The agencies and brands roster, which includes Crazy Horse, Fresh Air and Parker Pens, will be split into two categories to widen the COI's range of suppliers. One will cover trade suppliers, manufacturers and direct importers; the other, merchandising agencies and gift houses.
The COI also wants to increase the number of agencies on the list from three to eight, who will work alongside manufacturers to provide the greater integration being demanded by clients.
The list, which was last reviewed in 2001, includes manufacturers, importers and distributors of promotional items from pens and mousemats to clothing.
The change in structure and a rise in demand from government bodies has led to an overall increase in the number of places available from 21 to about 40 across the two categories.
Sarah Walsh, COI team head of merchandising, said it was "responding to a request from clients for greater breadth of products and more integrated thinking".
The roster will be advertised in the Official Journal of the European Union on 18 May, with a closing date set for written applications of 1 July.
Some companies will then be selected for site visits before a final shortlist is drawn up. The review is expected to be completed by September.
The COI is in the process of reviewing both its direct marketing and advertising rosters, with appointments expected to be made later this summer.
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