Emerging Talent and Recognition Awards 2025 Shortlist Announced

News . 3rd November 2025

New for 2025, the BPMA Emerging Talent and Recognition Awards awards shine a spotlight on both rising stars and established professionals, celebrating those whose contribution continues to shape and strengthen the promotional merchandise sector.

Nominations were open for two categories:

  • Emerging Talent Award
    Celebrating individuals who’ve joined the industry within the last three years

  • Recognition Award
    Honouring long-standing professionals with over 10 years in the industry

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

Char is an Account Manager at Zagwear and joined the industry in April 2024.  

Daniel Hill says: “Char has rapidly become one of our most trusted team members, consistently exceeding expectations and setting the tone for a new generation of leadership in our business. Char has an instinctive ability to switch hats, seamlessly transitioning from high-level sales pitches to day-to-day client delivery. What sets her apart is not just her commercial focus, but her emotional intelligence and calm leadership style. She’s a natural connector, winning clients through authenticity and drive, while inspiring those around her with her work ethic and clarity of communication.” 

Jack is a Sales Coordinator at Sycal and joined the industry in November 2023.  

Adam Bishop says: “As Sales Coordinator, Jack is the linchpin of our order process—from initial quotes right through to final delivery. He ensures every customer order is handled seamlessly, with no detail overlooked. The sales team counts on Jack to stay ahead of potential delays or issues, keeping communication flowing smoothly between all stakeholders.  

What truly sets Jack apart is his unique blend of skills. With a rich background in retail management and a sharp eye as a proficient graphic designer, Jack is quite literally a “Jack of all trades.”  

Jack is an Apprentice Sustainability and Administration Coordinator at Premier Print & Promotions and joined the industry in September 2024.  

Ryan Askew says: “Jack approached Premier for an apprenticeship following 2 weeks of work experience last year.  

In his 9 months to date at Premier, Jack has flourished. He has represented Premier at several industry events including IWD and Golf Day. He has also made several visits to suppliers to learn more about the industry. Without exception, everyone that has had contact with Jack has given overwhelming feedback on his professionalism, enthusiasm and confidence.” 

Kerry is a Key Account Manager at PromoTrade and joined the industry in April 2023.  

Suzanne Atkins says: “Despite coming into the industry amongst a wide range of long established and well-known reps and with no prior knowledge, her dedication and impact go far beyond the normal expectations of her role. Kerry consistently delivers results that resonate with our mission and goals. She has become a well-known, liked and respected member of the promotional merchandise community and the face of PromoTrade attending shows and exhibitions.” 

Valentina is an Administrator at Juniper Trading and joined the industry in January 2025. 

Kate Hull says: “Valentina joined us after 20+ years in the property sector. She wanted a complete change and knew nothing about promotional merchandise. Since joining, she has not stopped asking questions, showing a true excitement and eagerness to learn the ins and outs of our industry. She has recently passed her TPM exam and was the only person to pass with 100%!  

I can see the amazing potential and dedication Valentina already has and know for a fact she will be a big part of Juniper Trading for years to come. 

Recognition Award Shortlist

Amber is Divisional Head at Pencom (Laltex Group) and joined the industry in August 2007.  

Neil Simon Horner says: “Amber started at Laltex as a Sales Executive, but in 2010 transferred across to (the newly formed) Pencom to assist Andrew Williams during its inception.  Amber was put in charge of the division in 2022. She is now the face of the business and synonymous with everything that is Pencom, she has taken the company from nothing to one of the largest pen companies in the industry. She leads a team of 7 with kindness and enthusiasm & sets the tone across the business with amazing hard work.” 

James is Director at Impress Ipswich and joined the industry in July 2007.  

Brian Hayward says: “Impress Ipswich is a family business originally started by James’ parents, Graham and Lorraine. Graham and Lorraine are taking more of a back seat now with James effectively becoming the figurehead of the business. Over the past 3 years the business has gone from strength to strength, keen to promote sustainable products whilst retaining a common-sense approach to advising customers and this year winning a coveted PAGE distributor of the year award.” 

Kara is Head of Sales at Total Merchandise and joined the industry in May 2010.  

Katie Clark says: “Kara is an absolute icon in the industry, with her professionalism, knowledge and dedication shining through in every interaction with her clients, TM colleagues and industry peers. Known by everyone, she’s a walking encyclopaedia of products, processes and suppliers, and what she doesn’t know about merchandise doesn’t need knowing!” 

Jason O’Connor added: “In the last 18 months since I have had full ownership of TM, I can honestly say that Kara has been absolutely invaluable, assisting in making many many things possible on our journey. Quite simply she gets it.” 

Lawrence is Director at Advantage Buying Group and joined the industry in January 1985.  

Alex Daniels says: “Lawrence is just an all-round great guy. He runs one of the best buying groups in the industry and is fair with both suppliers and members. He invites non-members to his group and has created a group for members to help each other and always has a friendly approach.” 

Natalie is Managing Director at Gilt Edged Promotions and joined the industry in July 2000.  

Laura Smyth says: “I commend Natalie for having exceptional grasp of the promotional merchandise landscape having worked in the industry with GE (Gilt Edged) for approx. 25 years. During a high-pressure workload, she jumps on sales in addition to in-house production when needed. 

Whether she’s onboarding new team members or advising sales teams on supplier capabilities, she’s known as a go-to expert – calm under pressure and always willing to share what she knows. This is a merchandise managing director superstar! She does everything. No job is too difficult. Nothing is too much of an ask.” 

Announcing the Winners

We will be announcing the winners for both awards at the prestigious BPMA Annual Awards Dinner on Wednesday 21st January 2026 at the CBS Arena in Coventry, hosted at the end of the first day of Merchandise World. Tickets are on sale now. Winners will be presented with a physical award.

Book your place now and join us for an unforgettable night celebrating the industry.

The BPMA would like to wish all the shortlisted entries the very best of luck in this final round!

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