Action Plus Ideas Company Profile

Background

Overview

Founded in August 1992 by Eric Lerner, Action Plus Ideas is a premier promotional products and imprinted apparel company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company specializes in screen printing, embroidery, and promotional merchandise, serving a diverse clientele that includes local, regional, and national organizations. With over three decades in the industry, Action Plus Ideas has established itself as a leading distributor committed to delivering high-quality products at competitive prices.

Mission and Vision

Action Plus Ideas is dedicated to providing the highest quality merchandise at the lowest possible price without cutting corners. The company aims to create memorable and engaging promotional merchandise that enhances brand recognition and fosters positive customer experiences.

Industry Significance

As a member of The Premier Group, the largest national alliance of elite distributors in the promotional products industry, Action Plus Ideas benefits from better pricing and quicker turnaround times, enhancing its competitive edge in the market.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Quality Assurance: Ensuring the highest quality merchandise at competitive prices.

Customer Satisfaction: Providing exceptional customer service and tailored promotional solutions.

Community Engagement: Actively participating in charitable activities and supporting various causes.

Areas of Specialization

Promotional Products: Offering a wide range of customizable items to promote brands effectively.

Screen Printing and Embroidery: Providing high-quality printing and embroidery services for apparel and other merchandise.

Custom Kitting: Creating branded kits that deliver a memorable brand experience.

Key Technologies Utilized

E-commerce Platforms: Facilitating online ordering and customization of promotional products.

Design Software: Utilizing advanced design tools for product customization and mockups.

Primary Markets Targeted

Local and Regional Businesses: Serving companies in the Charlotte area and surrounding regions.

National Organizations: Catering to the promotional needs of larger corporations and institutions.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Specific details regarding the funding history of Action Plus Ideas are not publicly disclosed. The company operates as a privately held entity, focusing on organic growth and reinvestment into its operations.

Financial Performance

Revenue: Estimated between $1 million and $10 million annually.

Employees: Approximately 14 staff members.

Pipeline Development

Product Development

Action Plus Ideas continually updates its product offerings to include trending promotional items, ensuring clients have access to the latest merchandise that aligns with current market preferences.

Service Expansion

The company has expanded its services to include custom kitting and online company stores, providing clients with comprehensive solutions for their promotional needs.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Online Company Store Platform: A customizable e-commerce solution that allows clients to manage and order company-branded merchandise efficiently.

Significant Scientific Methods

Design and Mockup Tools: Utilizing advanced software to create accurate product representations, aiding in client decision-making.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Personalized Product Recommendations: Implementing algorithms to suggest promotional products based on client preferences and industry trends.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Eric Lerner – Founder and CEO: A Wharton graduate and former financial analyst, Eric founded Action Plus Ideas in 1992, leveraging his entrepreneurial spirit to build the company from the ground up.

Alicia Rhodes – President: Joining the company in 2000, Alicia has been instrumental in its growth, serving as the highest-producing salesperson and now leading the company as President.

Key Contributions

Eric Lerner: Established the company and guided its strategic direction, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.

Alicia Rhodes: Drove sales growth and operational efficiency, contributing significantly to the company's success.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The promotional products industry is characterized by a diverse range of competitors, from small local businesses to large national distributors. Key factors influencing the market include product quality, customization capabilities, pricing, and customer service.

Competitor Analysis

True Summit Promotions: A competitor with approximately 4 employees and $1 million in revenue, focusing on promotional products.

Alpha Promotions: Employing 16 staff members and generating $4 million in revenue, specializing in promotional merchandise.

DGW Branded: A company with 8 employees and $1.7 million in revenue, offering branded products.

ADS THAT LAST: With 6 employees and $908,000 in revenue, this competitor provides promotional items.

Image Solutions: A competitor with 13 employees and $3.7 million in revenue, focusing on promotional products.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Action Plus Ideas' membership in The Premier Group enhances its market position by providing access to better pricing and quicker turnaround times, strengthening its competitive edge.

Operational Insights

The company's focus on quality, customer service, and community engagement differentiates it from competitors, allowing it to maintain a strong presence in the Charlotte area and beyond.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Service Diversification: Expanding into new promotional services to meet evolving client needs.

Technological Integration: Enhancing e-commerce platforms and adopting new technologies to improve operational efficiency.

Market Expansion: Targeting new regional and national markets to broaden the client base.

Future Business Directions

By leveraging its strengths in quality, customer service, and community involvement, Action Plus Ideas is well-positioned to achieve its future objectives and continue its growth trajectory.