2018 Top 50 Distributors: American Solutions for Business’ Justin Zavadil on Double-Digit Sales Growth

Each year, Print+Promo compiles the Top 50 distributors into one comprehensive list. Our top earners for 2018 have implemented traditional cornerstones of business success to keep their firms healthy, but, more importantly, they understand that even the fanciest digital inkjet press or e-commerce system can't replace the value of relationships. These distributorships have long abandoned the concept of "product peddler," instead opting for open communication styles grounded in the best interests of their customers. We asked executives from six of our top distributors to talk about their recent accomplishments, future goals and ways they clear their mind. Here is an excerpt from our discussion with No. 3-ranked American Solutions for Business.

Justin Zavadil, president, American Solutions for Business.

What was your company’s biggest accomplishment over the last year?

Justin Zavadil: We have had many accomplishments over the past year, but I would say that our largest has been double-digit sales growth. We have grown organically with our existing sales associates through acquisition of other sales associates and groups and through our retail fixtures and displays division.

What is your company’s top priority for 2019?

JZ: Our priorities are always tied to topline sales growth, so, with that in mind, one of our biggest objectives is to continue to provide world-class technology systems for our sales associates and customers. We are in the process of upgrading both our proprietary e-commerce system, as well as our back end ERP system. We put the majority of our investment into our technology tools, and we’re devoted to keeping them on the cutting edge.

Why do you love the print and promotional products industry?

JZ: I love the problem-solving that comes with what we do. We are an extension of our customers’ marketing teams without being on their payroll, and we get to solve the problems that they deal with every day. Being a solutions provider is a much better position than being a product provider.

How would you describe your leadership style?

JZ: I would say that I am a collaborative leader. I am a firm believer that the strength of any organization is first impacted by its culture. Our continued success depends on a culture of empowered and proactive employees all working toward a common goal. I am confident that we have the best leadership team in our industry, bar none. I am not the most knowledgeable person at ASB in all fields, but I know our mission and how we need to service our customers, and I have the best minds and leaders to collaborate with every day to achieve our goals.

With all the stress that the modern business world brings, how do you decompress from work?

JZ: My wife, Alisha, four-year-old daughter, Willow, and I live on a small hobby farm. Spending time with my family and our horses, sheep and Great Dane is how I decompress after a stressful day. I also am a diehard Minnesota Gophers fan, but that only adds to the stress.

For more in this top distributors profile series, click here to download a free PDF resource containing all six interviews.

View the full 2018 Top 50 Distributors list here, or click here for stats, trends and analysis from the list.