Supply chain industry issues; it’s a lot to say and to digest. As we look back on the past year, it’s easy to want to close the door on what has been one of the most challenging, stressful and unpredictable years in the world, never mind the supply chain industry. We at Con-Tech acknowledge those urges to say goodbye, but we also want to recognize the hard work, tenacity and flexibility of our team and of our suppliers and customers. It’s not been all bad; we’ve learned to lean-in and on one another and to come up with creative strategies to get products in the hands of our customers, the best way we know how.
We all know the problems with logistics, transportation and shipping and that pricing is not about to change any time soon. The woes of delayed products and materials has been well documented in journals, news updates and personal posts. We are so grateful to our suppliers and customers for their understanding and patience and to our customers for continuing to work with us, purchasing both standard and customized parts.
This past year we have continued to be profitable and even brought in record sales in some areas. Most of our regular customers continue to order products with us and we’ve increased new customers by 25 percent, with a majority of them finding us online through various digital platforms. “Being in the conversation” is essential today to growth strategy and luckily, we have a C-Suite team that understands that concept.
Of course we also want to recognize all the support we’ve received from our vendors and partners who helped guide us to success through our marketing strategies and website improvements, for example. They say it takes a village and we wouldn’t be where we are without those external partners and consultants who steered, advised and worked with us to make Con-Tech better, in every respect.
Most of all, we want to thank our team for showing up, logging on, and being present during one of the most difficult years. No one complained when we instituted daily temperature logs, mask mandates and other COVID protocols. Those few times when a team member had been exposed or tested positive, everyone offered support, not scorn. When Hurricane Ida hit, staff members and their families showed up to help transfer equipment, secure properties and offer one another support. It seems the worst of times brought out the best in all of us.
Looking ahead, we know 2022 is going to be another challenging year but we also know we’re up for the challenge. We look forward to working with all of our customers and suppliers and to building even more success. We wish the very same for you. Happy holidays and here’s to a brilliant 2022!