A world record at PSI

This year’s PSI once again demonstrated the diversity that characterises the promotional products industry. This was also highlighted by an official world record: under the title ‘Most varieties of brands in a promotional merchandise display’, promotional products were collected in a central exhibition in Hall 11. The aim was to collect at least 250 different brands. The drop-off point quickly filled up with a wide variety of products such as pens, soft toys, backpacks and caps, representing both global brands such as Mazda and Red Bull as well as niche brands.

After the deadline expired at 3 p.m. on the last day of the trade show, the eagerly awaited counting began. RX Germany Managing Director Michael Köhler welcomed the large audience and then handed over to Seyda Subasi Gemici. The Guinness World Records adjudicator first explained the rules: the items had to be genuine promotional items, no more than ten per cent could be identical items, and each product had to be clearly identifiable as belonging to a different brand. Two independent witnesses ensured that these rules were adhered to.

Target significantly exceeded

Even while the counting was still underway, it was clear that the required number of 250 brands would be significantly exceeded. Therefore, cyber-Wear Heidelberg GmbH, initiator of the record attempt and supported by PSI, received the world record certificate to loud applause from the audience. The number of stamps submitted was so large that the official result was not known until after the trade show had closed: a total of 511 different brands were found at the collection point.

Delighted with the world record: PSI Director Petra Lassahn, Guinness World Records adjudicator Seyda Subasi Gemici, Steven Baumgärtner, Managing Director of cyber-Wear Heidelberg GmbH, Michael Köhler, Managing Director of RX Germany (from left to right). Photo: Oliver Wachenfeld