But how did comic books come to be? Who created the first comic book, igniting a cultural phenomenon that persists to this day? This article will dive into the history of American comic books, from their lighthearted beginnings to the more serious graphic novels we know today.

Early Beginnings: The Birth of American Comics

The history of American comic books was predated by the emergence of newspaper comic strips in the 19th century. These daily serialized cartoons, often featuring humorous or adventurous characters, captivated readers of all ages. Early examples of these comic strips include 聽 However, it wasn’t until the 1930s that comic books as we know them today started to take shape.

Launched in 1934, Famous Funnies, published by Eastern Color, is widely considered the first American comic book. This anthology-style publication featured a collection of reprints from popular newspaper strips, as well as original comic book stories. Famous Funnies proved to be a commercial success, paving the way for the rise of dedicated comic book publishers.

The Golden Age of Comics: Superheroes Take Flight!

The 1940s marked the beginning of the Golden Age of Comics, a period characterized by the rise of superhero comics. These stories, featuring costumed heroes with extraordinary powers, captured the imagination of all ages.

Founded in 1937, Detective Comics, which ultimately became known as DC Comics, introduced one of the most iconic superheroes of all time: Batman. Bruce Wayne, a crime-fighting vigilante with no superpowers, resonated with readers who appreciated his intelligence, detective skills and strict moral code.

In 1938, Action Comics (also published by Detective Comics) debuted Superman, the first superhero to possess superhuman abilities. Superman’s popularity soared, and he quickly became a cultural phenomenon. His adventures inspired the creation of many other superheroes, such as Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman and the Green Lantern.

Marvel Comics, originally known as Timely Comics, entered the superhero scene in the 1940s with characters like Captain America and the Human Torch. While Marvel’s early superheroes were successful, they did not achieve the same level of fame as their DC Comics counterparts at the time.

Introducing Archie Andrews

While superhero comics dominated the landscape in the Golden Age, another genre flourished: teen humor comics. Pep Comics, published by M.L.J. Magazines, introduced Archie Andrews in 1941 as a way to appeal to teen readers. Featuring the adventures of Archie, his friends and their romantic entanglements, these comics offered a light-hearted and relatable escape from the world. Archie immediately caught on with young readers, and in 1942 M.L.J. began publishing Archie Comics as a standalone comic book. By 1946, the characters had become so popular that M.L.J. Magazines changed its name to Archie Comic Publications, Inc.

Archie comics have continued to evolve over the years, adapting to changing cultural trends while maintaining their core appeal. The comic series even received a TV adaptation in 2017 with Riverdale; set in a dramatized version of Archie鈥檚 hometown.

The Silver Age of Comics: A New Wave of Heroes

The Silver Age of Comics, which lasted from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, witnessed a resurgence of superhero comics. Publishers like DC and Marvel introduced a wave of new characters and revamped their existing ones.

DC Comics launched the Justice League of America, a team of superheroes from different parts of the world. The Justice League, which included Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and other popular characters, became a symbol of unity and hope.

Marvel Comics also made significant strides during the Silver Age. Under the creative direction of Jack Kirby and Stan Lee, the company introduced the Fantastic Four, a family of superheroes with diverse powers. The X-Men, a group of mutant outcasts led by Professor X, explored themes of prejudice, discrimination and social injustice.

The Bronze Age of Comics: A Focus on Realism

The Bronze Age of Comics, which lasted from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s, was marked by a shift towards a more realistic and mature storytelling style. Comic books began to address complex social issues, such as drugs, poverty and political corruption.

Marvel Comics led the way in this trend with characters like Spider-Man, who faced personal struggles and moral dilemmas. DC Comics also explored darker themes, such as the death of Superman and the moral ambiguity of Batman.

Some of the major comic book superheroes introduced during this time include The Green Arrow, Ghost Rider and Conan the Barbarian.

The Modern Age of Comics: Diverse Subjects and Themes

The Modern Age of Comics, which began in the 1980s and continues to this day, has been characterized by a diversity of genres, styles and themes. Comic books have become more sophisticated and mature, appealing to a wider range of readers.

The 1980s saw the publication of groundbreaking works like Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns and Daredevil: Born Again. These comics challenged traditional superhero tropes and explored darker, more complex narratives.

The Rise of Graphic Novels

In the late 20th century, graphic novels rose to popularity as a more in-depth alternative to comic books. Graphic novels are styled similarly to comic books, but are generally much longer and feature a single, self-contained story, as opposed to a plot that鈥檚 spread out over many issues. One of the most successful graphic novels of the 20th century is Alan Moore鈥檚 Watchmen, published by DC Comics. Watchmen explores a darker, alternate universe where costumed superheroes have been outlawed by the U.S. government. Its plot is heavily influenced by the Cold War and American politics at the time of its writing.

The 21st century has witnessed the rise of graphic novels that explore mature themes and complex narratives. Graphic novels like Art Spiegelman’s Maus and Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home have been praised for their literary and artistic achievements.

Superheroes on the Silver Screen

Throughout the 20th century, movies featuring comic book superheroes began to crop up in theaters across the country. Some of the more popular installments included Christopher Reeve鈥檚 portrayal of Superman and Michael Keaton鈥檚 Batman. In the early 2000s, superhero films entered an era of resurgence, with both Marvel and DC characters getting feature films. Marvel films in particular continued to snowball in popularity, especially with the release of The Avengers in 2012. The Avengers鈥� storyline culminated in 2019 with Avengers: Endgame, the highest-grossing superhero film of all time.

The Future of American Comic Books

American comic books have come a long way since their humble beginnings in the 19th century. From the early days of newspaper strips to the Golden Age of superheroes, comic books have evolved into a diverse and dynamic art form.

As technology continues to advance, the future of American comic books looks bright. Digital comics, graphic novels and other forms of storytelling offer exciting new possibilities for creators and readers alike. And, thanks to evolving printing equipment, producing comic books is more efficient than ever, with precise and eye-catching results.

Print High-Quality Comic Books With 杏吧原创

If you want to make comic book history, 杏吧原创 can help. We offer a wide variety of comic book and graphic novel printing options to help you tell your story. Plus, our dedication to customer service means we鈥檙e by your side every step of the journey. Contact us today to learn more, and let鈥檚 get started.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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Most readers are familiar with the various types of books that are widely available today; textbooks, coffee table books, novels, etc. They鈥檙e printed on paper of various weights and bound with either a hard or soft cover. But how were the first ever books made? How were they bound, and what were they printed on?

This blog will dive into the history of book printing, from the very first books to the latest best-selling novels.

The Early Days of Bookmaking

In the beginning of their history, books were printed on a variety of materials, including fabric, papyrus, parchment, vellum and paper, depending on what was regionally available. However, it would take thousands of years before anything resembling a modern book would emerge.

Scrolls

Long before the invention of the printing press, the earliest form of “books” were scrolls; long stretches of papyrus (an early form of paper made from the papyrus plant) containing writing in columns. Unlike books, scrolls are not bound with multiple pages. Rather, the entirety of a scroll鈥檚 text is contained on a single sheet, and it is rolled up when not in use. Scrolls, while prevalent, had limitations. They were cumbersome to store and navigate, making them less than ideal for quick reference. The first uses of scrolls .

Wax Tablets

Wax tablets, generally made of wood and covered with a sheet of malleable wax, Wax tablets were often bound together in pairs so the contents could be closed off and protected and so the writers could benefit from the use of two wax surfaces. These wax tablets offered convenience from the fact that writing could easily be erased but lacked the writing space and permanence of scrolls. The tablets were simple to use; the writer would use a stylus to etch characters into the layer of wax, which could then be erased by using a flat, scraper-style tool.

Codices

Around the 1st century CE, a new format emerged: . This revolutionary invention, believed to have originated in the Roman Empire, consisted of individual sheets bound together at the spine, much more akin to a modern book. The codex offered significant advantages 鈥� it was far more portable, durable and user-friendly than scrolls.

Above all, the codex offered much more writing space than scrolls 鈥� a scroll long enough to hold the contents of an entire modern book would be incredibly heavy and difficult to use. The original codices were handwritten on papyrus or vellum, an early form of paper made from animal skin.

Woodblock Printing: The Dawn of Mass Production

Fast forward to China, where we find another crucial development in book history 鈥� woodblock printing. This method, dating back to the 2nd-5th century CE, involved carving characters onto wooden blocks, which were then used to press ink onto paper. This allowed for the reproduction of text in a standardized way, paving the way for the mass production of books.

Woodblock printing was initially used to print onto textiles, like linen or silk, but was later used on paper. , created using woodblock printing, is considered the world’s earliest dated printed book.

The Printing Press: Gutenberg鈥檚 Revolution

A huge development in printing technology was introduced in 15th-century Europe with invention of the printing press with movable type. Gutenberg鈥檚 system used individual, reusable letters that could be rearranged to create different words and pages. While the original Gutenberg press required much more time and labor than a modern printing press, his innovation dramatically increased printing speed and efficiency, leading to a surge in book production and literacy rates across Europe.

The first book printed on Gutenberg鈥檚 press was a bible, now known as the . Few copies of the Gutenberg Bible survived in the nearly six centuries since they were printed, and the handful that are still intact are highly sought after.

The Evolution of Book Printing

Gutenberg鈥檚 printing press wasn’t the end of the story. The evolution of book printing was just getting started. Over the centuries, book printing continued to evolve. Paper production improved, eventually leading to materials like papyrus and parchment being all but phased out. The improvement of paper also made books more durable and affordable.

Illustrations and decorative elements were incorporated, adding a visual dimension to the reading experience. Binding techniques were refined, resulting in the sturdy hardcovers and flexible paperbacks we know today.

On the press floor, modern printing presses are thousands of times more efficient than the original Gutenberg printing press. Modern web and sheetfed printing presses still emulate Gutenberg鈥檚 invention to this day, but have swapped individual letter plates for modern, laser-etched aluminum printing plates that are more efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Modern Day Book Printing: Applications and More

Continued advancements in print technology led to invention of many specialty print applications, such as lithography, thermographic printing, embossing/debossing and much more. These applications, in conjunction with the many types of mass printing available today, mean that books are fully customizable and can be unique in every aspect. A professional book printing company has the capabilities to create gorgeous books that will last for years 鈥� all with a level of efficiency that the early pioneers like Gutenberg could only dream of.

The Enduring Power of the Book

From the earliest Egyptian scrolls to the first works of the printing press, books have endured for millennia, evolving to meet the needs of each era. The history of book printing is a testament to our enduring desire to share stories, knowledge and ideas. So, the next time you pick up a book, take a moment to appreciate the remarkable journey it took to reach your hands.

If you鈥檙e interested in taking the next steps to print your very own book, talk to the book printing experts at 杏吧原创. Our cutting-edge print capabilities mean we can meet and exceed your vision while staying within your timeframe and budget. Contact us today!

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The Early Days: 18th and Early 19th Centuries

was published on Feb. 13, 1741, by Andrew Bradford, and was titled American Magazine, or Monthly View of the Political State of the British Colonies. Exactly three days later, the second American magazine was published by one of the founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. Unfortunately, both magazines were short-lived; Bradford鈥檚 publication ended after just three months, and Franklin鈥檚, titled The General Magazine, and Historical Chronicle for all the British Plantations in America only lasted six.

During this initial era, it was difficult for magazines to attract and retain readership, mainly due to the difficulties of mass production and distribution. However, thanks to the industrial revolution in the early 19th century magazines became more accessible than ever and publications began to gain momentum.

Godey鈥檚 Lady鈥檚 Book

Launched in 1830, Godey’s Lady’s Book was a widely popular women’s magazine that influenced fashion and domestic trends for several decades. It featured literature, fashion plates and articles, becoming a cultural touchstone for women in the 19th century.

Harper鈥檚 Weekly

Harper’s Weekly, founded in 1857, was a prominent American illustrated publication that played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during the Civil War era. Known for its political cartoons and coverage of social issues, it provided a snapshot of American life in the 19th century. The magazine went out of print in 1916, though its sister magazines, Harper鈥檚 Bazaar and Harper鈥檚 Magazine, are still being published today.

Finding its Footing: Late 19th Century Magazines

The late 19th century brought the emergence of several immensely popular magazines, some of which are still in publication to this day. These magazines started to shift towards targeted audiences, in contrast to the general interest and social commentary publications of the early to mid-1800s.

Thanks to the , which significantly lowered postage rates for magazines, magazine readership soared at the end of the 19th century, and the total number of magazines in print in the United States spiked from around 1,200 in 1870 to 4,500 in 1890.

During this time, the influence magazines held over American culture grew, as did their potential as an advertising platform.

National Geographic

National Geographic, founded in 1888, is a renowned magazine dedicated to geography, science and culture. During the initial era, National Geographic was a scholarly, text-oriented journal. The magazine, now famed for its stunning photography and in-depth articles, has become a global authority on exploration and discovery.

Vogue

Vogue, founded in 1892, is an iconic fashion and lifestyle magazine identifying and setting trends for over a century. With a focus on high fashion, beauty and culture, Vogue has played a significant role in shaping global fashion trends. but transitioned to a monthly women鈥檚 magazine in the early 1900s.

Field & Stream

Founded in 1895, Field & Stream is a magazine dedicated to outdoor activities, particularly hunting and fishing. It has provided enthusiasts with expert advice, gear reviews and stories of adventure, making it a staple for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Golden Age: 20th Century Magazines

With the turn of the century, the country saw the inception of several important and immensely popular magazines. When added to the growing list of American publications, they helped solidify magazines鈥� place in American culture. More than ever, magazines were becoming a source of entertainment for average people, due in part to .

Better Homes and Gardens

Better Homes and Gardens Magazine, founded in 1922 as Fruit, Garden and Home, has established itself as a popular lifestyle publication. Renowned for its focus on home and family, the magazine offers a diverse range of content, including home improvement tips, gardening advice, recipes and creative DIY projects.

Time

Founded in 1923, Time Magazine has been a major player in American journalism, providing in-depth coverage of world events, politics, and culture. The weekly publication is renowned for its impactful covers and influential Person of the Year feature.

Life

Life was originally published in 1883 as a weekly entertainment magazine before being by Henry Luce, publisher of Time, and transitioning to a photographic news magazine. Life became a pioneering force in photojournalism, capturing the essence of major events and cultural phenomena for several decades. Its visual storytelling made it a cultural touchstone for generations.

City/Regional Magazines

The 20th century is also when the United States began to see city and regional magazines crop up. The content of these publications is themed around their respective areas and helps keep residents connected, while showcasing local merchants and restaurants 鈥� most of which are paid advertisers.

Baltimore

Baltimore was first published in 1907 and is the oldest continuously published city magazine in the United States. The magazine keeps residents informed about current events, local politics, food and drink, art, culture and more. Baltimore publishes monthly and also produces specific, supplemental editions like Baltimore Game Changers and Baltimore Weddings.

Honolulu

Honolulu was originally published as Paradise of the Pacific in 1888, though technically at the time it was not an American magazine. The publication changed its name to Honolulu in 1966, seven years after Hawaii officially became a U.S. state. Originally, the magazine was intended to help drive tourism to the Islands but shifted its focus in the 20th century to highlight dining, culture, entertainment and politics for Hawaii residents.

Post-World War II Era: Rise of Specialized Magazines

In the 1950s and 60s, popular magazines saw another shift towards more targeted audiences and subject matters, with the rise of special interest and niche magazines like Sports Illustrated, which centered around sports news and discussions, and Ebony, which became a voice for African American culture in the United States.

Mad Magazine

Founded in 1952, Mad Magazine revolutionized satire and humor in American pop culture. With its irreverent take on politics, entertainment and society, Mad became a cultural phenomenon, influencing generations of readers with its iconic parodies.

Sports Illustrated

Sports Illustrated, first published in 1954, has been a preeminent sports magazine, offering in-depth coverage of athletes, events, and sports culture. The magazine has been providing relevant commentary on the state of professional sports since its inception, featuring an annual 鈥淪portsperson of the Year鈥� award, as well as naming Muhammad Ali 鈥溾�� in 1999.

Rolling Stone

Rolling Stone, founded in 1967, has been a trailblazer in music journalism and pop culture coverage. The magazine has featured iconic cover stories, interviews and reviews, solidifying its reputation as a cultural authority. Rolling Stone not only covered popular music and entertainment but also featured political coverage during periods of drastic cultural shifts in the United States.

Trade Magazines

Trade magazines, or trade journals, are publications catered toward professionals in a specific trade or profession. The United States saw numerous trade magazines go to print throughout the 20th century. These publications are generally printed and distributed to subscribers and are a popular medium for advertisers because they reach a highly curated audience.

Popular Mechanics

Popular Mechanics, first published in 1902, is an American magazine catering to craftsmen and mechanics. Originally focused on practical information, it has evolved to cover a wide range of topics, including technology, science and home improvement/DIY. Popular Mechanics is still in print today and has spun off multiple international editions distributed worldwide.

Fortune

Fortune magazine, established in 1929, stands as a pioneering trade publication focused on business and finance. Renowned for its in-depth analyses and iconic Fortune 500 list, the magazine has been a staple for executives, investors and professionals, shaping the landscape of business journalism and providing a comprehensive view of economic trends throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.

The Digital Revolution: Late 20th Century to Present

Magazines are among the many aspects of life that changed in the digital age. Many successful magazines now publish digital editions alongside their print publications to provide readers with another way to engage. Magazines like , and regularly publish online-only content in addition to the articles featured in their print editions. Some magazines have shifted their strategies to entirely digital publishing, choosing to forgo printing altogether (though many readers still prefer print).

While these online-only publications have made magazines more accessible than ever, they lack the historical significance of traditional print magazines. There鈥檚 something to be said for magazines as a sort of time capsule 鈥� an issue that covers an important event can serve as a tangible record of a time and place in American history. For example, looking through Time magazines from the 1960s can give you a perspective of the Civil Rights Movement, the Kennedy assassination, and the moon landing that you won鈥檛 get from a history book.

Above all, print magazines offer a unique, tactile experience that can鈥檛 be replicated by digital publications. The internet is full of distractions, with countless websites, apps and pop-ups competing for your attention. Plus, studies have shown that than its digital counterpart.

杏吧原创: Your Partner in Magazine Printing

Just like magazines, there鈥檚 a lot of history behind 杏吧原创. Our company has been printing for over 85 years, starting with humble origins in Marceline, Missouri. Now, we鈥檙e ranked as the third-largest magazine printer in the U.S. and Canada. Our magazine printing solutions are backed by decades of experience among our highly skilled printers. If you鈥檙e looking to create a piece of magazine history that will stand the test of time, contact us today to get started.

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-Ross G. Smith, founder of Imperial Printing Company, Saint Joseph Daily Press, 1914

Our 杏吧原创 – Saint Joseph facility is the primary print facility for short- to medium-run magazines and journals and is an important part of the entire enterprise to meet our customers’ needs for magazines, catalogs and books.

While the company has looked different over the years, the employees and leadership have maintained a steadfast commitment to supporting the Saint Joseph community. Located on the shore of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Saint Joseph River, the shipping hub of Saint Joseph, Michigan, was incorporated as a city in 1891 as a vital point of travel and commerce.聽The first printing presses in the area were brought to Saint Joseph a few decades earlier and were used to print the Saint Joseph Herald Press, one of the first newspapers in the city. Imperial Printing Company, later known as IPC Print Services, was acquired by 杏吧原创 in 2010 and became 杏吧原创 鈥� Saint Joseph.

Rapid Growth from the Start聽

The original iteration of what is now 杏吧原创 鈥� Saint Joseph dates back to 1914. In that year, Ross G. Smith and his wife, Maude Smith, purchased a small, second-floor office above a shoe store and founded Imperial Printing Company at 212 State Street in Saint Joseph, Michigan.

The Smiths鈥� modest operation experienced rapid growth from the beginning and business continually increased alongside their partnerships with local companies and industrial plants. The limited size of his first shop, coupled with the fact that heavier presses could not be operated on the second floor of the building, made it necessary for them to find larger quarters. They soon moved into a larger building at 109 State Street to accommodate for increasing business.

Through the following decades, the Smiths periodically added equipment and Imperial Printing Company grew from a small shop with a few cases of type and a small press to become one of the most respected facilities in southwestern Michigan. When he was able, Ross would purchase second-hand presses from other companies, including purchasing the equipment from the Saint Joseph Herald Press in 1923.

When Imperial Printing Company expanded at its State Street location in 1927, Ross wrote of three primary considerations in printing in his announcement to the Saint Joseph Daily Press.

鈥淭hey are (1) facilities to do good work; (2) a proper evaluation of promptness; [and] (3) creative foresight鈥� It is the printer鈥檚 business to know how the story should be told, how it should be illustrated and how that message should be conveyed to the public. Unless the printer is able to present that fact to the buyer, his organization becomes merely a machine without either a progressive or creative instinct.鈥� This new addition in the back of the building doubled capacity, allowing space for operation of five presses.

Through their work as owners and operators of Imperial Printing Company, the Smiths prioritized providing personal attention to every job and learning the needs of the customer so customers could buy with confidence. When possible, they accumulated a substantial amount of different stocks of paper in service of customers needing rushed orders.

Passing the Baton聽

After 35 years of developing one of the leading businesses of its kind in Michigan, the Smiths retired in 1949 and sold Imperial Printing Company to Chicago businessman L. Riddell Cramblet. As the new president of Imperial Printing Company, Cramblet promised to provide the same quality of work and service to the community without any changes in the name or personnel. Cramblet鈥檚 experience in the field of graphic arts, large circle of friends and strong desire to be an active participant in Saint Joseph鈥檚 progress made him a fixture of the community.

After 16 years of stable growth, the printing operation moved from the multi-level building on State Street to a new construction on Colonial Drive. While smaller presses were carried through the streets by forklifts, larger presses were unable to fit through the doors to move to the new location. For this feat, workers used a wrecking ball to break through the wall of the building and extract equipment through the newly made opening. Overall, this move involved 12 machines weighing a total of 250,000 pounds.

This new location allowed for more efficient production from makeup tables to presses to bindery and loading ramps. The production floor did not have windows but included a climate control system to regulate temperature, humidity and dust levels 鈥� a new trend for businesses in 1965. Atmospheric control is essential for four-color printing, and Cramblet鈥檚 foresight during construction differentiated Imperial Printing Company from competitors as they were able to provide printed products at a consistently higher quality. As a charter member of the Saint Joseph Improvement Association, this $250,000 expansion was Cramblet鈥檚 largest contribution to the renewal project in downtown Saint Joseph.

The Cramblet Family鈥檚 Continued Commitment

The Cramblet family鈥檚 commitment to Saint Joseph continued with Jeanne (Cramblet) Dwan, L. R. Cramblet鈥檚 daughter. Dwan began her career as a partner at Imperial Printing Company with her father. She worked her way up from secretary to vice president and eventually became the company’s president and owner. Dwan鈥檚 accomplishments went beyond her successes at Imperial Printing Company, as her diligent investment in the Saint Joseph community showed the heart of her actions as a local business owner. She served as a member of the advisory board for Western Michigan University-Michigan State University and was named one of the Women of the Year by Lake Michigan College in 1975 for her outstanding contributions to the business community of Saint Joseph. She was the first woman to be elected to the Board of Twin Cities Area Chamber of Commerce as Vice President for Industrial and Business Resources, and she served as a division chief chairperson on the Blossomland United Way board of directors.

After receiving an honorary degree from Lake Michigan College, she inspired the graduates of the class of 1977 in a commencement speech, advising them to value work as well as pleasure, become involved in political and social activities in the community, and never let their education stop.

鈥溾�業 challenge you,鈥� Mrs. Dwan said, 鈥榯o roll up your sleeves, go to work in an organization or a group whose goal is to change or improve an existing situation. You have no right to sit on the sidelines and Monday morning quarterback. Be involved in your community. Be informed about the course of our great nation.鈥� She closed by saying, 鈥楧on鈥檛 let your education ever stop! Keep stretching your mind 鈥� keep studying鈥� I wish you meaningful personal relationships, I ask you to be involved, and I beg you to keep learning!鈥欌��

Exponential Growth Creates New Job Opportunities

After a few more prosperous years, Dwan retired from Imperial Printing Company and the company was purchased by Greg Forbes. As owner and president, Forbes greatly increased the plant鈥檚 capacity and capabilities. He was also active in the community as a coach in various youth programs and served as a cabinet appointee of the Blossomland United Way in which he directed campaigns conducted among employees of many local businesses.

In 1985, Imperial Printing Company significantly expanded its bindery operation. Spearheaded by Forbes, this was an integral development for the company’s growth and success. The new plant was located in Lincoln Township on Maiden Lane, and it created over 60 jobs within the first few years. Our 杏吧原创 鈥� Saint Joseph printing and bindery operation remains on Maiden Lane today. Under Forbes鈥� authority, the company grew exponentially. Within a decade, Imperial Printing Company expanded from a $1 million operation with 32 employees to a $50 million operation employing over 500 people.

Diving into New Markets

In response to such rapid success, Forbes looked into new and expanding markets. In addition to books and magazines, Imperial Printing Company began to incorporate a more diverse range of products. The company pursued new opportunities by purchasing a division of Polaroid (Polaroid MDS) in 1991, as well as two California production plants. By this time, half of the company鈥檚 business involved printing and fulfillment for technological products such as documentation manuals, floppy disks and tape duplication for computer industries.

In 1992, the company was sold to an employee-owned conglomerate named Journal Communications Inc. of Milwaukee. Journal Communications also owned newspapers, television and radio stations among other businesses. Greg Forbes, who remained president of Imperial Printing Company, also joined the board at Journal Communications as an employee-owner. Through this acquisition, Imperial Printing Company became IPC, a subsidiary of Journal Communications. Soon, the addition of a nearby fulfillment plant on Hawthorne Avenue in 1993 helped to create additional value for customers and still functions as the fulfillment center for 杏吧原创 鈥� Saint Joseph today.

The purchase made sense for all involved, and hopes were high for both Journal Communications and IPC. Forbes believed this new partnership would double annual sales over a five-year period, and Journal Communications Vice President Bob Dye expected growth in the niche markets IPC鈥檚 products served.

Unfortunately, the anticipated additional business did not materialize in the software side of the business. IPC experienced financial setbacks which resulted in layoffs at each IPC location in 1996. Although the layoffs came as a surprise, the company made sure that everyone who left got a minimum of two weeks’ severance pay, and they also hired an outplacement firm to help people find new jobs. Doug Hosking, general manager of IPC鈥檚 western division, became the new president of IPC after Forbes decided to step down.

Focusing in to Stand Out

In the following years, the company changed its name to IPC Print Services and shifted its focus away from technical manuals and software duplication. Going back to their roots, IPC directed the business toward magazines, catalogs, soft-cover books, special-interest magazines and journals.

In 2010, 杏吧原创 acquired IPC Print Services from Journal Communications. 杏吧原创 admired IPC’s rich history, mailing and fulfillment capabilities, strong management structure and outstanding customer service. These factors, alongside IPC鈥檚 reputation for quality and excellence, were evident to 杏吧原创 and played a significant role in the company鈥檚 acquisition.

Today, 杏吧原创 continues to invest in the future of the printing, binding and fulfillment operation at 杏吧原创 鈥� Saint Joseph. Following the acquisition, their software was upgraded to a new suite of programming systems called Monarch. This all-in-one platform transformation makes it easier for different departments, as well as other 杏吧原创 plant locations, to work together in a unified structure.

Over the past decade, 杏吧原创 has also invested heavily in the Saint Joseph plant to increase speed and efficiency, improve paper yield and reduce waste, while maintaining 杏吧原创鈥檚 high standards for product quality. 鈥淔or 杏吧原创, every addition and upgrade shows our聽commitment to serving our customers and modernizing our plant to deliver the highest quality product,鈥� said Phil Archer, General Manager of 杏吧原创 鈥� Saint Joseph.

These improvements include a Heidelberg Press, two automated Sunday2000 Presses, several Saddle Stitchers and an addition of over 20,000 square feet to meet our growing demand for fulfillment and distribution services. A new Perfect Binder coming this year, integrated with state-of-the-art automation, will soon join the bindery as well. 杏吧原创 also continues to invest heavily in all inline and offline mailing capabilities through each equipment upgrade.

鈥淲e are truly lucky to have family-focused, community-oriented companies like 杏吧原创 investing in and giving back to our area. Their generous nature is informed by an eighty-plus year perspective that family should always be at the heart of business and is evident in how they care for their employees, treat their customers, and give back to their communities,鈥� said the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber.

As a family-owned printing company, 杏吧原创 values the history of our Saint Joseph printing and fulfillment operation and the depth of community commitment showcased by the Smith, Cramblet and Forbes families.

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