Phillips Printing — Passionate by Accident
Most of Phillips’ clients are local, but since adding the new technology, the printer is already attracting more business from nearby towns like Orlando, as well as a few national accounts. The owner reports that business has increased significantly due to the new gear. And, he emphasizes, this was done with little or no overtime expense.
“With our new press and bindery equipment, we’ve taken the overtime out of the business equation,” Phillips says, citing concrete examples of his overtime savings. In May, before the installation, overtime was $3,000. In June, during the installation, overtime was $1,500. In July, once the installation was complete, overtime dropped to almost zero.
Between the elimination of overtime and the increase in sales, Phillips reports that business is more profitable than ever—which is an especially good thing, considering he’s the solo salesperson.
“I’m the only sales rep (although I’m looking for another one now). I’m the one who makes the calls, visits the customers, targets and contacts potential clients. And I do all the marketing/PR, such as our monthly postcard mailings and customer newsletters.”
Sales rep, PR person, general manager, president: Phillips wears several hats, but admits enjoying them all.
“I like owning my own business. It’s up to me to get out of it what I put into it. Also, I enjoy the ever-changing technology and creative element of printing. It’s never boring; there’s always something new coming out, something new going on. Plus, I think there’s an unbelievable opportunity in this business. I can go as far as I want to go.”
One of the things Phillips enjoys most about being a small business owner is the chance it gives him to build personal (and lasting) relationships with his clients, which, ultimately, translates into business.
“I’m friends with many of our clients. I know them on a personal level and vice versa. It’s not just a business relationship. It’s also making friends.”
