iPROMOTEu Acquires AIA Corporation

iPROMOTEu announced recently the acquisition of AIA Corporation. The sale brings together two promotional products industry distributor organizations.

iPROMOTEu and AIA operate under similar business models and both companies are recognized for helping their distributor members grow their businesses by providing order financing, order processing support, sales and marketing tools, technology solutions, and other resources.

According to iPROMOTEu, the acquisition marks a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to provide “unparalleled economic and lifestyle opportunities for promotional products distributors and salespeople.” It is also said to lay the groundwork for enhancing the support provided to AIA owners and iPROMOTEu affiliates while increasing their visibility across the industry.

Staff, affiliates, and owners of iPROMOTEu and AIA were informed of the sale early on Sept. 19.

“AIA’s business model aligns with iPROMOTEu’s core mission of empowering distributor independence while offering a comprehensive suite of essential resources and top-tier support for their success,” said Lori Bauer, iPROMOTEu chief executive officer. “This strategic acquisition will enhance the market presence of both organizations and bring many competitive advantages. Leveraging our combined strengths will provide countless benefits for both iPROMOTEu Affiliates and AIA Owners, including accelerated advancements in technology and integrations, deeper supplier relationships, enhanced sales and marketing resources, and much more. This will undoubtedly propel growth and help move the industry forward.”

Founded in 1981, AIA CEO Nancy Schmidt started with the organization in 2018 and has served as its top officer since 2020. Schmidt will serve as an executive advisor for a period of time following the close.

“As I reflect on AIA’s transformation over the past several years, I am incredibly proud of how our commitment to our purpose and vision has guided us to this pivotal moment,” said Schmidt. “This acquisition marks the next chapter in our journey, where the value we have created for the modern distributor will be fueled with even more new opportunities, forming a truly powerful force in our industry. I am excited about the remarkable potential this union with iPROMOTEu will bring to AIA Owners and to the industry.”

Moving forward, AIA will operate as a division of iPROMOTEu. As part of the transition, iPROMOTEu and AIA will continue to support their respective affiliates and owners, with Bauer overseeing the combined senior leadership team. According to the companies, this will enable each organization to leverage synergies to deliver support and continue to provide uninterrupted service.

iPROMOTEu, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Bauer, who joined iPROMOTEu in early 2021, stepped into the CEO role in Feb. 2024, and continues to support and drive its mission. Under her leadership, this acquisition is said to further build on the company’s momentum.