Elite Dealers: Under $5 million

4 The Office
Pittston, PA
www.4theoffice.net

Year Founded: 2006
President/Owner: Carmen Pitarra
Number of Employees: 5
Primary Vendors: Xerox, HP, Formax, OneScreen, Lenovo, Lorell Furniture, X-Chair
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, Axess
Primary Leasing Partners: Xerox Financial Services, Wells Fargo
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Furniture (805%), equipment (298%), overall sales (165%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: 4 The Office switched its print management program to a new platform that has dramatically improved its bottom line.

Mike Kovalski (left), director of sales and operations at 4 The Office; and Carmen Pitarra, president

Why We Consider 4 The Office Elite:

  • Marketing initiatives. The dealer launched email campaigns with a focus on vertical markets, new product awareness and customer invites to specific product links. 4 The Office is also offering new products to offset the decline in print volumes.
  • Ottoman empire. 4 The Office recently secured its largest office furniture project in company history, which paved the way to other opportunities for the client within the dealer’s product catalog.
  • Main attractions. The dealer fosters a tight-knit family atmosphere backed by competitive team member perks, including 100% paid health care, dental/vision, workman’s comp and life insurance, along with an unlimited amount of time off.
  • Charitable spirit. Local veteran’s organizations are among the causes 4 The Office supports, along with non-profit groups and families in need within the community.

Advanced Business Solutions, LLC
St. Augustine, FL
www.goabsinc.com

Year Founded: 2004
President/Owner: Adam Gregory
Number of Employees: 10
Primary Vendors: Xerox, HP, Epson, Lexmark
Primary Solutions Offerings: Microsoft, Zultys, Cloudspace
Primary Leasing Partners: Xerox Financial Services, CIT, LEAF
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS (25%), managed IT (15%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Advanced Business Solutions opened a new office in Orlando and expanded its Jacksonville space as well.

The Advanced Business Solutions team (from left): Adam Gregory II, sales representative; Destiny Gregory, inventory and marketing coordinator; Kenny Jorgensen, IT technician; Austin Gregory, service technician; Melissa Gregory, director of operations; and Adam Gregory, president and owner

Why We Consider Advanced Business Solutions Elite:

  • Social platform. LinkedIn has proven to be fertile ground for Advanced Business Solutions’ marketing strategy. The dealer provides daily posts for its followers, significantly bolstering client outreach.
  • Surveillance success. The year’s biggest win saw Advanced Business Solutions provide IT and security cameras for a customer with more than 800 retail locations across the country.
  • Locally connected. Customers love to partner with Advanced Business Solutions as it’s the lone locally owned and operated dealer in its region. That personal touch has helped secure a growing base of clients.
  • Industry kudos. Advanced Business Solutions was recognized as a Top 25 dealer in IBPI for giving business to other members. It also made the Fast 50 list of growing companies in northeast Florida, per the Jacksonville Business Journal.

Associated Business Technologies
North Salt Lake, UT
www.abtyes.com

Year Founded: 2017
President/Owner: Richard Muller
Number of Employees: 18
Primary Vendors: Canon, HP, Kyocera, Xerox, Formax, KIP, MBM
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, MyQ, Canon, HP, Xerox, Square 9, RingCentral, OpenText, Kofax, XMPie
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, GreatAmerica, Canon Financial Services, Xerox Financial Services
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $4.5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Solutions (200%), equipment (30%), MPS (28%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Associated Business Technologies increased the size of its facility, adding three times more office and warehouse space to accommodate its growth.

The leadership of Associated Business Technologies (from left): Richard Muller, president and principal; Shelly Muller, chief sales officer and principal; and Todd Bennett, chief operations officer and principal

Why We Consider Associated Business Technologies Elite:

  • SaaS talk. The dealer migrated its e-automate MPS software from on-premise to the cloud, providing greater digital security and flexibility for work-from-home solutions. Physical files were also eliminated, courtesy of a Square 9 document management solution.
  • Key hires. Associated Business Technologies hired an experienced vice president of technology to guide the company’s software expansion, as well as new analysts to help better usher along the customer experience from pre-sale to post-implementation support.
  • Major wins. Two significant takedowns featured a 100-device deal with service revenue that unseated an incumbent provider, and an 85-unit MFP installation with an MPS agreement for 250 existing devices and an HP Secure Print implementation with card readers.
  • Destination employer. Associated Business Technologies fosters a team-oriented environment that also gives employees work flexibility to address personal commitments. To that end, it provides unlimited PTO. The dealer hosts family summer socials and goal achievement events including ax throwing.

ClearView Business Solutions, LLC
Tampa, FL
www.cvbusinesssolutions.com

Year Founded: 2014
President/Owner: Matthew Lane
Number of Employees: 17
Primary Vendors: Toshiba, Lexmark, KIP, HP
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, Drivve, M-Files
Primary Leasing Partners: Wells Fargo, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS (15%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Despite having a reduced sales staff, ClearView Business Solutions achieved its revenue goals and benchmarks.

Why We Consider ClearView Business Solutions Elite:

  • Tech versatility. The dealer employs a transparent and streamlined sales approach. All of its technicians are factory-trained and adept in both the Mac and PC environments. Patented technology enables better communication and service efficiency for clients.
  • Growing base. ClearView Business Solutions picked up 15% net-new business and maintained more than 80% of its incumbent account base.
  • Top performers. In addition to earning Toshiba’s ProMasters Service Award, ClearView Business Solutions was named a GreatAmerica Premier Dealer.
  • Dogged determination. The company launched a Printing for Paws initiative, with a percentage of profits going toward local animal shelters that provide housing and care for cats and dogs that might otherwise be euthanized. It also supports non-profit organizations with direct donations.

Copy King Office Solutions, Inc.
St. Charles, IL
copyking.com

Michael Hagerty

Year Founded: 2004
President/Owner: Michael Hagerty
Number of Employees: 7
Primary Vendors: Sharp, Kyocera, KIP, Lexmark, Formax
Primary Solutions Offerings: N/A
Primary Leasing Partners: Marlin, LEAF, GreatAmerica, Macquarie
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: New copiers (75%), total revenue (27%), pre-owned copiers (16%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: In order to navigate the supply chain crisis, Copy King Office Solutions focused on selling devices based on in-stock availability.

Why We Consider Copy King Office Solutions Elite:

  • Customer options. The dealer offers in-house leasing options for customers that don’t qualify for conventional financing, particularly those in under-served communities.
  • Creative thinking. Copy King Office Solutions was able to secure a private school account with a bit of ingenuity, providing half of the client’s device needs through equipment leasing, then donating the balance with off-lease gear. That helped cut the school’s monthly payment by two-thirds.
  • Employee empowerment. The 401K program kicks in on day one of employment, and team members receive an annual bonus based on profits. Employee empowerment is equally important, as the dealer provides autonomy for employees to make critical decisions in support of clients.
  • Mission support. Copy King Office Solutions donates time, equipment and money to 15% of its non-profit client base each year. For example, it donated $25,000 to a local agency that provides support for people with developmental, intellectual, emotional, behavioral or neurological disabilities.

Evoke Networking
Rolling Meadows, IL
evokenetworking.com

Year Founded: 2020
President/Owner: Robert Gurney
Number of Employees: 5
Primary Vendors: Xerox, Lexmark, HP
Primary Solutions Offerings: Kofax, PaperCut, Logitech
Primary Leasing Partners: American Capital, Wells Fargo
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: MPS (400%), web design/branding (400%), software (300%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Evoke Networking cut the ribbon on its Rolling Meadows headquarters in February, enabling its sales and operations teams to function under one roof.

Evoke Networking team members (from left): Jake Drase, Robert Gurney, Kathryn Gurney and David Jez

Why We Consider Evoke Networking Elite:

  • Keep it simple. The company embraces a back-to-basics approach for its marketing strategies, with sales reps personally delivering treats or gifts to prospects to accentuate their value proposition demonstrations. Word-of-mouth referrals also help to build the dealer’s net-new base.
  • Adding up. Evoke Networking landed an agreement with a two-location accounting firm in Chicago, a deal that called for five A3 units and 23 A4 desktop devices with full MPS programming geared toward a local effort to streamline future replenishment and service.
  • Dealer democracy. The management team at Evoke Networking employs a democratic approach to employee relations, providing team members with a voice regarding business, products and culture. The company routinely seeks out employee feedback to identify and implement needed changes.
  • Locally connected. Evoke Networking takes a community-centric approach to business by patronizing local vendors for its business and personal needs. It also donates products, services and consultations to local non-profits in the Chicagoland area.

Florida Copy Data
Vero Beach, FL
www.flacopydata.com

Year Founded: 1997
President/Owner: Brandon Campeau
Number of Employees: 8
Primary Vendors: Ricoh/Lanier, Toshiba, Canon
Primary Solutions Offerings: N/A
Primary Leasing Partners: U.S. Bank, CIT, Marlin
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Wide-format (15%), MFPs (5%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Florida Copy Data introduced a new product line to its client base and marketing region.

Why We Consider Florida Copy Data Elite:

  • Old school. The dealer relies on the tried-and-true direct mail marketing vehicle, which still provides strong results in terms of net-new leads. It also packages its wide-format offering to include paper, toner and service into a single cost-per-copy rate that customers appreciate.
  • Top deal. Florida Copy Data came to an agreement with a local non-profit agency, providing nine A3 units and five A4 machines.
  • Service extraordinaire. The dealer’s customer support commitment entails supplies, parts and service from its local office, ensuring fast turnaround.
  • Community caring. Florida Copy Data is a supporter of a local substance abuse program and a women’s care center. It also backs Boys Town and St. Jude’s children’s programs.

Mid Ohio Strategic Technologies
Columbus, OH
www.bizmachines.com

Year Founded: 1979
President/Owner: John D. Hoskinson II (president), Karen Hoskinson (vice president)
Number of Employees: 14
Primary Vendors: Toshiba, Sharp, Lexmark, Kyocera
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut, Sentry File, DocuWare
Primary Leasing Partners: GreatAmerica, U.S. Bank, DLL
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Hardware (10%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: One of the biggest pushes made by Mid Ohio Strategic Technologies was to grow net-new business.

Why We Consider Mid Ohio Strategic Technologies Elite:

  • Available options. Given the uncertainty regarding equipment availability, it was important for Mid Ohio Strategic Technologies to get out in front of lease expirations and provide multiple options for clients, including used equipment.
  • Rx for growth. The dealer inked an accord with a leading drug packaging company with multiple U.S. locations. The pact included A3 and A4 devices along with software solutions.
  • Family atmosphere. The dealer has cultivated a close-knit organization in which team members take ownership of the business. This is reflected in the quality of care provided to clients—all decisions are made with the needs of the customer in mind.
  • Holiday heart. Mid Ohio Strategic Technologies partners with a local food pantry to provide Thanksgiving meals to Central Ohio families in need. It also provides assistance to churches and non-profit groups.

MTS Office Systems
Anderson, SC
www.mtsoffice.com

Year Founded: 1982
President/Owner: Mason Smith
Number of Employees: 11
Primary Vendors: Toshiba, Lexmark
Primary Solutions Offerings: PaperCut
Primary Leasing Partners: LEAF, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: $2.5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Solutions (39%), hardware (23%), service (17%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: MTS Office Systems opened a new location in Greenville, South Carolina, to accommodate additional staff and better support clients.

Members of the MTS Office Systems team (front row, from left): Seth Watt, senior technician; Paige Church, operations administator; Justin Wagner, vice president; and Clarence Johnson, director of service. Back: Jason Waldyke, technician; Todd Fjestad, systems analyst; Michael Conklin, director of sales; Ken Chatman, senior technician; and Mason Smith, president/CEO

Why We Consider MTS Office Systems Elite:

  • Personnel additions. The company’s growth spurt was sparked by two key hires, Vice President Justin Wagner and Director of Sales Michael Conklin, each with more than 10 years of industry experience. Future additions will follow as supply chain issues begin to recede.
  • Higher learning. One of the year’s top deals with a university saw MTS Office Systems upgrade this second-largest client to 75-plus systems. Another agreement with a Christian school in upstate South Carolina entailed 25-plus units.
  • In the past year, MTS Office Systems converted to e-automate and a new CRM connected to e-automate and FMAudit. It provides sales and support staff with easy-to-access information regarding clients.
  • Helping hands. MTS Office Systems provides free or discounted equipment to a local YMCA and a men’s shelter. It also dedicates time and resources to local hospitals, universities and non-profit organizations.

Premium Digital Office Solutions
Parsippany, NJ
www.premium-digital.com

Year Founded: 1999
President/Owner: Alan Schwartz, Van Seretis (managing partners)
Number of Employees: 15
Primary Vendors: Sharp, Konica Minolta, Lexmark, Brother, Formax
Primary Solutions Offerings: Quadient, PaperCut, All Covered, Brother, Ademero
Primary Leasing Partners: Macquarie, Wells Fargo, DLL, LEAF, U.S. Bank, GreatAmerica
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Printing/marketing (55%), A4 (40%), mailing equipment (15%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Premium Digital Office Solutions achieved 67% net-new business through traditional marketing means. Customers welcomed in-person visits following two years of pandemic protocols.

Premium Digital Office Solutions managing partners (from left): Gary Alessio, Van Seretis and Alan Schwartz

Why We Consider Premium Digital Office Solutions Elite:

  • Take notes. One of the most effective marketing strategies for Premium Digital Office Solutions is its monthly tech tips, which are hosted on its YouTube channel. These how-to videos provide insights into the machines it carries along with various print and marketing creations.
  • Pivotal win. One takedown of note saw Premium Digital Office Solutions forge a deal with a large, nationwide educational institution, yielding equipment placements across the country.
  • Client enticements. The dealer recognizes how difficult the post-pandemic era is for its customer base with several cost-savings programs. It doesn’t charge for shipping supplies, and machines are moved free of charge. Creative leasing and service programs help suit customer needs.
  • Good deeds. Premium Digital Office Solutions furnishes goods and services to need-based organizations while also supporting local police and fire departments. Additionally, the company participates in fundraisers that generate awareness to certain causes. In recognition for these efforts, the dealer captured a 2022 Best of Parsippany (New Jersey) honor from the Parsippany Award Program.

Triumph Technology Group
Tustin, CA
www.triumphoffice.com

Pamela Feld

Year Founded: 2012
President/Owner: Pamela Feld
Number of Employees: 10
Primary Vendors: Xerox, Canon, HP, OKI Data, Brother
Primary Solutions Offerings: ID Agent, KnowBe4
Primary Leasing Partners: DLL
Approximate Yearly Revenue: Less than $5 million
Fastest-Growing Business Segments: Cybersecurity consulting (50%), cybersecurity policy development (25%), cybersecurity webinars/speaking engagements (25%)
Biggest Accomplishment of the Past Year: Triumph Technology Group’s leadership team members became paid subject-matter expert speakers. The dealer created numerous webinars that have reached thousands of small business owners.

Why We Consider Triumph Technology Group Elite:

  • Technical prowess. The company’s aforementioned engagements helped grow its reputation within the communities it serves. By partnering with technology companies, Triumph Technology Group can leverage its WBE, MBE, SBE and DBE certifications to capture projects of all sizes.
  • Contract success. Triumph Technology Group notched a multi-year accord with a transportation authority to provide corporate training and environmental consulting.
  • Performance accolades. CEO Pamela Feld was named to CRN’s 2022 Women of the Channel Power 70 Solutions Providers. She was also nominated for the 2022 Enterprising Woman of the Year Award by WBENC. The company was nominated for Supplier of the Year by Diversity Alliance and was the winner of the Alliance’s Pitch Contest.
  • Community outreach. In addition to furnishing free cybersecurity training, Triumph Technology Group donates computers and peripheral materials to local STEM groups and organizations. It also provides coaching and mentoring for small, minority and women-owned businesses.
Erik Cagle
About the Author
Erik Cagle is the editorial director of ENX Magazine. He is an author, writer and editor who spent 18 years covering the commercial printing industry.