International Minute Press Franchisees Share Growth Strategies
Kim and Bob FitzGibbons use a combination of in-person networking, internet marketing, and direct mail
As more and more businesses reopen and their community gets back to a sense of normal, Kim and Bob FitzGibbons are ready in Meridian, Idaho. Their International Minute Press design, printing, and marketing center uses in-person networking, internet marketing, and direct mail to bring in business.
Kim says, “There was a real sense of community during the pandemic, and it was very rewarding when we could help serve other businesses. We are excited to be involved in all of the printing opportunities that are coming our way as business life gets back to normal.”
Kim and Bob first got started in April 2020, right when the pandemic first hit. Of that experience, Kim says, “We were helping restaurants rebrand themselves completely during the shutdown, handling their design and marketing needs in addition to printing. When reaching out to other business owners throughout the past year, we have felt that most everyone has been receptive to the vast services we offer, especially since they know we are a local business, and we can meet with them personally.”
Kim adds that banners and direct mail have been some of their best resources for helping customers. Being there for their community in the height of the pandemic, and now, as post-pandemic life becomes more of a reality, the print shop has seen sales grow.
Kim explains, “Our business has grown through internet marketing and through networking groups included Kiwanis, BNI, the chamber of commerce, and relationships through our church. We’ve also utilized direct mail to reach those not within our networking circles.”
When meeting with other local business owners, Kim takes an educational approach. She tries to be a knowledge resource, which includes walking customers through the benefits of advertising and direct mail.
“The community of Meridian is rapidly growing. Everyone we have encountered has been excited about the growth and changes within our community. This includes what we have to offer through our business; diverse print, promotional, and apparel pieces with our own personal touch and the relationships that we are growing,” adds Kim.
Before owning their own business, Bob and Kim had separate careers. Bob’s background was in sales and business management, as well as some photography and photographic printing. Kim’s degree is in graphics arts and printing technology with career experience in photography and customer service.
She adds, “Together, our strengths have come together to create the perfect storm in working with Minuteman Press International as our support team.”
Ultimately, Kim and Bob’s primary message when networking and marketing her business is simple and effective. “We encourage other local businesses to stick together and utilize one another’s services. If a community is going to grow and be sustainable, local businesses need to support one another. That message resonates with our clients and has helped us all build each other up together.”
