Lands' End Business Outfitters Blog

Happy Anniversary to us!

2013 is a pretty big year for all of us at Lands’ End. It not only marks the 20th year Business Outfitters has been providing logo’d apparel for companies large and small, it’s also the 50th year for Lands’ End. 

 

Back in the spring of 1963, our founder, Gary Comer, along with four other partners, launched Lands’ End Yacht Stores, Inc. on Elston Avenue in what was then known as the tannery district in Chicago. The partners were all sailors – Comer had worked in the ad business in Chicago, but left that to pursue something more closely related to his true passion of sailboat racing. They sold primarily the hardware for racing boats, but also included some of the other gear like duffle bags, sweaters and rainsuits. Slowly but steadily the company grew, thanks in large part to Gary’s philosophy (which could be applied to just about any business), which he summed up on the company’s 25th anniversary: “Our basic premise for winning customers is little different today than when we started. Sell only things we believe in, ship every order the day it arrives, unconditionally guarantee everything. That was, and still is, the platform.”

In 1978, the company’s growth required an expansion out of the Elston Avenue building, and thus began the migration to the little town of Dodgeville in southwest Wisconsin. Through his travels, Gary had grown to love the area and discovered that along with the scenic landscape, the area was also home to a valuable resource that isn’t always easy to come by: a hardworking populace that took extreme pride in everything they did. Not long after moving the warehouse and call center, it was decided the entire operation would relocate to the rolling hills of the Badger State. 

 

Today, we’re proud to call Wisconsin home. And we’re also proud to adhere to Gary’s wisdom, which he stated so simply: “Take care of the customer, take care of your employees, and the rest will take care of itself.”

 

Celebrating an anniversary yourself? We can help with a great selection of promotional products. Take a look at them all now at landsend.com/business.

And you can read more about Lands' End's heritage when you visit the Lands' End Blog, "View From The Lighthouse" right here. 

Triangle Rock Club puts our Active Collection to the test

 

 

If you’ve followed our Business Outfitters’ blog for a while, you may remember us writing about Triangle Rock Club in North Carolina’s Raleigh-Durham area. In just over 5 years, they’ve built the club into one of the southeast’s premier climbing gyms, and after meeting two of the three managing partners, it’s easy to see why. Former Marine, Andrew Kratz and seasoned businessman Joel Graybeal share an enthusiasm for climbing, but both understand it takes a lot more than that to make it work. As Andrew puts it “You may think we sell rock climbing, but what we really are selling is customer service.” And Joel subscribes to the belief that “Business is a lot like climbing, in that if you’re not advancing, you’re not going anywhere.”

We went there to do some real-world testing of our new Active Polos and Shirts, figuring that if any team could use the moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, quick-drying performance of these shirts, it would be a bunch of climbers.  And we definitely figured right. From wrangling a dozen or more kids during all-day climbing camps to coaching climbing teams prepping for national competitions to setting routes on the club’s 9000 square feet of climbing walls, the gang at Triangle Rock Club never has a dull moment.

As Joel told us, “The staff is always on their feet. In fact there are no chairs for employees on the club’s main floor” (not that they would have time to sit!).

Before we went to see the Triangle team, we were expecting them to give us lots of feedback on the performance features of the Active Collection, and while they all appreciated that (especially in regard to their non-stop work routines) there was one comment that really made us proud. Andrew  – remember, he’s the former Marine –  was asked for an overall opinion, and he had this to say: “Being a former Marine, one of the pieces of that is about being professional. This logo wear helps reinforce the professional look that we ask our staff to maintain in their interactions with our customers.” We couldn’t have summed it up any better.

Have a company that could put our products to the test? We’d love to hear it. Use the comments or connect with us on Facebook. And if you'd like to see more of Triangle Rock Club, check them out here.

SURVEY SAYS: your take on the trade show scene.

In December, we invited everyone to offer their insights on trade shows. Our questions were focused around appearance (naturally) and how to improve overall effectiveness. We had over 1,000 respondents (and one was lucky enough to get a $100 gift card!) who served us some pretty telling results. Some seem like just common sense, but we thought we’d let you know what others are seeing out there so you can make sure you get the most from your trade show efforts.

• Over 48% report having seen sloppy or messy booths, so be sure you keep it clean.

• Don’t forget to pay attention: almost 60% have been ignored by reps in a booth.

• Hold your calls. 48% noticed booth staffers on their cell phones. Just ask yourself if it’s really that important.

• Always stagger your coverage. 45% saw booths unmanned for prolonged periods of time.

• And amazingly, over 30% saw booth staffers that were hard to identify as company reps. 

You'll be hearing more about trade shows from us in the coming weeks, and if you’re looking for outfitting advice for your next big event, be sure to engage our experts. Give us a call at 800-587-1541, leave a comment or connect with us on Facebook. And watch for our upcoming trade show webinar!

Lands' End Business Outfitters wants to be your office Secret Santa helper.

Remember your first manager who was the world's best listener? The mentor who squelched your fear of negotiations? Or the unsung heros who make your daily work feel a little less so. That's the heart of our SECRET SANTA PROJECT. You nominate a coworker, past boss, or the entrepreneur who is trying to make a go of it across the street. Pick out a gift from our list of possibilities. We'll award winners for twelve business days starting on Dec. 5. Entries are accepted through Dec. 19.

We've already given away a lot of great prizes:

Day 1:  Van M's nominee received a $250 Lands' End Gift Card. She'd spent the past four years putting her employees first. Van felt it was time she treated herself.

Day 2: Jaimie G's nominee's ability to make sense of the most complicated processes won her a ThermaCheck Throw. Sharla G thought the Canvas Wine Tote would make her nominee's day. Her endless good deeds make the office a brighter place.

Day 3: Friendship is the theme for today's winners. Paula B, Tammy W and Lynn W each thought ThermaCheck Pullovers would warm the hearts of co-workers who feel more like friends. 

Day 4: We're happy to recognize Ann B's nominee who "runs our house" and Joanne G's nominee who couldn't be stopped by Hurricane Sandy with  ThermaCheck Pullovers. Derek W believes someone who neither asks for, nor requires the spotlight should have their own super hero uniform. Mesh Polo will do the trick. Kathy B says customer service is a happy place thanks to her nominee's smile. Canvas Wine Tote for her. 

Day 5: Tami K's nominee receives a Canvas Tote just in time to celebrate her promotion. Laura C is recognizing an all-star junior team member with a ThermaCheck Pullover. Candice S can't find enough words to toast her nominee's good work. A gift of a Canvas Wine Tote will help. CM says the person who holds the company together should have a better tools. We're happy to help with a new iPad Case. Diana V gives her nominee a Canvas Wine Tote.  "She is my rock at the office."

Day 6: Laurie M and Michele L's nominees will receive a cozy ThermaCheck Throw. Nikki A, Lori K, and Tammie W's nominees will receive ThermaCheck Pullovers. We hope Laurie's nominee will enjoy the warmth in her retirement and Michele's friend will smile even brighter. Nikki is recognizing someone close to her who is recovering from surgery, while Lori and Tammie celebrate a strong work ethic. Patty A's nominee will enjoy an iPad case. A great gift for someone, "who is an amazing storyteller and colleague."

Day 7: Gus B and Randi K chose a Canvas Tote for their worthy nominees. A great choice for people who wear so many hats. Tammy O thinks the sweetest way to recognize someone with integrity and honor is with a tin of English Toffee (he's going to love it!). Cindy S, Annie M, and Lisa B want their go-to girls something to warm them on their way: a ThermaCheck Pullover.  Dryden B believes the "hardest working, nicest person" in his life deserves an iPad case. We're happy to help.

Day 8: BJ H, your nominee's devotion to people in need and Darryl L's nominee who balances work and family, and Tom D's celebration of his nominee's rise from secretary to Vice President earns them a ThermaCheck Throw. Contessa E's nominee is an accountant who deserves recognition. We agree and will surprise her with a Canvas Tote. Ken W reached across the aisle to recognize a valuable business partner while Nancy S nominated her new recruit to helped them stay afloat. Both will enjoy our ThermaCheck Pullover. Tammy W and Tammy P both felt an iPad case was the gift that fit their nominees. We hope Tammy W's outreach angel puts it to good use. 

Day 9: Sweet treats are in store for Tim B and Lauren J's nominees. Each wins English Butter Toffee. Kyle W, Lori N and Lori B all selected ThermaCheck Throws for their nominees. Heath W's nominee will honor his mentor, teacher and friend with a Mesh Polo. Kathleen F is toasting her nominee with  a Canvas Wine Tote. She tells us her friend "...leads with grace and wisdom." How nice. Jenny H is honoring her animal-loving nominee with a ThermaCheck  Pullover. Perfect for dog walks.  Donna N selected an iPad case for her nominee who stayed behind to help with a big transition. What a great story.   

Day 10: ThermaCheck Pullovers are still the top prize of choice! They'll be warming the nominees of Rita B, Joanie S, Pam B, Chris D, Dawn M and Valerie D. Rita's story about overcoming adversity with an incredibly positive attitude brought tears to our eyes. Joanie recognized a true mentor. Pam knows a great asset to the company when she sees one. Chris wants to recognize his inspiration for getting the business off the ground. Dawn found the person who is an innovative problem solver and Valerie is recognizing a boss that knows the value of work/family balance. George G is hoping English Butter Toffee helps ease the sting of personal loss for his nominee. Madeline E and Pete Q both felt iPad Cases were a great gift. Madeline's nominee is so much more than a manager while Pete wanted to spotlight a spectacular teacher. Yvonne B. is recognizing a true community asset with a Mesh Polo, her gift of choice.

Day 11: Cozy ThermaCheck Throws will warm the nominees of Ken R, Jissica M, Jennifer F, Cindy P and Kathy T.  Ken knows that it's the little things that add up to the big things. Jissica is recognizing her nominee's creativity. Jennifer wants to thank the person who gave her a break when she returned to work after maternity leave. Cindy is celebrating her business friend of 22 years. Kathy believes her nominee's smile is the real gift. ThermaCheck Pullovers are the choice for Andrea R., Erica F, Adrea L's nominees. Andrea and Erica both nominate people who make a difference every day. Andrea L is thankful for a fantastic boss. Venita B selected a scented candle for her nominee as a thank you for her endless professionalism and leadership. Theresa B selected a Mesh Polo for a student director and Colleen C. found an iPad Case was the gift for a guy who truly showcases enthusiasm and loyalty.

Day 12 (FINAL WINNERS): Kim W and Rick S both selected Canvas Wine Totes for their nominees who both happen to be excellent organizers. Melissa B, Jacqueline B, and Lisa M all selected iPad Cases for their nominees who play instrumental roles in creating consistent success. Canvas Tote is the gift chosen by Jennifer M for her small business owner nominee who wears many hats. ThermaCheck Pullovers are still a hot pick. Denise U, Ellen K, and Deborah B all felt it was the gift for truly dedicated nominees. They each work with people who have a staying power that's hard to top. ThermaCheck Throws are the gifts selected by Michael L, Mara F and ClaireJ for their nominees. Michael couldn't be the ace chef he is without his business head. Mara recognizes the person who keeps them all in logo'd apparel. Claire felt the person who helped them get through a corporate name change deserves a cozy place to relax. Nice work!

Thank you for letting us be a part of your holiday celebrations this year. And congratulations to all our winners!  

 

How Dave Cook learned to harvest holiday magic.

Dave and Barb Cook assure us that their address on Ebenezer Road was not what drove them to the Christmas tree business.

Once a successful livestock and grain operation, Dave began to imagine a different future for the family farm when he took over as proprietor in 1984. Shortly after he married Barb in 1994, they planted their first Christmas trees in unused pasture and later started tapping 100 year old maples that grew in the east woods, creating delicious maple syrup.

“We sold our first trees about ten years ago,” says Dave. “The first few years, I knew everyone who came to the farm. This past year, we sold about a thousand trees. I still recognize about a quarter of the people. I always ask customers where they heard about us (we don't do a lot of advertising). When I started hearing, “I’ve been coming here for years,” that’s when it occurred to me. We’re a part of people’s traditions." 

Cooks' Woods offers folks a simple experience: drive down Ebenezer Road to the gravel driveway. Take a saw and learn a little about the types of trees and where to find them. If you're in a hurry, select from a few pre-cut trees. But most enjoy the excitement of the search. Bring Dave and his team your tree, warm up in the barn where they hang the greenery for sale. Enjoy a free cup of hot chocolate while they shake and bale your tree for transport. Sorry, no credit cards accepted. "A few people each year aren't prepared for that, so I tell them to just mail me a check when they get home. Haven't lost money on a tree yet," says Dave.

"It’s a simple business. Not much else is these days."

Every employee, seasonal help aside from Dave and Barb, is given embroidered clothing. "It helps people identify the employees during our busy season and it connects us to the farm." They hire additional sales help for the busiest weekends, about four to six make greenery and during the summer, about two or three work in the fields. "We have about 40,000 trees, plant about 5,500 new transplants each spring and touch every one of them at least once during the growing season," he says.

"I get a lot of the same kids back for a few years, then their sisters and brothers, sometimes girlfriends or boyfriends join us.” 

It’s the simplicity of the operation that makes Cooks’ Woods so appealing. The rustic barn, where sturdy, wooden benches welcome a respite. Comfortable enough for the snow pants wearing crowd. And a generous cup of hot chocolate you can sweeten yourself. An outing lasts as long as you want it to (and Wisconsin winters will allow). 

As for Dave’s maple syrup business, he says it started out of pure luck. “I always say I’m fortunate the seeds landed in our east woods 100 or so years ago.” The syrup business bursts to life in the spring and ends just as quickly. During a consecutive stretch of nights when  temperatures drop below freezing and days warm to 30s and 40s, the sap flows. But when it stops freezing and the trees start to break bud, collection halts. “It’s part of the trees waking up. Once the leaves bud, the sap changes flavor and it’s not suitable any longer.” Dave’s labyrinth of hoses nets over 5,000 gallons of sap, which translates to about 125 gallons of the purest, sweetest maple syrup, carefully bottled and labeled at the farm. 

“This spring was brutal for our maple syrup business. The lack of freezing nights hurt us. But we still did well, just in less time. That’s the way of it. You’re only responding to nature, not controlling it.” 

To learn more about Cooks' Woods, visit their website. Or take a drive to Ebenezer Road in Fennimore, Wisconsin. On any given day, you'll likely find Dave and Barb at work.