by Dan Perkins

Outstanding customer service, that's what Chang Park identified as his company's most distinguishing attribute.  Park is president of The Strathmore Company, a Chicago based printing company that specializes in time-sensitive materials, including business directories and air travel schedules.

"We are a customer-oriented company and we will do whatever the customer needs," declared Park, as he began to explain how his company meets and often exceeds the highest expectations of its customers.  "We also take care of our employees," Park continued.

It's a winning formula.  Among Strathmore's customers are Fortune 500 companies, and Park was recently inducted into the Chicago Area Entrepreneurship Hall of Fame - reportedly the oldest and most prestigious program honoring Chicago area entrepreneurs.  

Park is equally proud of the fact that his company was one of 17 minority and women owned firms selected by Major League Baseball to supply goods and services during the 2003 All Star Game, which was held at U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago.

Over the years, Strathmore had successfully serviced several small projects for the Chicago White Sox.  That's how the company ended up on the Sox's list of recommended suppliers for the All Star Game.  That recommendation provided the company with its first opportunity to service Major League Baseball.  Strathmore was asked to print several programs for the All Star Game.  

When asked which ball club was his favorite, Park beamed an enormous smile and said, "the White Sox."

Park purchased Strathmore in 1985, through a leverage buyout.  The company, which is nearly 100 years old, is located in Geneva, Illinois, a far western suburb of Chicago.  Strathmore employs approximately one hundred people and provides high-end printing services through the use of leading print, distribution and fulfillment technologies.

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