H&H Graphics began when twin brothers, Phil and Marshall Helfand, incorporated in 1978. However, the story really begins much earlier...
Phil and Marsh both attended DePaul University, but they had different dreams. Phil was going to be a certified public accountant, while Marsh had a passion for art. After leaving DePaul, they ended up entering the printing industry instead. They had worked in printing in their pre-college days starting at the age of 13. The two brothers joined E.R. Lurey in the screen printing department, and developed expertise there for twenty-seven years. Eventually, E.R. Lurey decided to outsource its screen printing department. Rather than join the unemployed, Phil and Marsh formed H&H Graphics and set up shop in Chicago to handle the outsourced work of their former employer.
Over the years, the business grew by word-of-mouth and repeat business. H&H Graphics established a strong reputation for high quality and outstanding service at a fair price. The company's reputation was built on the Helfand brothers' commitment to each other, their employees, their craft and their customers. When their customers' needs changed, they adapted and developed new applications for screen printing, including using u.v. inks and glitter vehicles to serve the plastic card and greeting card industries.
In 1980, Phil's son Michael joined the business and quickly learned as an apprentice to his father and uncle. Michael studied all aspects of screen printing, from pre-press to shipment, and learned the business by watching and doing. Over time, Michael wore all hats and became proficient in every area.
As the Chicago area surrounding their shop was deteriorating, the Helfands looked for a new location and eventually moved the business to its current address in Lincolnwood, Illinois.
Today, with over 20,000 square feet and a continued commitment to the values instilled by Phil and Marshall Helfand, the business continues to grow. In March of 2008, Phil and Marsh retired at the age of 72, and sold the company to the next generation. Michael Helfand was joined by his cousin, Michelle Leissner, and together they run H&H Graphics, Inc. today. The core values at the root of the company's success remain firmly in place.
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| Phil & Marsh Helfand |
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