Recession-Proof Your Business
BFL&S begins its 40th year of publication, and 2002 promises to be an interesting one. The fourth quarter of 2001 was difficult with the economy still vacillating be-tween recovery and recession.
Now more than ever distributors should be offering diversified portfolios. Providing a range of printed products makes even more sense when the economy is tenuous. It may also be a good time to add services, such as warehousing and forms management, either alone or in partnership with a service provider.
Why expand now? Though customers may need fewer forms as they streamline their businesses, they will still be purchasing other types of printing. In addition, as customers cut back on personnel, they are more apt to outsource to get things done.
Another reason to expand your portfolio is to land new business. Adding new types of products and services provides a reason to re-knock on doors that had previously been closed.
And finally, protect your existing business. If you have clients who may be persuaded to go elsewhere if offered additional services, launch a pre-emptive strike against your competition by adding products and services yourself.
BFL&S is a publication for distributors of printed products. We will continue to provide distributors with information on products to sell and markets to penetrate. In addition, we will continue to offer news and commentary on industry activities, opportunities and events as we look forward to the next 40 years.
Bill Drennan
Editorial Director