TL;DR
BAMKO’s 25th anniversary is a celebration of a remarkable journey. Founded in 2000 by Philip Koosed and Brett Marz, BAMKO started with a simple vision: to provide creative, high-quality promotional products that truly reflect a brand’s identity. 
Their early days were defined by hustle and a commitment to customer service, hand-delivering orders and building a strong foundation for future growth. A pivotal moment came in 2004 with the expansion into China, a move that revolutionized their sourcing strategy and set a new industry standard.
Key Milestones
- 2016: Acquired by Superior Group of Companies (SGC), providing access to greater resources and growth.
- 2021: Jake Himelstein appointed President, leading BAMKO into a new era of growth and innovation.
- 2021-2022: Strategic acquisitions of Gifts By Design, Sutter’s Mill Specialties, and Guardian further enhanced BAMKO’s offerings and production capabilities.
- 2022: Rebranding initiative reflected BAMKO’s evolution into a sophisticated industry leader.
- 2022-2023: Achieved 80% revenue growth, driven by acquisitions and a refreshed brand identity.
BAMKO continues to evolve and innovate, expanding its offerings and services to meet the ever-changing needs of its clients. With a focus on sustainability and social responsibility, BAMKO is committed to making a positive impact on the world while leading the promotional products industry into the future.
BAMKO: 25 Years of Promo Excellence
It’s hard to believe that 25 years have passed since BAMKO first opened its doors. Founded in 2000 by Philip Koosed and Brett Marz, what began as a vision to sell t-shirts has blossomed into a legacy of excellence.
As we commemorate this milestone anniversary, we reflect on the path that has shaped BAMKO’s remarkable story. From our humble beginnings to our groundbreaking achievements, we’ll revisit the defining moments and pivotal decisions that have paved the way for our success.
2000 | From Frat House to Forerunner
It all started with a simple idea: T-shirts. In the late 1990’s, that was the pinnacle of promo. But BAMKO founders Phil Koosed and Brett Marz knew brands deserved more. They envisioned a world where promotional products were creative, high-quality, and truly reflected a company’s identity.
Armed with that simple vision, these finance guys-turned-entrepreneurs set out to disrupt the status quo. They had no sourcing experience, no marketing know-how, just a whole lot of hustle. They were the definition of scrappy, picking up orders, folding shirts, packing boxes, and hand-delivering everything in a beat-up Chevy Tahoe. They dedicated their entire summer break to building BAMKO, grinding 80-hour weeks in a tiny room.
But by the end of that summer, something incredible happened. They realized their crazy idea just might work. They brought on their first employee, Todd Sachs, and soon after their second and third, Eli Schneider and Ankur Sinha. BAMKO was officially born, and the promo industry would never be the same
2004 | How BAMKO Found its Footing in India
In the early days of the internet, long before LinkedIn became the go-to resource for talent acquisition, Phil Koosed stumbled upon an online platform that was essentially a precursor to Craigslist, but specifically for connecting with skilled engineers.
It was on this platform that he crossed paths with Ankur Sinha, a talented individual who would play a crucial role in BAMKO’s future. Intrigued by Ankur’s potential, Phil took a leap of faith and flew to India to meet him in person. Their initial workspace was far from glamorous – they set up shop in the attic of Ankur’s parents’ home, a testament to their resourcefulness and dedication.
This humble beginning marked the start of a remarkable journey. Under Ankur’s leadership, BAMKO’s India team has flourished, growing into a powerhouse of over 400 employees who play an integral role in the company’s global operations. It’s a testament to the power of recognizing talent, fostering strong partnerships, and embracing a global perspective from the very beginning.
2004 | Breaking the Mold through China Expansion
BAMKO recognized the potential of the Chinese market, a territory largely untapped by the promotional products industry at the time. But it was a chance encounter that ignited this journey. Todd Sachs reconnected with a former foreign exchange student who had become a friend during high school. She offered a game-changing piece of advice: “You’re buying products from way too many places. Just go to China!”
This simple yet profound suggestion resonated with BAMKO. In 2004, doing business in China was far from the norm, but they were never ones to shy away from a challenge. With their friend’s guidance, they established their first China office, a move that would revolutionize their sourcing strategy and set a new standard for the industry. They even went so far as to personally travel to China to troubleshoot problem orders, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
This bold expansion transformed BAMKO from a scrappy startup into a true industry powerhouse. It was just the beginning of a journey that would see BAMKO continue to break barriers and redefine what’s possible in the world of promotional products.
2005 – 2015 | BAMKO Grows
BAMKO’s growth wasn’t just about expanding its operations and client base; it was about cultivating a vibrant company culture that valued hard work and having a good time. From Wii tournaments to the legendary gong that echoed through the halls every time a big order came in, BAMKO fostered an environment where celebrating success was just as important as achieving it.
But it wasn’t all fun and games. Everyone at BAMKO understood that building a stellar reputation was paramount. They were obsessed with customer satisfaction, going above and beyond to exceed expectations and forge strong relationships with every client. This dedication to service, combined with a keen eye for emerging trends and a commitment to delivering innovative, cutting-edge products, quickly set BAMKO apart from the competition.
As word of their exceptional service and unique offerings spread, BAMKO’s client roster grew increasingly diverse. They were attracting businesses of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, all eager to partner with a company that truly understood their branding needs. This steady expansion solidified BAMKO’s position as a rising force in the promotional products industry, setting the stage for even greater achievements to come.
2016 | BAMKO is Acquired by Superior Group of Companies (SGC)
BAMKO’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation didn’t go unnoticed. In 2016, the company caught the eye of Superior Group of Companies (SGC), a leader in the uniform and image apparel industry. SGC recognized BAMKO’s potential and saw a strategic opportunity to expand its presence in the branded merchandise and promotional products market. The acquisition marked a significant milestone for BAMKO, providing access to greater resources, a wider network, and new avenues for growth. This move solidified BAMKO’s position as a major player in the industry and set the stage for even greater achievements in the years to come.
The 2010s were a period of remarkable growth and transformation for BAMKO. Annual sales surged from approximately $31.5 million in 2015 to an impressive $300 million by 2022, a testament to the company’s strategic vision and commitment to innovation. This impressive expansion was fueled not only by organic growth but also by a series of key acquisitions spearheaded by both BAMKO and its parent company, SGC. These strategic moves made between 2017 and 2023 broadened BAMKO’s reach, enhanced its capabilities, and solidified its position as a dominant force in the promotional products industry.
Aug. 2017 | BAMKO Acquires Public Identity Inc.
In 2017, BAMKO took a significant step forward by acquiring Public Identity Inc., a renowned leader in the collegiate licensed products market. This strategic move brought together two powerhouses, each with unique strengths and a shared commitment to excellence.
Public Identity’s expertise in the collegiate market, combined with BAMKO’s innovative approach to promotional products, created a synergy that fueled further growth. As Leland Felsenthal, Founder and President of Public Identity, stated at the time, “BAMKO’s capabilities in technology, global sourcing, and creative solutions set them apart.” This acquisition not only expanded BAMKO’s reach but also enriched its offerings, allowing them to provide even more comprehensive and impactful solutions to a wider range of clients.
Nov. 2017 | BAMKO Acquires Tangerine Promotions
BAMKO’s acquisition of Tangerine Promotions in 2017 was a game-changer, injecting even more creativity and customization into its DNA. Tangerine, known for its unconventional approach to branding and its impressive roster of clients like Coca-Cola and Nestlé, brought a fresh perspective to the BAMKO family. As Philip Koosed, BAMKO’s president, aptly described it, this acquisition represented “an incredible leap forward.”
Tangerine’s expertise in POP displays, POS merchandise, and custom products, coupled with their deep understanding of brand identity, significantly enhanced BAMKO’s ability to deliver unique and impactful solutions. This strategic move broadened BAMKO’s horizons and solidified its reputation as an industry innovator.
July 2021 | BAMKO Brings on Jake Himelstein as President 
2021 marked a new era of leadership for BAMKO with the appointment of Jake Himelstein as President. Himelstein, a seasoned financial and operational expert with a deep understanding of the company’s inner workings, brought a fresh perspective and a data-driven approach to the role.
This transition allowed BAMKO’s founder, Philip Koosed, to focus on broader strategic initiatives within the Superior Group of Companies, while empowering Himelstein to lead BAMKO into its next phase of growth and innovation. This strategic shift in leadership signaled a commitment to both continuity and evolution, ensuring that BAMKO would continue to thrive while embracing new opportunities and challenges.
Feb. 2021 | BAMKO Acquires Gifts By Design
BAMKO’s 2021 acquisition of Gifts By Design wasn’t just about expanding its product offerings; it was about aligning with a company that shared its values and vision for the future. Gifts By Design, known for its expertise in corporate awards, incentives, and recognition programs, brought a wealth of experience and a dedication to technological advancement that resonated with BAMKO’s own drive for innovation.
This strategic partnership, as both companies’ leaders emphasized, was about creating something even greater than the sum of its parts. It was about providing clients with unparalleled access to cutting-edge technology, a wider range of products, and an even deeper level of service. This acquisition marked a significant step towards BAMKO’s goal of becoming the industry’s leading provider of awards, incentives, and recognition solutions.
Dec. 2021 | BAMKO’s Acquisition of Sutter’s Mill Specialties
BAMKO’s acquisition of Sutter’s Mill Specialties in 2021 was a strategic masterstroke, significantly boosting their in-house production capabilities. Sutter’s Mill, renowned for its cutting-edge decoration, production, and engraving expertise, brought a wealth of resources to the BAMKO table.
This acquisition wasn’t just about adding capabilities; it was about aligning with a company that shared BAMKO’s dedication to innovation and customer service. As Jake Himelstein, BAMKO’s President, highlighted, Sutter’s Mill’s “extensive in-house decoration, production, and engraving capabilities are second to none in this industry.” This move allowed BAMKO to offer even more unique and customized solutions to its clients, further solidifying its position as an industry leader.
Jun. 2022 | BAMKO Acquires Guardian
BAMKO’s 2022 acquisition of Guardian signaled a powerful move into the automotive industry. Guardian, a leading provider of promotional products to car dealerships nationwide, brought a specialized expertise and established customer base that perfectly complemented BAMKO’s existing capabilities.
This strategic acquisition, following closely on the heels of the Sutter’s Mill Specialties acquisition, allowed BAMKO to leverage its enhanced production infrastructure and become a dominant force in the automotive dealer market. By combining forces with Guardian, BAMKO gained a significant advantage in providing comprehensive solutions, including uniforms, to a thriving sector, further solidifying its position as a leader in the promotional products landscape.
Oct. 2022 | BAMKO Rebrands
In 2022, BAMKO underwent a significant rebranding initiative, reflecting its evolution into a more sophisticated and mature company. This rebranding encompassed several key elements:
- Updated Logo: The new logo features a stylized standalone “B,” symbolizing BAMKO’s distinct identity and its focus on elevating client brands.
- Dynamic Website: The redesigned website, BAMKO.net, offers a more engaging user experience with updated images, case studies, and regularly refreshed content.
- Refined Brand Messaging: BAMKO’s brand messaging now emphasizes its dedication to providing sharp, original, and impactful solutions, reflecting its growth and expertise in the industry.
This rebranding initiative was more than just a cosmetic change; it was a strategic move to align BAMKO’s external image with its internal evolution. As Joshua White, Head of Strategy and General Counsel, explained, “BAMKO is all grown up, and we felt it was time that our branding reflected the company that our customers actually deal with on a day-to-day basis.” The rebranding successfully communicated BAMKO’s commitment to providing elevated merchandise solutions for the world’s most valuable brands, solidifying its position as a leader in the promotional products industry.
2022 | BAMKO Joins Forces with HPI
In 2022, BAMKO strategically joined forces with HPI, a fellow member of the Superior Group of Companies (SGC) family specializing in uniform and corporate image apparel. This integration wasn’t just about combining two strong entities; it was about creating a synergy that delivers a truly holistic and seamless experience for our clients.
By bringing HPI under the BAMKO umbrella, we expanded our capabilities to offer a complete branding solution, encompassing everything from uniforms and employee apparel to promotional products and merchandise. This strategic alignment has not only fueled significant revenue growth but has also allowed us to provide a unified and comprehensive approach to branding, further solidifying our position as a leader in the industry.
BAMKO Grows: 2022 to 2023 Revenue Burst
BAMKO’s strategic vision and commitment to growth yielded phenomenal results between 2022 and 2023. During this period, the company achieved a remarkable 80% increase in revenue compared to the previous year. The strategic acquisitions made in 2022 broadened BAMKO’s capabilities and allowed the company to offer a more diverse range of solutions to its clients. Simultaneously, BAMKO experienced considerable organic growth due to its rebranding, revitalizing its image and resonating with clients seeking a modern and forward-thinking partner.
This powerful combination of strategic acquisitions and a refreshed brand identity propelled BAMKO to new heights, demonstrating the company’s ability to adapt, evolve, and consistently exceed expectations.
Continued Growth and Expansion in 2025
BAMKO is kicking off 2025 with a continued commitment to growth and expansion. We recently acquired 3 Point Brand Management, a leading provider of branded merchandise in the Pacific Northwest. This strategic move brings a wealth of experience and a diverse client roster to BAMKO, further strengthening our presence in the region and enhancing our ability to deliver innovative branding solutions to clients worldwide.
But we aren’t just growing through acquisitions. We are also expanding our service offerings, continuing our significant push into commercial print. This includes everything from everyday promotional items like stickers to large-scale projects like billboards and even high-end coffee table books. By strategically building in-house commercial print resources, we offer clients an even wider range of top-quality marketing solutions while maintaining our commitment to brand values and client satisfaction.
A Quarter-Century of Branding Excellence
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, it’s incredible to look back on the journey that has brought BAMKO to where we are today. BAMKO is a leading force in the promotional products industry, known for our innovative solutions, strategic growth, and dedication to client success. We’ve consistently pushed boundaries, embraced new technologies, and expanded our capabilities to deliver branding solutions that are as unique as our clients.
This milestone anniversary is a time for reflection, but it’s also a springboard for the future. Our strategic expansions across all areas of promotional marketing and branding demonstrate our ongoing dedication to growth and evolution. We’re not just keeping pace with the industry; we’re shaping it.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue building on our legacy of excellence. We’re committed to providing our clients with the most innovative, high-quality branding solutions available, all while maintaining the personalized service and attention to detail that have become synonymous with the BAMKO name.
Want to learn more about BAMKO?
Explore our blog for industry insights and company updates, delve into our work to see our creative solutions in action, and discover our culture to understand what drives us. We invite you to join us on this exciting journey as we continue to redefine the promotional products industry.
