2009 Top-Volume Shops Stay Strong in Tough Economy

Decorators on Impressions’ annual list of top-volume shops prove that an economic downturn doesn’t necessarily mean a slump in production, sales volume or mindset.
July 1, 2009

By Susie McManus, Assistant Editor

As America’s collective business community continues to struggle with the longest recession since the Great Depression (though not near the same magnitude), stories of resilient companies — such as Impressions’ 2009 Top-Volume Shops — offer a beacon of light during this overcast time. Though the largest companies can be the hardest to fall in weakening economies, this hasn’t been the case with our industry’s top shops. That these big players remain securely at the top of their game may have a little to do with luck, but probably a lot more to do with resourcefulness and well-earned reputations.

Impressions is pleased to report that the 2009 top-volume chart welcomes back many shops seen on previous years’ lists — in fact, 35 of the 50 decorators from our 2008 listing return this year.

Of the top 50 decorators showcased in this article, 33 reported increases in piece volume for 2008 over 2007, and 12 of the 33 experienced increases of more than 10%.

In terms of top-line revenues, 27 of the 50 top-volume shops reported sales volume increases in 2008 over 2007, while 13 reported declines, and the remainder either declined to provide this data or were fl at.

Most reporting positive results credit that success to proactive positioning, which included running leaner processes across the board, delivering unrivaled dedication to customers, and staying tuned in to design and apparel trends.

Click here for the pdf of the 2009 Top-Volume Shops article in Impressions.

Click here for the Alpha Listing of this year's Top-Volume Decorators.

Hirsch Video Demonstrates Oversize Shirt Printing
A new video from Hirsch Intl. shows how to print oversize designs on the Mimaki inkjet garment printer the company distributes. To see the video, visit hirschinternational.com . Click on “Direct To Garment Printer” and search the right navigation bar for available videos.
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Diversifying Your Customer Base  
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