This describes Minuteman Press to a "T" !!
(First a little history)
Michael Weber and his wife Lindsey have owned and operated Minuteman Press since March, 2004. When they purchased the business, they made a commitment to provide high-quality printing and copying services and to meet their customers’ deadlines . This philosophy has become an integral part of their business model, and they have passed on this sense of commitment to everyone on their staff.
Printing is a family business for Michael and Lindsey. Michael’s parents opened Minuteman Press in Norwich in 1992, and then later expanded by opening shops in Middletown , Hartford and New London. They still partner with these locations to maximize their efficiencies and meet their customers’ needs.
Their shop has grown "significantly" since 2004. They attribute their success to their dedication to their customers’ needs and their commitment to their community. They believe that giving back to their community benefits everyone. You can read about their activities in the community on their information page. (Click here)
Michael is a member of the PVP and has been almost since it's inception. He has offered us good information about what he does at our meetings, and this past meeting, we were able to see first hand what Michael does during the course of his busy days since Michael was able to give us a tour of Minuteman Press/Enfield!
When we first walked in, the printer located right in the lobby/waiting area was buzzing and spitting out sheets at warp speed. Once all the PVP members arrived and squeezed in, Michael explained to us that he has been so busy as of late, he has all of his machines running.
All the machines you ask? Well... from the beginning of his shop to the very back, with not an inch to spare, you will find equipment; working equipment! Michael admitted to us that he is literally "busting at the seams", and you can see it for yourself while standing in his shop. Not that he is complaining or anything! Busy is good! But right now, between a new machine coming in, learning the new machine, training a new employee, having a boatload of deadlines to meet, and hosting the PVP this past meeting; something had to give, and we were hoping for it not to be Michael's sanity!! LOL
Michael introduced us to all his employees as we worked our way from one crowded side of the shop to the other, all like busy little elves doing what they do best. It's like they all have their little niche within the shop. The shop buzzes and hums like a well oiled machine, it's nice to watch. Albeit busy, you can tell it all works. It has a rhythm to it.
Michael explained to us that not only does he print paper, but he also prints promotional items, and not the typical items (although he absolutely can do pens) but the more creative items that he feels will last a little longer and make more of an impression on your customer, after all, we use folks like Michael to help impress our customers with pretty things like flyers and brochures and handouts, maybe coupons, all of which take careful planning and design, and you don't want to trust the printing of these precious items to just anyone. The first impression someone gets of your business may be a lasting impression... make it a good one! If something is printed poorly, it looks shabby, colors not bright and vibrant, maybe the stock of your cards are too thin... it all matters.
Michael also explains that in his business, technology breaks, and when that happens, it can be detrimental, so, he has a company in place, that he pays to maintain his equipment, it's like insurance. They pay according to their volume. This way here, if something goes down, a tech is on the scene immediately if not sooner. After all, the new quote Michael has is "If I wanted it printed tomorrow, I'd call you tomorrow!" With that said... technicians needs to be top rate; this is very important. Equipment needs to be running perfectly at all times. Nothing good can come of broken down equipment. In the printing business, equipment needs to be replaced every few years, so, it is a constant cycle of life they feel there at Minuteman, and they truly have to stay on top of it. Although, there is one old workhorse that he just won't let them take... Good ole reliable! We're all for high tech toys, but... there is something to be said for the old adage... "they just don't make 'em like they used to!"
Along with the old workhorse, just a few weeks ago, they just purchased a new color press. This will help expedite orders. It's like when I was in manufacturing, it all needs to be lean... and in Michael's case... green. He helps out the environment by planting a tree for every invoice every month. In the month of April they had 170 trees planted; now that is an awesome way to give back, don't you think? Printing:Paper:Trees Get it? The program is called Trees for the Future. I love it.
Michael and Lindsey's goal is to have their own building, room to stretch out instead of their cramped quarters in Enfield. Although, if you have to start someplace, you can see that they have what it takes! To be expanding, hiring new employees, bulging at the seams and purchasing new equipment in this economy, they must be doing something right!!
If you have any questions about printing, or would like further information about Minuteman Press, visit their shop in the Stop & Shop Plaza at 54 Hazard Ave in Enfield, CT 06082 or call 860-745-3600 or email info @mmpne.com
We thank Michael for being such a gracious host and we wish them continued success in all that he does.
Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness.
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