As a fourth-generation printing establishment, the Kennickell Group Printing Company founded in 1892 by Milton Kennickell in Savannah Georgia went from one of the smallest printers in town to the largest by 1950. This was helped by Kennickell being the first printer in the area to move from metal type-letterpress printing to “offset” which is the technology in use today and still growing 132 years later as one of the few printing and distribution companies in America to offer a full Content Distribution Management System with her own proprietary fulfillment programme that allows editing, modifying, and publishing content as well as tracking inventory levels and activity 24/7 from a central online interface. To motivate practitioners especially women in print, WHERE To Print caught up with the first woman to lead the Kennickell Group, Vice President – Kacey Kennickell Ray to share her story through the ranks, learning and taking responsibilities in managing sub-sections of the group’s formation, and other acts of succession worthy of emulation. Below is excerpt of the SPECIAL FEATURE INTERVIEW:
CONGRATULATIONS ON BEING THE 4TH GENERATION OF THE KENNICKELL GROUP, HOW DO YOU FEEL?
It’s an incredible honour to be part of a legacy that spans over a century. I feel a deep sense of responsibility to uphold the values and standards that have been passed down through generations. At the same time, I’m excited about leading the company into the future with fresh ideas and continous innovation.
TAKE US THROUGH A BRIEF OF YOUR JOURNEY THROUGH THE RANKS BEFORE BECOMING THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE KENNICKELL GROUP?
I started in entry-level positions at a young age to learn every facet of the business, from production to customer relations. Understanding the technical and operational aspects was crucial to building a foundation. Over time, I took on more responsibilities, such as managing our direct mail operation and business development, before eventually moving into leadership roles. Each step taught me the importance of teamwork and staying connected with the core of our operations.
“Embrace change rather than resist it, and always have a forward-thinking mindset.”
HOW DID YOU INTEGRATE THROUGH THE RANKS SO THAT STAFF DO NOT THINK YOU’RE BEING GIVEN UNFAIR ADVANTAGE?
I worked my way through the business like anyone else, providing value through hard work and dedication. Earning the trust of our team was essential.
AS A YOUNG WOMAN IN A MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRY, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE ISSUES YOU FACED GROWING UP IN THE MARKETPLACE AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?
I overcame challenges by focusing on results, letting my work speak for itself, and finding mentors who supported my growth. Building a strong network of both women and men in the industry has been invaluable.
WHAT BUSINESS CHALLENGES DID YOU OVERCOME, ESPECIALLY IN TERMS OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND MARKET FORCES?
Adapting to shifting market trends is an ongoing challenge and we’ve had to stay agile. We faced the supply chain disruption along with the evolving digital landscape, requiring us to innovate our offerings while staying true to our roots in traditional printing. Strategic investments in technology and continuous learning helped us overcome these hurdles.
© Al Kennickell…Kacey Kennickell Ray making presentation at one of IPN Global meetings
WHAT LESSONS DID YOU LEARN FROM THE CHALLENGES THAT OTHERS CAN ADOPT TO SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATE TOUGH TIMES?
Adaptability and resilience are key. Embrace change rather than resist it, and always have a forward-thinking mindset. It’s important to make decisions that are data-driven yet intuitive. Lastly, trust your team – fostering a collaborative environment allows you to leverage collective strength during tough times.
WHAT OLD BUSINESS STRATEGY(IES) DO YOU THINK PRINT & ALLIED PRACTITIONERS SHOULD DO DIFFERENTLY NOW TO TAKE THEIR BUSINESSES TO THE NEXT LEVEL?
One thing the industry should reconsider is an over-reliance on traditional methods. While the fundamentals of quality and service are timeless, integrating advanced technology like automation, data-driven marketing, and eco-friendly practices can enhance efficiency and appeal to today’s market. We must evolve to stay relevant.
IN A DEMANDING INDUSTRY LIKE OURS, HOW DO YOU MANAGE WORK-LIFE BALANCE ENSURING THAT NONE OF THESE VITAL AREAS IS NEGATIVELY AFFECTED?
Work-life balance is a constant effort, especially in such a fast-paced industry. I’ve learnt that setting boundaries is essential, and delegation is crucial. I prioritize self-care and my family (my husband and twin 3-year-old daughters), which helps me stay grounded and energized.
“Building a strong network of both women and men in the industry has been invaluable.”
ON STAFF RELATIONS: HOW DO YOU THINK MANAGEMENT OUGHT TO DEAL WITH STAFF TO BRING OUT THE BEST IN THEM FOR OVERALL GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY OF THE BUSINESS?
Creating an open and transparent communication culture is essential. People thrive when they feel valued and heard. Providing opportunities for professional development, recognizing achievements, and fostering teamwork helps to keep morale high. A motivated team is a company’s greatest asset.
HOW DO YOU THINK DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS OF STAFF CAN BE USED TO LEVERAGE BUSINESS ADVANTAGE, ESPECIALLY FOR PROFITABILITY AND BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY IN THIS ECONOMY?
Diversity brings different perspectives, which leads to more innovative solutions. When you harness the varied experiences and skills of a diverse team, you create a richer decision-making process, more creativity, and ultimately a competitive edge.
©…Kacey making Customer Success presentation during Konica Minolta Press Conference at PRINTINGUnited 2024 in Vegas
WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THIS YEAR AND WILL MOTIVATE YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS TO SUCCEED IN YEARS TO COME?
I’m excited about the expansion of our digital printing capabilities. These initiatives are crucial to staying competitive in today’s market. The ability to adapt to industry trends while preserving our core values will drive our success in the years to come.
ON A PERSONAL LEVEL, WHAT NEW HABITS DID YOU START AND ARE WORKING WELL FOR YOU THAT OTHERS CAN LEARN FROM?
I’ve started embracing mindfulness practices. Taking a few moments each day to reflect has improved my focus and decision-making. It’s an habit that not only helps me in business but also in maintaining my overall well-being.
WHAT ARE THE KEY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP TIPS THAT YOU KNOW WILL BE VITAL TO BUSINESS GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY?
Listening to customers and anticipating their needs are crucial. Building strong, long-term relationships is about trust and communication. Additionally, being proactive in offering new solutions and services shows customers that you’re invested in their success, not just your own.
“We must evolve to stay relevant.”
ANY NEW PRODUCT OR SERVICE OFFERING THAT DISTINGUISHES YOU FROM THE COMPETITION?
Our focus remains to expand our digital printing capabilities and wide-format offerings. As an example, we purchased the AccurioJet KM-1e in 2021 and it has been a game changer for our company. In short, it has provided better quality, faster deliveries, and reduced costs for our clients. It has been a revolutionary addition, and we don’t plan to stop there!
© Al Kennickell…Father-Daughter Business Bonding: Kacey with Dad – Al at the world’s largest air show – AirVenture, held in Oshkosh Wisconsin to see clients and prospects in the aviation industry.
WHAT ADVICE WILL YOU GIVE TO WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS IN OUR INDUSTRY ON STAYING FOCUSED?
Stay confident in your vision but remain open to collaboration and feedback. It’s important to have a support system both inside and outside the business.
WHAT ADVICE WILL YOU GIVE TO YOUNG GIRLS/WOMEN LOOKING AT A CAREER PATH IN THE INDUSTRY?
Your unique perspective is valuable, and there’s room for everyone. Find mentors, continue learning, and be confident in your abilities.
WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR THE 2025 PRINTIGUNITED SHOW?
As always, the 2025 show should provide a valuable platform to immerse ourselves in the latest technologies, trends, and opportunities shaping our industry. I’m looking forward to catching up with peers and friends, making new connections, and gaining insights that will drive our business forward.
FINALLY; WHAT KIND OF LEGACY DO YOU WANT TO LEAVE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION THAT WILL BE MANAGING THE KENNICKELL GROUP?
Innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. My hope is that future generations will continue to uphold the values that have defined our company while pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve in the print and signage industry.
© Al Kennickell…Celebrity Visit: (L-R) Andrew Smith (VP of Sales), Kacey Kennickell Ray (Vice President), former University of Georgia great and Heisman Trophy winner, Herschel Walker, and Al Kennickell (President).
HOW PROUD WILL MILTON KENNICKELL BE?
If he were here today, Milton Kennickell would really be proud! He would be proud that the small printing company he founded on York Street in downtown Savannah in 1892 would still be growing 132 years later. He would be proud of his twin sons, Alfred and Ralph who took the company in 1932 and built it into the largest printer in Savannah. He would be proud of his grandson Ralph Jr., who went to Washington to head the United States Government Printing Office in the Reagan administration.
He would be proud that his grandson Al built the company into one of the largest print and mailing facilities in the region. He would be surprised too, that the company not only provides print and mailing services, but inventory management, distribution services, grand format POP, and data management. He would be surprised to see the company is now housed in two buildings with over 120,000 square feet. He may be a bit shocked to learn that the company operates a warehouse in China, is one of the country’s leaders in worldwide distribution services, has strategic partnerships on every continent and has clients all over the world.
More importantly, Milton Kennickell would be proud that the fourth generation of the Kennickell family to lead the business is a woman – Kacey Kennickell Ray who has grown the company to become a leader in offset printing, digital printing, wide-format printing, signage, and direct mail services. No doubt, the Kennickell Group prides itself on combining its rich history with modern innovation, always striving to meet the evolving needs of its clients worldwide.