Michelle Sheldon
Living and starting a family in the Netherlands was a life-changing experience for me. The Dutch emphasis on cooperation, work-life balance, and stewardship of shared resources redefined for me what was possible in my community. It both reshaped my life and inspired the values that drive Eco Promotional Products, Inc. (“EPP”) to this day.
But I didn’t wake up one day suddenly jumping into promotional products. My father worked in the industry in the U.S., and over my 12 years in four different operating divisions at a large Dutch manufacturer, I was immersed in the world of tradeshows. From all my experiences, I could see the opportunity for impactful change – a business providing both sustainable promotional products as well as a sustainable work-life balance that empowers talented women.
With that vision, I began my journey with EPP in 2008. Within days of starting, a potential supplier told me, “You’ll be out of business in 6 months! No one cares about this stuff.” Many in the industry thought the same. Despite skepticism and predictions of failure, EPP thrived, working with some of the world's most impactful customers. Our mission, written fifteen years ago, still stands: "EPP is the safe place for environmentally and socially responsible promotional products." We've consistently upheld our commitment to the United Nations Global Compact, supported marginalized communities, maintained carbon-neutral shipping, and set high safety standards for our products. Even though “no one cares about this stuff.”
Now, as we celebrate our 15th anniversary, our mission remains unchanged. EPP's journey has been about more than just our success. It's about creating a more just and sustainable economy. We have cultivated an environment where employees feel proud, supported, and safe, demonstrating that career success and work-life balance can coexist. EPP is proud to be 100% woman-owned, a Benefit Corporation (B Corp), and an active member of the Fair Labor Association. Our ongoing commitment to education, safety, and sustainable development is a testament to our dedication to making a significant impact in the promotional products industry.
Whether you’ve been with us since the start or you’re just getting to know us, we invite you to continue with us on this journey. Our customers, suppliers, and supporters are the community that has made this story possible and that will create a more sustainable world.