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Better Together: A Values-First Partnership

  • Writer: Danny Sheppard
    Danny Sheppard
  • May 23
  • 2 min read

At better. Promos, we believe merch should reflect more than just a logo—it should reflect values. And when we connected with Ocaquatics, a fellow purpose-driven company and Certified B Corporation, we knew right away this was the start of something meaningful.

Ocaquatics is a swim school with deep roots in sustainability, employee ownership, and community impact. As a 100% employee-owned business with a mission that extends far beyond the pool, they were looking for promotional products that could speak to who they are and what they stand for. Since our first collaboration, we’ve helped them create intentional, values-aligned merch for their staff, community, and nonprofit initiatives.

Here’s a look at the ripple effect we’ve created together.



One of the Ocaquatics co-founders!
One of the Ocaquatics co-founders!

It Started With a Hat

In February 2024, Ocaquatics kicked off our partnership with a simple but powerful idea: provide high-quality “Co-Owner” caps to celebrate their team and communicate their employee ownership model. The caps were made from 100% recycled polyester, blending eco-conscious materials with standout branding and purpose.

This first project was a hit—and it set the tone for what was to come.



Tees That Talk the Talk

By May 2024, we were back at it with a line of spring employee tees. Crafted from 100% recycled fibers, these shirts featured the Certified B Corporation logo and “100% Employee-Owned” messaging front and center.

They weren’t just tees. They were a walking billboard for sustainability and equity—worn proudly by every member of the Ocaquatics team.



The Ocaquatics team in their custom merch!
The Ocaquatics team in their custom merch!


Seasonal Layers, Year-Round Values

As fall rolled in, Ocaquatics came to us again—this time for cozy, functional layers to keep their team comfortable as temperatures dropped. In November 2024, we sourced full-zip hoodies and long-sleeve tees that checked every box: sustainably made, ethically sourced, and stylish enough for daily wear.

These garments extended their commitment to meaningful merch into cooler seasons, reinforcing their values while keeping their team outfitted in comfort.





Merch With a Mission: Ripples of Impact

In March 2025, our work with Ocaquatics took on a new dimension with the launch of Ripples of Impact, their nonprofit initiative. To support the cause and raise awareness, we helped design custom branded T-shirts that could be worn at events, volunteer days, and in the community.

Each shirt was made with the same commitment to sustainability as our previous projects, turning every wear into a moment of mission-driven visibility.



One Brand. One Mission. One Better Way.

Working with Ocaquatics has been more than just a client relationship—it’s been a collaboration built on shared values, purposeful impact, and better choices at every turn.

Whether it’s celebrating their employee-owners, elevating their nonprofit work, or simply making sure their team looks and feels great in their merch, every project has told a story. A story of people, planet, and a better way to brand.

We’re proud to be part of that story—and excited for what’s next.



Want merch that reflects your mission?


 Let’s make something better together.


 📩 Email hello@thinkbluestar.com to start your own purposeful merch journey.

 
 
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