Over 60 years of innovation, growth and success in a competitive industry is not an easy feat for any business. Plasticraft’s success results from tried-and-true principles that will continue to guide its progress well into the future.

“It’s really a combination,” explains Adam Newhouse general manager of Saint John-based Plasticraft, the largest digital printer in Atlantic Canada. “We are committed to maintaining the latest and best technology in the industry, and we do have cutting-edge printing equipment from the gold standard of printer manufacturers in the world. But the creativity that we’re known for comes down to the people we have working with us.”

Established in 1961, Plasticraft began by making carefully tailored signs and displays for Irving Oil’s gas stations. As its reputation for quality and customer service grew, so did its reach. Today, it serves customers across the Atlantic region, nationwide and the northeast U.S.

Says Newhouse: “One of our points of differentiation is the extensive custom finishing options we can offer. Our folks make a lot of point-of-purchase displays, wayfinding signage and unique marketing materials for some of Atlantic Canada’s largest retail chains.”

“We are committed to maintaining the latest and best technology in the industry, and we do have cutting-edge printing equipment from the gold standard of printer manufacturers in the world.”

That level of craftsmanship is a point of pride for the 35 employees at the company, where voluntary turnover is low, the workplace accident rate is zero and women run both operations and sales. Some people have been on the job there for over 40 years. People like Shawn MacDonald, finishing department, who says, “We have always stayed ahead of the competition. Years ago, we switched from screen printing to digital printing, which improved on-time delivery and quality for our customers. With great leadership and committed employees, we continue to change for the better and work together to bring customer ideas to life.”

Adds Eras Ticzon, graphics installer: “The team is happy to share their knowledge with new employees, like me, to develop our skills. I have had the opportunity to complete formal courses, including the 3M Advanced Installation and 3M Vehicle Graphics Installation Training. As a recent immigrant to Canada, it was challenging to find secure employment, but Plasticraft saw my potential and is supporting my career.”

Plasticraft was recently recognized as a 3M Gold Select Graphic Provider. This is an elite status requiring thorough auditing by 3M; recipients are recognized as leaders in the graphics industry.

Their best-in-class expertise also benefits from the company’s recent investment in some of the highest-end equipment in the industry—including two new, large EFI printers—which has more than doubled digital print capacity in just over a year. Plasticraft will also be introducing new lines of business. Says Operations Manager Vanessa Duffley: “Continuing to expand our capabilities is integral in the ever-evolving print industry and is convenient for our customers. We are their trusted one-stop-shop.”

Consider Plasticraft’s breadth of offerings: Huge banners, transport and fleet graphics, apparel decoration, custom finishing, large-volume, high-speed production, international distribution, end-to-end optimization, and an exceptional track record of timely, high-quality delivery. “Our customers can count on us.” Newhouse says.

“Really, if you get down to the crux of it, why we’ve been so successful with our long-tenured customers has to do with what we are able to create within this unbeatable combination of skill and technology. This is an inventive, innovative, supportive workplace. Enabling our people to do what they do best is really our value proposition. It’s a win-win for everyone. That won’t change.”