Top Business of the Year: SOBO Promotional Products
SOBO Promotional Products, LLC is another J. Pat Beaird Small Business Award winner thanks to a reflection of hard work and dedication.
“Upon receiving the award notification, I was completely shocked and humbled,” said SOBO owner Jamie Lopez. “While I put my heart and soul into building our business, it's not done for accolades. Rather, I strive to make a difference in the lives of our clients, those in our community, as well as our employees.”
Lopez’s parents lived with her family the last six years of her father’s life.
“Every evening when I came home, Dad would ask, ‘Did you do good today?’ and I knew him asking that had nothing to do with business; rather, had I done well by someone that day? Did I positively influence someone’s day?” she said. “Winning this award affirms that we are positively affecting those around us, and I am thankful.”
In 2009, SOBO started as a small sole member promotional product distributor in Northwest Louisiana. Since then, it has grown to 24 employees with a diverse client base in 29 states and four countries, including non-profits, health care, hotels, casinos (gaming), military, government, procurement and finance.
"Working side-by-side with those clients, we guide them in decisions that directly affect their brand and bottom line through the selection of trade show displays, promotional products, premium incentives, staff uniforms, and printed marketing and sales support," Lopez said.
This year, they have expanded into the production of banners, signs, screenprinting and embroidery, as opposed to strictly distributorship. It has added to their team and its capabilities.
“For our company, this award is an encouragement to our team members to continue their diligent effort in taking care of our clients and communities,” Lopez said. “While we work to maintain good morale and show appreciation to our team, this award is a visible sign of their hard work. We will all continue to strive for excellence and contribution in service, and we are all deeply honored to receive this prestigious award.”
In addition, Lopez and her team work with numerous volunteer organizations and enterprises, helping other companies and future entrepreneurs make their dreams come true.
