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CELEBRATING OUR TOP DIVERSE SUPPLIERS
THROUGH WORLD-CLASS INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
WHAT’S INSIDE:
OUR TEAM OUR VENDORS OUR PROGRAM EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW:
RONALD LALLA CHIEF MERCHANDISING OFFICER
PROFILES SPECIAL EDITION CORPORATE SUPPLIER DIVERSITY
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04 06
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Welcome to The OfficeMax Edition Supplier Diversity at OfficeMax
MBEConnect Profiles 08 10 12 14
AccuBANKER Action Bag Company Alliance Rubber Company Amodex Products
16 Merchandising & the Big Picture with Ron Lalla
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20 22 24 26 28
Baumgartens Excel Screen Printing Image Projections West, Inc Imprint Plus Jelmar, LLC
30 Meet the OfficeMax Team 34 36 38 40
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LePage’s 2000 Inc. Liberty Power M.O.R.E. Computer Supplies Mammoth Office Products
42 Kansas City: Case Study 46 McKlein Company, LLC.
Strengthening a City’s Financial Health Mitchell Snow, Inc. 48 Supply through Integrated Chain Solution
Selco Industries
50 52
Business Challenge Gaining Ground through Expansion
58 60 62 64
Neutral Office products/print program reducesPosture costs while improving service and helps meet Minority and Signs Now Women-Owned Business Enterprise requirements
Case Study Snapshot Challenge:
• Downturn in the economy was significantly impacting municipal operations and budgets • Needed to increase efficiencies and reduce costs related to an in-house print center and office supplies Solution: • Moved from a fixed to a variable cost model for print, tapping into the OfficeMax ImPress® digital print services network
54 Selco: Vendor Success
C A S E ST U DY | K A NSA S CI T Y
Softech
Located in the heart of the United States, the City of Kansas City, MO (CKC), is considered by many to be a quintessential American metropolis. But as with many U.S. cities, the downturn in the economy significantly affected municipal operations and budgets. Kansas City met the demands of this challenging environment by reviewing and reducing costs associated with internal services such as print and office supplies, while also supporting the City’s minority and women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) requirements.
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Solution
Today’s Business Solutions Tribeca VSM
Amidst economic uncertainty, shrinking budgets and an urgent need to improve operational efficiencies, CKC’s Office of the City Manager and Procurement Services Division targeted the onsite print center as a way to address key business issues and a multimillion dollar deficit.
MBEConnect Profiles Over the years, a 5,000 square-foot facility within City Hall had provided convenient offset, digital and auxiliary print and document services to more than 15 different municipal is also availabledepartments. on: However, the total cost of ownership—from maintaining equipment and
• Improve supply chain management by combining office supplies and document services Results:
• Reclaimed all but 500 square feet of 5,000 square-foot on-site print facility • Increased visibility and compliance • Reduced operational costs by $380,000 in the initial year
supplies to managing 24 vendors and personnel—was costly, and without a formal workflow process or standard service levels, was inefficient. In addition, due to dissatisfaction, end users were turning to outside vendors (most non-approved) to fill the void, with little or no oversight or visibility to spend or pricing. So, in 2008, when the OfficeMax® team approached CKC with a proposal to significantly reduce the City’s printing costs by moving from a fixed to variable cost model while improving productivity and service levels, they found a highly receptive audience.
The first step was to present a strategic roadmap to Kansas City key stakeholders, outlining
3
We not only accept differences, we empower them.
Creating opportunities for diverse organizations to grow and thrive.
When you feel valued and supported in your work environment, you naturally want to do your best work. We created Associate Resource Groups (ARGs) to give employees of varying backgrounds and talents a sense of community, and an opportunity to share ideas for marketing to our diverse customers. At OfficeMaxÂŽ, we are proud to have so many unique voices to help guide us toward success. From the vendors we do business with, to the dedicated associates who make business possible, the choices we make in our workplace are what differentiate us in the marketplace.
Š 2012 OMX, Inc.
MAGAZINE PROJECT LEAD Anthony Billinger EDITOR Eric W. Harland MAGAZINE PROJECT COORDINATOR Caress Gonzales STAFF WRITER & ONLINE CONTENT Caroline Knecht DESIGNERS Efrem Duran Abby Rufkahr SALES EXECUTIVES Ronald Harland DIGITAL PREPRESS Leo Morton NEW MEDIA PRODUCTION Efrem Duran Eric W. Harland COVER PHOTO Powell Photography EDITORIAL & BUSINESS OFFICE MBEConnect, LLC. 9401 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 250 Overland Park, Kansas 66210 Copyright © 2012 MBEConnect Profiles is published by MBEConnect, LLC. 9401 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 250 Overland Park, Kansas 66210. All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a database and retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the owner of copyright and the above publishers. If you have any questions about one of our publications, please contact us at 1.913.742.8166 or e-mail us at info@mbeconnect.com Original illustrations/ Photographs by MBEConnect, LLC. Printed by Evolv Solutions, LLC . ISBN # 978-0-615-61936-1
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Welcome to the OfficeMax Special Edition From products on its shelves, to some of the many services it receives, OfficeMax is pleased to work closely with minority-, women-, and LGBTowned businesses and include them as an integral part of their strategic sourcing and procurement process. Beyond business transactions, OfficeMax supports these businesses through mentoring, hosting events, sponsoring diversity organizations, and even this magazine. This issue features interactive Business Profiles for a selection of the amazing small, diverse businesses that serve as suppliers and vendors for OfficeMax. It’s just one way that OfficeMax shows its support and appreciation for these wonderful businesses. Read each business profile to learn more about these unique businesses, their quality products, and their determined, innovative leaders. Articles about supplier diversity at OfficeMax and a vendor success story are also included in this issue. These articles and interviews illustrate many different facets of what supplier diversity means and how it is implemented by OfficeMax and its associates. The idea is to paint a comprehensive portrait of both the vendors and the supplier diversity program at OfficeMax. Interactive content, including video, audio, web links, picture galleries, and presentations, help bring the magazine to life and take it beyond what traditional magazines offer. Visit the magazine website or download an electronic copy to fully experience all of these interactive features. Through this magazine, readers will see why “Work with Us” has become more than a slogan at OfficeMax, but a genuine invitation. Diverse businesses looking to get involved with OfficeMax are encouraged to register as a potential supplier online and join the growing team of vendors. —The MBEConnect Team
Supplier Diversity at
OfficeMax
®
Our Mission
OfficeMax promotes an inclusive culture that embraces the diversity of our associates, business partners and customers. This environment fosters innovation and creates a competitive advantage that drives the growth of the business.
Program Overview
Supplier diversity at OfficeMax is about much more than responsible corporate citizenship; it’s a core value and guiding principle that leads to a greater good for the company, its customers and the communities it serves. OfficeMax’s dedication to supplier diversity stems from its heritage. Boise Cascade, which merged with OfficeMax in 2003, began its successful supplier diversity program in the 1970’s, well before many other corporations. Each year, the supplier diversity program at OfficeMax continues to aim higher and extend its reach to include more suppliers and communities. Inclusion values guide everything OfficeMax does, going far beyond using diverse businesses as vendors and suppliers for stores. The supplier diversity program at OfficeMax focuses on developing sustainable relationships with diverse businesses and ensuring that diverse vendors have access to OfficeMax merchants. Through OfficeMax's new Tier II Program, diverse suppliers and vendors are linked to larger prime suppliers, granting them insight and a competitive advantage in their markets. OfficeMax's prime suppliers are highly encouraged to do business with diverse suppliers and vendors. In addition, OfficeMax provides mentoring to diverse vendors in the developing and strengthening of business partnerships. These policies form a unique supplier diversity perspective and create a program that is truly inclusive. Supplier diversity has become a competitive advantage for OfficeMax by
offering a wide variety of products at fair prices from multiple sources that reflect the community as a whole. OfficeMax is committed to ensuring that supplier diversity is an integral part of strategic sourcing and procurement process. The success of OfficeMax and the communities it serves depend on the ability to work with diverse suppliers to provide unique insights into emerging markets, enhance the supply chain, and generate capital in the communities served by OfficeMax.
Awards & Recognition
OfficeMax strives to deliver the best, and that’s certainly the case with its supplier diversity program. Office Max is often listed as one of the America's Top 50 Organizations for Multi-Cultural Business Opportunities by DiversityBusiness.com. Members of the Supplier Diversity Team have received multiple diversity achievement awards individually as well.
Diverse Business Certification
OfficeMax defines a diverse business as one that is at least fifty-one percent owned, managed and controlled by African Americans, Asian-Indian, Asian Pacific, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, Lesbian/Gay/Bi-sexual/ Transgender individuals or Women. Diverse businesses
Get Involved
Interested in becoming a diverse supplier or vendor for OfficeMax? Read more about qualifications and the process below.
must have an up-to-date certification from one of the following agencies or regional affiliates:
• Value added capabilities
• National Minority Supplier Diversity Council: www.nmsdc.org
• Sensitivity to brand reputation
• Women's Business Enterprise National Council: www.wbenc.org • National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce: www.nglcc.org • Small Business Administration: www.sba.gov • Reciprocal state, city, & county certifications
• Safety in production and shipping
Registering With OfficeMax
All businesses interested in serving as an OfficeMax diverse supplier or vendor must first register with the company. Visit the OfficeMax Supplier Diversity Page to register as a diverse supplier or vendor. Each application is reviewed by the OfficeMax supply management team; however, registration does not guarantee business with OfficeMax.
Performance Standards
All OfficeMax vendors and suppliers are expected to meet the following performance criteria in order to be considered: • Competitive pricing and cost saving solutions • On-time delivery
Additional Resources
To learn more about the supplier diversity program at OfficeMax, visit any of the following web pages at Officemax.com/supplierdiversity:
• Product/service level quality assurance • Proven financial viability
• OfficeMax Supplier Diversity Home
• Geographic scope (i.e., national or regional distribution)
• Program Overview
• Compliance with laws and the OfficeMax Code of Conduct
• Diverse Supplier Registration Form
contact Tel: 1.888.993.2228
ab.accubanker.com MARGARITA GONZALEZ PRESIDENT & CFO
About Us
We started with a vision of efficient cash handling process and technology for any one that handles cash. Whether it is a “Mom n’ Pop” store, a national retail chain, or a world recognized financial institution, we have built our business around designing cost effective products and solutions for each of them, that provides a verifiable return on investment. AccuBANKER is in the Business of helping Retailers, Banks, and anyone else that handles cash create speed and accuracy in their cash handling process. We do this by offering best practice expertise and technology solutions that have been proven to dramatically reduce labor cost, liabilities, inaccuracies, and losses due to counterfeits.
LEADERSHIP
Margarita Gonzalez / President & CFO Margarita M. Gonzalez is an entrepreneur with over 30 years experience running the company she co-founded, AccuBANKER. She serves as AccuBANKER’s President/CFO and has extensive international experience as AccuBANKER conducts business in over 40 countries.
Capabilities
Well-conceived technology solutions should accelerate organizational performance. We at AccuBANKER take pride in employing one of the oldest yet most overlooked methods for developing capabilities that are relevant, timely and appropriate for our clients- we listen! By listening to our clients, our business has grown to become a world leader in affordable cash handling solutions offering “Best in Class” products and service capabilities: • • • • • • • •
Product Development/ Manufacturing Processes Supply Chain Optimization Project Management Managed Inventory Programs Pilot / Evaluation Programs Order Fulfillment (National Rollouts to Drop Shipping) After Sales Service and Support Local Service/ Installation Capabilities
CLIENTS
Carlos Gonzalez / COO Strategically focused Corporate Entrepreneur with executive and front line experience in business development, short & long-term growth planning, strategy development, operations and business process mapping and re-engineering.
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9
contact 1001 Entry Drive, Bensenville, IL 60106 Tel: 800-824-2247
| email: Info@actionbag.com
ACTIONBAG.COM | ACTIONBAGHEALTHCARE.COM | ACTIONBAGFUNDRAISING.COM
The Packaging Experts ABOUT US
nancy cwynar CEO/Owner
Action Bag Company is a women-owned, family business. Marie Gebbie started the company back in 1980. Soon after Nancy Cwynar joined her to run the business. In 1995, Marie was ready to travel the world and retire. Nancy Cwynar took over the reins and has been steering the business to continued growth and success.
Many of our retail products can be personalized to build your build. Our medical products are the broadest in the industry servicing all classes of trade. A new market of fundraising bags offer utility and values to organizations across the US. Don’t see the product you need? Let us help you customize the bag of your dreams!
Our 30+ years of packaging experience is one of the many valueadded services Action Bag offers their customers. Meeting the packaging needs of a variety of markets – retail, medical, and fundraising - keeps us on our toes and true packaging experts. Our representatives focus on the successful end use of a product realizing it is not just about a one-time sale but nurturing longterm relationships. Action Bag is proud to be a strong, diversity business, and strive to not only be a great place to work, but a great place to work with!
gOING GREEN
lEADERSHIP
Nancy Cwynar - CEO/Owner Fred Cwynar - Vice President Tim Haefer- Controller Martha Quintero – Sales Manager Dale Allor – Director of Purchasing Jaimey Wilman – Director of Marketing
Packaging is universal item that everybody uses. Sometimes packaging can be labeled as an enemy for green initiatives, but in reality we need packaging to ship products, tote products, store products, for safety and so much more. The great news are there are many eco-friendly options available. Action Bag takes the stance of not preaching what is right or wrong, but in doing our best to educate customers are the options available. Not only do we have many greener packaging products, but we are also continuously improve our operations and energy policies to conserve, reuse, and recycle as much as possible. In 2007, we proudly earned our Earth Flag for green business practices. In 2009, we became supplier members for Practice GreenHealth, a organization for eco-minded members of the healthcare community. Every little bit helps and we are doing our part to make the planet a bit greener!
mISSION
To provide value to our employees, customers, vendors, owner, and community; to cultivate an intimate knowledge of their specific needs and serve them well.
sERVICES
Action Bag offers complete lines of retail packaging, healthcare/ medical, and fundraising packaging. We also have extensive custom capabilities for any size, style, and imprinted bag including private label packaging products.
Wholesale Retail Packaging Retail Supplies – Gift Cards, Tissue Paper, Ribbon and more Promotional Products Medical Healthcare Packaging Packaging Fundraising Products Custom Packaging Capabilities
10 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
MEDICAL Catalog
RETAIL Catalog mbeconnectmagazine.com
mAKING WORK FUN
Did you know that Nancy was a finalist for the most playful CEO from PlayWorks award in 2011? Action Bag prides itself on making work enjoyable. In fact, being fun-filled is one of our core values. Happy employees drive better work and leads to happy customers which is a win-win for all!
cORE VALUES
We would like to share the values we embrace to make Action Bag a better place and to serve you better. 1. Be Honest We chose to do the right thing even when no one else will know. 2. Be Continuously Improving We embrace change and use it to identify opportunities to grow the business and ourselves. 3. Be Excellent We are always striving to take ourselves and everyone connected to us to higher levels of accomplishment. 4. Be Fun-filled We inject an attitude of enjoyment (a playful approach) into our work experience. 5. Be Respectful We consider and appreciate the views, values and opinions of others. We are invested in each other’s success. 6. Be Customer Driven We exist to be in-service to all customers in our value circle.
wHY BUY ACTION BAG?
There are a lot of packaging companies who can sell bags, but we strive to do more and be more for customers. Here a just a few key reasons to buy from us:
AN INDUSTY RESOURCE
Bags are a powerful product that can be used by almost every market and every person. Action Bag strives to be an industry resource to educate our customers on how to use packaging to build their brand, or increase patient safety, streamline their operations, or grow their retail sales. Authoring two different industry blogs provides customers with industry tips and insights to make them more successful.
tESTIMONIAL
“I would like to take this opportunity to compliment the performance of your employees. Hats off to your company for doing an outstanding job handling our account. Frequently I place calls asking for rush or special orders, and they are handled with efficiency and a positive attitude.” – Ray Gravitte, Director of Purchasing, Universal Companies, Inc
WBE Diversity Business Free Samples Same Day Shipping Iron Clad Guarantee Live 24/7 Assistance
We look forward to earning your business!
ACTIONBAG.COM
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contact P.O. Box 20950
Hot Springs, AR 71903
Tel: 800.626.5940 | email: sales@alliance-rubber.com
www.alliance-rubber.com
Holding Your World Together ABOUT US
William H. Spencer founded Alliance Rubber Company in 1923 by transforming a simple rubber band into a universal tool with unlimited uses. He left his Franklin, Kentucky home at the age of 13. Traveling by rail to seek adventure, he found himself in Alliance, Ohio in 1917 with less than $3 in his pocket. Six years later, he obtained a few Goodyear inner tubes and began to cut rubber bands by hand in his garage.
bonnie swazye President
aLLIANCE RUBBER COMPANY PRODUCTS
Manufactured Using a Superior Process that Produces a Soft Stretch and Reduces Stress that Leads to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Costly Workers Comp. Claims “Made in the USA” Offer Consistent Top Quality Fill GSA Goal of 23% Dollars Spent with Small Business Provide Fresher Stock, Faster Service, and a Better Fill Rate Fill Need for Minority/HUB Purchasing Goals Fill Need for Buy American Set Aside Standards For U.S. Government Purchases
Since then, Alliance Rubber Company has grown from a small manufacturer with one product to a global supplier with more than 2,100 SKUs of mailing, shipping, office and packaging products. Celebrating three generations of family ownership, the company distinguishes itself with a focus on “holding your world together” by creating solutions for everyday life that are simple, practical and reliable. Always patenting new products, the company was the first to invent Open Ring Bands, Ad Bands, Digital Imprinted Bands, Antimicrobial and Latex Free Bands, Gear Wrapz and much more. Under the current leadership of President and CEO, Bonnie Swayze, Alliance continues its long history of innovation.
lEADERSHIP
Bonnie Swazye, President President Bonnie Swayze was the first female to serve as a board member of the Wholesale Stationers Association. She has also served on the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), and on various Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) organizations. From WBENC to her work with the HUB groups, she continues to pave the way for the entrance of women into the boardroom.
sERVICES
Alliance’s traditional work methods give way to more customized solutions, the need for products that keep tasks organized is growing. Providing an array of affordable, useful products to keep your office projects prioritized is our specialty. Whether the project calls for file bands, mail and ship items, or ad specialties, Alliance Rubber Company offers a variety of consumer and commercial product lines to fit your product needs. 12 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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cOMMITMENT TO JOB CREATION
On March 7th, 2013 Alliance Rubber Company will celebrate its 90th anniversary. Over 60% of Alliance’s team has been with the company for over five years. In our continuing efforts to keep you apprised of the importance of manufacturing to the U.S. Economy, we have launched a “We Can Make It In America” campaign at www.rubberband.com. Organized in collaboration with Made in USA Certified, it was designed to support job creation and the purchase of American made products. Participants in the “We Can Make It In America” campaign pledge to spend at least $1 a day on American made products. Amount of pledges have already surpassed more than one and a half million dollars.
aFFILIATIONS
Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) Small Business Association Registered with the Federal Government as a small, woman-owned business in the CCR (Central Contractor Registration) and ORCA (On-Line Representations and Certifications Applications). Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Produce Marketing Association (PMA), United Fresh Produce Association, Leafy Greens Council Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), Ad Specialty Industry (ASI), Sage
aWARDS
1993 - Awarded Blue Chip Enterprise Award from U.S. Chamber of Commerce 1996 - Arkansas Business of the Year by Arkansas Business Magazine and Awarded Arkansas Quality Award by the State 1999 - Named Garland County Industry of the Year 2000 - Governor’s Award for Drug-Free Workplace Program 2010 - Office Depot HUB Supplier of the Year 2011 - Recognized with Supplier Appreciation Award from the National Association for the Employment of People 2012 - U.S. Department of Commerce’s “Excellence In Innovation Award,” Coordinated through the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
tESTIMONIALS “Alliance is a clear example to us of what it takes for a company to succeed in a globally competitive market. There will always be someone willing to produce a product for a penny less. Alliance instead builds their business on being constantly innovative. They set an example for how manufacturing can succeed in America.” – Dan Curtis, Director of Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions (AMS)
NEWS/EVENTS
DEALERS
“For over 50 years Alliance Rubber has been an outstanding and reliable supplier to us.” – Joe Beaudry, Hamilton Circulation
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contact PO Box 3332 Bridgeport, CT 06605 Tel: 203-335-1255 | email: sales@amodexink.com
www.amodexink.com
A Formula For Success ABOUT US
BEVERLEE DACEY ceo
lEADERSHIP
Amodex was originally formulated in 1958 to remove inks, dye and other troublesome stains from hands. Lab tests and customer feedback indicated that Amodex Hand Cleaner was equally effective removing stains from fabrics.
BEVERLEE DACEY | CEO Beverlee has owned and been the CEO of Amodex Products, Inc since 2006. She graduated from Wheaton College and earned a Master’s degree from the University of Chicago. After years of working in education and business, Beverlee took over the company from her father who was its founder and original owner.
In the early 70’s, Amodex Hand Cleaner became Amodex Stain Remover for Hands & Fabrics. The range of uses expanded to include everyday household stains such as food (mustard, ketchup, wine, tomato sauce, salad dressing, etc.), blood, grease, grass and more.
She is actively involved in town governance, having served on her local Board of Finance and school committees. She supports other women-owned and minority businesses and directs her company with a pledge to help the underserved via product donations and other philanthropic efforts. As a full time working mother (of four children), she is sensitive to providing support for other American working women. Her vision for Amodex in the 21st century is to provide consumers with effective and eco-friendly cleaning products, and the ability to stay stain free!
Recognized in the early 90’s as the world’s stain remover for all inks, including permanent and whiteboard marker such as Sharpie® and Marks-a-Lot® and Expo®, the product was renamed Amodex Ink & Stain Remover. Its unique cream formula is non-toxic and safe to use on fabrics, upholstery, carpeting, and even skin. Amodex removes that impossible Georgia clay, (familiar to those living in the south), stains from antique linen, machine oil, baby formula and liquid medicine from children’s clothes, permanent marker from CDs and DVDs and more. Today, we are proud to be recognized by America’s leading consumer magazine as a “must have in the home” and Rated #1 for removing ink stains. Amodex works on all types of ink including ballpoint, felt tip, fountain pen, stamp pad, and even permanent and whiteboard marker! The world’s leading ink manufacturers, including AT Cross, Avery Dennison, BIC, Mont Blanc, Parker, Pilot, Sanford, Tombow, Waterman and others, lab tested Amodex and recommend it to remove their ink marks. Our company’s 21st century vision is to continue providing consumers with the most effective ink and stain remover on the market by offering unparalleled customer service and a family eco-friendly product. We hope our Amodex Ink and Stain Remover will make a difference in people’s lives by saving you money and treasured items, and strive to do so with the same pride and integrity of our founders for the next 50 years and beyond!
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wHAT IS AMODEX
A unique non-toxic soap formula that removes stains including ink from fabrics, skin and other surfaces. Only liquid cream formula stain remover that is a soap, not a solvent. An eco-friendly product with an unlimited shelf-life.
wHERE IS AMODEX EFFECTIVE
Skin - gentle, soap formula conditions skin as it effectively removes grease, paint, ink and more. Fabric - canvas, cashmere, corduroy, cotton, nylon, polyester, rayon, silk, wool and more. Most Materials & Surfaces - carpet, corian, fiberglass, formica, leather, linoleum, painted surfaces, plastic, rubber, tile, upholstery, vinyl, wood and more.
wHY AMODEX
Effectiveness - Amodex if more effective on wider variety of stains than competitor. In fact, the leading national brand states: “Works well on tea, wine grape juice, BBQ sauce, ketchup and coffee. It does not work well on grease, blood and ink”. Amodex works well on all of these stains and more and is not limited to fabric. Versatility - Amodex can be used as an on-the-go stain remover. Amodex is much more versatile and effective - a hand cleaner, stain remover, pre-treater and on a multitude of surfaces. Endorsement - Amodex has received endorsements from all the leading writing instrument manufacturers, Martha Stewart’s Living Radio, Oprah Winfrey Best of the Best, receiving rave reviews when featured on CBS News and Good Morning America. Consumer Reports and their consumer magazine Shop Smart have this to say about Amodex: “Every household should have Amodex”.
tESTIMONIALS
“The ink wiped off. I was amazed! It worked! Finally a cleaning product that does what it says and is different from all the rest. I knew that Amodex would become a regular item in my household, and I try never to be without that little bottle. I rely on it completely, knowing it will work on whatever stain comes along. It has even removed old stains.” – Debbie, FL “This product is truly a homeowner’s best friend and any stain’s worst enemy. I would be surprised if there is a stain out there that this product cannot remove. I’m almost tempted to become more of a slob than I already am, just to put it to the test. Thanks for bringing us Amodex!” – Jeff, CT
Rated #1 by a leading consumer magazine and recommended by Avery, Parker, Pilot, Sanford including Sharpie, Expo and more!
www.amodexink.com
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MERCHANDISING
&Picture the Big
at OfficeMaxÂŽ
New Chief Merchandising Officer Ron Lalla discusses the important role supplier diversity plays in the company’s overall merchandising strategy, and what distinguishes the OfficeMax program from others.
“We believe we have a different focus in that our success in
Offering thousands of office, paper, print, and technology
products has made OfficeMax a leader in the office supply retail industry. Behind every product on an OfficeMax shelf is a supplier, often a small or diverse business, each with a distinctive story. These businesses and the people behind them are all unique and significant, and taking the time to get to know and support these individuals has always been important to OfficeMax. As such, supplier diversity has long been an integral part of the company’s procurement strategy. At OfficeMax, this importance of supplier diversity resonates throughout the entire company, even among top executives. Ron Lalla is the Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer at OfficeMax, a position he accepted in March of 2012. Under this role, Mr. Lalla is responsible for all aspects of merchandising for the enterprise, including category management, strategic product planning, global sourcing, private label expansion and cost of goods sold initiatives. Among all these responsibilities, Mr. Lalla also considers supplier diversity to be an integral part of the OfficeMax merchandizing strategy and the company as a whole. Supplier diversity directly impacts the merchandizing efforts of OfficeMax because a diverse supplier base enables the company to offer a better, more robust product line and better selections for consumers. In terms of strategic product planning, Mr. Lalla states that “supplier diversity is a part of the OfficeMax integrated solution where we assist our customers in meeting their diversity spend goals.” Inclusion benefits both OfficeMax and the communities served by its stores as well as those of its suppliers. At the company’s merchandising core, more suppliers means more products, more innovation and more selection. “Innovative ideas surface when we engage with our diverse suppliers,” says Mr. Lalla. “We believe that together with our vendor partners, we can improve our product assortment and offer even greater solutions that will assist our customers in meeting their diversity goals,” he adds. On the community level, Mr. Lalla states that “we also believe that our solutions have impact that reaches will beyond spend targets. It
supplier diversity is not about OfficeMax.”
Ronald Lalla Chief Merchandising Officer, OfficeMax
supports our commitment to community sustainability. We want our customers to know how their purchase of products from diverse vendors through OfficeMax creates jobs and positively affects communities.” Placing emphasis on the suppliers and products makes the OfficeMax approach to supplier diversity standout among competitors. “We believe we have a different focus in that our success in supplier diversity is not about OfficeMax,” says Mr. Lalla. Indeed, OfficeMax does not focus solely on spend or promoting their own interests, but by doing what is best for its customers and suppliers. “Our focus is not about winning awards or securing a place on lists of best-in-class supplier diversity initiatives,” says Mr. Lalla. Supplier diversity is about much more than finding diverse suppliers and utilizing their services in traditional ways; it’s also about finding new ways to incorporate these businesses and facilitating success. “We recognize that our success is directly related to the success of the supplier diversity initiatives of our customers, our prime vendors, and the growing capacity of our diverse vendors,” says Mr. Lalla. “This type of focus leads us to look at ‘out of the box’ solutions, such as connecting vendors with ‘diverse private equity’ and other initiatives that help our partners grow. We believe we’re creating a new way of doing business.” New developments and initiatives at OfficeMax keep the supplier diversity initiative and its product offerings
fresh. One key recent implementation is the OfficeMax Opportunity Exchange, an event that brings together both sides of the supplier diversity equation for a day of appreciation and learning. “Over the past two years, we have held our OfficeMax Business Opportunity Exchange which is a business summit/conference where we have brought in our diverse vendor partners together with our senior leadership to discuss ways that our relationships can become increasingly strategic,” explains Mr. Lalla. Not only is this annual event a great way to strengthen the relationship between OfficeMax and its diverse suppliers, but it also demonstrates supplier appreciation and keeps them up-to-speed with the latest happenings at the company. At the Opportunity Exchange, diverse suppliers get the chance to meet and interact with each other and with the OfficeMax supplier diversity team while presenting their business at a small trade fair, attending informative discussions, and networking. Of course, there’s also a nice perk for OfficeMax, too. “We have gotten tremendous response and feedback from our vendors,” notes Mr. Lalla. In addition to forming long-lasting relationships with its diverse suppliers, OfficeMax maintains strong association with supplier diversity organizations across the country. “OfficeMax is proud to be corporate members of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC), the US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce (USPAAC), and the National Gay-Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).” In fact, OfficeMax was a founding member of NMSDC in 1972, and remains active in the organization. In addition to its national support, OfficeMax has been a benefactor for two of the longest running conference and business opportunity fairs for minority- and women-owned businesses, the Chicago Business Opportunity Fair and the Entrepreneurial Woman’s Conference, both held in the Chicago area near company’s Naperville headquarters. The company also has strong relationships with media organizations focused on diversity and inclusion. “We are also proud to collaborate with MBEConnect and profile our diverse vendors and suppliers.” All of these efforts and innovations in the realm of supplier diversity translate to a noticeable increase in the company’s spend with diverse suppliers. “Our diverse spend has increased by 39% from 2010 to 2011,” states Mr. Lalla. Attracting new suppliers is part of the plan for continued
growth. OfficeMax works with suppliers of all sizes and product offerings to help their businesses succeed and fit into the company’s procurement needs. “We understand that there is not a one size-fits-all solution for our vendors, or our customers for that matter,” says Mr. Lalla. “At OfficeMax we will partner with our vendors and work with each one individually at the specific level that they need. Some vendors have more experience and resources and are selfsufficient. Others require support and guidance in areas like supply chain or marketing in order to be effective.” When it comes to getting involved with OfficeMax, the door is open to those who can fulfill the company’s needs and supplier expectations. “OfficeMax is seeking out businesses of all sizes that offer innovation, quality products, and competitive pricing. We believe diversity is a major valueadd but cannot be the primary and sole factor of the value proposition,” says Mr. Lalla. Interested companies can begin the vendor registration process online. It’s clear that under the new leadership of Mr. Lalla, the long tradition of supplier diversity will continue to maintain its status as an integral part of the company’s overall corporate and merchandizing strategies. “We believe we have best-in-class supply chain and distribution capabilities that make OfficeMax a great partner for vendors with quality products looking to grow,” expresses Mr. Lalla. This flourishing program will continue to benefit OfficeMax, its unique diverse suppliers, and the countless communities supported by both sides of the supplier diversity equation.
photography & creative services
531 S Plymouth Ct Chicago, IL 60605 312/922-6366 www.powellphotography.com Total Creative Services Support Photography Digital Imaging & Output Retouching Photo-Composite Video Production & Editing Pre-Production Services Short Run Print Production Multi Media & Visual Marketing Tools
from concept to completion
Celebrating 36 Years of Quality, Consistency & Service
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On location for Kraft video projects
contact 144 Ottley Drive NE Atlanta, GA 30324 Tel: 1.800.255.5547
www.baumgartens.com JEAN BAUMGARTENS PRESIDENT/CEO
ABOUT US
Baumgartens is a woman-owned family business supplying unique and useful products to the office, school, home and other markets. Our products make a difference in the lives of our customers, allowing you to be more productive, comfortable and efficient. We have been named as “Manufacturer of the Year” on 7 different occasions, recognizing our introduction of innovative products and superior service levels.
oUR CATALOGS
Although our history dates back to our roots in Germany in the 1800’s, Baumgartens was founded in the United States in 1948 and has been family owned and operated ever since. We are based in Atlanta, GA and we are certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise National Council Member.
lEADERSHIP
President and CEO - Mrs. Jean Baumgartens Vice President - David Baumgarten Global Sales Manager - Tom Edgeworth
cULTURE
We are a family at Baumgartens and just like any family we have a certain way of doing things and interacting with each other. Our culture is based on a set of core values that we created as a company and are aligned in every aspect of how we interact with each other and with our customers. Our core values are: Teamwork – Available for support in fulfilling the needs of the team Positive – Inspired and light-hearted; a joy in working with people Focused – An unstoppable drive to produce results now Integrity – Honoring your word; reliable, straightforward, honest and responsible communication
sERVICES: BRANDS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
From office and school supplies to personal care and environmentally friendly products, Baumgartens’ products provide unique and useful products that fulfill the needs of our customers. Two years ago we announced the unprecedented goal of screening 100% of our 800 products for toxic, heavy metals. This stringent European standard is called RoHS compliance. We pledge to continue this best practice so that our customers can have peace of mind, knowing all of our products are people-friendly. 20 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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No other American company has shown their concern for public safety with RoHS compliance the way that Baumgartens has. We have qualified and tested thousands of components, mechanical plastics and metals as heavy-metal safe in our products, and we are annually testing and updating our portfolio of safe products. In addition, we are committed to introducing compostable and biodegradable materials to the products we are developing wherever it is feasible. Baumgartens brands include: SICURIX: Identification card printers, ribbons/consumables and accessories Conserve: People & planet friendly dishware, cutlery and cleaning products Qi Bamboo: Useful, attractive, planet friendly accessories for IPhones, IPads, desks, jan/san and break rooms Mobile OPS: Innovative items for the “Office Olympian” - people on the go! Plastiklips: Hold papers securely without leaving a mark; great for color coding; made from 90% post consumer waste PenAgain: Ergonomically shaped pens designed for the human hand.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
Finalist for the 2011 Georgia Small Family Business of the Year Award – August 2011 Plastiklips Go Green – April 2011 Conserve Cleaners Win BSA Green Innovation Product of the Year – November 2010 EPA Approves Baumgartens as a “Design for the Environment” Manufacturing Partner – September 2010 Conserve Cleaners Win NAOPA Environmentally Friendly Product of the Year – June 2010
www.sicurix.com
aBOUT US
Baumgartens brings new, full service capability to the Identification Card category to office supply dealers like OfficeMax. Baumgartens has long been the market leader in ID card accessories. Now, through our alliances with original equipment manufacturers, we can now furnish office supply dealers the ability to sell you everything you need for an ID card program. We have kits if you’re just getting started. If you’ve already got an ID program, you can get your consumable merchandise (ribbons, cleaning kits) from OfficeMax. Now you can get everything you need from your trusted office supplier, OfficeMax - and have your order fulfilled much faster than ever before! Previously such products had to be purchased through ID dealers, who you did very little business with and took a long time to deliver your merchandise. With the SICURIX program, you can purchase exactly the same products you know and trust with the speed and efficiency of your office supply dealer - who delivers to you virtually every day. Consolidate vendors and streamline your supply chain!
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contact 10507 delta parkway schiller park, il 60176 Tel: (847) 801-5200 | email: info@excelscreenprinting.com
www.excelscreenprinting.com
QUALITY PRODUCTS, EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE
Leon Johnson President
ABOUT US
Excel is one of the leading decorator of promotional items in the midwest. Our state of the art facilities allow us to produce every imaginable decoration order. Have an item that needs embellishment? You don’t need to look any further.... Think of Excel as your one stop decoration center. Our services include a full variety of decoration options to cover any promotional needs. From screen printing to embroidery, pad printing and glass/ ceramic imprint, along with providing awards and fulfillment. We are the only direct supplier that has all these services under the same roof. You no longer have to fulfill your needs by sending orders to different vendors. Excel can do it all.
“Excel is Fantastic with their quality service and products” – Progressive Marketing
lEADERSHIP
Leon Johnson, President Recruited by Procter and Gamble, Johnson Headed up to Chicago following graduation to take a position as a sale representative. He eventually earned a promotion to Regional Manager. Moving up the corporate ladder in the enterprise-rich area, he later served as a Regional Field Manager for Johnson & Johnson’s Diagnostics division and then as Vice President of sales for Miller Brewing Company. It was his involvement in the 1995 Million Man March on the nation’s capital that turned his attention to the private enterprise A decision he has never regretted.
“We can sleep well at night because we know that the product will arrive as expected” – Madison Sales Group
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sERVICES
Other Services Glass- Ceramic-Printing Pad Printing of Premiums Award Production Fulfillment/Packaging
Screen Printing Excel Screen Printing and Embroidery, Inc. is equipped with the latest technology in printing presses. We feature M&R Automatic machines. Each press is capable of printing up to 450 to 500 impressions per hour making it possible to print up to at least 25,000 impressions a day. Currently we operate two shifts to meet our clients every need.
sPECIAL EFFECTS/INK DECORATION
Special effects decoration has always been a challenge to our industry and we are keeping up with it by offering a wide variety of new techniques.
Our staff, with more than 85 years combined experience, is well known for supplying a quality product, excellent customer service, competitive pricing, while meeting all due dates.
Foil Application Discharge Printing Eco Friendly Inks Specialty Inks Soft Fashion style Inks/Techniques
eXCEL CAN DO THIS AND MORE!!!
Rush orders Fold, Tag, individual bag Oversize printing Specialty Inks Full color Digital / Sublimation Appliques Digital Transfers Vinyl Transfers
cLIENTS
Embroidery Our Embroidery Department is equipped with three full-featured machines with a combined total of 42 heads of up to nine colors each. Production capacity is approximately 2,500 pieces per day, and we run a second shift to accommodate our customers’ needs.
Jim Beam Global Chicago White Sox OfficeMax Harrah’s Casino Boyd Entertainment
Excel Screen Printing & Embroidery, Inc. has produced a wide variety of complicated designs for our customers.
ARS-Automatic Response System - was developed at Excel to ensure our customers stay informed of any changes and updates on all Purchase Orders. Our automatic notifications are basically informative and are totally separate from any other additional communication you may have with our support staff. You are notified via an automated email whenever your Purchase Order reaches a key point in our process. This way you are always informed as far as the status of your PO.
excelscreenprinting.com
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contact 14135 East 42nd Avenue, Suite 40, Denver, Colorado 80239 Tel: (303) 576-9477 | email: customer.service@ipwusa.com
www.ipwusa.com
Print Responsibly – Use IPW Imaging Supplies About Us
IPW is one of the largest and fastest growing manufacturers of high quality imaging supplies in the United States. Since 1996, IPW has been supplying companies with remanufactured toner cartridges, as well as directly manufacturing cartridges for the printer industry’s biggest brands. IPW’s products are guaranteed to be as effective and reliable as OEM toner cartridges, while providing clients tremendous cost savings. By focusing on toner cartridges for laser printers, fax machines and MICR printers, IPW has been able to perfect its engineering, manufacturing and quality control processes. Now, it consistently produces dependable monochrome, color and high-yield products for an extensive list of brand-name imaging machines. Each toner cartridge IPW remanufactures prevents four pounds of waste from entering landfills and saves three quarts of oil, making the cumulative environmental benefit substantial. Adding to their long-term sustainability, remanufactured toner cartridges have a carbon footprint 37% smaller than that of their newlymade equivalents. IPW is also involved in bettering the social environment and is actively involved in supporting community programs that provide educational opportunities and mentoring to children and teens in public housing neighborhoods.
“Uncover your true imaging needs”
kedar morarka president
Our approach
Call in the professionals At IPW, we immerse ourselves in the world of imaging. We learn the science, study the technology and examine the use in the workplace. After an analysis of your needs by one of our experts, your organization can immediately start to trim its imaging budget. IPW will investigate every printer on your network. By learning how many toner cartridges you consume and which machines are being utilized the most, we are able to recommend an imaging plan that increases both efficiency and savings.
Innovative Toner Products
OEM quality, not OEM prices Specializing in complex remanufactured color, high yield and MICR toner cartridges – as well as universal laser toner cartridges that function in multiple brands and models of printers – IPW gives companies a way to reduce expenses without compromising reliability. Print-for-print, we guarantee that our toner cartridges will always measure up to those from the big-name brands. To achieve quality that matches OEM standards, IPW invests thousands of hours in engineering and refining its processes. Each step – reclamation to refurbishment, testing to shipping – benefits from our relentless attention to detail.
Color toner
Bold colors for less Color toner cartridges are the biggest test of a manufacturer’s ability to match OEM standards. Few can do it successfully. IPW’s skill in replicating the hue, intensity, performance and value of color cartridges used in popular HP printers benefits your company in a number of ways: Consistency. Reliability. Economy. 24 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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LEADERSHIP
High Yield Toner
Squeeze more life out of every cartridge Stretch your budget and lower your cost-per-page with IPW’s high yield toner cartridges. You get more print jobs out of every cartridge, which reduces hassle and increases office productivity. And, with less waste, it’s better for the environment.
MICR Toner
Magnetized for speed and security Industry-leading financial institutions depend on IPW for more than just their cyan, magenta and yellow. Allowing checks to be automatically processed by machine, quality Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) toner is a crucial part of the banking sector’s day-to-day operations.
Green Tech
Balancing business needs with the planet’s needs Toner consumption is a reality that won’t be going away soon. With IPW, you can drastically reduce printing’s environmental impact while saving money. By purchasing remanufactured toner cartridges, you’re making a positive choice.
Kedar Morarka, Founder and President Kedar Morarka, IPW’s founder and President, has more than 26 years of experience in product development, engineering, manufacturing and management. He held senior technical and management positions in the consumer electronics and imaging supplies industries for many years prior to starting IPW. Kedar has over 80 successful imaging products to his credit, including three patents. Keith Arnold, Co-founder and Executive Vice President Keith Arnold, IPW’s co-founder and Executive Vice President, has more than three decades in operations management, business start-up and overall business system development. Keith has held senior management positions in the imaging supplies industry for over 20 years. Previously, he successfully established three separate business divisions, the largest of which had 700 employees and more than $45 million in annual sales.
Recycle the refuse The numbers speak for themselves: one new toner cartridge uses three quarts of oil while producing four pounds of nonbiodegradable waste. Reusing cartridges keeps them out of landfills and saves natural resources. Compromise nothing Our drive for reliability matches our ecological commitment. IPW remanufactured toner cartridges match OEM quality, and we back that with a guarantee. Even better, we are committed to manufacturing here in the United States, so you can be sure that the products you use are helping to create jobs in your community.
Why use IPW toner cartridges • • • •
Significant savings (25 to 40%) compared to OEM products. Environmental friendly compared to new OEM. On average 37% lower carbon footprint. Each IPW cartridge prevents about 4 lbs of solid waste from our landfills. Each IPW cartridge saves about 3 ½ quarts of crude oil. Same Guaranteed quality and Page yield as OEM Guaranteed not to void your printer warranty. Guaranteed not to damage the printer – IPW will repair/ replace printer if damage caused by IPW product. IPW products are manufactured in USA – virtually all OEM products are made overseas. Proven track record of success at many major corporate users. (JP Morgan Chase, GM, Siemens, Southwest Airlines, Colgate, Hilton Hotels and many more) IPW is the largest and only “Corporate Plus” minority certified manufacturer in this industry.
PRODUCTS
BRIDGE PROJECT
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contact 21320 Gordon Way #260 Richmond, BC Canada V6W 1J8 Tel: 1-800-563-2464
www.imprintplus.com
#1 Name Badge Supplier ABOUT US
Imprint Plus is the Industry Leader in providing and developing Reusable Name Badge and Signage solutions for more than 35,000 customers in 74 countries. With 30 years in the business and a wealth of experience in 21 different industries, Imprint Plus places its highest value in customer satisfaction through service, innovation, versatility and product quality. Defining and communicating a unique identity can be a difficult endeavor, but it is well-worth the effort to stand out in one’s industry. Providing name badges, name badge components, name badge design software and other corporate ID products, Imprint Plus takes a very personal stance on brand, identity and image. Imprint Plus’ innovations add a memorable layer of professionalism and personalized service that are extremely valuable in an increasingly diversified market. Established in 1982, Imprint Plus is a privately Women-Owned company, and is proudly affiliated with WEConnect, The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and multiple other organizations focused on diversity entrepreneurship.
lEADERSHIP
MARLA KOTT cHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Kristin MacMillian, C.A., Director of Operations Kristin thoroughly enjoys the rewards and challenges of being part of a stable, growing business such as Imprint Plus. She joined Imprint Plus in 1999 because she was aligned with its strong values – 100% client satisfaction, corporate responsibility and work/life balance are all central to Imprint Plus’ business model. Kristin believes that working in this environment has afforded her countless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
IMPRINT PLUS BRAND
Imprint Plus is also the proud parent to YouWho™, the MIGHTY BADGE, and Badge Wear™. As a Business-to-Business line that is the company’s top seller, our unique reusable name badge system is the #1 badge in the North American hospitality industry, and is used across 21 industries and in 74 countries. The Imprint Plus brand has been crafted and re-crafted to represent premium quality, professional, innovative products and services. After 30 years in the name badge business, our brand conveys credibility, competence and confidence. The Imprint Plus™ brand is built on the following pillars: Customer Satisfaction Eco-Consciousness Innovation Continuous Improvement Quality in Craftsmanship
Marla Kott, C.A., Chief Executive Officer Marla’s background as an accounting professional has been invaluable to her in her role at Imprint Plus. She credits her business instinct to her Dad, who was an entrepreneur himself and taught her a great deal. She is passionate about being a woman in business, and is very involved with WEConnect Canada, and the Women’s President Organization. She also enjoys mentoring in business and challenges her mentees to “take risks for growth, making sure you always measure the results”. Ellen Flanders, President As one of the founding members of Imprint Plus, Ellen is proud of the company’s drive and direction. She remembers discussing the idea of Imprint Plus around her kitchen table over 30 years ago. Today, Imprint Plus counts industry leaders from the hospitality, retail, banking and recreation sectors among its customers. 26 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
SUPPORT
BLOG mbeconnectmagazine.com
Imprint Plus™ exists as a corporate companion offering professionalism, trust, customer service, quality and resources to accommodate the most stringent brand requirements. Imprint Plus™ believes in helping businesses on a personal level, devoting time and care to a customized badge program. Imprint Plus™ gives the customer autonomy, but only to facilitate convenience; should problems arise, Imprint Plus offers support. Imprint Plus™ is sophisticated. After 30 years of evolution, the structure and quality of the Reusable Name Badge System is innovative, intuitive and technologically adept. The brand puts these proficiencies forward and works hard to deliver a product customers have come to respect.
pRODUCTS
Imprint Plus is a pioneer in the name badge industry with over 3 decades of experience. But, we’re more than just name badges! We develop, manufacture and sell a variety of products, from reusable signage to employee recognition to door plates to custom lapel pins. Our core product line includes: Reusable Name Badges • Name Badge Accessories • Custom Lapel Pins • Signage Name Badge Software Solutions
mAJOR INDUSTRIES SERVED
Hospitality Retail Financial Services Health and Wellness Gaming Clubs and Seasonal Resorts Parks and Recreation Government and Military Educational Organizations and Libraries Food and Beverage Office Supplies
AWARDS
6 time SGIA Winner First Canadian company to be Silver certified by the EarthRight Business Institute (EBI) CEO Marla Kott – 11 time consecutive listing in W100 Canada’s Top Women Entrepreneurs CEO Marla Kott – Finalist for 2007 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year® Awards NAOPA People’s Choice Award Winner – 2012 CEO Marla Kott – Winner of Profiles in Diversity Journal’s Women Worth Watching 2013 Award
oUR CLIENTELE
Identity and a professional image are important aspects to any business. Feature for feature, benefit for benefit, our products rise above the competitors in quality and style. In a $439 million industry, Imprint Plus continues to make headway.
Imprint Plus™ provides name badge and signage solutions to more than 2400 retail environments, and is endorsed by 92% of the largest hotels in the world. Steadily growing, and already an industry leader, Imprint Plus™ combines unparalleled customer service with an unprecedented variety of solutions catered to any brand and any business environment. Some Names we Proudly Serve: Walgreens • Hilton • Macy’s • Hyatt • Fairmont • Wyndham Marriott • Army and Air Force Exchange Services • MGM
TESTIMONIALS
“I love imprint plus, the best customer service, the best industry leading product, at the best price!!! I use them at over 50 hotels!” – Jay Virk, CHA, Comfort Suites Clovis, Fairfield Inn & Suites Clovis, La Quinta Inn & Suites Fresno NorthWest
“You are a prime example of quality products and fantastic customer service.” – Paul Klinger , Manager Strategic Partnerships Choice Hotels International
“Imprint Plus has been a terrific business partner to Macy’s Inc. I know I can always count on you to quickly react to any request, no matter how large or small. Your continued innovation and commitment to producing the very best product makes you one of my most valued vendor partners. I only wish every supplier we did business with was as responsive as Imprint Plus.” – Jonathan Dowling, Director of Selling Services Macy’s Inc.
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contact 5550 W. Touhy Ave. Suite 200 Skokie, IL 60077 Tel: 1-800-323-5497 | email: Jelmar@jelmar.com
www.clrpro.com
All Kinds of Dirty, One Kind of Clean ABOUT US
Jelmar is the leading manufacturer of commercial, industrial and household cleaning products. Our commercial and industrial brands include CLR® PRO and Tarn-X® PRO. In addition, Jelmar manufactures the top-selling, nationally advertised brands CLR® and Tarn-X®. Being a third generation family run company with a socially responsible business approach, we continue to focus on delivering innovative, high-quality products. Jelmar is committed to being environmentally conscious and was among the first to respond to the growing demand for safer cleaning products. Several of our products are formulated to meet the EPA’s “Design for the Environment” (DfE) and USDA’s “Certified Biobased Product” guidelines.
lEADERSHIP
Alison Gutterman | PRESIDENT Alison Gutterman is the president of Jelmar LLC, a Skokie, IL family-owned cleaning products manufacturer which has been in business for more than 60 years. Alison received her bachelor’s degree in speech communications from Syracuse University and her master of business administration from the Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern University. In 1993, she joined Jelmar, having served as a Customer Services Representative, Vice President of Sales, and Chief Operations Officer. In 2007, Alison succeeded her father, Arthur Gutterman, as President.
Alison Gutterman PRESIDENT
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL USE OF CLR PRODUCTS
Many uses in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Automotive, Energy, Government and Hospitality areas including: Mining Equipment Sewage Plants Drinking Fountains Swamp Coolers Septic Systems Ships/Boating RVs Coffee Makers/Coffee Machines Lawn and Garden Equipment Cleaning Rust Stains Cleaning Copper Pipes, Tubing, and Wiring Car/Truck Washes Grease Traps Stainless Steel Tankers Injection Molds Heat Exchangers and Boiler Tanks Radiators/Air Conditioning Units Showerheads Washing and Dishwashing Machines Farm Units/Equipment and much more...
In recognition of her business successes, Alison Gutterman was named the recipient of the Illinois 2012 Small Business Administration Jeffery Butland Family Owned Small Business of the Year Award. She also received the 2012 Enterprising Woman of the Year Award by Enterprising Women Magazine. Alison serves as a member of NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), WIPP (Women Impacting Public Policy), WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council) and is on the Advisory Board of Directors for SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise), member of WPO (Women’s Presidents Organization) and NEW (Network of Executive Women). Alison resides in Skokie, IL with her two children, Michaela and Eli. 28 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
PRO LINE
VIDEO mbeconnectmagazine.com
cLR PRODUCTS
CLR® Pro Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover: a powerful patented non-toxic formula takes on tough calcium, lime deposits, scale and rust stains. It cleans multiple items and surfaces including tubs, toilets, sinks, HVAC, coffee makers, humidifiers, dishwashers, washing machines, shower heads, glass, chrome, ceramic, brick, stucco, fiberglass, stainless steel and more. Safe on all plumbing and septic systems. Biodegradable. CLR® Pro Bath Cleaner: a non-toxic, multi-purpose cleaner perfect for daily use in the bathroom or related areas. Powerful foaming action removes calcium, soap scum, hard water stains, discoloration, surface rust and grime. Biodegradable; contains no ammonia, bleach or phosphates. CLR® Pro Kitchen Cleaner: a non-toxic, multi-purpose cleaner perfect for daily use in the kitchen or related areas. Great for stainless steel, chrome, granite (sealed), Corian®, plastic, tile, glass and fiberglass. Biodegradable; contains no ammonia, bleach or phosphates. CLR® Pro Commercial Drain Line & Grease Trap Treatment: a powerful microbial formulation that digests and degrades fats, oils and grease (FOG) to promote free flowing drains and grease traps. Live, active bacteria work instantly and effectively on vegetable, animal and petroleum FOG. Provides exceptional odor control. Contains no emulsifiers, added enzymes, surfactants or fragrance; will not harm plant or marine life. Biodegradable. CLR® Pro Septic Treatment: Groundbreaking patented technology helps prevent septic backup and maintain freeflowing drains. Works instantly breaking down fats, oils, grease and other stubborn organic matter and helps to neutralize odors. Biodegradable. CLR® Pro Grease Magnet: a powerful, yet non-toxic degreaser that quickly and effectively cuts through grease, oil and tar stains. Multi-purpose use for concrete, asphalt, granite, pool decks, machinery, motors, tools, printing presses, no wax floors, painted and coated surfaces. Water-based, biodegradable, non-corrosive formulation contains no acids, abrasive or petroleum solvents. TARN-X® Pro Tarnish Remover: this non-flammable, “wipe and rinse” product removes tarnish quickly and effortlessly. Brilliantly shines sterling silver, silver plated, copper, gold, gold-plated, platinum and diamonds.
CLR® Stone Cleaner: One step clean and protect. Powerful foaming action removes food and grime. Gently cleans granite, Corian®, tile and other hard surfaces to a streak-free shine; will not scratch. CLR® Power Plumber: Revolutionary pressurized gas device that clears clogged drains with a burst of compressed air. Many uses include floor drains, sinks, tubs, toilets, urinals and disposals. Environmentally safe and non-toxic; no harsh chemicals, acids or lyes. CLR® Pro Metal Cleaner: Quickly and effectively cleans and shines, enhancing the appearance of various metals and stones. Great for aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, stainless steel, and more. Biodegradable and non-corrosive; contains no harsh chemicals with a health and flammability rating of zero.
pARTNERING WITH THE EPA
EPA’s “Design for the Environment” (DfE) works in partnership with environmental groups to reduce risk to people and the environment by finding ways to prevent pollution. DfE helps consumers and industrial purchasers make wise choices by identifying safe, yet effective products. CLR® PRO products DfE designated include:
Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover Bath Cleaner Kitchen Cleaner Metal Cleaner Septic Treatment Commercial Drain Line & Grease Trap Treatment
USDA
USDA’s Certified Biobased Product initiative promotes the increased sale and use of biobased products in the commercial market and for consumers through its voluntary labeling program. Biobased products, whether commercial or industrial (other than food or feed), are composed in whole or in significant part, of biological products or renewable domestic agricultural materials. CLR PRO products USDA Biobased designated include: Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover.
CLR® Stainless Steel Cleaner: One step clean and protect. Powerful foaming action cleans to a streak-free shine. Waterbased formulation leaves no residue; resistant to finger prints and smudging. Great for use on stainless steel appliances, elevators, escalators and work stations.
www.CLRPRO.COM
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MEET THE
OfficeMax
ÂŽ
S U P P L I E R DIVERSITY TEAM Smart people make a smart company, and that’s a major reason why supplier diversity at OfficeMax stands out. Each member of the OfficeMax Supplier Diversity Team brings a wealth of experience, an innovative perspective and a strong passion to their role. Get to know the passionate individuals who make diversity at OfficeMax a guiding principle, and see how they help create a unique supplier diversity program and stronger communities.
Carolynn Brooks
serves as Chief Diversity Officer for OfficeMax and oversees Workplace Diversity, Supplier Diversity, EEO/AAP and Community Relations. She is also President of the OfficeMax charitable Foundation. She just celebrated her 10 year anniversary with OfficeMax and is known for the tagline, “Creating a new way of doing business through diversity.” Ms. Brooks joined OfficeMax in 2001 and led the Human Resource headquarters activities through the merger and acquisition of OfficeMax and Boise Cascade. In 2006 she collaborated with OfficeMax CEO Sam Duncan to develop an Office of Diversity to create a culture of inclusion and dynamic work environment and contribute diverse perspectives and solutions to help customers do their best work. Ms. Brooks also led in the creation and launch of OfficeMax Associate Resource Groups in 2008. She is focused on ensuring that OfficeMax expands the brand into the communities where business is conducted through the Associate Volunteer Program and community outreach. In 2011, Ms. Brooks was recognized by Black Enterprise as a top executive in Diversity and was profiled in the Diversity Business Journal as an Executive Woman Worth Watching. In past years, Ms. Brooks received National Diversity Council’s award as one of Illinois’ Most Powerful and Influential Women. In addition, she was awarded the Diversity Officer Leadership Award by Diversity Best Practices in Washington, DC. She is a Board Member for the Chicago Metropolitan YWCA and Board of Directors member of the National Hispanic Corporate Council (NHCC). Ms. Brooks attended Howard University and is a member of the DuPage County Workforce Board, Exceed Credit Union Board of Directors and serves on the national Diversity Best Practices Leadership Council.
Anthony Billinger
is the Director of Corporate Supplier Diversity at OfficeMax and is responsible for creating and implementing the enterprise-wide strategy for supplier diversity. Mr. Billinger joined OfficeMax in June of 2009 after previously serving as the architect of the supplier diversity initiative at Snap-on Tools, headquartered in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Prior to joining Snap-On in 2006, Mr. Billinger was the Director of Supplier Diversity and Minority Affairs for the Missouri State Lottery for nearly 10 years. A Chicago native, Mr. Billinger has worked in supplier diversity for the past 15 years and was the 2000 recipient of the Missouri Governor’s Torch of Excellence Award, the 2004 recipient of the 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis’ “Trailblazer Award”, and was named one of the “2011 Top 100 Diverse Business Leaders Under 50” by Diversity MBA Magazine. Mr. Billinger has both a Bachelor’s degree and an MBA from Lincoln University of Missouri. He currently serves on the board of the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council, and the Quad County African American Chamber of Commerce.
Allan Rollins
is the Supplier Diversity Analyst at OfficeMax and is responsible for preparing reports on diversity purchasing, sales, and trends to assist internal sales teams and external customers requiring diverse spend data. He also manages the diverse supplier management portal and the OfficeMax tier II reporting program. Mr. Rollins joined OfficeMax in November of 2010 after working several years as a Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Lead for the Interpublic Group of Companies. Prior to joining IPG, Mr. Rollins worked as a Marketing Operations Manager with Draft WorldWide, a subsidery of IPG. He received a Bachelor’s degree from Benedictine University in Lisle, IL. Shortly after graduating college, Mr Rollins served in the United States Army Reserves.
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* This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, please consult your doctor before using this product.
contact 12900 South Huron River Dr. Romulus, MI 48174 Tel: 1.877.621.4125 | email: comments@lepages.com
www.lepages.com
Great Products. Great People. ABOUT US
In 1879, William Nelson LePage invented an industrial glue that was strong, readyto-use and had a long shelf life. Shortly after, LePage developed a consumer version and expanded his line into other products, including mucilage, an adhesive that’s still widely used today. Through most of the 20th century, basic stationery tape drove our company, but the total portfolio of LePage’s offerings has expanded, and now consists of a broad range of products, including packaging tapes, a complete assortment of mailing and shipping supplies (bubble mailers, bubble cushion, corrugated boxes), hardware tapes, glues and sticky notes. In 2005, LePage’s acquired Gould Inc. This acquisition added depth to LePage’s total capabilities, increased our distribution network, and introduced a mailing and shipping category to the Seal-It™ line. Today, LePage’s is recognized as one of the fastest growing major manufacturers in the tape, ship, mail and move categories, offering a total assortment of supplies capable of fully servicing its partnering retailers. LePage’s is a leader in office supplies distribution to major retailers across the USA and Europe.
lEADERSHIP
Sunir Chandaria | PRESIDENT Sunir Chandaria is a Canadian-born member of the entrepreneurial Chandaria Family that immigrated to Canada through the 1970s following difficult political pressures in East Africa. After graduating from Upper Canada College as Head Boy and recipient of the prestigious J. Herbert Mason Medal, he pursued his undergraduate studies in Economics and Management at Oxford University, earning his BA (Hons) from St Peter’s College in 2002. At Oxford, Sunir played with the Varsity Blues Ice Hockey Club and was named Assistant Captain in his graduating year.
SUNIR CHANDARIA PRESIDENT
sUSTAINABILITY
As industry leaders, it is our responsibility not only to develop breakthrough products, but also to innovate and implement environmentally sustainable methods for producing them. As we develop our business globally, we’re constantly thinking of new ways to reduce our carbon footprint and keep our planet green. At LePage’s, we design products for a better tomorrow, which is why it only makes sense that we apply the same level of innovation towards supporting a sustainable business strategy.
eNVIRONMENTAL
LePage’s parent company in Canada will soon boast one of the largest Rooftop Solar installations in the country at its Toronto Headquarters. The project will have a total of 2,343 panels at 280W each for a total of 656 kWp! We are proud to be among the first movers towards Green, having embraced the technology as soon as it was launched and promoted by the provincial government in 2009. This reflects the commitment of the Company and its principals to be good corporate citizens, and espouse best social and ethical practices. We shall be actively and aggressively pursuing the Green cause further by looking at converting other properties owned by the Group to Rooftop Solar under Feed-In Tariff (FIT) 2.0, the recently launched initiative by the Ontario, Canada Provincial Government.
Since 2008, Sunir committed his diligent efforts to focus on the operations of the business. Through his decisiveness and creativity when facing difficult decisions and uncertain dynamics, his team has significantly improved the bottom-line of the company. 34 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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BRANDS
LePage’s 2000, Inc. offers a total product assortment as a single vendor capable of fully servicing its partnering retailers and is committed to manufacturing the most reliable and innovative products for the end-user. LePage’s 2000 puts the most innovative packaging and shipping solutions at your fingertips with our USPS® brand of mail and ship products. As the exclusive USPS® mail and ship partner at over 25,000 major retail locations across the United States, LePage’s USPS® brand continues to set industry standards for quality and innovation.
KIOSK DEMO
mAIL & GO: VALUE TO RETAILER
Draws incremental traffic Increases customer trip frequency to your stores Public Relations victory as a national community service
Ongoing 18 month pilot has proven the following: 5 year NPV (after expenses) was greater than double the monthly cost of the Kiosk Frequency increase for average customers of greater than 14% New customer acquisition of greater than 5% with only limited marketing Shipping supplies and social expression categories showed a lift in high double digits Food and gifting categories were next highest lift after general merchandise
iNTEGRATED MERCHANDISING SOLUTION
This solution is not a stand alone appliance like an ATM machine The true value of this solution is realized through merchandising integration Vendors to retailers have expressed an appetite to participate in the Kiosk program with funding and merchandising support
COMPANY OVERVIEW
Seal-It™, one of our star brands, is a line of tapes, glues, mailing and shipping products available at retailers across the United States and Canada. Seal-It™ has defined itself in the category of mail, ship and move by anticipating customer’s needs and exceeding their expectations.
Bandit - A revolutionary product that delivers a solution to decades of consumer frustration relating to the difficult-to-use metal tapegun. The Bandit’s patented user-friendly design allows for the safe sealing of packages with only one hand, freeing one’s second hand to hold down the flaps of the box. This unique design provides fast, safe ease of use when preparing small and large packages. Simply the most amazing tape dispenser on the market.
Private Brand LePage’s partners with brands and businesses by offering reliable and affordable products for private distribution. We are currently engaged in multiple private label relationships that allow us to supply retailers with stationery tapes, packaging tapes, hardware tapes, glues, sticky notes, stationery products and an assortment of mailing and shipping supplies including boxes, bubble wrap, stretch film and more.
TESTIMONIALS
“I had to share this photo. I used a piece of your packing tape to secure a halloween decoration that constantly falls over. Before Hurricane Sandy hit (I live in Massachusetts), I pulled in all of my halloween decorations but forgot this one. This decoration was out the entire duration of the hurricane and stayed attached to my house with the one piece of Bandit packing tape. A telephone pole came down a couple of blocks away but this guy stayed stuck to my house! I took this picture after the hurricane was over. His feet looked like they might have blown out from under him but his hat didn’t move.” – M. Lopez
www.lepages.com MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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35
contact 1901 W. Cypress Creek Rd., Suite 600 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 Tel: 1-866-POWER-99
www.libertypowercorp.com
Powerful Together ABOUT US | OUR HISTORY
Founded in 2001, Liberty Power has grown organically one customer at a time by acting with integrity, building trust, and creating value for the customer. Liberty Power’s initial focus was providing small and mediumsized businesses with the same low-cost energy and exceptional customer service typically reserved only for the largest energy users. Today, the company provides value to all types of customers, be it small business owners, large Fortune 500 companies, government accounts, or residential customers. While the company has experienced tremendous growth, Liberty Power has maintained its core values and entrepreneurial spirit. Liberty Power is the largest independent retail electric provider in the United States based on 2012 KEMA industry rankings. In 2012, Liberty Power received the distinction of being the largest Hispanic-owned energy company in the U.S. and the 8th largest Hispanic owned company overall on the Hispanic Business 500. The company is also the first minority-owned, retail electric provider with a national footprint. Currently serving over 170,000 accounts, Liberty Power provides large and small businesses, government agencies and residential customers with low-cost electricity and exceptional customer service.
DAVID HERNANDEZ CEO
Mr. Hernandez graduated Magna Cum Laude from Palm Beach Atlantic University in Palm Beach, Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and later earned an MBA from the New York University Leonard N. Stern School of Business. In 2004, he was awarded NYU’s Distinguished Alumni Award. He was also named Entrepreneur of the Year in 2006 by Hispanic Business Magazine.
bUSINESS & HOME SOLUTIONS
In retail electricity markets nationwide, residential, small businesses and large commercial customers are choosing Liberty Power for its ability to provide low-cost, reliable electricity and exceptional customer service. Liberty Power delivers the consistent support and financial strength so highly sought after in today’s environment while enabling customers to meet their sustainability and supplier diversity goals.
oUR MISSION
To serve people and organizations with low-cost energy solutions and an exceptional customer experience so they can focus on running their homes and managing their businesses.
lEADERSHIP
David Hernandez, Chief Executive Officer/Founder With more than 21 years of experience, including various leadership roles in banking, telecommunications and energy, Mr. Hernandez drives the vision and leads the execution of the Company’s overarching strategy. He founded Liberty Power 10 years ago and under his leadership has propelled the company into the nation’s largest minority-owned retail electricity supplier and one of the fastest-growing Hispanic-owned businesses. Prior to Liberty Power, Mr. Hernandez held various management and finance positions at Enron, Salomon Smith Barney, Nortel Networks and Barnett Banks (currently Bank of America). 36 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
NEWS
E-BROCHURE
mbeconnectmagazine.com
Residential Customers Liberty Power is dedicated to providing low-cost energy solutions to residential customers across the nation. With our fixed price Home Independence Plan, you can avoid potential supply rate increases for up to two years. Small and Mid-Size Businesses Liberty Power understands the challenges you face when it comes to rising energy costs, and can help you control them with innovative, customizable and reliable energy solutions along with excellent customer service. While you build your business, individual plans and products can be tailored to meet your electricity needs. Large Commercial
Liberty Power is the supplier of choice to many Fortune 500 companies and large commercial/industrial companies from Maine to California. Liberty Power provides a unique combination of industry knowledge, financial stability and diversity to support our customers´ requirements in deregulated energy markets. Our superior account support team provides assistance to corporate energy managers, facilities and operations, as well as purchasing and finance.
SERVICE AREAS
At Liberty Power, we offer: Customized energy plans to fit your needs ranging from 12 to 48 months Exceptional customer service and innovative products that meet your unique needs
Our Fixed Rate Products: Offer price certainty and budget control Are available in a variety of simple, easy-to-understand product terms Allow you to free your business from the volatility of the electricity market
Our Index Products: Are market-based rates that allows you to take advantage of electricity price trends Give you the ability to convert to a fixed rate at any time
Massachusetts New Jersey New York Ohio Pennsylvania Rhode Island Texas
AWARDS
oUR PRODUCTS
California Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Illinois Maine Maryland
2012: Recognized as the United States’ 13th largest nonresidential electric supplier and the largest independent supplier by KEMA 2012: Largest Hispanic-owned energy company in the United States, by Hispanic Business 2012: Eighth largest Hispanic-owned company overall by Hispanic Business 2011: Minority Business Enterprise of the Year Award by SFMSDC 2009: Supplier of the Year in Energy from Frito-Lay North America 2008: Bill Alcorn Supplier Diversity Award from jcpenny
tESTIMONIALS
“Choosing Liberty Power as a supplier has proven to be a sound business decision providing New York Life a low cost power alternative for our facilities. Liberty Power exemplifies the strength and talent of diversity vendors.” – Annette Ficucello, Assistant Vice President, Supplier Diversity “Since we´ve been using Liberty Power as our ESCO (here in New York), we´ve had a positive experience. They´ve been able to provide us with the paperwork to get wind power to be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified in our middle school.” – Eugene Kivlan, Director of Facilities
www.libertypowercorp.com
MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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37
contact 14140 TEN MILE RD WARREN, MI 48089 Tel: 586-771-4030
www.more-office.biz jim williams ceo
About Us
M.O.R.E. Computer Supplies LLC., is a Minority/Veteran owned full line office products company that was founded by Jim Williams. Jim Williams is the Founding Principal, and had more than 20 years of experience working with the automobile industry prior to beginning the M.O.R.E. venture.
Products
Supplies Binders & Binding Supplies Calendars, Planners & Briefcases Cash/Check Handling Computer Hardware, Supplies & Data Storage Files & Filing Supplies Forms, Record Keeping & Reference Furniture & Room Accessories Janitorial/Maintenance & Lunchroom Supplies Labels, Label Makers, Tags & Stamps Mailroom & Packing Materials Office Equipment & Equipment Supplies Paper, Envelopes & Mailers Pens & Desk Supplies Presentations & Meeting Supplies Device Matching Supplies Calculator Copier Financial/ Bank Machine Impact Printer Ink Jet Fax Machine Laser Fax Machine Retail Equip. POS/Cash Reg. Thermal Transfer Fax machine Thermal Transfer PTR/Bar Code Time Clock Printer Typewriter/Word Processor Laser Printer
38 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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BenefitS of doing business with M.O.R.E.
There is a tremendous diversity in our customer base; it varies from small family owned businesses to, large tier 1 automotive suppliers, from small public and private schools, to major universities and hospitals. These customers, although very different in their missions and size, all value the cost savings of inventory control. M.O.R.E. provides reorder monitoring, personnel specific reorder control, and is willing to provide inventory assessment on site. This kind of support enables the very popular “just in time” delivery concept to be expanded to office product disposables. Also, on all “in stock” items, we respond to emergencies with “same day” to 24 hours delivery. Austerity, especially during trying economic times, is more than just a “buzzword”, it is a way of life. M.O.R.E. is very proud to be able to assist our customers in this vital area of business management and inventory control.
Awards & recognitions •
M.O.R.E. was named Minority Supplier of the Year by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan in 2006, and was named as one of its outstanding performers in 2007.
•
M.O.R.E. successfully completed the extremely difficult vetting process, that resulted in M.O.R.E. being licensed by the Michigan Gaming Commission Board to transact business with all of the casinos located in the state of Michigan. That license was issued in 2007, and has been renewed every year since then.
•
Jim Williams was named Chairman Emeritus of the NABAS Scholarship Fund (National Association of Black Automotive Suppliers).
•
Jim Williams serves on the board of the Atlanta Music Project.
Why choose M.O.R.E. • • • • • •
Single source supplier National distribution Online ordering Stock room management services Cost saving analysis, tracking & reporting Next day delivery
pARTNERS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Banctec Brandt Burroughs/Unisys Datatrol Diebold Digital Check Fuji Systems/Kanematsu Fujitsu Glory Hedman IBM IBM Infoprint Interbold Lundy Maverick NCR Panini Pitney Bowes Reiner Rusco Elec Sharp Standard Register Tidel Triton Unisys
www.more-office.biz
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39
contact 817 W. Peachtree St. NW Atlanta, GA 30308 Tel: 404.961.7224 | email: jnorthington@mammothop.com
www.mammothop.com
Mammoth…an office supply diversity solution!
Jennifer Northington PRESIDENT
ABOUT US
pRODUCTS
lEADERSHIP
Custom Stamps: Mammoth custom pre-inked stamps offer a handle mount that is refillable with your custom imprint cartridge. Available in blue, black or red ink, and in a variety of sizes, Mammoth custom stamps enable you to customize your message, and make a “great impression” every time!”
Atlanta based Mammoth Office Products is a MBE (minority business enterprise) manufacturer and distributor of a broad array of office products, focused on categories where the company can deliver quality, innovation, sustainability and differentiation with TAA-compliant products. Although a young organization started in 2011, the Mammoth brand has gained market share and strong brand identity and recognition for quality and excellent customer service. Markets will always test innovators, so we strive at continuous development of solutions that provide value-add benefits to office products consumers.
Jennifer Northington | PRESIDENT Jennifer Northington is the President of Mammoth Office Products. Successful implementation of new ideas with an out-of-box approach is Jennifer’s strength. Her category management skill set helps her bring a holistic approach to achieving market excellence. Leveraging her experience as a manufacturer (previous roles held at ACCO Brands Corporation), she has a keen understanding of how to drive brand awareness and market share by solution selling tactics. Jennifer brings 12 years of office product industry expertise, category management and business development acumen that has yielded positive results. Working with all the OP channel resellers, she consistently gained market share, brand awareness and return on promotional investment. Leveraging these strengths along with the drive of her collaborative partners at Mammoth makes the foundation of Mammoth solid and a successful platform for future growth. Jennifer is a board member of the Office Product Women in Leadership (OPWIL) organization.
mISSION
Deliver differentiated, enhanced-value diversity solutions to our customers with quality, innovation and sustainable office and consumer products.
40 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
Chair Mats: Mammoth Office Products brings you a unique PVC chair mat. Guaranteed not to crack, chip, break or shatter under normal use and correct application .Contains up to 25% recycled material. Less odor, greater UV resistance than other PVC chair mats. Greater clarity and consistency. Manufactured to ISO 14001 standards. High-quality, affordable chair mats that will work with every type of flooring from hardwood floors to plush carpeting!
Tree Free Paper: Now offices everywhere can make their copiers and printers 100% tree-free. TreeFrog’s multipurpose copy paper is made entirely from sugarcane fibers and performs just like traditional wood-based papers. Available in both 5 and 10 ream cases, TreeFrog paper delivers the most sustainable paper solution to your office environment. Tree Free Envelopes: The paper used for these environmentally friendly and sustainable envelopes has absolutely no wood or wood fibers used in the manufacturing process. Instead, the paper is made from a 100% sugar cane by-product called bagasse. Additionally, no sugar cane is harvested specifically to produce this paper. The by-product is diverted from land filling or burning, making it a truly ecofriendly option.
mbeconnectmagazine.com
tREE FROG
No tree-based wood fibers are used to create the product, instead the paper is made completely from sugar cane fibers. You can recycle TreeFrog paper with the rest of your paper products, but you have another recycling option due to the product’s 100 percent sugar cane base — composting. The product is compostable, so once you’re done with the paper simply put it in your compost bin and you’re done!
bENEFITS OF TREE FROG
Tree-free Compostable Texture Standard size and weight
tECHNICAL CERTIFICATIONS
TreeFrog™ tested successfully by Ricoh, Xerox, Icon, Hilton, Staples and Rochester Institute of Technology. TreeFrog™ is third-party laboratory tested for printing performance and fiber and moisture analysis. TreeZero™ paper is manufactured in an ISO 9001 certified plant. We completed a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) to measure our carbon footprint – indicating a positive CO2e vs. virgin paper.
cUSTOMERS
OfficeMax United Stationers Guy Brown Office Depot Staples
www.mammothop.com MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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41
Strengthening a City’s Financial Health through Integrated Supply Chain Solution Office products/print program reduces costs while improving service and helps meet Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise requirements
Case Study Snapshot
C A S E ST U DY | K A NSA S CI T Y Business Challenge
Challenge: • Downturn in the economy was significantly impacting municipal operations and budgets • Needed to increase efficiencies and reduce costs related to an in-house print center and office supplies Solution: • Moved from a fixed to a variable cost model for print, tapping into the OfficeMax ImPress® digital print services network • Improve supply chain management by combining office supplies and document services Results: • Reclaimed all but 500 square feet of 5,000 square-foot on-site print facility • Increased visibility and compliance • Reduced operational costs by $380,000 in the initial year • Increased the City’s ability to meet sustainability goals and minority requirements
Located in the heart of the United States, the City of Kansas City, MO (CKC), is considered by many to be a quintessential American metropolis. But as with many U.S. cities, the downturn in the economy significantly affected municipal operations and budgets. Kansas City met the demands of this challenging environment by reviewing and reducing costs associated with internal services such as print and office supplies, while also supporting the City’s minority and women-owned business enterprise (MWBE) requirements.
Solution Amidst economic uncertainty, shrinking budgets and an urgent need to improve operational efficiencies, CKC’s Office of the City Manager and Procurement Services Division targeted the onsite print center as a way to address key business issues and a multimillion dollar deficit. Over the years, a 5,000 square-foot facility within City Hall had provided convenient offset, digital and auxiliary print and document services to more than 15 different municipal departments. However, the total cost of ownership—from maintaining equipment and supplies to managing 24 vendors and personnel—was costly, and without a formal workflow process or standard service levels, was inefficient. In addition, due to dissatisfaction, end users were turning to outside vendors (most non-approved) to fill the void, with little or no oversight or visibility to spend or pricing. So, in 2008, when the OfficeMax® team approached CKC with a proposal to significantly reduce the City’s printing costs by moving from a fixed to variable cost model while improving productivity and service levels, they found a highly receptive audience. The first step was to present a strategic roadmap to Kansas City key stakeholders, outlining the needs assessment process and the advantages of piggy-backing on the Western States Contracting Alliance (WSCA), which would allow the City to leverage the service levels and SKU level pricing and avoid the need for a Request For Proposal (although the City did go out to formal RFP in 2009 for Print and Document Services and 2011 for Office Products, and OfficeMax has since secured both contracts).
C A S E ST U DY | K A NSA S CI T Y
The OfficeMax® Six Sigma Analyst team then received executive sponsorship to conduct an extensive 7-week due diligence “deep dive.” Working closely with the City’s “power users,” they developed a pro forma model based on quantitative data and a customized cost-effective strategy to address and resolve Kansas City key business issues, ultimately moving them from a fixed to a variable cost model utilizing OfficeMax’s digital print services network, OfficeMax ImPress®. The City’s large in-house footprint was replaced with a hybrid combination of an on-site ImPress customer service representative, limited equipment for quick turn-around projects, and a digital workstation to funnel all program-based applications to an OfficeMax hub with two dedicated full-time co-workers and a delivery driver.
Results • The City was able to reclaim 90 percent of the old production facility space • CKC and OfficeMax can now produce more than 600 print projects a month, ranging from budget books to business cards to brochures • All files are stored digitally, allowing customized and variable designs and forms to be retrieved quickly and easily for future use—with no obsolescence or waste • The MBE/WBE program has helped consolidate the vendor base and redirected 25 percent of all work to community-owned small businesses • Quarterly and annual business reviews held by the local and national sales/operations team help CKC identify new ways to drive dollars out of the budget and increase efficiencies. • The customized workflow process and personalized service has resulted in meeting 99 percent service levels for On Time and Done Right, with more than 90 percent of the work completed in 48 hours or less • The City reduced operational costs by approximately $380,000 in the initial year “The OfficeMax ImPress team has earned the trust and support of staff members throughout Kansas City,” explained Cedric Rowan, CKC’s Manager of Procurement Services. “Not only do they provide superior personal attention on every project and ensure higher production quality, but they also save taxpayers a significant amount of money.”
Bringing Office Supplies Into the Mix
When the City’s office supply contract was set to expire in 2011, an RFP was issued and included reporting tools as one of the requirements to be met by the vendor awarded the new contract. Paper is a large expense for the City, and it was one of the areas that recognized savings. By integrating office supplies with the ImPress services, OfficeMax and the City were able to identify departments with the largest consumption of paper at copiers and printers, and proactively drive print to a more cost-effective program.
Supporting the City’s Requirements Throughout the relationship, OfficeMax has recognized and responded to the need for a government entity to meet certain mandates. Work is performed within municipal limits to support city-based business owners and assure maximum tax revenue. Printing on recycled paper and using Energy Star-compliant equipment helps support the City’s sustainability initiatives. With contracts of substantial value, CKC requires the inclusion of participation through its MWBE certification program. OfficeMax identified one supplier that could provide the highest level of service—Robinson’s Delivery Services. All three organizations—the City of Kansas City, OfficeMax and Robinson’s Delivery Services—worked together through the implementation and business reviews, and continue process improvements to make sure the program is successful.
The Power of OfficeMax’s Integrated Solution By combining the office supply and print program into an Integrated Solution, the City has lowered costs in its operating budget, increased efficiencies and visibility across multiple departments, reduced the number of vendors used, streamlined billing and increased contributions to its sustainability initiatives and met all MWBE requirements. “From addressing key business issues to conducting quarterly business reviews, the OfficeMax team has successfully proposed new and innovative ways to provide quality services to the City at a lower overall cost,” concluded Gerard C. Smith, Director, General Services Department for the City of Kansas City. “This has all been done while supporting the City’s local minority- and women-owned businesses, making OfficeMax a true customer and community advocate.” To learn more, visit officemaxsolutions.com or call 877.969.OMAX (6629).
When it came to office supplies, the City used the same vendor for many years with sufficient service. But through its ImPress program, OfficeMax was able to illustrate the power of reporting and compliance programs that continuously uncovered hidden costs and the synergies that could exist by combining office supplies with ImPress services. © 2012 OMX, Inc. CS_KC12
Save energy • Increase cooling capacity Extend equipment life • Eliminate coil cleaning • Reduce carbon emissions
PreChill™ is a water misting system that uses the cooling power of evaporation to reduce energy and demand for large air-cooled systems.
Benefits of PreChill™ System Air conditioner efficiency is increased by 1.4% for every degree the ambient temperature is reduced. Cooling the intake air to the condensing unit increases efficiency by as much as 40%. • Reduce power usage and demand charges by 20% to 40% per ton of A/C • Increase the cooling capacity of your air conditioning equipment • Reducing the cycle time to achieve desired temperature extends the equipment life • Eliminate the need for expensive cleaning of the A/C coils • Reduce carbon footprint on A/C electrical demand by 25% • Less than 1 year payback in most cases
PreChill™ is a truly “Green” innovation because it significantly reduces carbon emissions, lowers the demand for electricity during peak Summer hours and conserves water.
Scale build up has always been the Achilles Heel of misting systems….until now! Scale Shield™ is a filter designed to eliminate hard water problems by preventing water and other debris from reaching the condenser coils.
www.plastikleen.net
contact 4447 W. Cortland Street Chicago, IL 60639 Tel: 773-235-0600
www.mckleinusa.com
Innovation Realized ABOUT US
For over 25 years, McKleinUSA has worked with world-renowned brand names and businesses to provide our customers with more than just a bag. As a unique revolutionary in the mobile computing and travel goods industries, we provide an experience that takes comfort, style, and reliability to the next level. Our presence is both national and global: not only do we have showrooms all across the United States, but also a state-of-the-art 220,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Thailand.
oUR MISSION
Our mission is to provide travelers and mobile professionals with more than just style. We seek to create solutions that meet our customer’s standards.
Parinda Saetia owner
pRODUCTS
Our end goal for our products is a fusion of elegance, quality, and reliability. We aspire to be the best and continue to shape and define the market as manufacturer and supplier of mobile business cases and traveling bags.
Laptop Cases Briefcases Attaché Cases Wheeled Business Cases Backpacks & Messenger Bags Women’s Business Cases Checkpoint-Friendly Business Cases Luggage
AWARDS
oUR VISION
Our vision is to be a culture with a strong commitment to the success and growth of our corporate operations, relationship with employees, and partners.
lEADERSHIP
Parinda Saetia, Owner Since 1997, McKlein USA has built its success on the touchstones of quality, innovation, and family tradition. Led by Parinda Saetia, who founded the Company while attending Babson College in Wellesley, MA, McKleinUSA continues to make great achievements in the realms of style and utility for mobile professionals all over the world. Along with her brother Chettha Saetia, who is both Chief Designer and Vice President of Sales, Parinda has grown a multi-million dollar business that is recognized as a forerunner of precocious and exceptional designs.
McKlein USA
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Siamond Catalog
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cLIENTS
OfficeMax Amazon Brookstone Sears Lord & Taylor Kohl’s Carson Pirie Scott Macy’s Neiman Marcus Sky Mall Airline International
tESTIMONIALS “Two years ago I purchased a Glen Ellyn 94366 in red. I travel extensively for my work and always take this bag with me. I can’t tell you how many times I have been stopped by security people, passport check people, fellow passengers, stewardesses etc. who say “Wow, what a nice bag”. I then go into my spiel about how it is the greatest bag of all time and show them how it works.” – Trisha B, Senior Executive
MISSION
McKlein 360 Foundation connects organizations with the resources needed to support and strengthen those living in less fortunate communities and neighborhoods. Our foundation seeks to not only create global awareness, but also give something back through charitable donations.
“I was ecstatic from the moment the bag arrived [the Willowbrook]. It was shipped in a timely fashion and came with a cover for bad weather. I travel in and out of court and to the office on a daily basis and this bag holds legal size hard folders as well as letter size folders, my ID, and legal pads and my calendar. I was even able to fit a small umbrella without stressing the bag. It is also beautiful: I was stopped several times with regard to how attractive the bag is. It is easy to remove from the wheel base and is not heavy. I would be happy to purchase again!”
oUR VISION
We believe that it is our responsibility to aid organizations in building stronger communities on a global scale. As a working foundation, we provide them with the tools necessary to impact lives for the better. Through the McKlein 360 Foundation, we encourage donations from individuals and organizations that wish to join our campaign. Together, we believe we can create a better and more positive reality.
– Sharon, from New York New York
hOW YOU ARE HELPING
With every online purchase, a portion of the proceeds are distributed to an organization of our choosing to benefit those who are most in need.
“I love this bag [the La Grange]! I bought it in orange! I use it daily in my work travels. It holds all my essential office supplies, laptop, cords, mouse, etc. I have received numerous compliments on the bag. It is durable and I’ve not had any problems with it. I am a heavy user, and bought this bag after my previous e-bag finally gave out after 6 years of daily work use. Highly recommend!”
For more details, please go to: http://mckleincompany.com/company/mcklein-360-foundation
– Susan, from Cordova South Carolina
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contact 393 Vintage Park Drive, Suite 200, Foster City, California 94404 Tel: 650-513-0700 | email: msi@mitchellsnow.com
www.mitchellsnow.com
MSI / Service and Technology for Workplace Efficiency About Us
MSI / A Leading Diversity Supplier Mitchell Snow, Inc. (“MSI”) provides Office Products Sales and Services for commercial and government end users. Comprehensive product selection is offered. Included are general office and business supplies, compatible toner cartridges, multi-purpose copy paper, ergonomic, furniture, and preferred environmental products. MSI is a California corporation based on the San Francisco Peninsula with nationwide sales and services.
MSI / Comprehensive Office Products Solutions bbPrime Contractor / Major Corporate and Governmental Office Supply and Services Programs bbMulti-Year Contract Programs bbPremium Private Label Toner Cartridges bbPrivate Label Recycled Multi-Purpose Copy Paper bbCorporate Outsourcing Services
donald mitchell president / ceo
LEADERSHIP
Donald Mitchell, President / CEO Corporate Governance. Management Leadership. Industry Experience. Strategic Initiatives. Gary Snow, Director of Marketing and Sales Experienced Industry Leadership. Operations Management. Marketing and Sales.
MSI / Supply Chain Management To meet customer purchasing objectives MSI Supply Chain sourcing includes product manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and certified small, minority, women, and disabled veteran businesses to provide a full complement of product sourcing and services. Product delivery available nationwide. bbNext Day Delivery bbE – Z Order Placement bbSpecialized Invoicing bbSales & Customer Service bbMarket Specialists bbManagement Reports
bbState-of-the Art Technology / E-commerce Solutions
MSI / Service and Technology That Matters Specially designed Tier I and Tier II Programs meet specific customer needs, and together with MSI’s e-commerce technology contribute to maximizing workplace efficiency. Website ordering, electronic product catalogs, EDI and custom invoicing, credit card billing, electronic messaging, management reports, electronic transmission of files, remittance receipt via electronic funds transfer are standard. Customer Service Representatives provide individual assistance, as required. Product performance and quality standards are assured by manufacturers’ warranties.
48 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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MSI / environmentally Preferred
MSI is a sure bet to meet your purchasing objectives for Environmentally Preferred Office Supplies. Large product selection available. Ergonomic Items, Premium Compatible Toner Products for Printing, Multi-Purpose Recycled Copy Paper and much, much more are featured.
MSI / PREMIUM COMPATIBLE LASER TONER CARTRIDGES
If you use an Apple, Brother, Canon, Hewlett Packard, IBM, Lexmark, Panasonic, Pitney Bowes, Xerox printer or fax‌. Chances are we have a Premium Quality Cartridge that is 100% compatible with your printer.
MSI / CORPORATE outsourcing
Value Added Custom Designed Service Programs. In response to specific requests by Customers, MSI has provided Corporate Services as follows: Management / operation of a Corporate Mail Center, including Federal Express Service Desk Operation at a 4,500 person facility. Staffed, operated a secured Corporate Research / Information Print Distribution Center. Managed / supplied critical materials for Industrial Manufacturing operation. Services include, as necessary, sourcing, management of on-site personnel, critical materials usage forecasting, inventory control, daily database updating, product tracking, and summary billing. Positive performance and business reviews.
MSI / PathWAY TO A GREENER TOMORROW
Each Cartridge is constructed with meticulous care using state-ofthe art technology and the finest quality components. Individually tested using rigorous quality control to meet demanding performance requirements. Start With Quality bbMeet or Exceed OEM Performance bbISO 9001:2000 / ISO 14001:2004 Quality Systems bbGuaranteed 100% Compatible Save Money bbSubstantial Cost Savings Over Original Brands bbA Complete Line of Fully Compatible Cartridges Help The Environment bbBuy Remanufactured Compatible Cartridges bbRecycle to Help Protect the Environment Meet MBE Purchasing Objectives bbSatisfies MBE / Diversity Purchasing Goals for Business and Government bbServing You Through Teamwork, Talent and Diversity
MSI / RECYCLED MULTI-PURPOSE PAPER MSI Brand Paper is a Recognized MBE Quality Product with appeal to large business and government customers.
bbMSI Environmentally Preferred Products bbThink Green! Save Money And Help Protect The Environment.
bbRecycled Paper with 30% Post Consumer Waste Content bb92 Brightness Acid-free bbRecycled SFI Procurement Certification bbAssists Customers in Meeting MBE Purchasing Objectives bbAssists Customers in Meeting Environmental Objectives bbCompetitive Prices
bbExcellent Value With An Assurance Of Product Quality.
MSI / A BRIGHTER FUTURE THROUGH TEAMWORK, TALENT AND DIVERSITY.
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49
contact 3904 N. Texas Avenue Bryan, Texas 77803 Tel: 979.778.0502 | email: customerservice@neutralposture.com
www.neutralposture.com REBECCA BOENIGK ceo
ABOUT US
Known for innovation and forward thinking, Neutral Posture is the great American small business story. Started in 1989 by a mother and daughter based out of their garage, today Neutral Posture is a recognized ergonomic leader with numerous product and design patents. As the only certified woman-owned seating manufacturer, Neutral Posture is proud to be the top diversity supplier for seating and workplace accessories to the US Government and Fortune 500 companies worldwide.
lEADERSHIP
REBECCA BOENIGK | CEO Rebecca serves as the COB and CEO of Neutral Posture, Inc. and has over twenty-four years of experience in research, development, design, and the manufacturing of ergonomic seating with expertise in the areas of finance, strategic planning, HR, operations, growth, and diversity. Rebecca has grown Neutral Posture to an international company with numerous awardwinning patented products. Together Rebecca and her mother led Neutral Posture, Inc. from a start-up company to becoming a publicly held company in nine years. In 1997, Neutral Posture, Inc. completed an initial public offering becoming the first and only certified women-owned business to be traded on the NASDAQ. As the only certified Women’s Business Enterprise seating manufacturer, Neutral Posture has rewritten the rules of quality, customer service and value with the most exceptional product offering in the furniture industry. Rebecca is the Immediate Past President of the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer’s Association (BIFMA), past member of the Board of Directors for the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), is a member of the Committee of 200 (C200), serves on the C200 Foundation Board, is a National Founding Partner of Women Impacting Public Policy and served on the Board of Directors of the Institute for the Economic Empowerment of Women. In 2006, Rebecca was appointed by Hector Barreto to serve on the National Women’s Business Council, which serves as advisors to the President, 50 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
Congress and U.S. SBA. She has served on the Enterprising Women Advisory Board, Texas Buildings & Procurement Commission Vendor Advisory Council and through 2006, served on the Texas Governor’s Business Council and U.S. SBA National Advisory Council.
MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to be recognized as the leading provider of ergonomic solutions, high quality and innovative products and accessories, consulting and training. These products and services will help our customers create a safe and comfortable work environment. We are a customer-friendly organization. We will ensure that the needs of our customers are the focus of our actions. We will have rapid responses. We will ensure that our products and services are superior in quality and exceed industry and federal standards. We will act with professionalism, integrity and honesty. We will fulfill our responsibilities to society through environmentally friendly products and processes, as well as encourage our employees to be active, responsible citizens. We value diversity and will strive to reflect that diversity in our work force and the companies with whom we do business.
MANAGING WORKPLACE DISCOMFORT
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pRODUCTS
for smaller or growing businesses competing in today’s highly competitive business environment. To support and encourage these businesses, the program is comprised of two parts:
N•tune® Seating System High Performance Task Seating Executive Seating Side/Guest Conference Industrial & Healthcare Workplace Accessories
Discount pricing for customers Bidding opportunities for suppliers
TESTIMONIALS
“We were so impressed with the ease of installation, quality of product and incredible turnaround time...We are already working on our next order of chairs,” – end user from New York.
THE NEUTRAL BODY POSTURE
The concept for the Neutral Posture® chair was developed by Jerome J. Congleton, PhD, PE, CPE. From our state-of-the-art Neutral Posture® series to our line of N•hancements® accessories, our products are based on the concept of neutral body posture. This natural, stress free position is the body’s preferred posture, similar to the free floating posture experienced when you totally relax in a swimming pool, or the posture typically associated with astronauts floating in space. Neutral Posture products were developed to help users emulate the body’s preferred position while they work, because it is in this posture that the body achieves equidistant spacing of the vertebrae and an ideal balance in the muscles, tendons and ligaments.
“All of my experiences with Neutral Posture affirm their commitment to products that are truly comfortable and services that make you smile.” – Kris Manos, industry expert.
AWARDS
2012 Platinum ADEX Award Big & Tall for Design Excellence Gold ADEX Award XSM Series for Design Excellence Silver ADEX Award 2000 Series for Design Excellence 2010 Platinum ADEX Award NV™ for Design Excellence 2009 Platinum ADEX Award elementAl® for Design Excellence Attendee’s Choice Award National Ergonomics Conference and Exposition 2007 Attendee’s Choice Award National Ergonomics Conference and Exposition 2006 WIPP Fast 5 Award Women Impacting Public Policy Platinum ADEX Award Balance™ and NeXtep™ for Design Excellence Attendee’s Choice Award National Ergonomics Conference and Exposition
dIVERSITY
Neutral Posture, Inc., a Women’s Business Enterprise, is committed to supporting and forming relationships with diverse businesses. Neutral Posture has established the Diversity Business Development Program (DBDP) for Minority Business Enterprises, Women’s Business Enterprises, not-for-profit and non-profit organizations. The DBDP was created to provide new opportunities
WWW.NEUTRALPOSTURE.COM
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contact 1903 Poydras St New Orleans, LA 70112 Tel: (504) 523-6699
www.signsnowneworleans.com
Design | Service | Solutions ABOUT US
Signs Now New Orleans opened in June of 1990 aiming to please its customers with quick one-day sign service. Today, Signs Now produces signs and banners for clients like the NFL, MLB and countless small businesses throughout the New Orleans metro area. Signs Now located in downtown New Orleans is an industry pioneer in the visual communication marketplace. This location is a member of an international network of digital printing centers with over 200 locations throughout the United States and Canada. With a proven business model and high success rate, Signs Now is the original developer of the fast turnaround sign business. The company continues to build upon their solid foundation to adapt to the new technology and continually changing needs of the business world.
mICHELLE GOBERT President/owner Michelle takes a consultative approach to developing the right solution for a diverse client base, from small business owners to international sporting event executives. After a personal evaluation, she develops solutions that meet your organizations requirements for image, communication and durability. From large-format, full-color posters, signs and banners to fleet graphics, Gobert’s production facility utilizes state-of-the-art commercial printing equipment, cutting-edge technology, and production management systems to ensure that your signs are ready when you are.
Michelle Gobert, Owner and Operator has been recognized by numerous organizations for outstanding service, having been named SBA, Young Entrepreneur of the Year 1994 and 2004 Mark of Excellence award winner from the Signs Now Corporation.
mISSION
To enhance the value of the businesses we serve by providing signs and graphic design services that help to promote our clients businesses.
lEADERSHIP
Michelle Gobert, President/Owner - With more than two decades of serving the deadline-driven visual communications industry, Michelle Gobert has developed a sharp eye for how businesses can leverage professional graphic solutions to help them stand apart from the competition. As an award-winning entrepreneur who quickly built her client list to include the likes of the NFL and thousands of small businesses in the Gulf Coast region, she is passionate about adding value to the clients she serves.
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PRODUCTS
Wall Logos - Ideal for both interior and exterior applications, wall graphics from Signs Now can be used to showcase an upcoming event, advertise a specific product, or create an atmosphere which ties in to your latest promotional effort.
Banners - Banners are the ideal solution for a wide range of signage needs. Promotional banners provide the advertising impact of a billboard at a fraction of the cost. They are highly effective when used to compliment or reinforce other advertising media, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of your advertising budget.
Airport Advertising - Let Signs Now produce advertising displays and graphics that command the attention of passengers every step of the airport experience as they enter via ticketing, proceed along concourses, at gate areas and in jet bridges as they board aircraft.
Digital Graphics - Digital color graphics communicate complex information more quickly than simple text signage. When you have only a few seconds to grab someone’s attention and make an impression, this is the communications tool to use. Signs Now will produce photo-realistic images for you at a fraction of historic costs. Dry Erase Boards - Custom dry erase boards keep track of chart, graph, or post information. If you want to track it, we can make a dry erase board out of it. Monument Signs - Monument signs provide the first impression of your identity as people find their way into your facility. Signs Now will work with you to create a custom solution to fit your business needs. Post and Panel Signs - Signs now offers a wide variety of post and panel signs in many shapes and sizes for any business. Signs - Signs Now offers a wide variety of post and panel signs in many shapes and sizes for any business.
cLIENTS
NFL NBA MLB NHL Liberty Bank The Port of New Orleans Veolia Louis Armstrong International Airport Clear Channel Airports Leo Burnett, EMC Outdoor StarCom and 100’s of Small and Medium sized businesses
tHE ADVANTAGE
The Right Solution Project Management On Time Performance Local Service ... Global Connections
As each Signs Now center is locally owned and operated, we are committed to providing the personal attention and professional service that you expect from a neighbor. At the same time, we are your local connection to a global network of nearly 200 digitally integrated Signs Now centers. We have the resources to execute sign and digital graphics projects of any scope. Satisfaction Guarantee We stand behind everything we do at Signs Now. You can trust your projects to the leader in professional signage and digital graphics services.
Tradeshow - An attractive trade show sign lends credibility to your booth, letting visitors know your organization cares about its image. A good trade show sign can serve as a welcome mat, which provides visitors with a good feeling as they enter your booth. Transit Advertising: Put your advertising message where people will see it – on a transit bus or train. From bus sides to full vehicle wraps, transit ads are high-impact rolling billboards that put your product or service all over town. Vehicle Graphics - Don’t just drive it, jazz it up and make it your own with bright, colorful custom graphics and car decals. With today’s technology, a car graphic solution can cover most of your windows if you desire, and the driver can still see out.
www.signsnowneworleans.com
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Selco Industries Gaining Ground through Expansion Following the successful acquisition of the Simon Marketing line of products in 2011, minority- and women-owned business Selco Industries, producer of popular SJPaper products, continues to expand its product offerings through the acquisition of Gussco Manufacturing’s assets. As the only minority- and woman-owned filing manufacturing company in the country, Selco Industries, Inc., has always stood out from its competitors. Selco Industries is certified by both the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), and is the only filing manufacturer certified as a Women-Owned Small Business by the federal government. This distinction is not the only reason that the company stands out – it’s also their quality classification folders, file folders, fastener folders, file pockets, and file jackets that they’ve been selling under the SJ Paper brand since 1984. Being a pioneer in diversity and product offerings has helped Selco Industries experience tremendous growth over the years. The growing demands for M/WBE purchases by government agencies, large corporations, and educational institutions have increased the necessity of providers like Selco Industries. Meeting these increasing demands has led Selco Industries to expand its product portfolio through
internal development as well as through acquisition of other companies’ products and assets. In 2011, Selco Industries acquired the minority-owned Simon Marketing line of paper products and rebranded them under the name Simon by SJ Paper. This acquisition enabled Selco Industries to expand its product line that helped the company elevate its product line to an international level. Also in 2011, Selco introduced three new filing product lines, SJP FusionTM, SJP ElementsTM and SJP PlushTM, to continue to provide high-quality and innovative filing solutions that adequately meet the changing needs of modern customers. The success from the Simon Marketing acquisition led Selco to consider further expansion by purchasing the assets of a company with a complementary product line. “Selco Industries always explores opportunities to meet customer needs, whether through new products or new services,” says Seldon Hill, president of Selco Industries.
One long-time Selco Industries supplier, Gussco Manufacturing, was interested in selling off its assets at the same time. A third generation family-owned and operated company, Gussco Manufacturing originally began as the Guide System & Supply Company in 1918 offering innovative organization, presentation, and storage solutions. Gussco was one of the first companies to introduce folders designed to resist spills and prevent paper cuts, as well as folders designed for long-term storage using the WaterShed®/ Cutless® and EverFile® folder materials. WaterShed®/ Cutless® products are specially formulated to resist water, and the smoother edges reduce instances of paper cuts. These products are also environmentally friendly and contain 30% post-consumer recycled content, more than most comparable manila folders. Everfile products are designed for long-term storage needs and remain chemically stable for at least fifty years. Customized products are a Gussco Manufacturing specialty, allowing customers to select cover stock material; add fasteners, closures, index dividers, pockets, and labels; and print logos directly on the folder. Additionally, Gussco has long been known for implementing environmentally sustainable operations and initiatives in its manufacturing processes. Through Gussco, Selco saw an opportunity to expand and improve its own product line. “Gussco Manufacturing was a strategic supplier to Selco Industries at the time its leaders decided to sell the company’s assets. Selco’s familiarity with the products and services and its knowledge of the value to customers helped shape the decision to make the acquisition,” notes Mr. Hill. Selco Industries officially acquired Gussco Manufacturing’s assets in June on 2012. Included among these assets are all products, brands, manufacturing equipment, and capabilities. The existing relationship between the two companies became a major advantage during the transition process. “The Selco team’s knowledge of Gussco and its products was very beneficial in planning the transition and in quickly managing the few unexpected issues that have come up,” says Mr. Hill. “In business, any significant acquisition brings new challenges and new opportunities. The Selco acquisition of Gussco’s assets is no exception,” he adds. As with most plans, the transition was anticipated to be a smooth one, with Selco transitioning its existing 35,000
square foot Garfield, New Jersey production facility with Gussco’s manufacturing facility in nearby Cedar Grove, New Jersey. Unfortunately, Mother Nature interrupted that plan. “Hurricane Sandy raised unexpected challenges for Selco as well as for thousands of other businesses. Fortunately, Selco has recovered and is fully functional again.” Operations are back to normal now and Selco Industries can now focus on what its new products can provide its customers. “Selco now has greater manufacturing capability, additional product offerings and a new custom product capability. These additions make Selco Industries stronger and more capable of bringing innovation to the market,” states Mr. Hill. This acquisition also means that even more quality products are supplied by a diverse business without disrupting the existing supply. Customers can expect a whole new set of filing solutions available to them through Selco Industries. “Gussco products are being integrated into the Selco product portfolio where they can add new features or sizes to our existing offering. That also means that the product names are being adapted to fit within the product lines,” says Mr. Hill. For customers, this means complete product customization tailored to meet their specific needs. “Business customers now have the opportunity to completely customize the size, shape, configuration, coating, color and graphic application of any commonly used organization tool, such as file folders, binders and boxes. Hospitals and other institutions use custom configurations to adapt to unique forms and documents. Franchise and distributed service companies apply brand colors, logos and messages to extend brand awareness. There are many opportunities for businesses to improve image and operations with custom products.” The new products also come with Selco’s outstanding customer service, high-quality, competitive prices, and commitment to diversity. “Overall, the Gussco assets bring significant value to Selco Industries by bringing greater value to our customers,” says Mr. Hill. Following this acquisition, the future of Selco Industries continues to create innovative solutions for customers looking for quality filing products while supporting a diverse business.
Plasti-Kleen™ Office Supply Products - Computer Accessories, GPS Systems, Cell Phones, IPod, I Touch Screens, CD/DVD’s, BluRay, I-Phone and Plasma Screens. Plasti-Kleen™ Product - for your Surveillance Systems, Camera Lens, Domes, Monitors and Vision Detection Systems. Plasti-Kleen™ Product - for Smart and Dry Erase Boards that Cleans/ Protects and will make your boards white again (Alcohol - Free ).
Adds an optically clear micro-thin layer of
protective coating that repels dust and lubricants, eliminates static electricity and protects against ultra violet rays. Environmentally Safe: Non-Flammable and Non-Toxic; No Alcohol or Ammonia.
D
eep cleaning and sanitizing, eliminates static, dirt, grime and germs from polycarbonate, plastic, LED screens, camera domes & lenses, Especially formulated for all types of electronic devices.
WET/DRY-WIPE Protective Coating/Cleaners for all Camera/Optical Lenses, LCD’s, PDA’s/Cell-Phones & Plasma Screens
Revolutionary formula for DIAD &
Fred Edmonds
DIVA units-Computer Screens, GPS Systems, Plasma Screens & CD’s/DVD’s/BluRay’s. Repairs discs from skipping due to damage.
CEO, HESS Advanced Technology
FINALLY… A Cleaner and Protective Coating for Smart Boards/Dry Erase Boards:
Erases and cleans all marker board surfaces. Just spray on and wipe clean with an ordinary paper towel or cloth. Ideal for cleaning shadows, ghosting, stains and marker residues that ordinary erasers leave behind. Protects Smart Boards/Dry Erase Boards from discoloring and cracking. Plasti-Kleen™ which is used throughout the Automotive, Casino and Office Supply Industries, is renowned for its ability to clean, shine and protect polycarbonates, acrylics, abs or thermo plastics. Plasti-Kleen provides a microthin layer of protective coating which repels dust and lubricants, is alcohol free, has anti-static inhibitors and protects against ultra violet rays. Plasti-Kleen’s Coolant and Lubricant (a Non Petroleum based product) has been tested and proven by the automotive industry (i.e. Ford, General Motors, Chrysler and Toyota) to extend the life cycle of the tooling more than 4 times and has a HAZ-MAT rating of all zeros for CNC’s, Milling, Stamping, Cutting, Drilling, etc.
Distributed By: OfficeMax.com OfficeDepot.com Staples.com MotionIndustries.com Grainger.com
HESS Advanced Technology, Inc. 7415 Chambersburg Rd. Huber Heights , OH 45424 Office : (937) 268-4377 Fax: (937) 263-5258
Plasti-kleen is manufactured by HESS Advanced Technology, a Historically Underutilized Business.
Sustainability practices for a green environment www.plastikleen.net Email: hess@cfanet.com
contact 2411 Oak Valley Drive Ste 500 Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Tel: 800.342.2704 | email: info@softechled.com
www.softechled.com
We make the world brighter with green technology About Us
Softech-LED is an organization dedicated to the delivery of high performance, value engineered lighting systems. Our team is staffed with technical, logistical, and consumer value experts to assure that we develop, find, and produce the finest component and lighting systems for the supply to our customers in North America.
Since 2000, our history has long been in GREEN and High Value technologies. We were the first to bring a recycled, green material from Asia to the United States for use in high performance automotive applications. We also support innovative AVN (AudioVideo-Navigation) systems, test equipment, and other similar products. We have ALWAYS looked for a better way, with a better product, that would deliver MORE VALUE for our customers, the environment, and our lives. Our experience in materials, electronics, and value engineering continues to give opportunities to serve our global community, including our families.
LEADERSHIP
Jae Jung, President Jae Jung has quickly become an expert in minority partnerships and corporate relationships. He has done many of projects between North America and Far East Asia countries. Since 2000, Jae Jung committed his diligent efforts to focus on the operations of the business. Through his decisiveness Softech LED has significantly improved the bottom-line of the company with leader’s contribution.
Core competencies
A Global Approach Our products are sold throughout the world and our employees are hired from diverse regions. We have production competency in the Asia-Pacific region as well as an extensive network of contacts and business affiliates. Our company specializes in using this global framework to help bring together the best ideas throughout the world into our products.
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jae JUng president
Innovation in Green Technology & Environmental Friendly Products We have focused 100% in innovating for environmentally friendly products even as early as 2000. Our current high efficiency LED lamp is a perfect showcase of our commitment to the environment and green technology. Softech’s LED lighting is 30% more efficient than fluorescent lighting, and 90% more efficient than incandescent lighting providing a significant benefit to the environment, and to the user. Furthermore, our LED lamp lasts 10x longer than a fluorescent bulb and over 60x longer than an incandescent bulb. Softech Natural LED Lights do not contain any environmentally harmful materials as some fluorescent bulbs do (mercury). With the improvement in energy usage, reduction in waste, and the environmentally friendly materials used - the Softech Natural Light is much kinder to the environment. Experience with Engineering and Client Support We hire the best engineers and client support team in order to produce the highest quality products. We have decades of experience in engineering and have had experience in selling to large businesses as well as individual customers.
Core capabilities
Focus on Research and Design We have culture that focuses on research and design, which our products clearly reflect. Throughout the firm and our business affiliates, we invest a majority of our resources in developing cutting-edge technologies. For example, our Softech LED Lamp has electronic membrane switches that ignore dirt and moisture and last many years longer than conventional switches. Our research team has also developed a full logic control system for our LED lamps that allow for no moving mechanical parts in the dimming, spectrum selection, auto shut-off timer, and other functions of the lamp. High Quality Production at Low Cost Our manufacturing facilities are customized to use only the highest quality parts. Due to economies of scale, we are able to provide such high quality products at low cost. We have plants located
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around the world and are easily able to expand our production capacity if the need arises. Unparalleled Client Servicing We truly have an unique client servicing approach. Our turnaround time to any problems with our products is unprecedented, and we treat our business clients as well as our individual customers with the utmost respect.
Benefits of the softech led lamp
Natural Light The use of natural light to regulate our body’s natural rhythm has been shown to improve our mood, productivity, and overall health. The added benefit of the Softech Natural Light’s selectable modes take that one step further, matching your needs and desires with the light for your life. Constant - Non Flickering Natural Light The flickering of incandescent and fluorescent light cause eye strain, causes fatigue, and sometimes induces stress. These frequencies are sometimes beyond what we can recognize, but they impact our ability to concentrate and focus for any length of time. The advanced LEDs and electronics utilized in the Softech Natural Light provide a continuous light, without glare and distortion found in some lights. The result is an improved light, giving us a reduced stress and enjoyable experience as shown in the wave form plot and resulting simulation of the light’s result to the right. UV Free Natural Light The Softech Natural Light provides the FULL SPECTRUM of light without the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. UV radiation can cause premature skin aging, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. UV radiation has also been associated with skin cancer and other negative effects on personal health. Some so-called “sun lamps” and systems contain UV radiation, rendering them totally unsuitable for use on a continuous basis. The Softech Natural Light gives all the benefits without this risk. Energy Efficiency Softech’s LED Light is 30% more efficient than fluorescent lighting, and 90% more efficient than incandescent lighting - providing a significant benefit to the environment, and to the user. Lighting constitutes about 25% of our office’s energy cost. Utilization of Softech’s Natural Lighting is a step in the right direction.
incandescent bulb. Softech Natural LED Lights do not contain any environmentally harmful materials as some fluorescent bulbs do (mercury). With the improvement in energy usage, reduction in waste, and the environmentally friendly materials used - the Softech Natural Light is much kinder to the environment. Superior Engineering The Softech Natural Light is built with the following improvements: Electronic Membrane Switches: Your LED bulbs are going to last YEARS. So your controls should also. The lamp is equipped with high quality, smooth, cleanable controls. They will operate for years, without the concern of dirt and moisture. Outlasting conventional switches and controls. Full Logic Control: There are no moving mechanical parts in the dimming, spectrum selection, auto shut-off timer, and other functions. The lamp will operate continuously and consistently without worry of wear in a mechanism. High Quality, Cleanable Plastic Structure: The structure is made of high quality plastics allowing years of service with durable, cleanable surfaces. Cool Operation: The lighting unit will operate cool to the touch for your safety and comfort. This is due to the new innovative LEDs, the electronics in the control system, and the design of the lamp structure. It does not need fans or cumbersome heat dissipation structures. Contributing to the extremely long life of your Softech LED Light.
Product BENEFITS
USB Power Port: You can charge and operate any suitable USB powered device (cell phone, MP3 player, iPod, etc.) from the USB port on the lamp. Automatic Shut-Off Timer: The light can be set to turn off in one hour. This benefit is valuable when leaving the office, going to sleep after reading in bed, and many other uses. Adjustable Base: The lamp can be turned and positioned for flexible placement and use.
Available in Black or White: Ability to better match your décor and taste.
Green in More Ways The Softech Natural Lamp lasts 10X (ten times) longer than a fluorescent bulb and over 60X (sixty times) longer than an
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contact 1920 N. Memorial Way, Houston, TX 77007 Tel: 713-861-8508 | email: Info@tbstx.com
www.tbstx.com
... Your Everyday Business Solution! About Us
Today’s Business Solutions (TBS) provides extensive experience in account management with effective implementation, seamless transitioning, powerful marketing and proactive cost saving initiatives.
Today’s Business Solutions is a minority owned independent office supply company headquartered in Houston, Texas. We have been designated as a City Business (CB) / Local Business (LB) under the City of Houston Hire Houston First program and our customer service and sales facility is located in historic Old Sixth Ward near Downtown Houston. Our expertise, and the relationships we have built with industryleading manufacturers and wholesalers, allows us to efficiently provide the best solutions for our customers. As a minority-owned and Texas Underutilized Business, we are able to take a small business approach with the flexibility that allows us to focus on service. Established in 2003, TBS formed a unique partnership with OfficeMax. As a minority owned and Texas Historically Underutilized Business, we complement the OfficeMax structure and are able to take the flexible small business approach to service, with the big business power of our partner, supporting us as our mentor.
ROBERT JIMENEZ President potential, for his company, and the community. He strives to create economic opportunity in Houston’s inner city by being a role model for entrepreneurship, revenue growth and job creation. Priscilla Luna, VP-Marketing Priscilla Luna started her career in the office products industry in 1996. She began as a Filing Clerk but throughout her career she learned all aspects of the industry, ultimately managing Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service for Fortune 500 accounts and world leading universities and healthcare institutions. As further evidence of her dedication to service, Luna has also been involved in various community service organizations and, as an Ambassador for the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, she is passionate about issues that affect small minority businesses today.
Awards
HHCC Male Entrepreneur of the Year - 2011 SBA, Administrators Award of Excellence - 2010, 2011 HMSDC, Supplier of the Year - 2008, 2009, 2010 Hispanic Business Magazine, Top 500 - 2010, 2011 Hispanic Business Magazine, Fastest 100 - 2010, 2011 Houston Business Journal, Fast 100 - 2009, 2010, 2011
TBS combines the marketing power of minority ownership with the multinational distribution network of our partnerships. It’s a comprehensive and cost effective solution that supports your Tier One diversity needs.
LEADERSHIP
Robert Jimenez, President Robert Jimenez has quickly become an expert in minority partnerships and corporate relationships. He has been asked to speak at various events, including the State of Texas HUB Expo in Irving. Growing up in Houston’s 2nd Ward, Robert lived just outside of Downtown and would dream of the opportunities available within that skyline. When Robert started TBS he saw a future full of 60 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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CAPABILITIES mbeconnectmagazine.com
services
Office Products & Paper It all starts with seamless access to everything you need. We provide our customers with a complete line of products to outfit the office at competitive prices including promotional products, copy center printing, and managed print services. Through our partnership with Boise Paper, TBS is able to offer a wide selection of paper products, such as copy paper, security & specialty print papers, and innovative closed loop paper recycling programs. Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) Supplies As the sole MBE provider of Lawson Products, we bring our commitment and value-added services to the Industrial Distribution business. We offer programs that go beyond the role of product provider, and offer a comprehensive level of technical knowledge and engineering depth that can be a definite advantage to you. We offer a variety of MRO products to maximize facility performance including fasteners, electrical products, hose fittings, hydraulic hoses, welding alloy and accessories and safety supplies. Office Furniture Through OM Workspace we can provide a wide range of services to complete your office furniture needs, no matter what phase of the process you might be in. Choose from in-stock options from over 50 manufacturers, or custom pieces in unlimited fabrics and finishes. Trust TBS for complete space planning and design, assembly, installation and project management. Technology Supplies We offer expertise in the latest technology. Thanks to our strong supplier relationships, we can provide it to you at a great value. Made available through our quarterly tech catalog, we make sure we always have the latest tech products available for you and at the very best possible prices. Beverage Services We offer beverage programs for daily delivery or a full service stocking arrangement including soft drinks, gourmet coffee, iced coffee, and even frozen, non-carbonated slushy options. Sustainability Initiatives Everyday products like paper and ink can play a big role in corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs and TBS understands the importance of environmental responsibility. We can help you identify environmentally preferable products, and also help you measure your impact with our unique reporting abilities.
achievements of Houston area Community Leaders who demonstrate determination, passion and service. Today’s Business Solutions is active with many organizations in Houston and structures many company events so that the emphasis is on philanthropy and community service. For instance, TBS regularly donates office supplies such as printers and digital cameras for auctions that benefit various charities. “Houston is known for its formidable legacy of philanthropy and that energy inspires us to participate in as many opportunities as possible,” said Priscilla Luna, VP-Marketing at Today’s Business Solutions. “Not only do we respond with donations to the requests we receive, but we always assign members of our staff to participate hands on so that the various organizations can realize our commitment.” As a member of the 1000 Club at The University of Houston, Today’s Business Solutions is a proud sponsor of the University of Houston Center for Mexican American Studies Endowment Fund and also regularly donates time and resources to the organizations like M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Children’s Art Project and the American Heart Association.
cUSTOMERS
TBS is the sole supplier for many businesses with 2011 sales of over $19 million. We are pleased to count the following organizations among our many customers: • • • • •
UT System Supply Chain Alliance Texas A&M University System The University of Houston System State of Texas Health and Human Services Noble Energy
testimonial
“Your ability to accommodate the early payment incentive exceeds our expectations. Your organization’s ability to adapt to and mitigate the most serious and complex needs of our institutions is unmatched by any other Preferred Supplier with the Alliance. Today’s Business Solutions’ (and your corporate partners) performance clearly sets the standard!” – John Joshua, UTSSCA Strategic Sourcing
Community service
Supporting the local small business community is extremely important to Today’s Business Solutions. As evidence of our commitment to the community, Robert Jimenez was selected by the Houston Dynamo as a recipient of the Outstanding Hispanic Community Leader Award. The Houston Dynamo recognizes and celebrates the leadership
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contact Tel: 212.255.7070 | email: Support@TribecaGear.com
www.tribecagear.com
Roam the World in Style
Albert Oh founder & ceo
ABOUT US
lEADERSHIP
Every product we create is a unique statement of color and personality and we hope you find yourself in many of them.
Dan Grabon | Co-Founder & COO Dan is a co-founder of Tribeca and previously managed operations and OEM sales at Hana Micron. He also brings marketing and branding experience from his work with factor | i and Brushfire Marketing, where his clients included Jaguar Cars, Princeton University, and the New Jersey Lottery. Dan is a graduate of Princeton University.
Tribeca is the premier manufacturer of licensed and proprietary products and accessories for consumer electronics. From innovative iPhone cases, to hip headphones and fashionable Kindle cases, we’re dedicated to bringing style and spirit to the essential gear that powers your digital life. Tribeca has a cutting edge portfolio of stylish and expressive consumer electronics peripherals and accessories.
hISTORY
Tribeca was founded in 2006 by Samsung spinoff executives. Over the years, Tribeca has evolved from a memory-based manufacturer to a leading mobile accessories provider, with a portfolio encompassing luxury branded items as well as over 3,000 licensed products.
Albert Oh | Founder & CEO Prior to founding Tribeca, Albert was CEO of Hana Micron, a Samsung Electronics spinoff founded in 2001. Hana Micron had a successful Korean IPO in Korea in 2005, just four years from founding. Albert was also a General Partner at Discovery Ventures, a Korea-based venture capital firm, and a Consultant at Mainspring (acquired by IBM), and Princeton Consultants. A graduate of Princeton University, Albert has a dual degree in Economics and Politics.
From beginnings in independent office supply, food / drug chains, and college bookstores, Tribeca has built national wholesale and retail distribution in over 5,000 doors in a broad range of categories. Our partners range from independent fan shops and gift boutiques to the leading big-box retailers. Tribeca also operates an e-commerce website for direct sales to consumers, and participates with other online resellers in both wholesale and drop ship arrangements. We also work directly with educational and corporate institutions for special order programs.
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pRODUCTS
Tribeca’s products celebrate our motto “Roam in Style” with mobile accessories in three categories: Luxury, Gear, and Licensed. TRIBECA LUXURY
TRIBECA GEAR
Tribeca’s line of luxury accessories bring classic styles and natural materials to today’s technology. Our Artisan Collection includes iPhone cases made with genuine leather wraps and wood inlays. Our Empire Collection echoes bespoke tailoring, wrapping phone and tablet cases in fashionable plaids, tweeds, and other fabrics. The result is a line of products perfect for today’s discerning mobile professional.
Our core line of Tribeca Gear products brings youth and fun to mobile products. Bold, colorful prints make a statement on our line of backpacks, messenger bags, and Series 212 phone cases. Our Zoo, Aquarium, and Farm molded USB drives are perennial favorites with students of all ages.
TRIBECA LICENSED
cLIENTS
From Alabama phone cases to Yankees USB drives, Tribeca’s sports and entertainment licensed products offer something for every fan. Properties include: NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, 300+ colleges and universities, Sons of Anarchy, South Park, The Simpsons, Hello Kitty (collegiate co-branded products), and I Love New York.
OfficeMax Apple Best Buy Wal-mart Staples Amazon.com Fanatics.com Barnes & Noble College Bookstores Independent college bookstores Official stadium stores Independent fan shops
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contact 2 Hancock Street, Suite 502, Quincy, MA 02171 Tel: (888) 531-5775 | email: info@vsmimagingsupplies.com
www.vsmimagingsupplies.com
Delivering Anywhere in the U.S. ABOUT US
VSM Imaging Supplies is a privately owned entity incorporated in the state of Massachusetts. We provide innovative goods and services to the consumer. We offer remanufactured imaging supplies for most major brands to industries such as Hospitals and Universities. We also, provide customers a solution for the decrease in procurement budgets while keeping the emphasis on sustainability, the benefits of recycling and speed to market. VSM strength is exemplified by offering a wide selection of laser and inkjet cartridges making it a one stop shopping place, a strong customer service oriented organization where the customers are assigned a specific sales agent/account manager to assist them, the latest in environmentally friendly products, i.e., Soy - based ink and toner, leading edge marketing utilizing the latest in technology to target specific vertical channels of consumers, and a strong national sales team.
oUR PASSION
To provide the highest quality products to the global market place utilizing best practices and delivering overall positive value to customers and communities.
Christina Kirven President that the use of technology, the development and maintenance of a contact management database; as well as a cost savings product is the right way to go. Starting from scratch with an already proven model by many of her competitors, she has been able to identify that in order to compete and become a leader in this market, you must keep internal cost low by utilizing technology, building strategic partnerships and be willing to listen to diverse ideas from her team. With the help of the National Minority Development Council (NMSDC) this is how she has been able to stay in the game and provide a cost savings to her customers.
WHY CHOOSE VSM
ISO & STMC Certified Manufactured Products Manufacturing Quality Standards 100% Warranty Guarantee Cost Savings Certified Women Owned Small Business Enterprise Expertise with Fortune 1000 companies
We sell remanufactured, replacement quality inkjets, laser toner, ribbons and batteries for most major brands. Apple | Brother | Compaq | Canon | Dell | Epson | HP| IBM | Kyocera| Lexmark | Panasonic | Samsung | Sharp | Toshiba | Xerox
lEADERSHIP
Christina Kirven, President & Co- Founder Professional with 18 years of Business Administration experience, Christina was able to transform her administration, communication, and financial services skills to achieve success in the Remanufactured Industry. With conceptual and content development of sales-driven collateral, she and her business partner built a brand offering valued added products and more for customers of all sizes. Defined as a “Game Changer” in her community” Christina was able to execute successfully with a product launch within one year by applying the knowledge gained from her former employer Initiative for a Competitiver Inner City “ICIC.” Christina understood that leading an environmentally based business is the right direction domestically and across the world. Being determined to make it on her own; she understood 64 MBEConnect Profiles | OFFICEMAX SPECIAL EDITION
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pRODUCTS
Remanufactured Inkjets (over 200 models) Remanufactured Toner (over 150 models) POS & TTR Ribbons (over 80 models) Remanufactured Batteries & Lamps (over 300 models
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Each cartridge that is remanufactured saves approximately 1 gallon of oil Every 6 months the remanufacturing industry saves 11 million gallons of oil Resource Conservation Energy Conservation Reduce Landfill Needs
INKJET CARTRIDGES MODELS (TOP SELLING): VSM MODEL # VSMC8721 VSM51645A VSMC6615A VSMC9351AN VSMC9352C VSMC8727A VSMC8728AN VSMC6656AN VSMC6657AN VSMC6658AN VSMC6578A VSMC1823A VSMC6625AN VSMCB304A VSCB321W VSMCC653A VSMCC654A VSMCC656A VSMCD971AN VSMCD972AN VSMC4906AA VSMC9396A VSMC9391/9392/9393A VSMCB335W VSMCB337W VSMCB336W VSMCB338W VSMCC640W VSMC9396A
These are remanufactured products and are not affiliated with the original manufacturer. Any trademarks remain the properties of their respective owners, and are shown here only for reference purposes.
rEMANUFACTURED INK- TONER-RIBBonBATTERIES- LAMPS
Become an environmentally responsible company (One cartridge at a time) by replacing traditional petroleum oil. Each cartridge saves 2-3 quarts of oil by replacing traditional petroleum-based toner powder with toner derived from soybean oil.
SOY BASED TONER MODELS: NEW TO THE MARKET
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
VSMSOY-CE505X VSMSOY-CE505A VSMSOY-CC364X VSMSOY-CC364A VSMSOY-Q5945A VSMSOY-Q5942A VSMSOY-C8543X VSMSOY-Q2610A VSMSOY-Q2613X VSMSOY-C3909A VSMSOY-Q5942X VSMSOY-Q1339A VSMSOY-Q1338A VSMSOY-Q7551X
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
VSMSOY-Q7553X VSMSOY-C4129X VSMSOY-Q5949X VSMSOY-Q5949A VSMSOY-C4092A VSMSOY-C4182X VSMSOY-Q2624X VSMSOY-Q6511X VSMSOY-C7115X VSMSOY-C4096A VSMSOY-C8061X VSMSOY-C4127X VSMSOY-92298A VSMSOY-Q2612A
OEM DESCRIPTION #02 inkjet Cartridge C/M/Y/B #45InkJet Cartridge Black (VSM45) #15 inkjet Cartridge Black #21XL inkjet Cartridge Black #22 XL inkjet Cartridge Color #27 inkjet Cartridge Black #28 inkjet Cartridge Color #56 inkjet Cartridge Black #57 inkjet Cartridge Color #58 inkjet Cartridge Color #78 inkjet Cartridge Color #23 inkjet Cartridge Color #17 inkjet Cartridge Color #110 inkjet Cartridge Color #564X inkjet Cartridge/M/Y/B #901 inkjet Cartridge Black #901XL inkjet Cartridge Black #901XL inkjet Cartridge Color #920 Black Inkjet Cartridge #3920XL CyN, MAG, YL, Black #940XL Black Inkjet Cartridge #74 inkjet Cartridge Black #75 inkjet Cartridge Color #74XL inkjet Cartridge Black #75XL Inkjet Cartridge Color #60 Inkjet Cartridge Black #60 Inkjet Cartridge Color #60XL Inkjet Cartridge B&C 88XL Inkjet Cartridge Black Hi Yield
VSMIMAGINGSUPPLIES.com
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CERTIFIED DIVERSE SUPPLIER LISTING
OfficeMax® proudly uses items that are supplied by Minority/Woman-
Certified Vendors Abisco (MBE) Ring Binders
Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE).
AccuBANKER (WBE)
Because OfficeMax procures product
Alliance Rubber Company (WBE)
from certified diverse suppliers for our branded products, you can obtain Tier Two credit when purchasing these supplies. See our catalog for the MWBE icons (listed below) next to these products. If you are a certified diverse vendor and would like to join the OfficeMax vendor team, please visit officemax.com/supplierdiversity
Counterfeit Detectors Rubber Bands
Aspire Coffee Works (AbilityOne™) Coffee
Baumgartens (WBE)
Clipboards Fingerprint Ink Pads
Chicago Lighthouse Industries (AbilityOne™) Clocks
Guy Brown Products (MWBE)
Toner Cartridges Remanufactured Toner Cartridges
Hess Advanced Technology (MBE) Dry Erase Board Cleaner Screen/Lens Cleaner
IPW (MBE)
Toner Cartridges
Jelmar (WBE)
Commerical Cleaning Products Industrial Cleaning Products
WBE
Woman-Owned Business Enterprise
MBE
Minority-Owned Business Enterprise
MWBE
Minority/Woman-Owned Business Enterprise
Kelly Computer Supply Company (MBE) Copyholders Footrests Keyboard Platforms & Trays Mouse Pads Wrist Rests
Master Manufacturing/Master Caster (WBE) Casters Cleaning Gloves Door Stops Furniture Cleaners Lumbar Support Seat/Back Cushions
Officemate/OIC (MBE)
Bookends Business Card Holders Clipboard Cases Desk Accessories Monitor Stands Paper Clips Scissors Staplers/Staples Telephone Stands Wall/Vertical Files
Omar Medical Supplies (MBE)
Pitt Plastics (MBE) Can Liners
Pointe (MWBE) Pencil Sharpeners
Sicurix (WBE) Security Wristbands
Simon by SJ Paper (MWBE) Filing Labels Index Dividers Mailing Labels
SJ Paper (MWBE)
Classification Folders End-Tab Folders Expanding Folios Expanding Wallets File Folders File Jackets File Pockets Folders with Fasteners Index Cards Storage Boxes
SKM Industries (MBE) Correction Fluid Correction Pens Correction Tape
Smead (WBE)
Classification Folders/Folios Expanding Files Expanding Wallets File Folders File Pockets Hanging Folders/Pockets Labeling Systems Poly Folders
South Coast Paper (MBE)
Business Envelopes Clasp Envelopes Kraft Envelopes Legal Pads/Recycled Legal Pads Multipurpose Paper
Stride (WBE)
Ballpoint Pens Binders Counterfeit Detection Markers Gel Ink Pens Highlighters Index Dividers Rollerball Pens Sheet Protectors
Tribeca (MBE)
Camera Memory Cards Flash Drives
First Aid Kits Multipurpose Gloves
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