Switzer: The majority of our business is within the East Coast, comprising the tri-state and New England area. Although a majority of new business opportunities are on the East Coast, we hired a dedicated salesperson to follow up all Internet and tradeshow leads, so our business has been expanding throughout the Midwest and West Coast.
Beaulieu: How do you compete with shops that are not from here?
Switzer: We compete very well in terms of pricing; we are not the lowest or the highest. As mentioned earlier, geography plays a role in the minds of some companies. The biggest hurdle to jump is persuading a prospective customer to change over from their current supplier, but once given the opportunity, they quickly realize that we stand behind what we say.
Beaulieu: Finally, what are your overall thoughts about our industry?
Switzer: I feel the PCB industry has been compromised with so many brokers out there who are taking away U.S. business and sending it to Asia. Now, just about every customer/prospective customer is used to Asia pricing and that makes it very difficult to compete when it’s only price driven.
Beaulieu: How do you see things in the future?
Switzer: We believe the future is bright with our total concept model and the amount of inquiries we are receiving. The message of total concept and convenience is what we need to get out to the industry. Companies need to know of all the advantages of having everything they need under one roof.
Beaulieu: I agree and I have to say that I think that you have gone in the right direction with your total concept offering. Let’s hope that this proves to be true. Calvin, thanks for taking the time to talk to me today; I truly do appreciate it.
Switzer: Thank you Dan, it’s been my pleasure
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