First Edge Solutions Obtains Print1 Direct
MILWAUKEE—First Edge Solutions has acquired Print1 Direct, an Atlanta-based provider of print-on-demand, direct marketing, and document output services. With a growing national network of sales offices in San Diego, Chicago and New York and production facilities in Milwaukee, Phoenix, and now Atlanta, First Edge is well equipped to roll out a client’s multichannel national distribution strategy.
“The expansion creates opportunity in a challenging market and better positions us to negotiate national contracts with suppliers to drive down costs for customers,” said First Edge President and CEO Robert Kraft. “The acquisition combats the shipping challenge that comes with national distribution as gas and oil prices continue to rise, and we can help our fortune 1000 to mid-size clients reduce national supply chain management costs. Strategically, this gives us a competitive advantage of a national production platform, along with a healthy roster of clients.”
One thing that attracted First Edge to Print1 Direct was the strength of its management, and those leaders will continue to help drive the company. Print1 Direct owner Bob Irvin has been named senior vice president of First Edge’s new southeast region.
“It’s a case of two plus two equals five,” said Kraft. “They have a first-class print facility with good clients, and we’ll add value to their operation with our proprietary software, processes and technology. As a multichannel expert, First Edge is especially strong in applying our data management discipline and skills to both marketing and business-critical applications.
