Fabric graphics companies offer additional services

By Janice Kleinschmidt

The economy may be stale, but companies can’t afford to follow suit. KSK Visual Ingenuity introduced EcoThreads in 2009. “There are a number of projects that require eco-friendly materials for LEED certification,” says Steven Gazdag. As for new services, KSK has begun offering “creative consultation”—everything from basic design to providing material specifications.

“We continue to develop green, recycled alternatives to PVC,” says Neil Baker of Ultraflex Systems Inc. One new energy saver is glow-in-the-dark fabric to eliminate the need for lighting at night.

Herculite Inc. has developed an Internet service called Herculite on Demand. “You can log in to the system and check inventory information on any product and know how much is available that can be shipped that day or the next day,” explains John Evans. “It makes it much easier for our customers to quote lead times to their clients, and that’s proven to lead to more business.” Herculite also is offering larger roll sizes to reduce the number of changeovers and, thus, speed production.

Both Herculite and Value Vinyls have introduced fabrics that address the problem of curled edges on banners.

Whether it’s a new product or service, companies in the signage and banner business must seek and act on opportunities that provide an advantage—to themselves and their customers.

Janice Kleinschmidt is a freelance writer based in Palm Springs, Calif.