Ed Engle reaped the benefits of his cousins' disinterest in the family business.
His uncles started Minneapolis-based Ambassador Press decades ago and when their children weren't interested in pursuing careers in the paper industry, Engle got on board.
"Their children had no interest in the business, so I gave it a try and we just celebrated our 50th year in business," Engle, president, said.
Here, Engle discusses the printing industry, its future and the next big thing.
Print Professional (PP): Tell us about your background—Where did you grow up, what school did you attend, your degree?
Ed Engle (EE): [I grew up] in Minneapolis. [I attended the] University of Minnesota [and earned a] degree in social work.
PP: Describe your business style.
EE: I am very involved and dedicated to every aspect of the business. I am extremely passionate about what I do and our company.
PP: What is the best business advice you ever received?
EE: Work hard, work smart.
PP: What is your greatest business accomplishment and disappointment?
EE: Keeping the company viable and providing a stable environment with a future for all of our employees and their families is what I am most proud of. My biggest disappointment right now is that we have not seen the growth we had hoped for, as there are many great people out there we would like to bring on board.
PP: What is the secret to your success?
EE: It is simple. I put my own rewards behind what is best for the company.
PP: What do you think is the most exciting, cutting-edge thing your company is doing right now? Why?
EE: We are in the process of migrating to CIM Manufacturing and we just installed two new pieces of equipment—an HP Scitex FB 6100 and the iGut system. We are excited about the potential of new revenue streams being generated by those new pieces of equipment.
PP: What do you think will be the printing industry's biggest challenge in the next few years?
EE: To keep combating unrealistic pricing by competitors that are strictly in survival mode.
PP: What is the best part of your business day? Please explain.
EE: When a client takes the time to say thank you or job well done. [It] goes a long way.
PP: What would people be surprised to learn about you—hobbies, special interests, etc.?
EE: I am a very dedicated Minnesota Twins fan and I just took up golf a few years ago because I was making my wife crazy on Saturday mornings. I am fortunate to have three wonderful grandchildren.
- People:
- Ed Engle
- Places:
- Minneapolis