Marketing Manager Per Utne thrives best «on the floor» and believes one of CopyCat's strengths is that everyone pitches in where needed – regardless of whether their title says «manager» or not.
Since 1997, the jovial chap from Oslo has been responsible for sales and customer relations at CopyCat. And even after a quarter of a century in the job, Utne has by no means grown tired of it.
– On the contrary, I think it's more fun than ever. Last year was simply incredible, in our 25th year of operation we hit an «all-time high» – and the main reason for that is the fantastic effort from all our employees.
A year of new ventures
He believes 2022 will stand out as a landmark year for CopyCat. In addition to restructuring the management team, the company got a new logo and visual identity – and not least, a brand new website.
– It was about time for a rebranding after so many years and we think the result has turned out really well, says Utne.
In addition, the company took some measures on the production side. Among other things, they decided to focus on promotional merchandise printed «in-house».
– Many promotional items are shipped from Asia and it often takes several weeks for the goods to arrive. That is why we bought a transfer press and brought production in-house, enabling us to deliver locally produced and, above all, quick results – usually within one to two days.
Another new venture is the production of die-cut labels on a roll – perfect for smaller volumes.
– This is a product we bought from subcontractors for many years. The downside of that was long delivery times, as our customers expect things to happen quickly. So we simply got our own label printer. It's been a huge success, says Utne.
Flat structure and generous working environment
Utne explains that CopyCat is put together a bit differently than many other companies, with an exceptionally flat structure.
– It doesn't matter all that much what the title says, we're all «on the shop floor». The four of us in the management team also work a lot in production. I think it's important to be down-to-earth; just sitting at the top doesn't work.
It doesn't matter all that much what the title says, we are all «on the shop floor».
Head of Marketing at CopyCat, Per Utne
They have all along been focused on creating a good working environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging and ownership.
– Now, for example, we're looking forward to taking the whole gang to Dr. Holms at Geilo. Things like that build team spirit and are super important.
Personal customer contact never goes out of fashion
A sedentary office life has never been the dream for Utne, who is happiest «in the field».
– I have an office desk, but I would have gone stir-crazy if I only had to be there. In our industry, thankfully, you don't have to wear a suit and sit in an office. My job is never boring because there's something happening all the time. Not least, I get to get out and about and meet lots of nice people.
And folks, the marketing manager loves that.
– Geir (managing director, ed. note) says, «I don't always quite know what you're up to, Per, but no matter when you walk into a room, you start chatting with people.» Geir and I have worked together for 26 years, so we know each other inside out and complement one another. I don't think he'd manage without me, Per chuckles.
Although the societal trend is moving towards full automation and digitalisation, he is a staunch advocate of personal customer contact.
– I am convinced that the personal meeting will always be important. I believe CopyCat stands out because we are on the corner, we want customers to drop by, Utne emphasises.
Always new challenges
CopyCat's new slogan is «keeping up the pressure». Per Utne thinks it is an apt description.
– We are constantly looking to do things better and more efficiently. This can involve bringing in new machines, introducing new products or adopting new materials. For example, we have a particular focus on printing as much as possible on environmentally friendly materials. In addition, we will continue to produce quickly and provide fantastic service.
We are constantly looking to make things better and more efficient.
Head of Marketing at CopyCat, Per Utne
Is the future looking bright for CopyCat?
– Yes, I think we're doing a hell of a good job. We might not set a new operating record this year because of electricity prices, interest rates and what's happening in Europe, but for now it looks like things are going well, concludes marketing manager Per Utne.
