PITTSBURGH — April 30, 2025 — It was all about good vibes and great ideas at the ADDYs Spa—this year’s theme at the 2024-2025 Pittsburgh American Advertising Awards—where Gatesman left feeling refreshed and victorious thanks to six silver ADDYs and a coveted Judges Award of Excellence for Conair at the National Plastics Exhibition (NPE). Recognized across multiple categories and disciplines, the agency’s work proved that while advertising may sometimes be stressful, bold creativity is always worth the hustle.
The six entries spanning three key client campaigns demonstrate Gatesman’s continued ability to break through with emotionally resonant, purpose-driven ideas that move people—and brands—forward.
"Our teams didn’t just develop campaigns, they created experiences that moved people and made noise,” said Alex Hess, AVP, Creative Director, Gatesman. “Each nomination pulses attention to detail and the collective force of collaboration. It’s a testament to that shared passion for creating work that works, and knowing we made something unforgettable."
Conair – NPE Presence
Bringing Conair’s "MAKE EVERY PELLET COUNT" platform to life at the National Plastics Exhibition, Gatesman created an immersive brand experience that stole the show. From large-scale displays to seamless cross-channel touchpoints, Conair’s presence proved that branding works best when it’s unforgettable. Gatesman’s multi-faceted activation culminated in a Judges Award of Excellence, a special honor reserved for work that embodies standout creativity and innovation. The campaign also garnered two silver ADDY Awards: one for Out-of-Home: Multiple Installations in the out-of-home & ambient media category and one for Integrated Advertising Campaign – Regional/National in the cross platform category.
NVI x Vontélle – Black History Month Campaign
A bold celebration of culture, identity and vision, Gatesman’s work to launch National Vision’s exclusive eyewear collection with Black-women-owned eyewear brand, Vontélle, in 900+ America’s Best stores captured audiences across every platform. The campaign’s powerful storytelling and vibrant visuals were recognized with three silver ADDY Awards: two in the sales and marketing category for Campaign and 3D / Mixed, and one in the online/interactive category for Social Media. Unapologetically stylish and meaningful, the work helped to spark conversations that matter.
Oktoberfest Pittsburgh – Logo Design
Blending heritage and contemporary design, Gatesman reimagined the identity for Pittsburgh’s first annual Oktoberfest celebration. The team was tasked with creating visuals including a logo design—which gained a silver ADDY Award in the elements of advertising category—that captured the spirit, energy and community at the heart of the event, bringing a timeless tradition into a bold new era of Pittsburgh.
“Big ideas aren't born in comfort zones. They're sparked when you push harder, dig deeper and dare to be louder,” added Hess. “This night wasn’t just a celebration of awards, but of ambition, heart and the shared belief that bold ideas can truly make an impact.”
This year’s recognition across multiple categories reflects the agency’s broad creative capabilities and unwavering commitment to ideas that connect emotionally and drive real-world results. Gatesman’s momentum shows no signs of slowing, with more big ideas and even bigger impact on the horizon.
For more information, please visit gatesmanagency.com or keep up with #TeamGatesman on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, or X, formerly Twitter.
About Gatesman:
With offices in Pittsburgh and Chicago, Gatesman offers expertise in strategy/branding, advertising, public relations, social media, digital and analytics. Gatesman is a partner in AMIN Worldwide, an alliance of over 50 independent marketing agencies, and IPREX, a global communications network. Gatesman acquired Quest Fore in 2014 and Noble Communications in 2017.
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