City Apparel + Merch Named One of PPAI’s 2026 Greatest Companies To Work For
When people think about great workplaces, they often focus on perks, benefits, or office amenities. While those things certainly matter, the strongest workplace cultures are built on something much deeper: trust, purpose, growth, and meaningful relationships.
That’s why we’re honored to share that City Apparel + Merch has been named one of PPAI’s 2026 Greatest Companies To Work For. This recognition celebrates companies within the promotional products and branded merchandise industry that have built exceptional workplace cultures, as measured directly through employee feedback.
For us, that makes this award especially meaningful. It isn’t based on revenue, company size, or outside perception. It’s based on what our employees experience every day.
What Our Team Had To Say
The employee survey results paint a picture of a workplace centered around people, purpose, and opportunity.
Survey results showed:
- 93% confidence in leadership
- 93% of employees would recommend working here
- Positive sentiment across nearly all measured categories
- Strong scores in values, ethics, growth, development, and workplace flexibility
Beyond the numbers, employees described City Apparel + Merch as:
“Supportive, collaborative, and a great place to grow.”
“Feels like family. People genuinely care.”
“Fast-paced, challenging, and rewarding.”
“A place where you can learn, contribute, and make an impact.”
These comments reinforce something we’ve always believed: culture isn’t something you write on a wall. It’s something people experience in their daily interactions, opportunities, and relationships.
Our Strongest Areas
Some of our highest survey marks came in areas that align closely with our mission and values. Employees reported high confidence in leadership and company direction, demonstrating trust in where the organization is headed and how decisions are made. Our team also scored exceptionally well in values and ethics, reflecting our commitment to operating with integrity and purpose.
Growth and development were another standout category. We invest heavily in professional education, ongoing learning, industry certifications, and personal development because we believe our people are our greatest strength. From onboarding and training to continuing education opportunities within the promotional products industry, we’re committed to helping every team member reach their full potential.
Employees also highlighted flexibility, support, and appreciation as defining characteristics of life at City Apparel + Merch.
A Culture Built Around Purpose
As a Certified B Corporation, purpose isn’t separate from our business. It’s part of everything we do. Our commitment extends beyond serving clients to supporting our employees, uplifting our community, and creating positive impact through responsible business practices.
That commitment shows up through community partnerships, volunteer initiatives, charitable giving, employee development programs, and our focus on creating meaningful opportunities for our team. Company materials highlight ongoing professional development, individual growth plans, and 40 hours of paid volunteer time annually. Our employees don’t just work for a company. They contribute to a mission.
What Branded Merchandise Has To Do With Great Workplace Culture
Many organizations think of branded merchandise as apparel, promotional products, or giveaways.
We see it differently.
Branded merchandise has the power to strengthen culture, celebrate milestones, reinforce values, improve employee engagement, and create a sense of belonging. It’s one of the reasons so many companies invest in employee onboarding kits, recognition programs, company stores, appreciation initiatives, and team apparel programs. Every day, our team helps organizations use branded merchandise to create stronger connections among employees. In many ways, we’re passionate about that work because we’ve experienced the importance of strong workplace culture firsthand.
Culture isn’t built through products alone. But the right products can support and reinforce the culture organizations are working hard to create.
Looking Ahead
Being named one of PPAI’s 2026 Greatest Companies To Work For is an incredible honor, but for us, it’s not the finish line. It’s motivation to keep raising the bar.
We’re committed to continuing to invest in our people, strengthen our culture, serve our clients with excellence, and make a meaningful impact in the communities where we live and work. The feedback from our team reinforces that when you put people first, great things happen. Whether you’re a current client, a future partner, or someone looking for a place to grow your career, we invite you to experience what makes City Apparel + Merch different.
From purpose-driven branded merchandise programs to community involvement and a culture built on trust, growth, and service, we’re proud of what we’ve built and even more excited about where we’re going.
Want to work with a team that believes business can be a force for good? Let’s start the conversation.