Vantage Apparel is proud to welcome Eric Pehrson as Sales Account Manager, covering Michigan and Indiana.
Eric brings a diverse background in sales, leadership, and customer service to Vantage Apparel. Born and raised in Michigan, he earned a BBA in Marketing from Western Michigan University before spending 10 years in hospitality management in Las Vegas, working at premier properties including Mandalay Bay, Wynn, and Vdara. After returning to Michigan, Eric began his career in the promotional products industry, first as a Customer Service Representative at PICA Marketing in Dearborn, Michigan.
He later joined Creative Studio Promotions in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he worked in sales for five years. During that time, Eric was elected to the MiPPA Board of Directors, where he served from 2018 to 2023. His leadership roles included chairing the Membership Committee for two years, the Volunteers Committee for one year, and the association’s award-winning spring show, Ideas in Bloom, for two years. In 2022, he served as MiPPA President. Eric remained active in the organization even after completing his board service.
After Creative Studio Promotions, Eric became the Michigan sales representative for Cutter & Buck, where he spent three years before returning to the distributor side with Winners Brand in Grand Rapids. As Sales Manager, he was responsible for leading the team, introducing new processes and procedures, and helping grow the business.
“I’m proud to join the Vantage team, known for its exceptional product quality, decoration capabilities, and impeccable reputation,” said Pehrson. “As the company approaches its 50th year, it’s an honor to represent such a respected brand. I look forward to helping my clients grow their business and building strong, lasting partnerships. I’m passionate about the industry and deeply committed to supporting distributors across Michigan and Indiana.”
“Eric made an immediate impact within days of joining Vantage by quickly connecting with customers and identifying new opportunities,” said Sean Macilvain, Vice President of Business Development. “His upbeat personality is infectious, which certainly translates to building strong relationships with customers in Michigan and Indiana. His experience working with both a supplier and a distributor is incredibly valuable to our team as we continue to grow.”
Outside of work, Eric enjoys collecting vinyl records, camping, kayaking, and making the most of Michigan summers. He is also a home brewer, an avid reader of historical nonfiction, and a devoted fan of the Detroit Lions and Wrexham AFC. He also founded and ran the nonprofit Songs 4 Soldiers, which sent music care packages to soldiers overseas, delivering more than 200 care packages over seven years.
For more information, contact Eric Pehrson at ericp@vantageapparel.com, 908-477-9745, or connect with him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/ericpehrson.