2024 was a remarkable year for Forge's production team. Under the leadership of Marc Pugliese, Director of Strategic Business Operations, Forge experienced significant growth – a 40% expansion across the board – and impressive operational efficiency. This success reflects strategic technological investments and, crucially, Forge’s commitment to cultivating a highly skilled workforce.

This growth translated into significantly increased production volumes, with daily output frequently exceeding previous records during peak periods. This remarkable output was driven not only by investments in advanced equipment – including high-speed printers and inserters – but also by the exceptional skill and adaptability of Forge's production team. As Marc Pugliese stated, "The success wasn't simply about faster machines; it was about our team's ability to master those machines, troubleshoot effectively, and consistently maintain peak performance."  

Forge’s strategic partnerships with key vendors also played a vital role in this success. These collaborations ensured timely access to advanced technologies, minimized downtime, and contributed to overall operational efficiency. Furthermore, Forge's industry leadership has positioned them as a preferred partner for vendor beta testing, giving the company early access to innovative solutions, such as the recent integration of robotics into its production facilities.

Forge’s 2024 expansion extended beyond sheer volume and talent development; it included the strategic addition of several key services:

• In-House Envelope Manufacturing: This vertical integration enhances supply chain control, reduces costs, ensures timely delivery, and optimizes project management for clients.
• ID Card Production: Forge's investment in in-house ID card production delivers superior quality, faster turnaround times, and enhanced project control.
• Advanced Finishing Solutions: Expanded in-house finishing capabilities provides clients with increased customization options and streamlined workflows for larger mailings.

Thanks to the team’s commitment to continuous improvement and its ability to quickly integrate new technologies, these new services were adapted quickly and integrated into current workflows, ensuring a smooth client experience.

Forge’s 2024 success was also driven by strong cross-departmental collaboration. Effective communication and feedback loops between production, client services, and IT & Development teams ensured seamless integration of client needs and optimized production processes. This collaborative model fostered efficiencies and identified cost-saving opportunities across the entire operation.

Forge's 2025 focus builds on the 2024 foundation, including further expansion of envelope production, ID card capabilities, and advanced finishing services. Significant investments support this growth:

• Jacksonville Facility Expansion: A 40,000-square-foot expansion will increase production capacity to meet growing demand.
• Pittsburgh Fulfillment Center: The launch of a 90,000-square-foot fulfillment center in Pittsburgh will significantly enhance distribution and fulfillment services, ultimately paving the way for a future 40,000-square-foot expansion of Pittsburgh production space.

These investments reflect Forge's long-term commitment to growth and operational excellence. While the industry faces challenges – declining print communication, rising material costs, and postal rate increases– Forge’s diversified service offerings, strong vendor partnerships, and highly skilled workforce position the company for sustained success. The team's dedication to innovation and operational efficiency will continue to drive Forge's advancement within the industry.