The year 2020 was one that most would like to forget.  For one clever manufacturer, however, it became the inspiration behind an award-winning decoration.    

The dumpster fire emblem was created by Penn Emblem for uniform supplier Propper as a promotional giveaway for a trade show event. Propper wanted something funny, different, and well-known in pop culture. The “Dumpster Fire” became famous in the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic. People humorously deemed the year a dumpster fire, and today, those who remember the year surely remember the slogan. 

The emblem’s design is cartoonish and full of whimsy, but it is also durable, thanks to PVC.  PVC never fades, cracks or peels maintaining clarity and detail. The innovative, sleek design brings branding ideas to life with three-dimensional attributes. And the emblems are removable, flexible and waterproof. 

The giveaway was a hit with attendees, as Propper distributed all 2500 patches within the first two days of the show.

The entry process for the 2024 Innovation Awards as well as NAUMD’s other recognition programs will open late fall.  Check the website and keep reading The Pulse for updates.