American Printing
From concept to execution, American Printing (AP) works with retailers of all sizes around the world to deliver high quality media related products and value-added creative fulfillment solutions. In fact, AP supplied the die-cut laminated iPhone product information sheets that customers see in AT&T stores all over the country.
Established in Rhode Island in 1971, AP has always been known as a local and national printed product supplier. Increasingly, AP is becoming a “total solution” go-to company with expertise in graphic design, labeling and mass mail management across such diverse industries as insurance, medical, electronic and print media.
“We pride ourselves on being a one-stop-shop and problem solver for our clients,” says AP founder and president, Paul Carroll. “We’re flexible, highly innovative and stay ahead of the curve by utilizing the latest in technology. We can print on numerous types of materials including ceramic, tile, wood and plastic. That’s something few can do really well. We are also committed to Lean manufacturing principles in order to reduce waste and maintain quality.”
Carroll, a native Rhode Islander, started AP when he took over his family business from his father. He realized early on that he couldn’t depend on print companies to meet his needs. He decided to forgo the uncertainty and start his own printing company. Carroll bought equipment, established operations in an apartment building and began making sales calls. Today, AP owns two buildings with main operations in a 20,000 sq. ft. building in the Narragansett Industrial Park in Rumford, RI.
Carroll cites three reasons for AP’s success: 1) Product excellence and customer satisfaction; 2) A family-like atmosphere where kidding around is encouraged and employees feel happy and engaged at work; and 3) The support AP has received from the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC).
Carroll feels economic development plays a crucial role in small business success.
“Small businesses are the growth engine of the state,” he says. “We received a 504 SBA Loan in the past. A year ago, AP received a small business loan through the RIEDC. That capital helped keep my business running smoothly and our staff employed during difficult times. As a business owner, I know firsthand the benefit of having access to development resources.”
If you ask Carroll what AP’s future holds, he says it’s a mix of goals that include maintaining customer satisfaction, product quality, flexibility and efficiency. Part of that means embracing a business model that focuses more on services and less on manufacturing.
“Even as we evolve, we’ll still keep having fun along the way,” Carroll says optimistically.
For more information: www.amprintri.com
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