We are proud to announce that company President, Ira Neaman, has been named the 2024 recipient of
the prestigious NJBIZ ICON Award. This esteemed
honor celebrates New Jersey business leaders for their
notable success and exemplary leadership. An
independent panel of judges has recognized Neaman
for his outstanding contributions to the state of New
Jersey, both in his industry and the community.
Neaman was nominated by Vantage’s CEO, Rob
Watson. “Ira is a titan whose visionary stewardship
has forever shaped not only Vantage but also the
broader landscape of the promotional products
industry.”
With an illustrious career spanning nearly five decades,
Neaman has been at the helm of the Vantage since he
started the company in 1977. Vantage Apparel has
evolved into a paragon of innovation and excellence in
custom apparel manufacturing, recognized as one
North America’s largest and top-awarded apparel
decorators for 28 years in a row. Vantage has been
named among Counselor Magazine’s Top 40 Suppliers
for over two decades and has received the prestigious
PPAI Top 100 Global Companies award for the last two
years, ranking #17 in 2023 and rising to #12 in 2024. In 2003, Neaman was named the Advertising
Specialty Institute’s Person of the Year.
At the heart of Ira Neaman's remarkable success lies his exceptional leadership prowess. He leads by
example, embodying the values of hard work, perseverance, and accountability that have become
synonymous with the Vantage Apparel brand.
Moreover, Neaman is keenly aware of the transformative power of sustainability and environmental
stewardship in today's business landscape. Under his leadership, Vantage Apparel has taken significant
strides towards reducing its carbon footprint, imposing sustainable fashion into its line and promoting
Earth-saving practices throughout its operations.
Neaman's commitment to the well-being of his employees extends beyond the confines of the workplace.
He is known for his philanthropic endeavors and dedication to giving back to the community, such as
Annual statewide sponsor of Clean Ocean Action, a New Jersey based non-profit organization focused on
reducing waste in our beaches and preserving our ocean’s ecosystem -- reflecting his deep-seated belief
in the importance of social responsibility.
“This honor is truly the result of hundreds of talented team members that have called Vantage home over
our 47-year history,” shared Neaman. “As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, our very
best years at Vantage are yet to come.”
Neaman accepted the NJBIZ Icon Award alongside business leaders and colleagues throughout the
Garden State.