Directories

Service Category

Printing

Business Description

The company has continued to innovate over the years. As clients requested more hands-off ordering, W.S. Emerson implemented online stores and streamlined employee uniform programs. Sales representatives work closely with clients to showcase their brand through a custom collection of branded apparel. Over the past year, W.S. Emerson has adopted Lean Manufacturing, which is benefiting both the company’s performance and its employees, improving morale and engagement in decision making. This ability to shift with the market and customer needs has led to growth in staff and sales. Last year, the leadership team grew by five members, and annual sales were up 12%, adding 600 new clients in 2018 alone. Two generations currently lead their family’s business. John Vickery, Sr. joined in 1966, leading the company through many changes and stages of growth. While retired, he is nonetheless known to offer his wisdom and guidance regularly. John Sr’s brother, Russ, is seen daily, offering his knowledge and support whenever asked. John Jr., the current President, has tremendous knowledge from growing up in this family business; his wife and Vice President, Betsy, has also grown up in this business. Together, John Jr., and Betsy have molded a talented leadership team that will help navigate the company well into the future.

Family Business History

W.S. Emerson Company has, over its nearly 100 years, transformed the garment decorating industry on the east coast, pioneering decorating techniques not previously available in the market. W.S. Emerson operates one of New England’s largest garment decorating shops—an asset in a region that has lost countless manufacturing jobs. Their vast capabilities include screenprinting, full-color waterbased digital printing, embroidery and a state-of-the-art bridge laser applique machine.