This month, I was in Wolverhampton visiting Slick Stitch - now Europe's biggest embroiderer. From its early beginnings on a market stall, this go-getting family firm now counts some of the biggest names in sportswear among its clients. The dynamic, young management team has spearheaded a 60% growth this year and expects business to double again in 2010.

Of course, such growth is no accident. A commitment to investing in new machinery - they have the only 18-head Barudan in Europe - and the ability to "think outside the box" is more than paying dividends.

But at the end of the day, it comes down to good old-fashioned hard work, quick turn-arounds and simply giving the customer what they want. It's not rocket science.

As a blueprint, however, the Slick Stitch model must take some beating. Turn to page 42 for my interview with managing director, Inder Jain.

I also visited TheMagicTouch in Dunstable this month and I was extremely impressed by the company's loyalty to its customers and Jim Nicol's altruistic approach to helping them grow their own businesses.

Equally impressive is TMT's approach to product development. It's another classic case of how a bit of lateral thinking can result in something unique that will just fly. Read my interview with Jim on page 50 and you'll see what I mean.

By the way, thanks to Jim for the raft of goodies he sent me emblazoned with Nobby, my cat! The kids loved the Nobby jigsaw and the Nobby flip-flops. And while writing this, my Nobby mousemat and Nobby mug all have pride of place on my desk!

Meanwhile, I commend you to enter our Printwear & Promotion Garment Decoration Awards. There's an entry form on page 70 or visit our website, www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk for more information.

Have a good month.

deales@datateam.co.uk

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