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Family Christian Stores(FCS) is America's leading specialty retailer, with more than 300 locations in 39 states offering Christian-themed books, music, videos, software, gifts, apparel and more. The FCS chain grew rapidly after spinning off from Christian publishing giant Zondervan in the '90s. By 2005, it became apparent that FCS' fulfillment vendors could not keep pace with continuing expansion - and the company launched a formal search for a strategic partner that could successfully address these problems:

• Lack of consistent color in store signs.
• Damaged signs and late deliveries.
• Inaccurate and incomplete store kits.
• Slow response time.

Integra's vast experience serving retail-industry clients convinced FCS to include us in their evaluation process. Our immediate grasp of their situation and identification of possible solutions sealed the deal.

Our services for Family Christian Stores include:

• We've created specific ink matches for each color in the FCS "palette," ensuring consistent colors from one press run and one product to the next - vital for stores in which colors are used to designate departments.
• Our packaging department designed custom boxes for different kit sizes, accommodating materials ranging from 41" x 55" window banners to 3" x 6" shelf cards. Proper packaging has virtually eliminated damage.
• We used Mindwire to create an electronic packing list that FCS can instantly update and transmit to our packing department, so the right materials get kitted and sent to the right stores. Mindwire also allows FCS to electronically order replacement signs for same-day shipment to stores.
• We enable FCS to use online proofing, speeding their approvals and our turnaround time.
• We've "lent" our graphic design personnel to FCS to temporarily cover their staff shortages.

Prior to Integra's involvement, FCS fielded roughly 100 follow-up calls from stores every time a kit was shipped. There were only three calls after Integra's first shipment - a performance standard that continues to this day, saving FCS considerable money, time and frustration.

Our shipments are not only accurate, they're fast. "We can give you a week to turn this around," FCS told us on one of our first projects for them. "Why would you give us that long?" we asked. "We're accustomed to working at the speed of retail … we'll have it for you today."

Or would you just like to give us your business, no questions asked? We're fine either way.