In this "Why it Matters: conversation, Joel Freet, CEO of Cutter & Buck, and Jeff Solomon, Co-Founder of the Branded Merch Network, discuss what's at the core of this successful brand. Joel highlighted the company's commitment to high-quality, long-lasting sportswear since 1989, emphasizing their use of post-consumer recycled polyester. He noted the significant reduction in air freight, which has improved their environmental impact. The point was made that sustainability matters for three reasons: customers and governments are demanding it, and it creates a better world. Cutter & Buck makes it easy with transparent tracking of recycled materials on their website. Customers appreciate this transparency.

Learn more here: https://cutterbuck.com/

#brandedmerch #brandedapparel #sustainableapparel #sustainablity #dotherightthing #businessleadership

Uploaded on Aug 23, 2025

WHY IT MATTERS SUSTAINABLE MERCH SUMMIT FOLLOW-UP VIDEO SERIES: We continue to go a bit deeper with some of our presenters at the Branded Merch Network Inaugural Sustainable Merch Summit, hosted by ASI, Apparelist, and The 2 Regular Guys.

In this conversation, Jeff Solomon talks with Milissa Gibson, Director of Sales for Lane Seven Apparel. Milissa was on a panel moderated by Jay Busselle, entitled "Sustainability Sells. It's Good for the Planet and GREAT for Business."

The discussion centered on the increasing importance of sustainability in the apparel industry, with a focus on how younger generations are driving demand for eco-friendly products. Companies like Lane Seven are adopting sustainable practices as a core part of their business strategy. They discussed reducing waste, improving manufacturing processes, and understanding customer needs while navigating the challenges of meeting demands between the European and American markets.

The discussion concluded with insights about the broader business implications of sustainability, including its impact on profitability. Sustainability does sell. Yes, it's good for the planet and GREAT for business.

Learn more about Lane Seven here: https://lanesevenapparel.com/

We want to acknowledge the supporters of our efforts to advance the "Why It Matters" movement: Goldstar, Allmade, and Stahls. More good stuff is coming!

#WhyItMatters #BrandedMerch #SustainableMerch #DoTheRightThing #BusinessLeadership #MakeItBetter #SMS2025

Uploaded on Jul 9, 2025

Following up on the "Why It Matters" Sustainable Merch Summit, Branded Merch Network Co-Founder Jeff Solomon and Michele Dando from Facilisgroup took a deeper dive into the importance of transparency in the branded merch industry. Michele was on the "Why Transparency Matters" panel facilitated by Theresa Hegel from ASI.

Jeff and Michelle emphasized the need for distributors to understand their value beyond just selling merchandise. They highlighted the role of suppliers in driving sustainability efforts and the opportunity for distributors to differentiate themselves by choosing responsible suppliers. Michele stressed the importance of building relationships with suppliers and being proactive in incorporating sustainability into business practices, as it may become a requirement in the future.

"The small movement we nurture today will become the industry standard tomorrow. Let’s keep disrupting, asking questions, and telling stories of progress. Remember, not long ago, sustainability was just a trend — now it’s a core part of our industry’s future.” MIchele Dando

We also want to acknowledge the supporters of our efforts to advance the "Why It Matters" movement: Goldstar, Allmade, and Stahls—special thanks to our media partners ASI, Apparelist, and The 2 Regular Guys.

More good stuff is coming!

Learn more about Facilisgroup here: https://facilisgroup.com/

#WhyItMatters #BrandedMerch #BrandedMerchNetwork #SustainableMerch #DoTheRightThing #BusinessLeadership #SMS2025

Uploaded on Jul 7, 2025