56 - From Tradition to Transformation: The Digital Evolution of a Family Business
Building a Lasting Legacy: Lessons from Three Generations of Harry Hoffer Advertising Specialties
In this episode of the Growing Up B2B Podcast, host Ed Delia sits down with Marcy Hoffer, President of Promotional Products at Harry Hoffer Advertising Specialties. As the third-generation leader of this iconic family business, Marcy shares how she’s honoring her grandfather’s legacy while steering the company through decades of transformation in the promotional products industry. This episode explores the power of storytelling, adaptability, and relationship-driven leadership—offering timeless lessons for business owners looking to build lasting brands.
Honoring Heritage While Embracing Change
Marcy’s story begins with her grandfather, Harry Hoffer, who founded the company in 1946 after pivoting from selling candy to promotional products. That origin story became the cornerstone of the brand’s identity. When Marcy began sharing that legacy more openly—with clients, on the company website, and through visuals featuring her grandfather—it deepened trust and connection, turning history into a powerful marketing advantage.
As the promotional products landscape evolved from hand-delivered proofs to digital printing and online customization, Marcy embraced technology while maintaining her family’s hands-on approach. Today, she combines traditional values with modern efficiency—ensuring every order reflects precision, creativity, and care. Her dedication to service extends beyond sales, with a focus on helping clients meet deadlines, manage logistics, and achieve marketing success.
For Marcy, the heart of leadership lies in authenticity and resilience. Whether retrieving shipments herself or mentoring the next generation, she believes the key to longevity is showing up with integrity, accountability, and empathy. By balancing heritage with innovation, she continues to grow a brand that has earned nearly eight decades of client loyalty.
About Marcy Hoffer
Marcy Hoffer is the third-generation President of Promotional Products at Harry Hoffer Advertising Specialties. With deep expertise in promotional marketing and brand storytelling, she leads with a focus on authenticity, relationship-building, and operational excellence. Marcy’s leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to preserving her family’s legacy while evolving to meet the needs of modern businesses.
About Harry Hoffer Advertising Specialties
Founded in 1946, Harry Hoffer Advertising Specialties is a family-owned promotional products company specializing in branded merchandise, apparel, and corporate gifts. Known for reliability, creativity, and personalized service, the company continues to uphold its founder’s commitment to quality and integrity—helping businesses tell their stories through thoughtful promotional solutions.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights
Lead with Your Legacy: Your company’s story builds credibility and trust with clients.
Adapt to Evolve: Balancing tradition with technology ensures continued relevance.
Relationships Over Transactions: Long-term success depends on genuine connection.
Reliability Defines Reputation: Consistency and accountability sustain growth.
Confidence and Curiosity: Investing in learning and networking fuels leadership development.
Conclusion
Marcy Hoffer’s story demonstrates that great businesses aren’t just built on products—they’re built on purpose, passion, and people. By honoring her roots while embracing change, she’s transforming a family legacy into a thriving, future-ready brand. Her journey is a reminder that when businesses stay true to their story and values, they can inspire trust, loyalty, and long-term success.
Explore Ed Delia’s website to learn more about leadership strategies for family businesses and B2B growth. If you’re a B2B leader with insights to share, apply to be a guest on the Growing Up B2B Podcast here.
