 years.
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Recognition Award – Celebrating individuals who have been in the industry for over 5 years and have made a significant positive contribution.
Our panel of judges have been busy reviewing the excellent range of entries submitted for the BPMA Emerging Talent and Recognition Awards and a shortlist has now been decided.
The shortlisted nominees below are now through to the final rounds of judging.
Emerging Talent Award Shortlist 2026

Shannon is a Sales Account Manager at Preseli and joined the industry in 2022.
Dave Wilson says: “Shannon joined us in 2022 and sales administration was completely new to her. She quickly became highly competent in all aspects of the role. Shannon is an unsung hero of the industry and for certain her exemplary standard of work is a contributing factor towards Preseli winning BPMA Supplier of the Year for three years in a row.”

Gareth is an Account Manager at Exceptio and joined the industry in 2023.
Joanne Horsley says: “Gareth has an amazing work ethic, with exceptional internal teamwork and a commitment to clients which goes above and beyond.”
James Horsley added: “Gareth has been a driving force for Exceptio in the industry, he jumped at the opportunity to become a BPMA ambassador and is always enthusiastic about networking events and shows.”

Florentina is Head Production Manager at Juniper and joined the industry in 2021.
Andrew Langley says: “Florentina from day one had a thirst for knowledge and for self-improvement. She has a wonderful blend of having a tremendous work ethic and self-motivation, whilst also being very skillful at her job. As such she has had a huge and meaningful impact at Juniper. Without Florentina we simply would not have got to where we are now.”

Braydon is a Sales Executive at IF Solutions and joined the industry in 2025.
Jake Howard says: “Braydon joined the industry direct from University in July of 2025, and has been instrumental in supporting IF Solutions in their growth into 2026.”
Adam Farrington added: “As a vital member of our Sales team, Braydon manages key client relationships, drives new business, and ensures our customers receive top-tier service. What truly sets him apart from the crowd isn’t just his impressive work ethic but his natural ability to connect with people.”

Gemma is a Sales Director at Impress Ipswich and joined the industry in 2021.
James Leach says: “What sets Gemma apart is her combination of determination, work ethic, resilience and genuine care for her customers. When faced with a difficult task, she doesn’t look for reasons why something can’t be done – she works out how it can be done. She is not only an exceptional salesperson; she is someone who makes the business better simply by being part of it.”
Recognition Award Shortlist 2026

Danielle is a Director at Premier Print & Promotions and joined the industry in 2012.
Jamie Marshall says: “As the founder, I see Premier as my baby. Danielle is one of three people I trust to run it. That’s about the shortest way I can say it. She looks after this company, and everyone in it, like family. I couldn’t ask more of anyone.”
Jack Coulson added: “You look at Danielle and just see all the best qualities of a leader in one person.”

Lloyd is CEO at LSI and joined the industry in 1987.
Brian Hayward says: “Over the past thirty years, Lloyd has been a friend and mentor to a multitude of people, encouraging people to succeed and grow. Whilst Lloyd was a great salesman, watching him change from a guy who sold merch to a man that runs a successful company has been astounding. What sets Lloyd apart from others is his ability to innovate! He’s never stood still.
Perhaps most importantly, I feel he has helped to make the industry more professional, protecting margins by offering a first rate service to all his clients.”

Yvonne is an Account Development Manager at Bizz Badge and joined the industry in 2007.
Gemma Richmond says: “Yvonne has been the heartbeat of Bizz Badge’s sales operation for nineteen years. In an industry where relationships are everything, Yvonne doesn’t just build them – she tends to them with a level of dedication and genuine personal investment that is very rare. She is passionate, loyal, tenacious and deeply committed. Bizz Badge would not be where it is without her.”

Andy is Managing Director at CHX Products and joined the industry in 1997.
Charlotte Denman-Johnson says: “As Managing Director and founder, Andy is the driving force behind every significant decision at CHX. From product development and supply chain management to staff welfare and sustainability initiatives, his fingerprints are on the entire operation. Andy doesn’t just support the organisation’s values, he is the embodiment of them. Every decision he has made has been guided by a commitment to sustainability, integrity and community responsibility.”

Annouchka is Country Manager for the UK at Goldstar and joined the industry in 2001.
Anna Purtseladze says: “For more than 25 years, Annouchka has been part of the promotional products industry, but what she has built goes far beyond a successful career. If you ask me what makes Annouchka special, I would not start with her sales figures, her title, or her years of experience. I would say that she makes people feel seen. And in an industry built on relationships, I cannot think of a more meaningful contribution.”
Announcing the Winners
We will be announcing the winners for both awards at the upcoming BPMA Christmas Lunch featuring the Product Awards 2026 on Thursday 10th December at The Underglobe in London. The winners will be presented with a physical award.
Tickets are on sale now, book your place and join us for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating the industry.
The BPMA would like to wish all the shortlisted entries the very best of luck in this final round!
