David Spencer |
Atlantic Paper & Supply Co. co-owner
According to the Institute for Family Owned Business, family-owned businesses constitute approximately 90% of all businesses in the United States. Atlantic Paper & Supply is currently in its third generation of family ownership.
Many of Atlantic’s suppliers and customers are also family-owned businesses. In the most successful of these enterprises, family members avoid any sense of entitlement. Professional advancement is earned through individual commitment and contributions to organizational goals. Clearly defined roles help maintain order and strengthen both business operations and family dynamics.
As with any successful company, leadership plays a critical role in fostering a positive and motivating environment for both family and nonfamily employees. Being relatively small and family-oriented provides us the flexibility to make decisions quickly and thoughtfully.
One of our core values is finding ways to say yes – to employees, customers and suppliers. We believe this proactive, solutions-focused mindset gives us a competitive edge over larger corporate organizations.
How can you profit? We have worked diligently to cultivate a welcoming, family-like atmosphere for all stakeholders. In doing so, we have established a business model that is both profitable and sustainable.