When asked what type of businesses Paramount now serves, Brad answered, "We are known in the industry as the distributors’ distributor. Our customers are typically small to medium sized independent dealers, as well as Sharp authorized dealers and distributors. As the largest Sharp authorized dealer/distributor in the U.S. and with more than 60 million dollars in sales (retail and wholesale combined), our purchasing power allows us to be extremely competitive," stated Brad

Paramount Imaging has seen steady growth since the beginning, and they expect to continue in the years to come. The reason for this could possibly be found in one of Brad’s favorite sayings. You always get what you’ve always gotten if you always do what you’ve always done. Brad explained, "We know that in order to keep growing, we must always continue to improve and grow as well." As the economy creates more difficulty for businesses in the industry, Paramount has proven to be successful in harsh times. Brad elaborated, "Last year we exceeded our goals by 14%, despite a so-called ‘down market.’ Some of our largest buys are Sharp ‘close-outs.’ We typically will buy the last 1000-2500 of a soon to be discontinued machine from Sharp, and will sell them at a 30-50% discount. We buy in such large quantities that we can often compete with compatibles by selling our OEM Supplies at Generic Prices. Our customers don’t have to worry about receiving counterfeit supplies because we only buy from Sharp directly. Our purchasing power has made it possible to be competitive coast to coast (even with shipping charges), and we have found niches in Canada, Mexico and overseas where we are strong."

Paramount’s primary line is Sharp, but they also distribute many other manufactures’ parts. In addition to their products, Paramount can provide product support to their customers. Brad explains, "We offer New, Used and Factory Remanufactured Sharp Copiers and Facsimile, OEM Sharp Supplies. It’s not only the hardware and supplies that we sell; it’s the all around training, service and support that set us apart from others. We provide hands on technical training, networking, scanning and e-file training. We also offer OEM and Generic Sharp, Toshiba, Mita, Ricoh Parts, and Technical Support on machines that are purchased through us. Over-the-phone Parts Research and Leasing are some of the services that separates us from the distributor who is only interested in moving boxes." Brad continued, "We stand behind every machine that we sell and we have over a million dollars in parts inventory to prove it! With a 98% fill rate, our parts department has been a lifesaver to many of our customers."

Paramount’s marketing efforts have included monthly trade publications like ENX Magazine, industry trade shows, prospecting with their in-house telemarketing and distributing direct mailers. Brad also noted that some of their new business is often referred from their current customers. "We feel that word of mouth from satisfied customers can often bring us the best marketing results," stated Brad.

Paramount Imaging has made a name as a support-based distributorship. With a continued focus on customer satisfaction, their methods and quality of customer service has not gone unnoticed. In fact, Paramount has received multiple industry awards over the years. Recently, Paramount Imaging and their Dealer Division, MWB Copier Products, has been recognized as the largest Sharp copier, printer and fax dealer for total revenue in the nation, for the last five consecutive years. This accomplishment is quite extraordinary considering the network consists of approximately 500 authorized Sharp dealers throughout the United States. "We have always prided ourselves with offering a level of service that is unheard of in this industry." Brad stated. "Paramount Imaging has received many accolades, from Sharp (Largest supplier of the year), Inc. Magazine (Entrepreneur of the Year), and Office Dealer Magazine (Entrepreneur of the Year) to name a few." Brad continued, "However, it’s our employee’s dedication and letters of thanks from our customers that mean the most. It’s our small company attitude, fair pricing, shared knowledge and our attention to every issue, no matter how small that has allowed us to grow year after year."

If you would like to inquire more on the many products and services Paramount has to offer, please feel free to contact one of their managers directly at: Paramount Imaging 800-745-7676. Brad Cronkhite (New Machines and Supplies Manager with12 years at Paramount Imaging) at extension 8205, Robert Duchess (Used and Refurbished Machines Manager, with 10 years at Paramount Imaging) at extension 8210 or Paul Luna (Parts Supervisor with 9 years at Paramount Imaging) at extension 8202.