Celebrating her 15th year in the printing industry, Carey Frantz is ready to take over the business her father first purchased in 2001. Impression House, located at 44 Mississaga St. W., takes care of all of your graphic design, binding, copying, printing, and promotional needs. As owner Bob Frantz nears his retirement, Carey decided to approach the Community Development Corp. (CDC) in late 2015 to get help starting their succession planning process.

“I had been to some of the CDC’s workshops before, but it was Amanda Bolen from Discover Wellness who encouraged me to go to the CDC for their free coaching,” explains Carey. “I’ve been going to monthly sessions for almost a year now. The CDC helps me analyze my numbers, keeps me accountable, and teaches me how to see our profits & losses more clearly.” The monthly sessions allow Carey to absorb the CDC’s advice and apply it to her daily dealings. “We don’t have a dedicated sales person in our shop, so they’ve provided me with specific scenarios on how to approach new customers and how to build a solid customer base. They’ve also taught me how to hire new employees.” Carey recently hired the 4th member of their team, a seasonal part-time employee who will help cover the winter months while Bob slowly eases into his retirement.

Carey is also one of 11 Mentee’s in the CDC’s Mentorship Program. The 12-month program is comprised of experienced business professionals who have volunteered to mentor business owners in setting important career goals and developing the skills needed to reach those goals. “The program provides an informal atmosphere to bounce ideas. It’s refreshing to know I’m not the only one with the questions I have. The monthly meetings are very comfortable, structured, and intimate, not intimidating,” says Carey. “I highly recommend the CDC and its services to anyone who is starting their business or is already established but needs some guidance.”

Impression House recently became home to a new copier which allows the shop to expand their services. The copier can handle a heavier stock and has the ability to create in-house packaging, vinyl labels, saddle-stitched booklets, and more. Some of their more popular products are promotional items and roll-up display banners, which they’ll be showcasing at this year’s Orillia & Lake Country Business Expo on October 20 at the Best Western Plus Mariposa Inn & Conference Centre.

As Carey transitions into her new role at Impression House, she recognizes the ever-changing industry and the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest technology and software. Clients can take comfort knowing their staff are trained and equipped with everything they need to help you. For more information about Impression House, visit their website http://impressionhouse.ca/, like them on Facebook @ImpressionHousePrinting, or call 705-326-4731.

Written by CDC Office Coordinator, Samantha Vessios

Source: Packet & Times