While visiting family in California, I got the chance to visit with FolgerGraphics in Hayward. FolgerGraphics is a web offset shop that specializes in general commercial printing, including publication printing and direct mail. I caught up with CEO Kirk Folger for a quick five-question interview.
Ashley Roberts: Are there any specific trends or applications that your customers are asking for right now?
Kirk Folger: Right now I'm seeing a trend to try and simplify or reduce print volumes in some cases. So, instead of printing a booklet [they're printing] maybe a postcard instead or something similar. Or maybe it's a blended effort.
Roberts: Do you think these changes are because of the increase in postage costs? Are you seeing any print buyers or marketers choosing lower quantity, more targeted direct mail?
Folger: Some are doing that. Some are both hitting specific targets that might be outside of their EDDM zone and or just going after specific targets because that's what the product is catering toward — a specific group.
Roberts: Is there any specific type of technology or equipment that you are looking into or considering adding in the future?
Folger: I know Heidelberg has large digital presses out there that you know can be beneficial for certain jobs and might be necessary down the road too. So, that's a consideration.

In addition to web offset technology, FolgerGraphics has Heidelberg's Speedmaster sheetfed offset technology.
Roberts: Have you run into any challenges finding skilled workers?
Folger: Yeah, it has been hard to find qualified sales people, or even on the technical side of things. It's been a little challenging. But, we've had low turnover so it hasn't been a huge problem for us. We've been able to train some people in-house and just go about it that way. We promote them from within.

FolgerGraphics has a "Wall of Fame" on its wall where it recognizes how long employees have been with the company. | Click to enlarge.
Roberts: You showed me the Wall of Fame. You've had quite a few people who have been here for decades, correct?
Folger: Yes, absolutely. So that helps. You don't have to go out and hunt and hope you find somebody just as good or possibly better ... or possibly worse.