Automated Business Solutions
Warwick, RI
www.absne.com
Year Founded: 1992
President/Owner: Alan Albergaria
Number of Employees: 85
Primary Vendors: Canon, Kyocera, HP, Sharp, Lexmark, KIP, Formax, FP Mailing, Dell
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, Laserfiche, EFI, ECI Software, Kofax, PaperCut
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, LEAF, Wells Fargo, Canon Financial Services, TIAA Bank, DLL
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Production printing (60%), Managed IT (35%), MPS (20%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: In addition to significant growth in production print and managed IT/telephony, Automated Business Solutions made several strategic acquisitions.
Why We Consider Automated Business Solutions Elite:
- Cross-selling. With MFPs still a staple of success among its client roster of more than 4,000, Automated Business Solutions has enjoyed much success in selling production print machines, mailing equipment, VoIP systems and managed IT services within those accounts, creating additional revenue streams.
- Keeping tabs. The dealer’s fleet tracker provides real-time information and visibility of technician locations to maximize response time and minimize internal costs.
- Local success. One of the biggest deals for Automated Business Solutions in 2019 was a major transaction within a local municipality.
- Employee empowerment. All employees of Automated Business Solutions are encouraged to impact change within the organization. But they are also treated like family, fostering a tight-knit environment. The dealer ensures that both employees and their families are involved in company outings. In addition, the company contributes academic scholarships for children of employees.
Cannon IV – A Flex Technology Group Company
Indianapolis, IN
www.cannon4.com
www.flextg.com
Year Founded: 1974
President/Owner: Charles Bethel (vice president)
Number of Employees: 50
Primary Vendors: HP, Ricoh, Lexmark, Toshiba, Zebra
Primary Solutions Offerings: DocuWare, PSIGEN, Canon, PrinterLogic, HP, XMedius, PaperCut, Square 9
Primary Leasing Partners: GreatAmerica, U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo, Citi, TIAA Bank, DLL, Canon Financial Services, LEAF
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS, professional services, production printing
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Cannon IV has benefitted from Flex Technology Group’s investment in infrastructure and its quest to add organic growth through MPS, professional services and production printing.
Why We Consider Cannon IV Elite:
- Faithful servants. Customer loyalty is the foundation of success for Cannon IV, which still maintains its first-ever customer. Its client relations and passion for service have enabled it to become fully immersed with its faithful followers.
- Authentic culture. Cannon IV collaborates with its parent company, Flex Technology Group, to create an authentic culture that is promoted by a strong brand. The dealership prides itself in furnishing career advancement opportunities and the chance to make a difference within its communities.
- Environmentally aware. The company has designed, developed and taken to market a wide range of eco-friendly products and services for public and commercial organizations nationwide.
- Maintaining roots. The dealer still adheres to the core elements established by its founders, guided by a strong work ethic, a commitment to quality products and a willful desire to please.
Centriworks
Knoxville, TN
www.centriworks.com
Year Founded: 1964
President/Owner: S.R. Sumner
Number of Employees: 65
Primary Vendors: Ricoh, Kyocera, HP
Primary Solutions Offerings: Continuum, Collabrance, M-Files, PaperCut, PrinterLogic, Ricoh
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Managed IT (78%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: The company has transitioned away from the Thermocopy brand, a staple since 1964.
Why We Consider Centriworks Elite:
- Total rebrand. While Thermocopy was a familiar name to customers since 1964, the dealer felt Centriworks is a name that better represents the products and services it provides to the east Tennessee and southwest Virginia business community. That menu of services has grown to include managed IT, cybersecurity, IT consulting and software, and phone systems, among others. The company also redesigned its website.
- Contract excellence. Centriworks nailed down a large health care firm in east Tennessee with a deal that included 400 pieces of equipment with a total value of $3.3 million over the life of the deal. It was the third consecutive contract procured with the client, which valued Centriworks’ quality service and ability to meet SLA requirements.
- Manufacturer recognition. Ricoh recognized Centriworks as an Elite Level Dealer in its 2018-2019 RFG Eco Excellence Program, one of a small core of dealers to capture the sustainability honor. The OEM also named the dealer a 2019 Circle of Excellence Certified Dealership for its commitment to customer service and technical expertise.
- Making a difference. Centriworks supports more than 40 non-profit organizations and its employees are active members of 20-plus Chambers of Commerce in Tennessee and Virginia. The company also founded GoGreenET.com, which promotes sustainability efforts by businesses in east Tennessee.
Century Business Services – A Flex Technology Group Company
Costa Mesa, CA
www.cbsconnect.com
www.flextg.com
Year Founded: 1998
President/Owner: Steve Hecht (vice president)
Number of Employees: 50
Primary Vendors: Konica Minolta, Lexmark, HP, Kyocera
Primary Solutions Offerings: FP Mailing, PaperCut, Prism, KIP
Primary Leasing Partners: Citi, GreatAmerica, U.S. Bank, LEAF, DLL, Wells Fargo, Canon Financial Services, TIAA Bank
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS, professional services, production printing
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: The dealer enjoyed significant wins in the entertainment and hospitality verticals.
Why We Consider Century Business Services Elite:
- Vertical success. Century Business Services addresses the wide variety of needs from a diverse group of business verticals that include legal, education, manufacturing and health care.
- Cost containment. The dealer specializes in analytics, from examining paper-based, day-to-day costs to the most core processes in a client’s operation, and provides best practices for cost containment, IT services and document management.
- Full service. Beyond equipment and solutions, Century Business Services provides finance and procurement consulting services. It specializes in analyzing an organization’s procurement and finance strategy while providing recommendations for improvement.
- Helping hands. In line with parent company Flex Technology Group’s mission and fundraising activities, team members are allotted a paid day off that can be dedicated to a particular cause of the employee’s choosing.
CopyPro
Greenville, NC
www.copypro.net
Year Founded: 1971
President/Owner: David Jones, Ed Murphrey (owners)
Number of Employees: 94
Primary Vendors: Konica Minolta, Savin, Kyocera
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, DocuWare, Objectif Lune
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, TIAA Bank
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $15-$20 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Government accounts (14%), solutions (20%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: The dealership created a branded volunteer program, PROject PROvide.
Why We Consider CopyPro Elite:
- Sales enhancements. The dealership’s account managers have increased their effectiveness through a number of initiatives—forming strategic alliances with IT companies, joining networking groups and creating solutions mailers.
- Big score. One of the top takedowns for CopyPro in 2019 was a 500-plus piece equipment placement with a large university that included PaperCut.
- Industry recognition. CopyPro has been recognized as a Konica Minolta Pro-Tech Service Award winner for 24 consecutive years. The company is also a seven-time Ricoh/Savin Service Excellence Award recipient. Service trainer Bill Rogers has achieved Prestige and Prestige Elite certifications.
- Making a difference. The new, aforementioned PROject PROvide program allots each employee six hours of company paid volunteer hours per year. CopyPro also donates 1% of its annual profits to non-profit organizations. The dealer and its employees mobilized to help its community following the devastation of Hurricane Florence.
CPI Technologies
Springfield, MO
www.cpi-technology.com
Year Founded: 1963
President/Owner: Erik Crane (CEO/owner), Heidi Crane (COO/owner)
Number of Employees: 50
Primary Vendors: Toshiba, HP, Xerox, KIP, Riso, Formax
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, DocuWare, ECI Software, Drivve, ReRite, Kofax
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, GreatAmerica, DLL
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10+ million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Managed services (55%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: CPI Technologies has centered its recent efforts on providing clients and partners with a richer, more-diverse stable of products.
Why We Consider CPI Technologies Elite:
- Vertical virtuosos. In the past year, CPI Technologies has been awarded a number of highly competitive bids by holding margins while still providing great value to the client.
- Industry accolades. The company has been designated a Toshiba ProMasters dealer, offering the best in technical support for more than 10 straight years. Its employees have traveled around the world on manufacturer incentive trips.
- Tee time. CPI Technologies is a lead sponsor of the PGA Web.com Tour Price Cutter Charity Championship, the area’s premier summer sporting event. The dealer has been an active participant in the event for more than 25 years, and more than $17 million has been raised for local children’s charities.
- Employee versatility. Every CPI employee is cross-trained in multiple areas, which enables the dealer to maximize its team during busy periods. That all-hands-on-deck mentality has fostered a cohesive, team-oriented environment.
EDGE Business Systems
Roswell, GA
www.edgeatl.com
Year Founded: 2012
President/Owner: Josh Salkin, Rick Duerr, Cha Holmes, Rich Simons
Number of Employees: 45
Primary Vendors: Xerox, Toshiba, HP, Lexmark, KIP, FP Mailing, Cleartouch
Primary Solutions Offerings: Kofax, PaperCut, Drivve, Lifesize
Primary Leasing Partners: Wells Fargo, GreatAmerica, CIT, TIAA Bank
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $12.7 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Production color (300%), interactive display boards (200%), net-new A3 placements (30%), MPS/A4 (20%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: EDGE Business Systems relocated its headquarters to a new office that has double the square footage, including a technology showcase that’s 400% larger, with a focus on production, mailing and interactive displays.
Why We Consider EDGE Business Systems Elite:
- Net-new opportunities. The addition of Cleartouch interactive displays has quickly grown to become a $1 million-plus complementary business for EDGE. A postage division was started in 2018, with the focus on the end-of-document lifecycle (mailing, shipping and tracking).
- Top takedown. The dealer secured its biggest deal with a popular Atlanta-based food-service chain, a net-new win including more than $400,000 in Xerox, A3 and A4 gear, along with PaperCut.
- Manufacturer accolades. In addition to being a three-time Xerox Document Technology Partner of the Year, EDGE has landed on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies three consecutive years.
- Business philanthropy. Employees of EDGE helped paint a home as part of a Habitat for Humanity project. The dealer also volunteers its time each year for the Special Olympics, while an annual company golf tournament raises money for a local nonprofit.
Function4
Sugar Land, TX
www.function-4.com
Year Founded: 2014
President/Owner: Bill Patsouras, Paul Skinner, Bob Evans (partners)
Number of Employees: 86
Primary Vendors: Konica Minolta, Sharp, HP, Kyocera
Primary Solutions Offerings: M-Files, Kofax, PaperCut, ECI Software
Primary Leasing Partners: DLL, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $15-$20 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Solutions (30%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Function4 has made great strides in growing its IT business, particularly in Houston, which is its most-competitive market.
Why We Consider Function4 Elite:
- Inbound success. Function4 has added heft to its marketing efforts by introducing inbound marketing strategies and software within the company.
- Market penetration. It picked up several significant K-12 sales during 2019 in markets where the dealer did not have a presence.
- New solutions. Providing clients with options beyond the box has been a key initiative for Function4, which in recent years has added document management, network and device security, and cloud phone solutions. In 2019, it added in-house helpdesk support for the new solutions.
- Core values. As a way of acknowledging employees who have embraced and personified the company’s core values, Function4 started a rewards program. The dealer believes its employees appreciate the passion and recognition of the trust its customers, team members, partners and community place in Function4.
Hendrix Business Systems
Matthews, NC
www.hendrixbusiness.com
Year Founded: 1976
President/Owner: Roger C. Hendrix
Number of Employees: 71
Primary Vendors: Xerox, Canon, HP, MBM
Primary Solutions Offerings: Canon, Square 9, PaperCut, Therefore, PRISMA Solutions, EFI
Primary Leasing Partners: Canon Financial Services, TIAA Bank, Wells Fargo
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $15-$20 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Production print, software, Canon/Xerox workgroup devices
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Hendrix Business Systems completed its third acquisition of a local competitor that specializes in selling and servicing Xerox products. The move was made to strengthen its market presence in North and South Carolina.
Why We Consider Hendrix Business Systems Elite:
- Marketing strategy. As software and technology growth has increased at a rate that exceeds the awareness of the average customer, Hendrix has placed more emphasis on the way it presents material to clients. The dealer has rewritten and created new collateral and website content, with in-house contributions based on real-world challenges encountered by its customer-facing teams.
- Major takedown. After five years of knocking on the door, Hendrix captured the net-new business of a large manufacturer/retailer in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area. The deal included high-speed production equipment for the client’s corporate reprographics department and workgroup devices to service the general user base. The dealer’s production team provided a custom solution that improves workflow efficiency and color output quality.
- SME support. The company’s newly christened Hendrix Production Team is comprised of individuals with decades of experience supporting production sales, servicing devices or working in print shops themselves. This is critical for anticipating pain points.
- Corporate caring. Hendrix donates its time and resources to a number of national and local charitable organizations, including the American Heart Association (and its Heart Ball), the Salvation Army of Charlotte (with its Magical Toy Drive), Habitat for Humanity and the Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina.
Image Systems & Business Solutions
Elk Grove Village, IL
www.isbscorp.com
Year Founded: 2005
President/Owner: David Boelter
Number of Employees: 54
Primary Vendors: Ricoh, Brother, KIP, NetFortis
Primary Solutions Offerings: Square 9, Datto, Avast
Primary Leasing Partners: Wells Fargo, TIAA Bank, DLL
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MNS/phones (50%), service and supply (35%), office supplies and furniture (100%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Image Systems & Business Solutions completed the acquisition of McGrath Office Equipment, an 86-year-old firm. The addition is expected to provide a 30% increase in revenue.
Why We Consider Image Systems & Business Solutions Elite:
- IT enhancement. Image Systems & Business Solutions has developed a strong IT sales and support division, bolstered by strategic partners to provide 24-hour, 365-day support for clients. In addition to dedicated salespeople, the dealer has engaged its equipment team with a generous compensation plan.
- Major takedown. The biggest sale of the year for Image Systems & Business Solutions was a large health care provider, which entailed Ricoh hardware and an MPS program for its existing HP fleet.
- Dialing profits. Image Systems & Business Solutions expanded its solutions offerings with NetFortis VoIP systems and unified communications. Also, the addition of Brother Business Solutions to its MPS offerings has rejuvenated its sales team and provided customers with reliable, low-cost alternatives.
- Employee perks. Keeping employees engaged on a personal level has paid dividends for Image Systems & Business Solutions. It entertains events ranging from Friday summer barbecues to an annual company picnic hosted by the owner and a holiday party. An annual president’s trip for employees and their spouses is open to qualifying salespeople, and employees from all departments are included on a rotating annual basis.
imageOne
Oak Park, MI
www.imageoneway.com
Year Founded: 1991
President/Owner: Rob Dube (president), Joel Pearlman (CEO)
Number of Employees: 70
Primary Vendors: HP, Xerox, Lexmark, Konica Minolta
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, Laserfiche
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, HP Financial
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $17 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: CPP contract revenue
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: The company was recognized as No. 1 on the Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces in Michigan. The recognition is based solely on surveys completed by the employees pertaining to the workplace, and reinforces its purpose to “Deliver the X to everyone, every day, every time.”
Why We Consider imageOne Elite:
- Marketing boost. Backed by an inbound marketing strategy that includes a new website, blog and videos, imageOne has grown its website traffic and inbound leads over the past year.
- Double duty. The dealer added a twist to one of its favorite marketing campaigns, encouraging prospects to meet with them by offering the option of donating $50 to a charity they specify from a rotating list of organizations. Following the meeting, the donation is made by imageOne in the prospect’s name and they are sent a thank-you card from the organization that was gifted. The campaign is marketed via email, social media, direct mail and landing pages.
- Survey says. imageOne surveys all of its customers about why they like doing business with them, and 99% said they would recommend imageOne to a business colleague. Reasons cited include “easy to work with,” “saves the clients time and money,” “is responsive” and “is a best-in-class MPS provider.”
- X factor. As cited earlier, the dealer’s quest to deliver an extraordinary customer experience is the driving force behind its “Deliver the X” model. The X is defined as genuine care that consistently produces extraordinary energy, actions and experiences. imageOne also uses the model in its hiring and training efforts with employees.
Imagine Technology Group (ITG)
Chandler, AZ
www.itgarizona.com
Year Founded: 2011
President/Owner: Mary Ellen Franz, Chad Schwartz, Rudy Parga (managing partners)
Number of Employees: 52
Primary Vendors: Sharp, Toshiba, Lexmark, HP, FP Mailing
Primary Solutions Offerings: Laserfiche, DocuWare, Microsoft, PrinterLogic, Kofax
Primary Leasing Partners: Wells Fargo, TIAA Bank, in-house
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Mailing solutions (50%), MPS (30%), hardware (25%), software (15%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: ITG not only garnered a 30% increase in revenue, it implemented an employee recognition program, met its internal KPIs and underscored its commitment to giving back to the community.
Why We Consider Imagine Technology Group (ITG) Elite:
- Improved marketing. The dealer partnered with an outside marketing company to enhance its website and expand upon its social media presence. Working in tandem with ITG’s sales team, the marketing company developed a program that reflects ITG’s current product offerings while incorporating business development ideas.
- High score. ITG procured a print management and hardware contract for the state’s largest utility company.
- Employee autonomy. When it comes to customer satisfaction, ITG empowers its employees to “do first, ask later.” The dealer will never second-guess an employee who acts in the interest of satisfying a customer.
- Destination company. ITG partnered with an outside HR firm to develop job descriptions and training plans for employees to maximize their career experience and set the stage for individual growth.
Integrated Office Technology (IOTEC)
Santa Fe Springs, CA
www.iotecdigital.com
Year Founded: 2001
President/Owner: Bob Zieman, Doug Lu, Dana Ruf
Number of Employees: 72
Primary Vendors: Toshiba, Konica Minolta, HP, Brother, Panasonic
Primary Solutions Offerings: M-Files, Prism, DocuWare
Primary Leasing Partners: Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, DLL
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Hardware (10%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: IOTEC continued to make strides in establishing a dedicated IT services division, establishing an infrastructure and identifying a partner.
Why We Consider IOTEC Elite:
- Lead generation. IOTEC partnered with a lead-generation company that has provided quality prospects, particularly from businesses that have a high interest in leasing and purchasing equipment.
- Trade success. The biggest takedown for IOTEC in 2019 was a trade-show client that entailed more than 30 machines, along with digital signage, across the country.
- In-house marketing. The dealer has a dedicated phone bank of employees who make in excess of 400 calls per day to set appointments for its sales staff. IOTEC also leverages hosted technology events for current customers and prospects, providing an overview of the technologies in its tool belt. The events are held in a fun environment to aid engagement.
- Superior service. IOTEC is one of only two dealers in its market to receive the Toshiba ProMasters Service Elite Award. The firm has also been recognized by Konica Minolta with the Pro-Tech Service Award.
KOMAX Business Systems
South Charleston, WV
www.komaxwv.com
Year Founded: 1999
President/Owner: Bob Maxwell
Number of Employees: 46
Primary Vendors: Konica Minolta, KIP, FP Mailing, Canon
Primary Solutions Offerings: All Covered, Adamero, Konica Minolta, PaperCut
Primary Leasing Partners: DLL, U.S. Bank
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $13.5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Managed IT (30%), managed voice (40%), production print (20%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: The company celebrated its 20th year in business by receiving the Konica Minolta Pro-Tech Service Award for the fourth straight year. The award is a positive reflection of KOMAX’s entire organization, covering elements ranging from service-management skills and inventory control of parts to dispatch system efficiency and service-call response.
Why We Consider KOMAX Business Systems Elite:
- Innovative ideas. KOMAX ushered in a new marketing campaign by introducing a video that details the company’s commitment to customer-service excellence.
- Legal ease. The dealer enjoyed its biggest win of 2019 courtesy of a legal client. KOMAX secured the bid in a competitive process, with its service response time tipping the scales in its favor, and provided 300 color systems.
- Ideal host. The company hosted an educational market seminar that examined the products and services tailored toward the vertical. More than 50 schools learned information regarding managed voice, managed IT, school security and mailing systems. The dealer also held a series of lunch-and-learn workshops on managed IT and managed voice.
- Realizing dreams. KOMAX hosted its 15th annual charity golf tournament in support of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The event has realized $170,000 to help fund the wish requests of children facing life-threatening illnesses. The dealer also works with its local YWCA to promote programs that provide assistance to battered women, displaced families and efforts to combat racism.
Kraft Business Systems
Grand Rapids, MI
www.kraftbusiness.com
Year Founded: 1995
President/Owner: Jeffrey Cousins
Number of Employees: 46
Primary Vendors: Konica Minolta, Xerox, Lexmark
Primary Solutions Offerings: docMgt, FileBound, PSIGEN, PaperCut
Primary Leasing Partners: GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Managed IT (36%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: In an effort to increase its focus and drive for goals, Kraft Business Systems implemented a system of accountability. The effort began at the leadership level and has proliferated throughout all departments within the organization.
Why We Consider Kraft Business Systems Elite:
- Focus shift. Kraft Business Systems has dedicated most of its marketing and prospecting efforts toward specific vertical markets, with a concentration on the types of clients for which it can provide the most value. Its content, approach and messaging are specific to the prospects.
- Leveraging expertise. One of the biggest wins in 2019 saw the company secure a deal with a 10-location orthopedic group. The client was drawn to Kraft’s print offering, but ultimately selected the dealer for its health care expertise and ability to enhance workflow efficiency and compliance within the solutions.
- Personal success. The dealer endeavors to foster an environment that is challenging and competitive, yet fun. For every department, Kraft Business Systems has outlined a path for advancement and the ingredients required to climb the ladder.
- Helping hands. The organizations supported by Kraft Business Systems include the Boys & Girls Clubs and Mel Trotter Ministries, both of which receive money and in-kind donations.
Marimon – A Flex Technology Group Company
Houston, TX
www.marimoninc.com
www.flextg.com
Year Founded: 1978
President/Owner: Anthony Marimon (president)
Number of Employees: 80
Primary Vendors: Canon, HP, Lexmark, Mitel, NewLine
Primary Solutions Offerings: PSIGEN, Canon, PrinterLogic, HP, XMedius, PaperCut, DocuWare, Square 9
Primary Leasing Partners: GreatAmerica, Citi, Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, TIAA Bank, DLL, Canon Financial Services, LEAF
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS, professional services, production printing
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Marimon enhanced its presence in Dallas by moving to a larger facility at the epicenter of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The space includes a 125-person conference room and a demo room for larger equipment.
Why We Consider Marimon Elite:
- Growth evolution. The dealer has evolved alongside its customer base. It focuses on anticipating and addressing a client’s specific needs and delivering solutions that speak to them.
- Top deals. Marimon scored a significant deal with a logistics specialist and reaped major wins in the hospitality, non-profit and education sectors.
- Customer experience. As a point of differentiation, the dealer’s average Net Promoter Score of 78 goes a long way in client referrals from satisfied customers.
- Growing pains. The new Dallas facility was aimed at satisfying the rapid growth the dealer has experienced, and Marimon is looking to fortify its sales force in the Dallas and Houston markets. An expansion of parent company Flex Technology Group’s recruiting team is poised to address Marimon’s needs.
Millennium Business Systems – A Flex Technology Group Company
Cincinnati, OH
www.GetMillennium.com
www.flextg.com
Year Founded: 2000
President/Owner: David Bartlow (president)
Number of Employees: 50+
Primary Vendors: Sharp, Lexmark, Dahle
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, Square 9, INFODYNAMICS, ScanShare, Drivve, GoldFax, Search Express, Lexmark
Primary Leasing Partners: Wells Fargo, GreatAmerica, Fifth Third Bank, U.S. Bank
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MFPs, MPS
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Millennium Business Systems’ managed print services division has shown significant growth year-over-year.
Why We Consider Millennium Business Systems Elite:
- Word of mouth. One of the driving forces that has enabled Millennium Business Systems to flourish with more than 10,000 clients is customer referrals.
- Marketing proclivities. The dealer uses quarterly promotions and bundled lease agreements (including service and supplies) to entice clients. The touch points all include the company’s standard mission statement to provide customers with fair and competitive pricing, leading-edge technology and excellence in aftermarket service and support.
- Demonstrating value. Millennium Business Systems takes a consultative approach with its customers throughout the sales cycle. Its well-rounded sales approach includes ROI analysis, deployment recommendations and a detailed assessment of clients’ existing equipment, as well as internal and document production costs.
- Come together. In late September, the company announced that it joined the Flex Technology Group of companies. The deal enables Millennium Business Systems to expand its reach while adding value and solutions offerings to customers.
NATIONAL Business Technologies
Albany, NY
www.national1927.com
Year Founded: 1927
President/Owner: Scott Mueller
Number of Employees: 70
Primary Vendors: Kyocera, Konica Minolta, Sharp, Avaya, FP Mailing, Dell, Xerox
Primary Solutions Offerings: Microsoft, DocuWare, PaperCut, Datto
Primary Leasing Partners: DLL, Wells Fargo, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $12-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS contracts, mailing machines, phone systems, Kyocera apps, IT services
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: NATIONAL Business Technologies opened a sixth technology center, located in Malta, New York. It also purchased a new 40,000-square-foot corporate headquarters in Albany.
Why We Consider NATIONAL Business Technologies Elite:
- Good neighbors. All of NATIONAL’s employees live in the areas where they work. Because management teams are local, decisions can be made quickly with a problem-resolution process that is free of red tape.
- Vertical growth. The dealer continues to build on its strength in the county government and educational markets, adding five municipalities and six school districts to its client roster. The automotive space has proven fruitful as well; NATIONAL counts all of the largest car dealerships in the Capital District as clients.
- Employee perks. The hard work and dedication put forth by employees is not lost on NATIONAL. The dealer provides employees with incentives and awards for service, performance and going above and beyond the call of duty.
- Corporate caring. In addition to making donations that benefit youth and collegiate athletic programs, NATIONAL makes donations to local charities and non-profit organizations. The dealer also has a strong presence in community events.
Offix LC
Gainesville, VA
www.offix.com
Year Founded: 1999
President/Owner: Stephen Valenta
Number of Employees: 50+
Primary Vendors: Canon, Sharp, Samsung, Océ, KIP, HP, FP Mailing, Formax, Duplo
Primary Solutions Offerings: Canon, PaperCut, ECI Software
Primary Leasing Partners: Canon Financial Services, Wells Fargo, TIAA Bank, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Wide-format printers (50%), production print (30%), mailing equipment (50%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Offix has witnessed a shift in its company culture, fueled by an ongoing program aimed at attracting and retaining world-class talent through continuous improvements in benefits and work environment.
Why We Consider Offix Elite:
- Inbound initiative. Offix embarked on a fully-integrated marketing campaign that consists of training events, webinars, direct mail, digital marketing and demos—all aimed at reducing commercial messages that customers don’t want to hear—while providing education and support as a key element of its marketing efforts.
- Contract success. The dealer’s biggest wins were attained through a newly forged relationship with a mortgage company and a series of large government contracts obtained through its GSA small-business status.
- Timely response. In line with its “do right by the customer” philosophy, Offix boasts a 2.5-hour average response time. As the only Canon ATSP-certified business in the southeast region, the dealer is able to offer technical assistance and customer service that surpasses expectations. Offix also has a 94.5% customer retention rate.
- Giving back. Offix provides support to families during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The company sponsors several local and national non-profit organizations, and also offers student scholarships.
Ohio Business Machines, LLC (OBM)
Cleveland, OH
www.ohiobusinessmachines.com
Year Founded: 2002
President/Owner: Salvatore J. Spagnola
Number of Employees: 105
Primary Vendors: Sharp, Canon, Kyocera, FP Mailing, Star2Star, Formax, Sophos, Synology, Dell
Primary Solutions Offerings: INFODYNAMICS, Drivve, PaperCut
Primary Leasing Partners: LEAF, Wells Fargo, DLL, PNC Equipment Finance
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$20 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS (100%), MNS (150%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: OBM hosted a technology showcase at FirstEnergy Stadium, home of the Cleveland Browns’ NFL franchise.
Why We Consider Ohio Business Machines (OBM) Elite:
- Tech talk. OBM’s technology showcase brought together all of the dealer’s tech partners (including Sharp, Canon, Sophos, Star2Star) to discuss the latest trends and exhibit their wares. In addition to the educational opportunity, the more than 300 customers and prospects in attendance were treated to food, drinks, stadium tours and games, with prizes ranging from iPads and TVs to Browns tickets.
- Building blocks. The dealer upgraded its partnership with the Browns, and procured a pair of deals with large insurance providers.
- Marketing success. OBM integrates its hardware with other media, including iPads, display boards and the Sharp AQUOS BOARD. The dealer also produces relevant radio advertisements to snare the attention of its target demographics.
- Employee enticements. The dealer encourages its workforce to have a voice and input into procedures and best practices. OBM invites employees from all departments on sales incentive trips to exotic locations. Non-sales employees are recognized for their work with the employee of the quarter award and employee of the year. They’re also eligible to earn bonuses for generating sales leads.
Onnyx – A Flex Technology Group Company
Sandusky, OH
www.onnyx.com
www.flextg.com
Year Founded: 1976
President/Owner: Steve Tamburrino (vice president)
Number of Employees: 80
Primary Vendors: HP, Canon, Konica Minolta, Lexmark, Zebra
Primary Solutions Offerings: DocuWare, PSIGEN, Square 9, Canon, HP, XMedius, PaperCut, Printer Logic
Primary Leasing Partners: Citi, GreatAmerica, Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, TIAA Bank, DLL, Canon Financial Services, LEAF
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS, professional services, production printing
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: In addition to the corporate rebrand, Onnyx renamed its website and added enhancements.
Why We Consider Onnyx Elite:
- Mission statement. The dealer provides solutions to help clients enjoy predictable budgeting, more-efficient workflows, enhanced security protection and sustainable print management strategies that save time and money, while being environmentally conscious.
- Top takedowns. Onnyx enjoyed some significant wins in a number of vertical markets during 2019, including municipalities and state government, banking and finance.
- Award winners. Onnyx hauled in a number of recognitions, including GreatAmerica’s Dealer of Distinction Award, the Addy Award for Best Dealer—Direct Mail, the HP Best-in-Class Award and Managed Print Advanced Specialist, as well as the Business of the Year by the Erie County Chamber of Commerce.
- Corporate generosity. Each year, the company holds a food drive to benefit the Erie County Care and Share Food Pantry Fall Food Drive. Last year, it collected more than 7,000 items. The dealer also participates in Bowl 4 Kids, hosted for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. In addition, each summer the dealer holds a school-supplies drive for the city’s schools of Alliance and Port Clinton. The goal is to fill 100 backpacks each for two schools.
Repeat Business Systems, Inc.
Albany, NY
www.RBSalbany.com
Year Founded: 1987
President/Owner: Dawn Abbuhl
Number of Employees: 58
Primary Vendors: Ricoh
Primary Solutions Offerings: DocuWare, RightFax
Primary Leasing Partners: Wells Fargo, DLL, Marlin, LEAF, U.S. Bank
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MFPs (10%), solutions software (15%), production printing (300%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Repeat Business Systems grew over 15% organically and developed software to manage and right-size each territory for better coverage and customer support
Why We Consider Repeat Business Systems Elite:
- Client approach. Repeat Business Systems has incorporated security assessments and protocols to ensure its copiers have the utmost in security standards. The dealer leads more with workflow applications and Ricoh’s latest technology that allows remote service and downloads with new features.
- Added security. The biggest win for Repeat Business Systems in 2019 came in the form of a large credit union. The dealer updated more than 40 machines after identifying security vulnerabilities in their incumbent brand’s machines. The deal included workflow and fleet management solutions.
- Healthy living. In a nod to workplace health, Repeat Business Systems gave all of its employees FitBit wearable technology. The company also furnishes in-house massages several times a year, in addition to monthly team-building activities.
- Good citizen. Each year for the past five years, Repeat Business Systems has donated to more than 100 local organizations. The company provides PTO for employees to donate toward a charity of their choice. The dealer also donated computers to an organization that teaches disadvantaged children how to code.
Shamrock Office Solutions–A Flex Technology Group Company
Dublin, CA
www.shamrockoffice.com
www.flextg.com
Year Founded: 2007
President/Owner: Brian Driscoll (president)
Number of Employees: 50
Primary Vendors: HP, Ricoh (Savin, Lanier, Gestetner), Lexmark
Primary Solutions Offerings: PSIGEN, Canon, PrinterLogic, HP, XMedius, PaperCut, DocuWare, Square 9
Primary Leasing Partners: Citi, GreatAmerica, Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, TIAA Bank, DLL, Canon Financial Services, LEAF
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $15-$20 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS, professional services, production printing
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Shamrock was presented with the Ricoh Circle of Excellence Award.
Why We Consider Shamrock Office Solutions Elite:
- Diverse products. Shamrock’s wide product range includes a full line of copiers, fax machines, printers and scanners, all backed by a high-quality, reliable service department. Its client base is also diverse, from sole proprietors to Fortune 500 companies, colleges, universities and school districts.
- Increased growth. The dealer enjoyed infrastructure investments from parent company Flex Technology Group that helped spur organic growth. One of its biggest wins during the year came from an education market client.
- Employee advantages. In addition to competitive wage and benefits packages, the dealer offers in-house training and education programs designed to grow employee skills while providing opportunities for advancement.
- Nonprofit support. Shamrock provides monetary and service donations to various organizations, including the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and Special Olympics Northern California and Nevada. The dealer also sponsors East Bay youth sports programs and Saint Mary’s College athletics.
Sims Business Systems, Inc.
Tempe, AZ
www.getsims.com
Year Founded: 1978
President/Owner: Connie Sims (owner), Mark Sims (CEO), Justin Sims (vice president)
Number of Employees: 40
Primary Vendors: Ricoh/Lanier, HP, Brother, Dell
Primary Solutions Offerings: Ricoh/Lanier, HP, Square 9, VoIP
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, TIAA Bank, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $8-$12 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS, managed IT (15%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Sims Business Systems underwent a renovation of its corporate office, installing low-energy lighting and water-saving devices, incorporating recycling programs and other green initiatives.
Why We Consider Sims Business Systems Elite:
- Reconciling growth. The 2019 campaign saw Sims wrap up some of the largest sales in its history. To support the growth, the dealer hired new technicians for its service department, as well as warehouse staff.
- Driving profits. Sims boasts a majority of Arizona’s major automotive dealerships as clients. The company also made great headway with several major medical accounts and recently partnered with Special Olympics of Arizona.
- Marketing excellence. The dealer expanded its social media presence through increased activity on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. A new podcast, “Exposing Entrepreneurs’ Secrets,” was launched and can be found on most major platforms, including iTunes and Spotify. The podcast features interviews with leading Arizona entrepreneurs.
- Helping hands. Sims works with local schools, government offices and non-profits to provide business process optimization and technology that allow them to run more efficiently and save on their monthly costs. The company runs fundraising campaigns for local organizations several times a year and matches up to 25 percent of raised funds.
Solutions YES
Portland, OR
www.solutionsyes.com
Year Founded: 2011
President/Owner: Sean Bell
Number of Employees: 50
Primary Vendors: Kyocera, Xerox, HP
Primary Solutions Offerings: DocuWare, Kofax, Biscom, MyQ, PaperCut
Primary Leasing Partners: TIAA Bank, U.S. Bank, CIT
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $12 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Document management (500%), print (111%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Solutions YES enjoyed another solid year of revenue growth, which approached 115%.
Why We Consider Solutions YES Elite:
- Quick dealings. By using Kyocera Fleet Services, Solutions YES can offer faster service call resolution and provide more proactive customer service.
- Armed and ready. With each of its company service vans stocked with more than $5,000 worth of parts, Solutions YES is able to provide equipment repair on the first visit. As a result, its customer retention rate hovers around 99%.
- Industry recognition. The dealer has been named to the “100 Best Companies in Oregon to Work For” list by Oregon Business for six consecutive years. In addition to being a Kyocera Premier Dealer Award winner, Solutions YES has attained Platinum Dealer status from DocuWare.
- Think local. As a growing company, Solutions YES is constantly creating new jobs. The dealer buys locally when possible, and its Solutions YES Community Solutions program entails a quarterly project that benefits the communities it serves.
Southwest Office Systems, Inc.
Fort Worth, TX
www.sostexas.com
Year Founded: 1964
President/Owner: Vince E. Puente Sr. (president, sales and marketing, co-owner) and Buddy Puente (president, finance and operations, co-owner)
Number of Employees: 51
Primary Vendors: Sharp, Kyocera, Epson
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, GoldFax, INFODYNAMICS
Primary Leasing Partners: DLL, Wells Fargo, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $15-$20 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Wide-format devices
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: The company performed a major renovation of its 39,000-square-foot office space, including its state-of-the-art showroom.
Why We Consider Southwest Office Systems Elite:
- Cutting edge. With the help of its TAG (technical advisory group), Southwest Office Systems explores new technologies to improve the efficiency of its technical team. The dealer also has a Sharp-certified factory trainer on staff for certification training.
- Educated wins. Southwest Office Systems procured a pair of new customers during 2019, both large charter-school systems across the state of Texas.
- Rewarding environment. The awards program at Southwest Office Systems includes Million Dollar Month—all employees receive a cash bonus when the dealer eclipses seven-digit sales in a month. Another monthly promotion, the Shout Out program, lets team members recognize one another for outstanding support. An annual Team Member Awards Banquet salutes employees, and its SOS Bucks rewards program gives them the chance to shop for items including logo wear, bags, bears, coolers and mugs.
- Generous spirit. Executive and team members partner with Mission Arlington each year at Thanksgiving and Christmas to provide food and gifts, including back-to-school supplies, to families in need. Employees are active in community organizations such as veterans and retirement communities.
TTSG
Hanover Park, IL
www.ttsg.com
Year Founded: 2010
President/Owner: Tim Ward
Number of Employees: 45
Primary Vendors: Kyocera, HP, Zebra
Primary Solutions Offerings: DocuWare, PaperCut, TopAccess, eBridge, PinPoint Scan, DM Connect, CentraQ
Primary Leasing Partners: DLL, Wells Fargo
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Solutions
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: During 2019, TTSG moved into a new state-of-the-art facility that was designed to provide its customers with better service, and its employees with an upgraded work environment.
Why We Consider TTSG Elite:
- Improved accommodations. The aforementioned move to a new facility in Hanover Park, Illinois, has paved the way for enhanced employee engagement and the ability to bolster service to its customer base. The new space also fosters improved inter-office communications.
- Big takedown. During 2019, TTSG netted a contract with a college prep school valued at $1.2 million.
- Lights, camera, action. In an effort to give job applicants better insight into a potential employer, TTSG developed employee spotlight videos to aid in attracting top talent. These videos have proven more effective than mundane job listings by showcasing the dealer’s culture and employee work experiences.
- Helping hands. The many organizations supported by TTSG include Northern Illinois Food Bank, Volunteers of America (Operation Backpack), Ray Graham Association, Lavelle Law Charities Food Drive, Woodfield Area Children’s Organization and Feed My Starving Children.
WiZiX Technology Group
Roseville, CA
www.wizixtech.com
Year Founded: 2017
President/Owner: Gary Johnson
Number of Employees: 56
Primary Vendors: Ricoh, Toshiba, Kyocera Copystar, Brother, KIP
Primary Solutions Offerings: DocuWare, PaperCut
Primary Leasing Partners: TIAA Bank, U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $10-$15 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MFP, service/supplies (30%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: With two acquisitions in the past year (and four in a 12-month span), WiZiX continues to expand at an aggressive clip. The company moved into a new headquarters and implemented its WiZiX University Training Program.
Why We Consider WiZiX Technology Group Elite:
- School’s in session. The company’s new sales-training program, WiZiX University, is a multi-year master sales certification program conducted online, guiding a rep throughout his/her entire career with the dealership. It culminates in a certification equivalent to a masters in sales and marketing. Reps and managers are expected to invest 15-20 minutes of training at the beginning of each day.
- Top takedowns. WiZiX has enjoyed several takedowns in the education space with both Ricoh and Toshiba product. One school district pulled down well over $1 million in sales revenue for the company.
- New kids. Despite celebrating just its second full year in business, WiZiX was awarded the Toshiba Pro-Master Service certification, making it the only northern California dealer to earn the distinction. WiZiX also qualified for the Ricoh dealer trip to Morocco.
- Ante up. The dealer is an annual major sponsor for the “All in for Arden Arcade Celebrity Poker Tournament,” which rakes in more than $100,000 each year to benefit Rotary and local children’s charities. WiZiX also sponsors and supports local golf tournaments throughout central and northern California.
