Alderson’s Awards West-Printwares, was originally known as Ralph's Trophies. In 1981, Pat & Sherry Swanson purchased the business and in 1983, changed the name to Awards West. To accommodate rapidly increasing growth, the Swansons sought additional managerial assistance and incorporated the business and offered interest in it to Tom & Karen Alderson.
In January of 1986, Tom & Karen Alderson joined the firm as Vice-President and Treasurer, respectively. In early 1987, the company relocated to a new 6000 sq. ft. production and retail distribution center. In late 1988, an additional adjacent 1000 sq. ft. was acquired. In this location, the company established a decorated apparel division named Printwares.
In 1991, an additional adjacent 1000 sq. ft. facility was acquired to accommodate the rapidly expanding screen printing and embroidery production needs. This brought the total showroom and production facility to over 8000 sq. ft. In January of 1994, Awards West agreed to purchase the shares owned by the Swansons, thus leaving Tom & Karen Alderson as the sole shareholders and officers.
In 1995, the company consolidated its two retail outlets into one mega-showroom, while re-modeling and re-tooling its production facilities for maximum efficiency. In 1998, the corporate name was officially changed to Awards West- Printwares, Inc. to better reflect the entire nature of the business. In 2002, another major showroom renovation was enacted, including additional sales and research offices, along with significantly improved product displays.
In 2003, to recognize the family owned nature of our business, our new trade name of Alderson’s Awards West- Printwares was adopted. In July of 2005, Alex Alderson joined the firm as the manager of our Printwares Division, further strengthening the family-held and managed business.
To create and retain customers of identification, recognition, and promotional products by utilizing quality materials, efficient production methods and providing exceptional service. We believe this is the basis for sustained growth and profitability.
Our customers are the foundation of our business. We honor them by being honest, reliable, and friendly, as well as providing quality products designed to meet their needs. Our company and its members contribute to each other's success. We value productivity, quality, honesty, and respect. We actively participate in improving ourselves and our company.
Our vendors are our business partners. We treat them with respect and hold them accountable for the same high quality and service we expect from ourselves. Our investors have entrusted us with their personal savings. We plan, organize, and manage these investments for a secure and fruitful return.
Our community is the environment in which our company operates. It reflects the quality of life we experience. As a company, we support and participate in our community.
