The PPPC National Convention trade show floor comes together in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The PPPC National Convention trade show floor comes together in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

The Promotional Products Professionals of Canada’s (PPPC) 2016 National Convention began Monday in Toronto, Ontario at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Running through Friday, the 60th annual convention features professional development, trade-show and networking opportunities.

Karl Subban, former Toronto school principal, coach and speaker, delivered the PPPC National Convention's opening keynote this morning. Karl Subban, former Toronto school principal, coach and speaker, delivered the PPPC National Convention's opening keynote this morning.

The national convention’s professional development schedule extends throughout the week, and on its first day drew together speakers from the U.S. and Canada to explore best practices and new ideas to build a brand, differentiate in the marketplace and establish firm relationships between suppliers and distributors. Today’s schedule includes keynote sessions with former school principal, coach and speaker Karl Subban; and Chitra Anand, head of public relations at Microsoft Canada and an expert on fostering “intrapreneurship”—those within the organization who possess an entrepreneurial spirit, driving innovation, creative thinking and new ideas. The day ends with a networking event at the InterContinental Ballroom, and the PPPC vs. PPAI battle of the bands and karaoke party.

The National Convention’s trade-show floor opens Wednesday with exhibitors on hand representing companies from across the industry. Wednesday night, attendees will gather for the 36th Annual Image Awards Ceremony, where supplier and distributor members will be recognized for their accomplishments in a number of categories.

Look for more coverage of the PPPC National Convention in Thursday’s edition of PPB Newslink.