Discover the secrets to happier employees in this week's edition of Happy Office Hour, powered by Brand Sauce. Packed with industry insights, hot new products for your company store, and valuable tips to make your office happier—while making your company culture the envy of your industry.

A Dash of Industry Insights 📰

Industry Headlines, Insights, Data & Events

📅 20 Days Until Employee Appreciation Day: March 7th is approaching fast, and if you're like most HR leaders, Employee Appreciation Day is yet another task on your ever-growing to-do list. But what if you could turn this challenge into a meaningful engagement opportunity—without adding to your workload? Get exclusive access to our Employee Appreciation Day Playbook + $250 in branded merchandise credit by replying to this email with 'PLAYBOOK’.

🌎 Trade Policy Alert: Global tariffs could affect swag costs from foreign suppliers. Read our action plan to protect your budget below.

🌱 Mergers and Acquisitions: Major Eco-Focused Acquisition Signals Sustainability Shift. Overture Promotions acquires Eco Promotional Products, highlighting growing demand for environmentally responsible merchandise. Read more here.

The HR Corner

Beyond Recognition: The Power of Daily Acknowledgment

This week, let's explore the 'A' in CRAFT—Acknowledgment. Last week we covered Recognition, but Acknowledgment is different.

Acknowledgment goes beyond celebrating achievements. It's about noticing and appreciating everyday efforts, even when outcomes aren't perfect. Whether it's a quick "thank you" during a tough project or acknowledging someone's presence in meetings, these small moments matter.

The impact? Regular workplace acknowledgment leads to:

• Increased productivity

• Higher engagement levels

• Stronger employee retention

Ways to practice acknowledgment:

• Provide immediate feedback on contributions

• Practice active listening in meetings

• Recognize extra effort, regardless of the outcome

• Send personal notes of appreciation

Ready to take your recognition game to the next level? Get our Employee Appreciation Day Playbook and $250 in branded merchandise credits - just reply to this email and say "Playbook".

Global Economy

The Impact of Tariffs on Swag and Merchandise

President Trump's recent suspension of 25% tariffs on certain Mexican and Canadian imports offers temporary relief for the promotional products industry, while the 10% tariffs on Chinese goods remain in effect. This has major implications for company swag and merchandise programs in 2025.

While the suspension of these tariffs provides breathing room, companies should stay informed and communicate with their swag partners about potential pricing adjustments.

Looking to shield your swag program from tariff fluctuations? Make sure your swag provider has diverse supplier relationships across the US and globally to help offset potential price increases.

At Brand Sauce, we maintain strategic partnerships with manufacturers worldwide, giving you flexibility and options regardless of market conditions.

Need a partner to help you navigate these changes and keep your costs stable? Let's talk.

Words of Wisdom

Quote of the Week

Simon Sinek's wisdom cuts to the core of sustainable business success: exceptional service starts from within. When employees genuinely love where they work, that enthusiasm naturally flows into every customer interaction.

Be honest… what would your employees say about your company when you're not in the room?

Brand Sauce Chronicles

🎬 Origin Story

Client Spotlight

Client Spotlight: SIMPLUS

As one of our longest-standing partners, Simplus has collaborated with Brand Sauce on numerous exciting projects over the years. Now owned by global tech leader Infosys, they continue to push boundaries in digital transformation. Join us as we explore one of our favorite success stories with the Simplus team.

Meet Simplus: Where Innovation Meets Digital Transformation

Simplus accelerates digital transformation for companies by leveraging Salesforce’s industry clouds. Guided by their mantra, "making complex things simple," they’ve built their success on critical thinking, stewardship, and an underdog spirit. With over 2,000 clients worldwide, Simplus provides enterprise-wide digital transformation through advisory, implementation, change management, and custom configuration services.

Case Study: Dreamforce - Redefining Event Presence

When Simplus set out to make waves at Dreamforce, the world’s largest software conference, they partnered with Brand Sauce to create an unforgettable experience that would set them apart. The result? A masterclass in innovative merchandising that perfectly aligned with their brand values.

With more than 50 team members attending Dreamforce ‘18, Simplus teamed up with Brand Sauce to craft a standout presence. We developed a personalized merchandise program featuring:

• Custom-branded shoes for team members to enhance unity

• An exclusive shopping experience for partners with unique gift codes redeemable for premium items

• Targeted event merchandise, including custom T-shirts, branded lip balms, and AirPods

• On-demand ordering to minimize waste while maximizing impact

The Impact:

This innovative approach to event merchandising delivered remarkable results:

✅ Strengthened team unity through coordinated, personalized footwear
✅ Deepened partner relationships with customized gift experiences
✅ Eliminated waste with an on-demand ordering system
✅ Created memorable brand touchpoints that aligned with Simplus’s innovative identity
✅ Demonstrated the power of choice in corporate gifting

🤝 Partner with Simplus

Interested in working with Simplus? I'd be happy to make an introduction—reach out at [email protected].

🚀 Join the Simplus Team

Looking to be part of a company that's revolutionizing digital transformation? Simplus is expanding their global team with exciting opportunities across various roles. Explore their career opportunities here.

Weekend Update

Around the Water Cooler With Ross

Relationships, Friendships, and Networking

I’ve often reflected on the meaning and distinctions between these words, and while I may not have a textbook definition for each, one thing is certain—life is richer when you're surrounded by great people. I’ve been fortunate to have parents who exemplified the power of strong relationships, meaningful friendships, and effective networking.

I make it a priority to meet new people, engage with them, and build lasting connections. Last week in Las Vegas, I had the opportunity to reconnect with Jay Glickman after 14 years. Jay was a client of mine at my former company, Scholarship For Athletes. He played tennis at Tufts University and is now thriving in real estate in New York City. It was a pleasure to catch up, hear about his family, and see all the great things he’s doing.

There’s something truly energizing about reconnecting with people after so many years. Jay, thank you for taking the time—I’m looking forward to our next conversation, and this time, it won’t be another 14 years!

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