It might be a server thing too. I make mid-level gear and I see quite a bit of it on my server. I've only ever seen 1 party shout this whole time advertising having a PL. Maybe you should try advertising you wouldn't be having a PL? I don't mind PLs but I know I would eagerly join a non-PL party.

Also it's a bit specific but there are like 3 gloves between 20-40 for THM that aren't dated. That might have caused your no-glove issue.