ASW Global Acquires Main Event Merchandise

The marketing fulfillment division, Global Promotions and Incentives, of ASW Global, Akron, Ohio, will expand with the acquisition of Indianapolis-based firm, Main Event Merchandise Group.

“As a Supply Chain Solutions Company, ASW is achieving one of its strategic goals to model services that are best in class," André Thornton, ASW Global's CEO, who also spent more than a decade as an MLB first baseman, said. "We are excited about the increased capabilities for which Main Event Merchandise Group is known. The company offers creative solutions in branding, licensing and fulfillment that will appeal to the ASW client base.”

The merger will provide ASW Global with a broader presence, with the addition of offices in Colorado, Ohio, Indiana and Tennessee. Main Event also has a strong presence in Canada that will help to solidify ASW Global's North American presence. ASW Global will retain the well-respected Main Event brand name, which will continue to provide service both domestically and internationally.

Brian Fahle, who has 25 years of merchandising experience and founded Main Event in 2001, will serve as president of the marketing management service division, utilizing his expertise in delivering integrated services from merchandising, graphic design, licensing, production and e-commerce fulfillment. He previously led the corporate premium division for Logo7/Logo Athletic and served as a regional sales representative for Seattle-based Cutter and Buck.

“Main Event’s niche is to build multiple programs satisfying the client’s needs end to end," Fahle said. "This approach has become Main Event’s trademark and merging with ASW Global will strengthen our ability to offer an even broader array of services while streamlining our processes."

Main Event provides services to niche markets, such as sports associations, retailers and marquee organizations while Global Promotions and Incentives has a strong presence in the financial, industrial and education sectors. The merger will provide clients with diverse service solutions, leveraged supplier relationships, cost containment and enhanced purchasing power.

"Ultimately our clients will benefit from the combined services supported through the new Main Event identity,” Thornton said.

For more information, visit www.aswglobal.com and www.mainevt.com.