BRANDED WOR(L)DS and “Why It Matters” Launch Joint Special Featuring MERCH 2030 – A Bold New Vision for the Future of the Branded Merchandise Industry
Santa Clarita, CA / Mannheim, Germany – BRANDED WOR(L)DS and its sister format Why It Matters are joining forces for a special transatlantic episode centered around MERCH 2030, the groundbreaking new book by global industry leader Steven Baumgaertner, CEO of cyber-Wear Heidelberg GmbH.The special episode will air on 07.12.2025 at 9:00 AM PT / 6:00 PM CET, bringing together three of the industry’s most recognizable voices: Jeff Solomon, MAS, Rod Brown, and Steven Baumgaertner.The joint episode aims to explore the decisive trends, tensions and transformations shaping the future of branded merchandise — from global supply chain evolution and multisensory brand experiences to sustainability pressures, consumer expectations and the role of data-driven creativity.
A Conversation Without a Script – and Without Filters
Instead of following a rigid framework, the special will take the form of a raw, open conversation. “This one doesn’t need a script. It needs honesty,” says Jeff Solomon, co-host of BRANDED WOR(L)DS.
“MERCH 2030 is the most important industry book I’ve read in 40 years. It deserves a format that lets the ideas breathe.”says Rod Brown.
A Book Redefining an Industry
In MERCH 2030, Baumgaertner distills three decades of global leadership, cross-continental operations and brand partnerships into a powerful blueprint for the future. The book has already been called a “must-read for every serious professional” by early reviewers in Europe and North America. “Our industry stands at a crossroads. We either shape the future — or the future shapes us,” notes Steven Baumgaertner
A Transatlantic Moment for the Industry
Rod Brown, who curated several passages from the book for the show, emphasizes the significance of this collaboration: The special will be published across both channels, BRANDED WOR(L)DS and Why It Matters distributed through the Branded Merch Network, ensuring broad distribution across the U.S. and European markets.
Availability & Distribution
Copies of MERCH 2030 will be available in both Europe and the U.S.A.
About BRANDED WOR(L)DS / Why It Matters
Hosted by Steven Baumgaertner and Jeff Solomon, and produced for a global audience of distributors, suppliers and brand leaders, Branded Wor(l)ds is one of the most influential voices in the promotional products space. Its sister format Why It Matters, gives context, perspective and deeper meaning to the industry’s biggest conversations.
Podcast https://www.brandedworlds.online
Purchase https://www.cw-publish.com
