Top 50 Distributors 2017 Interviews: No. 6 – Smart Source LLC

Thomas D’Agostino Jr., CEO, Smart Source LLC

Every year, Print+Promo releases its 2017 Top 50 Distributors list. To give you some insight into what it takes to make it to the top, we spoke to Thomas D’Agostino Jr., CEO of Smart Source LLC, No. 6 on the list.

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

Thomas D’Agostino Jr.: After completing the large acquisition [of Data Supplies Inc.], which doubled the size of our company, we successfully merged the two cultures together. In doing so, the acquired company’s customers now have access to much greater technology, global supply base and national distribution. Additionally, in conjunction with a global health care provider, we created a “Center of Excellence for Marketing,” which provides marketing analytics, digital assets and all branded product.

What is your company’s top priority for 2018?

TDJ: [I’d say] improving profitability by enabling our sales representatives with the best tools and support for them to be able to offer their customers the best solutions in our marketplace.

What is the biggest challenge facing distributors today, and how can we work toward a solution?

TDJ: Complacency [is the biggest challenge]. In a changing industry like ours, distributors have an advantage because they can shift their offering to meet the needs of customers.

How do you make tough choices in your organization?

TDJ: Always with the customer in mind, first. Our executive team makes internal strategic decisions, and if there is ever an impasse, the CEO makes the final decision with the input of the team.

What is the best book you’ve read recently?

TDJ: “Reagan: The Life” by H.W. Brands.

To hear what other leading distributors had to say, check out our 2017 Top 50 Distributors list—complete with bonus information like an in-depth analysis and top 10 rankings for four leading product categories.