Milestones Icon: Morrell Printing

What does it take for a printing business to not only survive but also thrive for 36 years? Just ask Janet and Gerry Morrell, who have owned and operated Lafayette-based Morrell Printing since 1975.

Their company prints business cards, brochures, banners, technical manuals, paperback books, postcards, wedding invitations, fine art and rubber stamps, among other things.

Morrell Printing is equipped to do most everything in-house, said Janet Morrell. The only things it can’t print in-house are hardback books and continuous-feed labels.

The company has a quick turnaround time, with most jobs done within 24 hours. In today’s instant age, everyone wants things done immediately, and thanks to its state-of-the-art technology, Morrell Printing can do that.

Not many printing companies have been around for more than three decades, so what do the Morrells find is the secret to their success? They provide every customer with the best possible service, understand technology and keep up with it, and hire good employees, said Gerry Morrell.

Another factor in Morrell Printing’s success is that it has very little employee turnover. One of Morrell Printing’s employees has been with the business since 1979, and others have been on staff for 10 years or more. Customers appreciate that they are able to talk to the same person every time they call.

Lafayette-based Clinica Health Services has worked with Morrell Printing for at least 10 years, said purchasing coordinator Bob Johnson. “The reason why we stay with them is they’ve been established in the community for 36 years,” Johnson said. “They basically do all of our printing for us. They give great customer service. They’re very price competitive. Any issues we have we’ll ask their expertise and opinion, and they’ll work with us and figure out what’s best for our organization.”

It’s truly a family affair at Morrell Printing. The Morrells’ three sons – Jim, Jeff and Matthew -, their daughter Kristel Pierce, their daughter-in-law Jackie Morrell and their niece Becky Hutchison all work for the business.

Morrell Printing is very involved in the local community, including sponsorship of the Lafayette Peach Festival. The company also donates printing services to Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Rocky Mountain Music School, Relay for Life and Meals on Wheels.

Prior to opening Morrell Printing, Gerry Morrell worked in the printing department in the U.S. Air Force. He also did printing for the University of Colorado.

He and Janet opened Morrell Printing when they were both just 23 years old. “Being your own boss has its benefits and downfalls,” he said. “Working for yourself has always been better. We enjoy it.”

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