1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 90 600 What looks like a simple swag order can quietly spiral into a logistical nightmare that drains time, money, and employee energy. Eric and Crissy unpack why procurement thinking often kills the true potential of merchandise programs. Together, they explore the hidden complexity behind what many leaders treat as a commodity decision. From balloon vendors multiplying across an organization to global gifting programs that unravel without strategic alignment, Crissy reveals how merch can either strengthen culture and brand impact or create internal friction that leaders never see coming. If you are a people first leader trying to balance cost control with meaningful employee experiences, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and help you rethink what it really means to create value through branded merchandise. &amp;nbsp; Additional Resources: Learn how to build your strategy to swag! Connect with Crissy on LinkedIn Learn more about Robertson Marketing Connect with Eric on LinkedIn Subscribe to PFN’s YouTube for more insights like this! Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network &amp;nbsp; Key Takeaways: Procurement focus on cost can undermine strategic merchandise value Multiple stakeholders shape merchandise outcomes across organizations Vendor partnerships should prioritize insight, not just pricing Logistics complexity increases exponentially in global programs Strategic swag programs enhance culture, efficiency, and brand consistency &amp;nbsp; Working Forward https://peopleforwardnetwork.com/ <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/40631705/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/88AA3C/" height="90" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/content/200153590