On Pearl Street, around an inauspicious corner and up a few weathered stairs, you’ll find a small plaque emblazoned with the words “Standard Offset Printing Company.” With roots in downtown Reading and a footprint that spirals outward towards Lancaster, Lebanon and Chester, what began as a humble box manufacturing company in 1895 has evolved into a cutting-edge print and communications powerhouse that's anything but standard. Told by those who have honed their craft for decades and paired with fresh perspectives from a new generation, The Standard Group’s story isn't just about putting ink on paper—it's about perseverance, adaptation to new technologies and a commitment to the human side of business. Join us as we explore how this 129-year-old company stays ahead of the curve, proving that in the world of print and packaging, imagination knows no bounds.
On Pearl Street, around an inauspicious corner and up a few weathered stairs, you’ll find a small plaque emblazoned with the words “Standard Offset Printing Company.” With roots in downtown Reading and a footprint that spirals outward towards Lancaster, Lebanon and Chester, what began as a humble box manufacturing company in 1895 has evolved into a cutting-edge print and communications powerhouse that's anything but standard. Told by those who have honed their craft for decades and paired with fresh perspectives from a new generation, The Standard Group’s story isn't just about putting ink on paper—it's about perseverance, adaptation to new technologies and a commitment to the human side of business. Join us as we explore how this 129-year-old company stays ahead of the curve, proving that in the world of print and packaging, imagination knows no bounds.
The Story Behind The Standard Group
The Standard Group's story began in 1895 as a box company, whose products were delivered by horse-drawn carriage to the surrounding area. A company steeped in history and tradition, its acquisition by Charlotte Cooper in 1983 marked the beginning of a transformation into the communications company it is today.
"Charlotte Cooper’s leadership is really what transformed us into what I would call the “modern day” Standard Group and Standard Offset Printing," explains CEO Jim Rowland.
Under Charlotte and her son Scott’s leadership, the company's growth accelerated—even during unexpected times. During the 2008 economic downturn, for example, while others pulled back, The Standard Group expanded through strategic acquisitions, adding capabilities in Lancaster, Lebanon and Chester counties. Each acquisition brought unique strengths to the organization, such as G7 color management, brand and marketing portals, automation, LED UV printing, apparel and promotional products, thus diversifying its offerings and expanding its reach.
In 2017, The Standard Group took another bold step toward securing its future by becoming an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company. "Scott and Charlotte's intention was to give back to the employees and keep the company ownership in the community," notes CFO Keegan Worley. The transition enabled the company to reinvest in its people and technology while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation.
The company's dedication to culture and innovation runs deep and fosters an environment that empowers the team to think differently. "My job is to teach and coach everybody to have a different kind of mindset, one that encourages them to take ownership," explains Nick Shonsky, Director of Quality Assurance. This emphasis on professional growth and collaborative problem-solving, combined with its status as an ESOP, creates a unique business ecosystem where innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit can flourish.
Today, The Standard Group stands as an undisputed leader in the printing and communications industry, offering services ranging from offset and digital printing to direct mail, specialty packaging and promotional items. A focus on creating sensory experiences through print—whether through tactile finishes, scents, unique folds or innovative designs—solidifies its services and reminds us that, in an increasingly digital world, there's still something special about what you can hold in your hand.
The Story Behind The Standard Group
The Standard Group's story began in 1895 as a box company, whose products were delivered by horse-drawn carriage to the surrounding area. A company steeped in history and tradition, its acquisition by Charlotte Cooper in 1983 marked the beginning of a transformation into the communications company it is today.
"Charlotte Cooper’s leadership is really what transformed us into what I would call the “modern day” Standard Group and Standard Offset Printing," explains CEO Jim Rowland.
Under Charlotte and her son Scott’s leadership, the company's growth accelerated—even during unexpected times. During the 2008 economic downturn, for example, while others pulled back, The Standard Group expanded through strategic acquisitions, adding capabilities in Lancaster, Lebanon and Chester counties. Each acquisition brought unique strengths to the organization, such as G7 color management, brand and marketing portals, automation, LED UV printing, apparel and promotional products, thus diversifying its offerings and expanding its reach.
In 2017, The Standard Group took another bold step toward securing its future by becoming an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company. "Scott and Charlotte's intention was to give back to the employees and keep the company ownership in the community," notes CFO Keegan Worley. The transition enabled the company to reinvest in its people and technology while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation.
The company's dedication to culture and innovation runs deep and fosters an environment that empowers the team to think differently. "My job is to teach and coach everybody to have a different kind of mindset, one that encourages them to take ownership," explains Nick Shonsky, Director of Quality Assurance. This emphasis on professional growth and collaborative problem-solving, combined with its status as an ESOP, creates a unique business ecosystem where innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit can flourish.
Today, The Standard Group stands as an undisputed leader in the printing and communications industry, offering services ranging from offset and digital printing to direct mail, specialty packaging and promotional items. A focus on creating sensory experiences through print—whether through tactile finishes, scents, unique folds or innovative designs—solidifies its services and reminds us that, in an increasingly digital world, there's still something special about what you can hold in your hand.
Print and Product that Goes Beyond the Ordinary
The Standard Group's journey of growth and adaptation has been marked by strategic decisions and thoughtful responses to challenges. While the company had navigated numerous changes throughout its history, none tested its mettle quite like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fortunately, many of The Standard Group's partners were essential businesses serving critical community needs. As a result, the company was able to remain open by supporting vital industries (such as healthcare and pharmaceutical) through its printing and packaging services.
Still, the impact was significant. "Overnight, 30% of the business disappeared," explains Charles Minguez, Vice President of Operations. The team had to make difficult decisions, including consolidating multiple facilities into one manufacturing location. Yet, true to its innovative spirit, the company used this challenging period as an opportunity for improvement.
"COVID afforded us an opportunity to look under the hood and fix some things that needed attention," Jim reflects. "We tightened up, and we're a better company because of it."
The company's customers didn't disappear—they just shrunk their budgets. Through compassionate communication and heightened relationship management, The Standard Group proactively maintained these connections until business could resume. The year 2022 marked a significant turning point, with the company seeing a strong recovery despite ongoing supply chain challenges.
The experience taught valuable lessons about adaptability and reinforced the importance of maintaining strong customer and vendor relationships, especially during difficult times. This ability to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and continuous improvement has become a hallmark of The Standard Group's approach.
The Standard Group's journey of growth and adaptation has been marked by strategic decisions and thoughtful responses to challenges. While the company had navigated numerous changes throughout its history, none tested its mettle quite like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fortunately, many of The Standard Group's partners were essential businesses serving critical community needs. As a result, the company was able to remain open by supporting vital industries (such as healthcare and pharmaceutical) through its printing and packaging services.
Still, the impact was significant. "Overnight, 30% of the business disappeared," explains Charles Minguez, Vice President of Operations. The team had to make difficult decisions, including consolidating multiple facilities into one manufacturing location. Yet, true to its innovative spirit, the company used this challenging period as an opportunity for improvement.
"COVID afforded us an opportunity to look under the hood and fix some things that needed attention," Jim reflects. "We tightened up, and we're a better company because of it."
The company's customers didn't disappear—they just shrunk their budgets. Through compassionate communication and heightened relationship management, The Standard Group proactively maintained these connections until business could resume. The year 2022 marked a significant turning point, with the company seeing a strong recovery despite ongoing supply chain challenges.
The experience taught valuable lessons about adaptability and reinforced the importance of maintaining strong customer and vendor relationships, especially during difficult times. This ability to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and continuous improvement has become a hallmark of The Standard Group's approach.
At The Standard Group, creating experiences that engage the senses and capture attention is the name of the game. From rainbow foil trading cards to custom packaging that delights customers, every project is an opportunity to push creative boundaries.
"Our mission is to help brands tell their stories more effectively through print and elevate the brand experience with visual and sensory impact," says Thanh Nguyen, Chief Marketing Officer. "For instance, we might recommend unique paper stocks, elegant foil stamping, embossing or a tactile soft-touch finish to elevate a sophisticated brochure's appeal. In one standout project for a liberal arts college, we added an unforgettable scratch-and-sniff element to their acceptance package, creating a truly memorable experience for their students."
The company's expertise spans a wide range of services, from traditional offset printing to digital solutions; from specialty packaging to promotional items. But what sets it apart is its attention to detail and understanding of how each element contributes to a brand's story.
A perfect example of this commitment occurred when a local college approached them with the challenges of maintaining their specific shade of green across various collateral. The Standard Group's team didn't just solve the problem—they revolutionized the client's entire printing process. "We brought our full team together for that discussion—everybody from our color experts to our press manager," Thanh shares. "After formally defining and establishing those brand colors, we passed the requirements down through every part of our business.”
And, if the client has a vision for something new or unconventional, the creative minds at The Standard Group will design a prototype and develop specifications so graphic designers can appropriately architect the visuals. “When you take something that’s an idea in someone’s head all the way onto product shelves, and you can see it right there in a store. It’s pretty cool,” Press Room Manager, Mike Yerves adds.
At The Standard Group, creating experiences that engage the senses and capture attention is the name of the game. From rainbow foil trading cards to custom packaging that delights customers, every project is an opportunity to push creative boundaries.
"Our mission is to help brands tell their stories more effectively through print and elevate the brand experience with visual and sensory impact," says Thanh Nguyen, Chief Marketing Officer. "For instance, we might recommend unique paper stocks, elegant foil stamping, embossing, or a tactile soft-touch finish to elevate a sophisticated brochure's appeal. In one standout project for a liberal arts college, we added an unforgettable scratch-and-sniff element to their acceptance package, creating a truly memorable experience for their students."
The company's expertise spans a wide range of services, from traditional offset printing to digital solutions; from specialty packaging to promotional items. But what sets it apart is its attention to detail and understanding of how each element contributes to a brand's story.
A perfect example of this commitment occurred when a local college approached them with the challenges of maintaining their specific shade of green across various collateral. The Standard Group's team didn't just solve the problem—they revolutionized the client's entire printing process. "We brought our full team together for that discussion—everybody from our color experts to our press manager," Thanh shares. "After formally defining and establishing those brand colors, we passed the requirements down through every part of our business.”
And, if the client has a vision for something new or unconventional, the creative minds at The Standard Group will design a prototype and develop specifications so graphic designers can appropriately architect the visuals. “When you take something that’s an idea in someone’s head all the way onto product shelves, and you can see it right there in a store. It’s pretty cool,” Press Room Manager, Mike Yerves adds.
In an industry where craftsmanship matters, The Standard Group faces a unique challenge: bridging the generational gap in its workforce. With about 30% of its employees under 30 and a large group over 60, the company is actively working to transfer decades of printing expertise to its next generation of artisans.
"Our industry was lost in the millennial generation," Jim explains. "There were no apprenticeships. There's hardly anyone in our industry that is a true millennial. When the next generation came up, we knew we had to get them on board—because if you look around the table, there's a lot of gray hair here!"
The solution has been multifaceted. Strong partnerships with local trade schools and technical centers have created pipelines for new talent. But perhaps more significantly, becoming an ESOP has provided a powerful incentive for younger workers to build their careers with The Standard Group.
"I started here in 2022 and when Jim was recruiting me, he mentioned that The Standard Group was an ESOP," shares Tyler Schwebel, Prepress Operator. "It didn't really mean much to me at first, but once I got in here and saw it functioning, I realized it can make a big difference in how successful your company can be."
For the younger team members, the culture is as appealing as the ownership opportunity. "Everybody works well together and is always willing to help each other, which is very nice," notes Lyric Welk. Her sister, Gwen Welk, who operates one of the most highly technical pieces of equipment under the company's roof, explains that "at the end of the day, seeing everything we did and the quantity we put out, it makes you say 'Wow!' It's something that makes me feel proud."
A blend of experienced craftspeople and fresh perspectives has created a dynamic environment where knowledge transfer happens both intentionally and organically. The company's commitment to preserving traditional expertise and embracing new ideas ensures that The Standard Group will continue to innovate and grow for generations to come.
In an industry where craftsmanship matters, The Standard Group faces a unique challenge: bridging the generational gap in its workforce. With about 30% of its employees under 30 and a large group over 60, the company is actively working to transfer decades of printing expertise to its next generation of artisans.
"Our industry was lost in the millennial generation," Jim explains. "There were no apprenticeships. There's hardly anyone in our industry that is a true millennial. When the next generation came up, we knew we had to get them on board—because if you look around the table, there's a lot of gray hair here!"
The solution has been multifaceted. Strong partnerships with local trade schools and technical centers have created pipelines for new talent. But perhaps more significantly, becoming an employee-owned company has provided a powerful incentive for younger workers to build their careers with The Standard Group.
"I started here in 2022 and when Jim was recruiting me, he mentioned that The Standard Group was an ESOP," shares Tyler Schwebel, Prepress Operator. "It didn't really mean much to me at first, but once I got in here and saw it functioning, I realized it can make a big difference in how successful your company can be."
For the younger team members, the culture is as appealing as the ownership opportunity. "Everybody works well together and is always willing to help each other, which is very nice," notes Lyric Welk. Her sister, Gwen Welk, who operates one of the most highly technical pieces of equipment under the company's roof, explains that "at the end of the day, seeing everything we did and the quantity we put out, it makes you say 'Wow!' It's something that makes me feel proud."
A blend of experienced craftspeople and fresh perspectives has created a dynamic environment where knowledge transfer happens both intentionally and organically. The company's commitment to preserving traditional expertise and embracing new ideas ensures that The Standard Group will continue to innovate and grow for generations to come.
Innovation on the Horizon
From its historic beginnings as a box manufacturer to its evolution into a cutting-edge communications company, The Standard Group has proven that innovation and tradition aren't mutually exclusive—they're the twin engines of excellence. Through strategic growth, adaptation to change and investment in its people, The Standard Group has built something remarkable: a company where craftsmanship meets creativity, where seasoned experts mentor the next generation and where every employee has a stake in the future. Its journey of perseverance isn't just about surviving challenges—it's about emerging stronger, more innovative and more committed to excellence with each passing year.
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