Business owner talks about buying back the old family business.
NFIB Member: Andy Delph
Business: Central Bindery Company
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Andy Delph, longtime owner of Central Bindery Company, talks about growing in a shrinking industry.
How did you get started with Central Bindery Company?
My family owned the company and sold it in 1980. The other owner struggled, so I bought it back in 1984 and have been doing this for 31 years. We started with nine employees in a leased building, but I knew a lot of customers from when my family had the company, and it was pretty easy to grow it. Now we own our own building and we’re at about 48 workers, though we won’t go over 50 thanks to the healthcare law.
What advice would you give to other small business owners?
No long-term debt—that’s how you survive in a bad economy. We’re a printing company and printing is a shrinking industry, but parts are always growing. It’s possible to keep growing your business, like shooting a moving target. It’s the same in every industry.
Why did you get involved with NFIB?
I heard about NFIB early in my career. I did some research and saw they reached out to policymakers and help get access to these people for small business owners. Sometimes you feel like they don’t listen and they don’t care. I got to meet some of our local congressmen and senators, and it’s a great benefit to get political access. And it’s great to meet a group of your peers and discuss problems and solutions.
What makes Arizona a good place to do business?
Arizona is a fairly unique state. It’s getting more business-friendly with less burdensome regulations. The weather is good, property taxes are working their way down, and the cost of living is low compared to the East Coast or California.
What’s the secret to your success?
Hiring good employees that care, a strong balance sheet and luck.
