Classic Printers — Keeping With Tradition

FROM A one-man operation in just a 12x12-ft. room, to becoming the third largest printing establishment in Houston, Classic Printers attributes its success over the years to traditional values coupled with embracing the latest printing technologies.

Offering clients personalized service is not always easy in the fast-paced world of printing but, for Classic co-owners Herbert W. “Sandy” Haas and his wife Claudia Haas, it comes naturally. Since the company’s outset in 1981, customers have come to rely on the commercial sheetfed shop’s “personal” approach. “We believe that the biggest formula for our success is not losing sight of the fact that people do business with people,” explains Sandy Haas.

Helping Customers Grow

“Classic understands that we don’t simply produce printed material; we produce the tools that help our customers manage and grow their businesses,” adds Terry Krailo, vice president of sales and marketing. “It’s our willingness to go the extra mile by providing true consulting and partnering services, as well as careful attention to understanding and exceeding their expectations.”

That same business philosophy is apparent today as when the company first operated out of a single room, running two small-format presses, in a small, converted home. Outgrowing the tiny space, Classic expanded into a 15,000-square-foot facility in 1984, and Sandy Haas purchased his first Heidelberg press, a KORD. Dedicated to growing his small business, he would sell and deliver completed projects during the day, and then run the KORD at night—while still wearing his suit and tie.

As business continued to grow, the company made its final move in 1999 to a 50,000-square-foot plant. Even since the early days, Sandy Haas has never turned away a complicated project. In fact, he took pride in, and still welcomes, a challenge.

“Starting out, most of my business constituted difficult print jobs that many printers, at that time, couldn’t do. I was able to complete those jobs and, as a result, customers were very pleased,” he recalls.