Fifteen years of sales experience in a small business taught John Barber valuable lessons about operations and opportunities.
When the chance came up to purchase a business from an engraver ready to retire, he seized it, transforming his vision and new business into a cornerstone of the local community and a beacon for local, made-to-order craftsmanship in the promotional products industry.
A Lasting Promotional Impact
John views promotional marketing as an enduring strategy, contrasting sharply with the fleeting nature of traditional advertising: "TV ads flash by in minutes."
CHH Engraving adopts a philosophy of lasting impact, offering products like the innovative Refresh Glass, which repurposes wine bottles into elegant glassware. These items are not just products but part of a narrative clients can use for years, enhancing their branding sustainability efforts.
Under John's leadership, CHH Engraving has seen substantial growth.
"We’ve broadened our client base from local businesses to international clients," he says.
His approach has always been hands-on, ensuring that each piece produced exceeds customer expectations.
"It's not just about engraving a piece; it's about embedding a part of the customer's story into it."
At CHH Engraving, the focus is squarely on the client's needs.
"We are consultative," he says, emphasizing the importance of listening and adapting to clients' diverse requirements. Whether it's a nonprofit organizing a fundraising event or a college aiming to boost its visibility, CHH Engraving tailors its services to fit each unique scenario. He proudly recounts the success of a customized wall calendar for a credit union, featuring photos taken by its members showcasing local scenes. This project resonated with the community and highlighted CHH Engraving's commitment to product innovation.
Addressing the environmental impact of promotional products, John is keen to emphasize the sustainability of the products CHH sells.
"If promotional products are functional, they contribute to sustainability," he says. CHH Engraving is at the forefront of using sustainable materials, ranging from recycled metals to innovative fabrics, ensuring their products provide value beyond mere novelty.
The promotional products industry has seen significant changes, particularly in decoration processes. John illustrates this evolution with examples like fully customizable towels, which now serve as vibrant canvases for photographic images. This capability reflects broader industry trends toward more sustainable practices and social responsibility, including efforts to clean oceans and recycle materials creatively.
Personal Insights and Future Directions
When asked about his favorite products, Barber doesn't hesitate: "Refresh Glass," he asserts, citing its alignment with sustainability, functionality, and recognition—key aspects of CHH Engraving's philosophy. Looking ahead, Barber is optimistic about the future of promotional marketing and his business. "The potential for personalized products is immense. With advancements in technology, we can offer more to our clients than ever before," he concludes.
Community Engagement and Customer Relationships
John emphasizes the importance of community engagement.
"We participate in local events, we sponsor school programs, and we offer apprenticeships to young people interested in the craft," he says. This deep connection to the community has helped build a loyal customer base and fostered a positive local business environment.
His narrative is about maintaining a family legacy and evolving a craft to meet modern demands. His dedication to quality, community, and sustainability makes CHH Engraving a model of business excellence.
Businesses that use CHH's engraving services understand the importance of sending a message to their clients and prospective clients and the importance of his company's proven track record of promotional marketing.
That message, he says, is "We are here, we are your neighbor, your Chamber member, your supporter."
CHH Engraving Inc.
430 Main St., Agawam, Mass.
Phone: 413-789-2041
Email: Sales@chhengraving.com
Online: CHHengraving.com
If promotional products are functional, they contribute to sustainability