continued: some notes
Looking ahead: as last year, 1st quarter was bad, 2nd was almost even, 3rd quarter...we made some money, 4th quarter will depend on getting up sales...to hopefully bring us close to a breakeven...
What was reemphasized is that in the past focus was largely on restoring company records, becoming current, controlling expenses, etc.
What will be given greater emphasis in the 99 will be marketing and continued R & D, even at the expense of short term profits. It is the intention of Allen to have TVI represented at as many trade shows, open houses, etc., during the upcoming year. This is costly, but a necessity if we are to grow the company into the next level...a theme repeated both the Mr. Bender and Mr. Samples.
New markets have been explored, and are more are being developed. Even at the meeting, some shareholders had some positive suggestions.
It was suggested that TVI needs greater internet exposure and accessiblity. Favorable comments regarding the web page were received, and Mr. Samples indicated future improvements to the web page are planned.
Mr. Bender was asked about the importance of the ISO consortium, re certification and its importance. Mr. Bender replied that he felt this was very important as this likely will become the standard and TVI is actively seeking to reach full certification by the year 2000, to better position itself in the marketplace.
Asked were how many current employees...response "low 20's", 22- 24.
Also discussed was the importance of the various WMD (weapons of mass destruction) programs, in regards to potential terriorists threats, and what that means to TVI in terms of supplying equipment. This is an area which has already led to increased sales for TVI.
One of the market areas that TVI has moved into includes use of the quick erect technology for corporate signage. Pepsi-cola was mentioned as a supporter of the technology, and one was on display for shareholders to see. A new market named hospitality/ promotion was cited as one of interest to TVI, and inroads are being made to further exploit same.
Another point emphasized was the creation of a second military line of products, less expensive, designed to provide quick shelter for needs which demanded less stringent standards, while still providing the quick erect technology. This second line uses aluminum grade tubing, commericially available fabrics, longer beams (requires less metal), etc. This line is for those military needs which focus on immediate shelter needs, not requiring the expensive applicitions and design of the primary shelter technology. I believe this was a good move for TVI.
Well that is about all I can remember for now, send your questions, perhaps it will jog more memory...for now one last personal comment..
I left the meeting feeling more comfortable with my investment in TVI. During each of the past 3 shareholders meeting, (the first of which I was nominated to the board for a brief time), I came away feeling a greater sense of optimism. To be sure, TVI is a company which faces many obstacles, both known and unknown, however it seems we have turned the corner. We are now looking beyond surving to company to growing the company...in the words spoken at the meeting, phrases such as "taking TVI to the next level..." focusing on the marketing and revenue growth, etc. etc. All of this, plus the mere fact that Allen and all those associated with TVI have kept the company going, have given me a chance to perhaps, take an extended deep breath, shake my shoulders, and even give my hopes for a successful future a noticeable, if not cautious, uplift.
Gordon |
