2007 Printing Industry Hall of Fame — Appreciation for People - David Torok

In the 18 years since Torok assumed the helm at Padgett, the company has grown from an $8 million a year performer to north of $30 million. The company’s plan is to reach the $45 million range over the next five to six years. Torok’s willingness to get on board early in the development of a technology has kept Padgett Printing at the industry fore; the company entered the digital printing realm in 1998 and has been offering mailing and fulfillment services for the past five years.

Mary Garnett, executive vice president at PIA/GATF, notes Torok has been an “outstanding member and resource to PIA/GATF.” Garnett points out that Torok has served as chairman of the Digital Printing Council and is frequently called upon by the association to provide feedback, a printer perspective on trends and their impact, as well as answers to business issues.

“Dave is at the top of my ‘go-to’ list for member perspective,” Garnett says. “I can depend on his thoughtful, candid insight and observations. He knows the printing industry from the traditional offset point of view through the latest in variable data and personalization in the digital printing arena. Dave has shared his knowledge in informal meetings, as a panelist and as a seminar leader.”

Don Clampitt, CEO of Clampitt Paper in Dallas, has known Torok well since his Hurst Printing stint. Clampitt sees Torok as a focused man driven by results.

“He’s not someone who flies by the seat of his pants,” Clampitt emphasizes. “The people who work for David know exactly what job needs to be done. That’s the reason he’s so successful.”

Life’s Ups and Downs

The journey has been dotted with ups and downs. On the plus side, Padgett Printing’s growth over the years hasn’t added overhead, and the company is operating at about $250,000 per employee. Without the benefit of ample operating space, it has tested the company’s ability to construct highly efficient workflows.