Distributor Cotton Candy, Inc. (PPAI 134679), headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, has joined the Quality Certification Alliance’s (QCA) Distributor Advocacy Council (DAC). The QCA is an independent, non-governmental accreditation organization whose mission is to elevate the standards by which industry firms that import and/or manufacture promotional products provide consistently safe, high-quality, socially compliant and environmentally conscientious merchandise.

“Cotton Candy has understood from the day we opened our doors in 1992 that every product we adorn with a client’s logo becomes an extension of the brand. And, how that product subsequently looks or lasts or performs can greatly influence the way that brand is perceived,” says John Houlding, president and founder. “Over the years, we’ve made a point of implementing protocols, policies and measures, including establishing the position of a dedicated compliance officer in 2010, to help us identify and work with suppliers who produce quality sustainable products in well-managed and socially acceptable work environments. Joining the QCA Distributor Advocacy Council is an integral part of what we are endeavoring to do as an organization in ascertaining the commitment and sincere efforts of our suppliers to provide quality sustainable products manufactured from well managed and socially acceptable work environments.”

Tim Brown, MAS, QCA executive director – operations, adds, “Cotton Candy has long understood the value of responsible sourcing. Their interest in QCA is nothing new, and we are thrilled that they have chosen now as the right time to jump in with both feet. More and more, end buyers of promotional products are insisting on products from accredited suppliers. This is a trend that we expect to see gain momentum in the coming months and years as—those with the most to lose—start settings expectations of our industry.”