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This past weekend, our industry took another hit as the Governor of California, Jerry Brown, announced a ban on the use of promotional products. The KCRA news story was demeaning to our industry.
In our comments about this new development, I recalled the front-page story of the Los Angeles Business Journal back in December of 2007. The article features an eye opening story on UCLA Medical Centers "Great Pen Exchange" where the article states; "It's estimated by organizers that some 75 pounds of promotional marketing materials distributed by drug companies and other vendors were turned in and exchanged for Starbucks gift certificates and health system pens supplied by the medical center."
(I guess it pays to have the medical center as a client?)
"Do you really think I can be bought for a slice of pizza? said Dr. Andrew Leuchter, who headed a faculty committee that recommended UCLA do more to stem the influence of drug and other companies. "Well, no. But there are many studies that show that the small gifts can be even more effective, over time, in guiding prescription practices."
Dr. Leuchter doesn't realize that he is a poster boy for the effectiveness of promotional products. I wonder which of the "many studies" he has evaluated. Click here for this shocking story.
In this issue we offer the position of PPAI, SAAC, PMNC, the two California Regional Associations affected by this ban...along with action steps you can take. Rick Greene, MAS from HALO Branded Solutions shares his perspective likening this to the Beatles Ban of the 60's.
If you think this won't affect you, think again. With states across the country facing deficits, there is a good chance your state may take a similar position.
Make it a great day!
Jeff Solomon, MAS
FreePromoTips.com
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California Governor Jerry Brown has issued a memorandum directing all California state agencies and departments to immediately stop purchasing "free giveaway and gift items-such as key chains, coffee mugs and squeeze toys" as part of his "continuing efforts to cut costs and tackle the state's budget gap."
Back in 1966, an out-of-context off hand comment by John Lennon to a British journalist resulted in a Beatles Ban in the unenlightened American South. There was significant news coverage of gleeful teens and goggle-eyed adults burning their mountains of Beatle albums and memorabilia that was eerily reminiscent of Nazi book burnings during WWII. Not one of America's prouder moments, especially considering how much those same items are going for on ebay these days.
