Company Profile: The Howard Company, Inc.

Background

Overview

Established in 1950 and headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, The Howard Company, Inc. is a leading provider of branding signage and technology solutions. As an employee-owned company, it has built a reputation for delivering exceptional customer service through a consultative approach, a diverse product line, and customized solutions tailored to client needs. The company specializes in drive-thru systems, digital displays, illuminated and non-illuminated menu boards, building signage, interior design and décor, point-of-purchase merchandising, design services, digital services, installation services, and rollouts for various sectors, including restaurants, convenience stores, grocery stores, financial institutions, public entertainment venues, military bases, hospitals, hospitality businesses, lotteries, car washes, and educational institutions.

Mission and Vision

The Howard Company's mission is to connect its clients with their customers by providing innovative and customized branding solutions. Its vision is to be the premier provider of comprehensive signage and branding services, recognized for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Industry Significance

With over 70 years in the industry, The Howard Company has established itself as a market leader in branding signage and technology solutions. Its extensive experience and diverse product offerings have made it a trusted partner for numerous national and international clients across various industries.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Customization: Tailoring products to reflect each client's unique brand identity.

• Consultative Selling: Engaging with clients to understand their goals and providing solutions that meet their specific needs.

• Broad Product Line: Offering a comprehensive range of products and services to serve as a one-stop solution for clients' branding and signage needs.

Areas of Specialization

• Drive-Thru Systems: Designing and implementing efficient and customer-friendly drive-thru solutions.

• Digital Displays: Providing dynamic and engaging digital signage for various applications.

• Menu Boards: Creating both illuminated and non-illuminated menu boards tailored to client specifications.

• Building Signage: Designing exterior and interior signage that enhances brand visibility and recognition.

• Interior Design and Décor: Offering design services that complement branding efforts and create cohesive environments.

• Point-of-Purchase Merchandising: Developing merchandising solutions that drive sales and enhance customer experience.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Digital Signage Solutions: Incorporating advanced digital display technologies to deliver dynamic content.

• Custom Manufacturing: Utilizing state-of-the-art manufacturing processes to produce high-quality, customized products.

• Project Management Tools: Employing sophisticated project management software to ensure timely and efficient delivery of services.

Primary Markets Targeted

• Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs): Providing solutions that enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

• Convenience Stores: Offering branding and signage solutions that attract and retain customers.

• Financial Institutions: Designing signage that reflects the professionalism and trustworthiness of banks and credit unions.

• Public Entertainment Venues: Creating engaging and informative signage for theaters, arenas, and other venues.

• Educational Institutions: Developing signage that supports campus navigation and school spirit.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As an employee-owned company, The Howard Company has not publicly disclosed specific funding rounds or external investors. Its financial growth has been driven by reinvestment of profits and the dedication of its employee-owners.

Recent Financial Performance

The company has experienced steady growth, with revenues increasing due to expanding its product offerings and entering new markets. Specific financial figures are not publicly disclosed.

Utilization of Capital

Capital has been primarily utilized for:

• Product Development: Investing in research and development to innovate and expand the product line.

• Technology Upgrades: Enhancing manufacturing capabilities and adopting new technologies to improve efficiency.

• Market Expansion: Entering new geographic markets and sectors to broaden the customer base.

Pipeline Development

Key Projects and Initiatives

• Digital Signage Solutions: Developing advanced digital signage products to meet the growing demand for dynamic content delivery.

• Sustainable Products: Introducing eco-friendly materials and processes in product manufacturing to appeal to environmentally conscious clients.

• International Expansion: Exploring opportunities to offer products and services in international markets.

Anticipated Milestones

• Product Launches: Scheduled releases of new digital signage products in the coming year.

• Market Penetration: Expected entry into select international markets within the next two years.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Mainstreet Menu Systems: A stock product line introduced in 1986, recognized as a market leader in indoor and outdoor menu boards.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Consultative Selling Process: A customer-centric approach that involves understanding client needs and collaboratively developing solutions.

• Customization Capabilities: Utilizing flexible manufacturing processes to create bespoke products that align with client branding.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Sara Sina – President and CEO

Sara Sina serves as the President and CEO of The Howard Company, Inc. She has been with the company for over 20 years, holding various leadership positions. Under her leadership, the company has expanded its product offerings and entered new markets.

• Doug Watson – Former President and CEO

Doug Watson served as President and CEO until 2024, overseeing significant growth and the introduction of new product lines.

• Kent Howard – Chairman and CEO Emeritus

Kent Howard, son of founder Al Howard, served as President from 1969 to 1996 and as Chairman and CEO until his retirement.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The branding signage and technology industry is characterized by a diverse range of competitors, from large multinational corporations to specialized regional firms. The market is influenced by trends in digital signage, customization demands, and the need for integrated branding solutions.

Competitor Analysis

• Mainstreet Menu Systems: A product line introduced by The Howard Company in 1986, recognized as a market leader in indoor and outdoor menu boards.

• Other Competitors: The company faces competition from various regional and national firms offering similar products and services.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Significant Collaborations

The Howard Company collaborates with various suppliers and partners to source materials and technologies that enhance its product offerings. Specific details of these partnerships are not publicly disclosed.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

The company focuses on maintaining high-quality standards, offering customized solutions, and providing exceptional customer service to differentiate itself in a competitive market.

Competitive Advantages

• Customization Expertise: Ability to tailor products to meet specific client needs.

• Comprehensive Service Offering: Providing end-to-end solutions from design to installation.

• Employee Ownership: Fostering a culture of dedication and accountability among staff.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

• Product Innovation: Continuing to develop and introduce new products that meet evolving market demands.

• Market Expansion: Exploring opportunities in international markets and new industry sectors.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Implementing eco-friendly practices in product development and operations.

Contact Information

• Official Website: The Howard Company official site

• Social Media Profiles:

• LinkedIn: The Howard Company LinkedIn profile

• Facebook: The Howard Company Facebook page

• Twitter: @TheHowardCo

Note: Specific email addresses and physical addresses are not publicly disclosed.