GXN Conference in Kitzbühel: Agreement on Common Principles

Between 6 and 9 October 2026, international leaders in the promotional product industry met at the fifth Conference of the Global Executive Network (GXN) in Kitzbühel, Austria. The focus of the strategic networking event was the future of the industry and the “One Voice” initiative, which will bring manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, service providers and associations from around the world closer together. The highlight of the event was the adoption of the Kitzbüheler Declaration 2030 on 9 October. It includes eight common principles that are intended to provide the industry with direction for the coming years. No specific implementation programs have been adopted to date.

Eight principles for the future

The declaration combines economic interests with ecological and social responsibility. The agreed guiding principles include verifying a return on investment (ROI), developing global standards and making sustainability quantifiable. Other focus areas range from developing future skilled workers, combating greenwashing, and increasing transparency in supply chains to protecting ethical production conditions. The declaration is also expected to increase the industry’s visibility in politics and public affairs. These principles should help convey the economic significance of the promotional product industry more clearly and strengthen its position in public discourse.

Inspiration on AI and leadership

The conference program on the 8th and 9th of October included keynote speakers and podium discussions. Michael Freter and Florian Rotberg began the strategic exchange of information. Achim Berg examined the impact of artificial intelligence on leadership and organisational structures and argued in favour of fundamentally rethinking decision-making processes and organisational models given the new technological opportunities available. Even on the morning of  9 October, the GXN Women in Promo working group met up at 8 a.m. before the conference programme got underway. An informal networking evening, the first GXN golf tournament and cycling and hiking activities rounded out the event.

Global platform with a common aim

GXN was founded in 2022 and sees itself as an international platform for leaders and decision-makers in the promotional product industry. The conference held in Kitzbühel is intended to serve as a starting point for bringing the eight principles to life through further dialogue and future initiatives.
www.gxn-net.org

Photo: Group photo with GXN Conference participants. Image: GXN