CLASSIC GRAPHICS -- Against the Odds

The partners' belief that their abilities as skilled press operators would ensure their advancement turned out to be correct. "We believed that if we stuck to the concept of high-quality work, coupled with excellent customer service, we'd succeed eventually," remarks Pitts.

It turned out to be an excellent plan. The pair, who started in a 600-square-foot warehouse behind a convenience store with a Hamada press, a used camera, a paper cutter and $600 in working capital, began adding equipment, employees, square footage and, most importantly, sales.