A Quarter Century of Lifting the Spirit: the DEMDACO Story

(Sponsored) 2022 marks 25 years since DEMDACO’s unique strategy took root in the gift industry. Growing up in the gift and import industries, Demi Lloyd established DD Traders in the early 1990s with Dave Kiersznowski to assist her father’s business needs. It later evolved to include the creation and import of their own products with artisan-focused designs.

The artists and products cover nearly every segment of the industry with inspiration and cheer being the focus of each line. As they continue to add new artists’ works and to uplift the industry’s and consumers’ spirits, this year is a special one full of reflection and hope.

We sat down with Demi Lloyd, co-founder and CEO of DEMDACO, to learn about what makes her proud of what she and Kiersznowski have envisioned and brought to life.

Q: Looking back on the last 25 years, what are some of the things that stand out to you most?

A: The delightful and talented people we have had the privilege of working with each day. The gift industry is like a big family. It is filled with really good, positive people and that’s a huge plus. We have also been very fortunate to be closely associated with Sue Lordi, the artist who created Willow Tree® and her family. We’ve been so very happy to work with dozens of outstanding, amazing other artists.

Q: What are some of the things you’re most proud of?

A: I am humbled by our mission of lifting the spirit. I’m proud because I think we have been able to carry this out in a variety of ways. Our products seek to add joy, comfort and connectivity. We as a company take time to help in our community; each associate has five paid days off to volunteer. And we seek to conduct ourselves internally and externally in a way that will lift the spirit of others.

Q: How has DEMDACO changed since its first day in business?

A: We are much more deliberate and missional than when we first started. Discipline and intentionality are also more a part of our rhythm, as well. I think we are still daring, even at this ripe old age!

Q: Looking ahead, what is your hope for DEMDACO? What about for the industry as a whole?

A: My hopes for the gift industry is that it will adapt and flourish. I think it will, as it is filled with talented people. My hope for DEMDACO® is that we will lean in even more to our mission of lifting the spirit. We want to be the company that people want to work at, do business with and are drawn to buy products from because they are beautiful and are connecting with them emotionally. Quoting our VP of Product and Marketing Peter Friedmann: “We should be nurturing, driven and brave … We don’t make ‘stuff’… we enable close connections. We are storytellers.”

Q: What are you most excited about for the future of DEMDACO?

A: I am excited to explore how we can be a more positive force for all of our stakeholders. I know that sounds a little lofty, but I am driven by it.

Q: What are some things retailers and the rest of the industry should look forward to from DEMDACO as you move into your 26th year — and beyond?

A: I think the industry should expect to see us providing products and services telling stories that delight and comfort and encourage customers. We hope to understand better what our customers would appreciate and then deliver on that. We have been really lucky and fortunate to come through these past 25 years and in particular these last two years stronger than ever.

DEMDACO will celebrate their 25th anniversary this year at the Atlanta, Dallas and Las Vegas shows by honoring their long-time customers and others. They’ll also have a summer party at their Kansas City headquarters.

© 2022 DEMDACO®