Creative Memories to Expand into Digital Scrapbooking

ST. CLOUD, Minn. (Aug. 18, 2006) – To maximize resources and expand its presence in the digital scrapbooking market, The Antioch Company, the parent company of Creative Memories, will close its Sparks, Nev., facility on Oct. 20, 2006, and will transfer manufacturing and distribution operations to its St. Cloud, Minn., and Richmond, Va., facilities. Eighty-five employee-owners were affected by the Sparks facility closure.

Technological advances allow the St. Cloud facility to service the western United States, previously serviced by Sparks, with no interruptions. The introduction of direct ship to Consultants and customers for traditional album-making supplies and the increasing popularity of digital scrapbooking also reduced the company’s need for an additional facility. The decision to consolidate manufacturing and distribution to the St. Cloud facility offers the most efficient strategy for Creative Memories’ continued success.

“This consolidation of operations will position Creative Memories well for the future,” said Asha Morgan Moran, president of Creative Memories, global. “Customers and sales representatives will continue to receive the exceptional level of service they’ve come to expect from Creative Memories.”

Antioch representatives notified employees at the Sparks facility on Aug. 17, 2006. Representatives met with those affected by the plant closure and provided information on the steps the company will be taking to ease their transition, including information about 13 transfer opportunities to the St. Cloud facility.

“Antioch extends its gratitude to all of the employee-owners in Sparks who have dedicated their time and energies to Creative Memories,” Moran said.

The call center in the Sparks facility will continue to service consultants and customers as they seek a smaller storefront location. The Antioch Company also has facilities located in Richmond, Va., Yellow Springs, Ohio, and St. Cloud, Minn.

SOURCE: Creative Memories - News Releases

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