Wilson Brim, CRS, Southern Trophy House
President, APA - Where Personalization Pros Connect

(September/October 2025) As president of APA, I’m excited to personally invite you to the 2026 APA International Personalization Expo—our industry’s flagship event—taking place Feb. 24–27, 2026, at Horseshoe Las Vegas.

This is more than just a trade show. It’s where the personalization industry comes together to connect, learn, and grow. Whether you’re a supplier showcasing cutting-edge products or a retailer looking to stay ahead of the curve, the APA Expo is your opportunity to be part of something bigger.

(September 2025) St. Petersburg, FL – Businesses looking for smarter ways to grow through customization and efficiency will now have a powerful new ally. DPI Laboratory, an innovator in digital print technology disrupting the UV printing market, has appointed Merrie Matson as Senior Sales Consultant. Known for her consultative approach and customer-first mindset, Matson helps clients unlock the potential of UV printing to elevate their products, expand revenue streams, and streamline operations. Backed by technical sales expertise and a deep understanding of diverse industries, she will lead DPI’s efforts to deliver tailored solutions that address real-world challenges for clients.

(August 2025) Robert, aka Bob, joins Marco with extensive experience in the awards and engraving industry, backed by a three-generation family legacy. His journey began with selling Dahlgren Engraving Machines alongside his father, Robert H. Laird III, a longtime New Hermes veteran. The Laird legacy traces back even further to 1949, when Bob’s grandfather, Robert H. Laird Jr., pioneered pantograph and engraving materials in suburban Philadelphia.

(August 2025) Marco Awards Group is proud to celebrate the retirement of Lyle King, whose remarkable career has left a lasting imprint on the recognition industry and the many people fortunate enough to have worked alongside him. Lyle began his first tour of duty with PDU in 1976, serving as the SE Sales Manager until 1984. After leaving there, he ventured into ownership, purchasing and partnering in three retail locations in the Atlanta area, and then, with his partners, buying Dodge Manufacturing. His entrepreneurial spirit gave him firsthand experience on the dealer side of the business. In 1989, Lyle returned as the Northeast Regional Sales Manager, and by 1997, he had earned a promotion to National and International Sales Manager, relocating to Southern California. During this time, he managed the Customer Service department, served on the Executive Committee, and participated in the creation of all of their new product offerings. Among his standout product ideas was the introduction of the bobble head and other big hits that helped energize the market. In 2011, Lyle chose to return to Atlanta to be closer to his son, Tyler, and his growing family, including three grandchildren.

(July/August 2025) Looking for a new read that may give you some tips for business and life? A few APA members share books that inspired.