Friday, January 20, 2012

PAi Gives Away an iPad

In order to better accommodate the needs of our customers, and to stay technologically current, PAi perpetually adapts to todays advancements. One great example is our new, iPad and iPhone friendly, digital catalog technology.  Customers can now access our online catalog anywhere on the go. 

Taking things even further , PAi has now made it possible for our customers to adopt our Promotional Products Division’s catalog available on their own social media site. With one click of a button, our customers can add our catalog application to their very own Facebook page. 

In celebration of all of this new technology, our Promotional Products Division has even given away an iPad with our digital catalog already downloaded to the desktop. Congratulations to the winner from Shirts, Caps, & More of Texas, that entered the Facebook giveaway.

Friday, December 09, 2011

Tis the Season for Greg Norman

Friday, November 11, 2011

Hats Off to Robert Graham

We were extremely pleased to find out that PAi had been invited to join the Men’s Week edition, congratulating Robert Graham on ten years. As an exclusive licensee for the Robert Graham apparel, we could not be more proud to represent Robert Graham in Men’s Week. 

So we quickly went to the drawing board to come up with the perfect ad. We arranged a photo shoot at Bailey’s Chocolate Bar in Lafayette Square, St. Louis. Since their ambiance inside really reflects the true Robert Graham style, we knew it would be the perfect surroundings for the shoot. It was a huge success and we were very happy with the way the ad turned out.

Our Ad in Men’s Week's November 3^rd Edition:

The publication also featured one of our Robert Graham hats in the lifestyle article.

So, again congrats to Robert Graham for ten years. Here at PAi, we could not happier for the brand!

Robert Graham & PAi:

The Robert Graham consumer is a connoisseur, an individual who appreciates products of high quality and unique caliber. While designing and manufacturing headwear and accessories for Robert Graham, PAi respects each piece as an unconventional work of art designed for an individual who exudes confidence and a distinctive identity.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

PAi INC. Stepping Into The Shoe Industry

PAi INC. is pleased to announce that we have signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Crocs™, Inc. to produce and sell Major League Baseball (MLB) and Collegiate branded Crocs footwear. Under the terms of the agreement, PAi will decorate Crocs™ shoes in our Missouri facility and sell to retailers across multiple channels of distribution. PAi has recently secured the MLB license as well as additional collegiate licenses for this purpose. We will be seeking additional licenses of professional sports leagues for future expansion of our Crocs™ branded footwear lines.

With this new licensing agreement, PAi will decorate the Crocs™ shoe line using post manufacturing embellishment techniques. We currently offer the Classic Crocs™ Style embellished with PVC patches decorated with the college or team logo.

The Classic Croc™ shoe is fully molded from Croslite™, an exclusive closed-cell resin material. The material makes shoes odor resistant, easy to clean, and dries quickly. The Classic Croc™ Style is uniquely design with a contoured, orthotic foot bed for comfort and lightweight, non-marking soles.  The advanced toe box ventilation keeps feet cool and lets water and debris drain away. 

Crocs™ footwear are also water-friendly, buoyant and weigh only ounces. The patches used for embellishment are made of 100% poly vinyl chloride and are attached to the shoes using rivets.

The initial MLB program will offer the Classic Crocs™ Style in navy and black ranging in kids to adult sizes 1-13. We will also carry the same Classic Croc™ Style in navy, black and pink for our collegiate program in the same sizes.

PAi’s centrally located Missouri decorating facility, makes it possible to deliver in season goods as needed. Our domestic facility provides retailers with quick access to inventory, a significant advantage in the licensed sports and collegiate product markets.

Selling shoes is a new venture for PAi, and we could not be more excited.  In November, PAi will introduce several new styles for Spring 2012 delivery.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Robert Graham Coming to Theaters Near You

Happy Friday!

So, here's the scoop. The movie, The Big Year, comes out to select theaters today! And, the reason why we, at Paramount Apparel International, are so excited for this flick to hit the big screen, is because one of the Robert Graham fedoras made exclusively at PAi, will be worn by none other than Owen Wilson's character, Kenny Bostick. The Big Year is about three avid bird watchers who compete to spot the rarest birds in North America at a prestigious annual event. We are absolutely thrilled and hope you give a shout out for us if you happen to catch it at the movies this weekend.

See The Big Year trailer at Hulu.com.

Friday, October 07, 2011

PAi Continues To Commit To Our Global Responsibility

As one of our core competencies here at PAi, we are focused on making our sustainability efforts a success. We also believe that informing our customers and employees with information related to our goals and achievements is a necessity. We need both our employees and customers to be aware of the continued efforts we will share as a whole. Responsibility starts with the company as one entity and turns into the responsibility of individuals.

As a part of our continuous commitment to that responsibility, many of PAi's executives and personnel met with Xerox in 2010, inquiring on ways that we could reduce document costs. They also seeked ways to include a plan for reducing power consumption, waste, and carbon footprint during our document production, that we could integrate with a companywide plan to do the same in all areas of manufacturing and production. After the meeting, PAi made the decision to begin upgrading to Xerox ColorQube products where it made sense. That decision enabled the use of Xerox Green print drivers, providing the option to use recycled paper with color output that remains as brilliant and vibrant as if we printed on first generation "bright white" paper, eliminating unnecessary waste, reducing our waste 90%, reducing our power consumption up to 9%, and reducing our company carbon footprint to almost 10% to date.

We are very proud of our initiative to provide "green solutions" company wide and protect the planet.

Monday, October 03, 2011

Behind the Scenes Look

For those of you who are already Facebook fans of the Original Penguin page, you know that they just recently did a photo shoot for the Spring 2012 collection and in some of those sneak peek photos that they posted, the models are wearing the Spring line of hats that we made! So many exciting things are happening for the Original Penguin license here at PAi.

And, not only did the hats go on showcase at the shoot, but also, we just launched our Original Penguin accessories website and digital catalog. Check out the sneak peek photos below and our website and digital catalog at www.originalpenguinaccessories.com.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

QR Codes: Learn Them, Love Them, Live Them

^{QR codes are truly the next big thing in marketing your products. What’s easier than attaching a QR bar code to every piece of material that you hand out, hang up or post online? Nothing! Now, we do understand QR codes are nothing new, but they are really starting to take shape in our marketing society.}

^{Want to direct someone right to your website? That’s easy, post a QR code. Once they scan the code, your website link will be right in front of them for viewing, saving, emailing, etc. The same goes for promoting things such as product details. Create your promotional flyer, attach the image to your website and post the QR code. Again, it’s that simple to get your information in front of millions of people.}

^{So, how are we currently using QR codes you ask? Well, for anyone attending the upcoming National Association of Convenience Shows Trade Show at McCormick Place in Chicago, you will soon find out. We have attached a QR code to each and every piece of product we will have displayed. This way, trade show enthusiasts won’t have to carry around those bulky catalogs or booklets, but can still get the same info simply by scanning. Then, they can email, save to their phone, download or do whatever they please with our virtual flyers. So, not only will we be saving the planet by going green, but also we are saving the backs of all trade show goers by taking away the pain of carrying around all those heavy marketing materials.}

Perhaps have you never been introduced to QR codes before this? It’s simple. Follow the steps below. And, for those of you going to NACS, we will see you in Chicago! We are booth #2845. Have your QR code scanning apps ready! Happy Scanning!

Step 1: Find a barcode scanner app.

Step 2: Open barcode scanner app and scan the QR code on display. (The yellow circles will line up and once the scan has been made, the marketing piece will pop up.)

Step 3: You can open, share via email or download to your phone.

Step 4: Open and enjoy the website, special offer, product info, etc. inside.

Try our virtual ad via QR code below:

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Meaning and Authenticity Shine Bright at Project Las Vegas

Lori Glaser, Design Director at PAi INC., attended Project in Las Vegas last month and came back with a fresh new outlook on some new styles and trends from the fashion there. You won't want to miss what she deemed as the BIG hits this year in the fashion world! Check it out!

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Brand Manager Position Open

NOW HIRING

PAI is seeking a Brand Manager for our Licensed and Private Label Department.
Responsibilities include:

Oversee the lines from start to finish
Assist designer in putting together the line
Order salesman samples, put together catalog, line sheets
Enter orders for brands, manage inventory
Order production for brands
Travel to meet with customers, tradeshows

Candidate must be proficient in Microsoft Excel, Office, and Powerpoint, College Degree preferred
If interested please email your resume to Erin Keeven at ekeeven@paifashion.com

Friday, September 09, 2011

Original Penguin and PAi

What’s in a name? For the brand Original Penguin, the name says it all. Not many know the whole story of how the brand got it’s name though. Since bringing on the Original Penguin license here at PAi, we have learned a lot of history behind the brand and where it came from.

Just like PAi, there is a lot of history enriched in the company. Original Penguin came to be just 26 years after Paramount started its beginning. The company started in the 100 year-old underwear factory in Minnesota, but quickly turned to a stylish brand of ‘kitschy prints and irreverent wit’.

If you are now curious of how the company brand and name came to be, see the articles below published by the Original Penguin company itself.  Here’s the story…

PAi is elated to welcome this unique and retro brand to our list of licenses. Rich history is what makes PAi the company that it is, and we can see a direct correlation with the deep history of the Original Penguin brand as well.

This is the first season PAi has begun production of the Original Penguin headwear and accessories. We have finished the Spring/Summer 2012 line and catalogs are out and ready for distribution. PAi is very excited to see what is in store for our design team for Penguin and cannot wait to see the end products leave the factory and be worn on the streets.

Welcome to PAi, Original Penguin!

Just for Fun: Are you a Penguin Man or a Penguin Woman? Take the Quiz!

Penguin Man Quiz:

1) Which best describes you?

A)   adventurous, wild, and spontaneous

B)   young, witty, hip, and creative

C)   tech Savy, nerdy, and shy

2) Where would you most likely work?

A)   non-profit

B)   school

C)   hospital

D)   Fortune 500 company

3) Where do you like to hang out?

A)   skate park

B)   coffeehouse/art gallery

C)   club

*If you answered 1) B 2) A or D 3) B you are a Penguin Man!

Penguin Woman Quiz:

1) Which best describes you?

A)   sporty, spunky, and outgoing

B)   quiet, calm, and cool

C)   stylisth, smart, and sassy

2) What is your favorite attire?

A)   short, black dress

B)   summer dress with funky prints and a whimsical color palette

C)   comfy shirt and shorts/jeans with tennis shoes

D)   dress pants and blazer

3) What are you most influenced by?

A)   media, blogs, movies

B)   friends and family

C)   No one. You know it all.

*If you answered 1) C 2) B 3) A you are a Penguin Woman!

Friday, September 02, 2011

PAi Staff Step It Up

PAi INC. hosted a blood drive at PAi's headquarters in Bourbon, Missouri on Thursday.

Forty-eight employees presented to donate, and six of the 48 were first time donors! The goal of the blood drive was to donate 38 units and we collected 39!

Also, at the blood drive, the Red Cross brought along a machine called an Alyx machine, that actually allowed two of our staff to donate the equivilient of 2 units each. Blood has 3 components and red blood cells are the most needed. The Alyx separates out your red blood cells and then immediately pumps the other 2 components, plus some saline back into you. It keeps the donor from having as much fluid loss and saves twice as many lives! We were extremely proud to be a part of this new technology!

PAi is proud of all who coordinated this effort and all who came out to donate. Great job Paramount!

The Facts:

-One pint of blood can save up to 3 lives.

-Every 2 seconds someone needs a blood transfusion.

-Five million patients in the US need blood every year.

-Blood cannot be manufactured; it can only come from volunteer donors.

-Adults have around 10 pints of blood in their body. Only one pint is given during a donation.

Five reasons to go give blood today! "Wherever there is a human being, there is an opportunity for kindness." ~Seneca

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

PAi Acquires MGI Sportswear

PAi is pleased to announce that it has just acquired the assets and intellectual property of MGI Sportswear of Lawrence Kansas. Along with the acquisition, PAI will own the inventory and MGI brands, which include the popular Kid n' Me, MGI and Mid West Graphics brands. All brands are well known in the college, resort and military channels and will compliment PAi’s Oarsman Sportswear.

PAI has just completed the asset purchase, and plans to continue with the current catalog lines of product, as well as the programs and pricing to ensure a smooth transition. PAi will have the inventory here at the Bourbon Missouri warehouse by next week and will be able to start fulfilling orders within two weeks.

Also, PAi welcomes Gretchen Hatfield, MGI’s customer service supervisor. She has joined PAI and this will also ensure a smooth transition. Our goal is to hire all the MGI sales reps and continue to service their accounts as well.

We are very excited for this new endeavor! For more information please contact Mike Jaques, VP sales and marketing PAI and please also visit Midwest Graphics and Kid n' Me on the web!

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Paramount Apparel Featured in Mossy Oak’s Compass

Paramount Apparel was featured in Mossy Oak's Quarterly Compass, detailing the addition of our two new 18 head, and one new 16 head screenprint machines. These new machines produce even higher quality screenprints, faster than before. Our newest Mossy Oak screenprints are a direct product of our new expansion.

Compass is Mossy Oak's distribution of quartery newsletters that highlight the newest and perhaps most expansive offering of Mossy Oak branded and camo products.

Friday, August 05, 2011

PAi Inc. at BREAD AND BUTTER, Berlin

PAi INC. attended Berlin's BREAD & BUTTER trade show last month. This show was held on July 6-8th at the Tempelhof Airport in Berlin.

BREAD & BUTTER PRESS REPORTS...
Review of THE BREAD & BUTTER SUPERSHOW

"The 25th BREAD & BUTTER – tradeshow for selected brands, which took place from 6-8 July, 2011 for the fifth time on the historic grounds of the Berlin-Tempelhof Airport, is reporting outstanding results. The tradeshow, which started out in 2001 as an off-show for selected brands in Cologne, celebrated its ten-year anniversary under the motto 'THE BREAD & BUTTER SUPERSHOW'.

BREAD & BUTTER presented another balanced and strong exhibitor portfolio, distinguished once again by an increase in quality. Around 580 exhibitors, the leading, market-relevant brands, labels and designers of the Street and Urbanwear market, attended the leading international tradeshow, where they presented their new collections for the Spring/Summer 2012 season to the professional audience." -breadandbutter.com  

Joshua Sanders, Senior Product Designer at PAi, sat down with us to share his take on the show. Read about it below.

What is your role at and how long have you been at PAi INC.?  

Joshua:I've been working at PAi since 1999... Some of my earliest responsibilities included designing logos and branding for various headwear applications. After that, I spent a few years learning the technical aspects of screen-printing, where I spent most of my time creating designs and then digitally separating them so that they could be printed on garments. Currently, I'm a Senior Product Designer and I design and develop licensed soft accessories (headwear, scarves & gloves) for several of our premium fashion labels. I work directly with the design leaders of these brands at each of their respective offices (including New York City, Los Angeles, London and Montreal) and I spend much time visiting our manufacturers throughout Asia to develop the finished product.

Why does PAi attend Bread and Butter? Which labels do we represent?

Joshua: We attend B&B Berlin to support the labels with which we currently maintain licensure, to see first-hand how our customers respond to the new product collections, to investigate opportunities for new category additions, and to study how the exhibitors and attendees express themselves through fashion. Our brands that attended the show are True Religion Brand Jeans, Robert Graham, Ben Sherman, Pajar and Original Penguin.

Is this your first time attending? If not, how many times have you attended previously?

Joshua: This was my first time to attend.

How was Bread and Butter the same or different from US trade shows such as Project, etc.

Joshua: This show wasn't as large as some of the shows in the US, but the quality of labels represented was extremely impressive. B&B seemed very well organized, specific booths were very easy to find and the people-watching at this show surpassed anything I've attended in Las Vegas or New York.

What new trends did you notice?

Joshua: One of the most unique trends that I noticed was in the prevalence of accessories... Straw hats and Newsboy's Caps were abundant. Lightweight scarves, suspenders and unique bags (for Men and Women) were also very visible. Proven, classic American brands (such as Levi's, Wolverine, Red Wing Boots, Lee, Wrangler, etc.) are enjoying a HUGE following there.

What is the overall style of the public in Berlin, general wear and accessories? Do you think these fashions will migrate to the US?

Joshua: The expression of fashion by people in the neighborhoods I visited was absolutely amazing. The unique thing about style there is the emphasis on "individual fashion". Everyone experiments with different looks and attempts to create something unique... their desire is not to simply look like everyone else. I think some of these trends may migrate here, especially to areas that already follow fashion trends. European cities are generally at least a season or two ahead of the US market, though.

What inspiration did you get from Bread and Butter and/or shopping/observing in Berlin?

Joshua: Shopping and spending time analyzing how people dress in Berlin was so refreshing. Everyone seems to think outside the box when determining how they want to express themselves. That's what makes it fun... I couldn't wait to get home and start designing :)

Any extra thoughts or things to share?

Joshua: I have a new favorite store... it's called 14 oz. and it's AMAZING.