Print & Promo Marketing’s ongoing feature series, Executive Perspectives, tells the personal entrepreneurial stories of leading professionals in the print and promotional products industry. This month, Christopher Faris, founder and CEO of Boost Promotions (asi/142942), discusses how his background in sports informed his promo career and his philosophy of constant improvement.
How did you get started in this industry?
Chris Faris: Randomly. I was in the sports industry in New York and wanted to move to Boston. I interviewed with a promo company and got the job as vice president of marketing and sales. After approximately five years, I went out on my own, launching Boost Promotions in October 2007. Utilizing what I learned from the sports and promo industry, I created a boutique agency that focuses on marketing services, not just product.
How do you set goals for yourself and your business?
CF: I create daily, weekly, monthly and yearly goals, personally and professionally. The goals represent all aspects of my life: financial, health/wellness, spiritual, and mental well-being. I focus on continuous learning, growing and self-discovery. This same philosophy is applied to our company goals. I look at each client and assess what we can do better and how to increase yearly revenue. Then, as a team, we execute a strategy that we feel best fits each client’s needs. In saying that, not everything works, or the external environment changes, so we immediately reassess and change if needed. I believe this process keeps us sharp and, more importantly, relevant in a fast-changing world. In the end, I want to be happy and support our employees and clients in the best way possible.
How does the economy affect the industry?
CF: This question is asked every year. I can only speak on behalf of Boost and our clients. There are always economic challenges or outside events in the world. I have prepared our company to be able to adapt and thrive during these times. We’ve created additional services to supplement our revenue streams while delivering exceptional value for our clients. We will continue to innovate our product offerings, services and capabilities to keep up with the ever-changing landscape.
What are some of the biggest changes or challenges the industry will face?
CF: Continued consolidation and M&A among both distributors and suppliers. I believe everyone needs to create a more seamless process for clients. I’ve seen the parent company too many times not providing proper support to the acquired company with a transition team. This affects everyone and will most likely cause decreased revenue and trust. Another change I see is that companies will have to expand their product and decoration offerings, as well as support services. The days of product-only companies will go away, especially as the buyers get younger and more tech savvy. They expect more from their respected partners.
What keeps you up at night?
CF: Honestly, nothing really keeps me up at night. We have great relationships with our clients and will always do the right thing. We’re always very honest and transparent, which generates a high level of trust. For me, this is the most important and ethical way to conduct business. The byproduct is reduced stress and a positive work environment for all our team members.
What’s the most exciting, cutting-edge thing your company is doing right now?
CF: We’re starting an event series in Q4, partnering with unique spaces and having an open house-style event. We’ll be showcasing our supplier partners and having an immersive experience for our clients. This includes food and drink pairings, tours, musical guests and live video boards.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
CF: I’m a big advocate of health and wellness, nutrition, longevity and biohacking. If it exists, I’ll try it to live a long healthy life.
