Printing still essential for marketing, says author

Print companies around the nation have a lot to learn from a company producing nuts and bolts, says a recent article on Digital Nirvana. It seems Fastenal, a company founded in 1967, has seen the value of its stock increase by more than 38,000% since the 1987 stock market crash. That puts gains made by Microsoft and Apple, in second and third place, in the shade.

Author Debra McMahon points out that printing and Mailing are still essential parts of the marketing communication mix, just as fasteners remain useful. She says that low-tech company Fastenal's success is a great comparison and example given that print companies are consistently being urged to provide marketing services with all the hardware, software and technology skills that that brings.

Unlike what you would expect, comments the article, the business goes against many of the assumptions made about creating business success in the 21st century. It's a business with actual bricks and mortar stores around the nation and the world, with the emphasis being on remaining close to the customer. Despite the lack of an internet based model, the company continues to be profitable thanks to its focus on process improvements, quality improvements and innovation targeted at the customers.

Ms McMahon commented in the article:



"This example would suggest that there must be a continuous commitment to understanding what the customer needs, a vision of solutions to meet those needs, investment in appropriate technology, and a structured ongoing process improvement effort to achieve the necessary efficiencies to be cost competitive and profitable over the long haul."




This is something for all printing companies in Miami and elsewhere to consider.
Get a Free Quote for Mailing Get a Free Quote for Print