_________________________________________________________________________________ MSC Industrial Supply Co .
to help customers with productivity , faster throughput , and with solving the skills gap . Along with technical expertise , a salesperson and an inventory management system , our people work with the customer on site and full time . With the customers participating in our in-plant program , we have experienced a remarkable acceleration in their productivity curve . Over the past five years , the program has gone from accounting for one percent of our sales to 16 percent and growing ,” he elaborates .
Founded by Sid Jacobson , Erik ’ s grandfather , in 1941 , the company continues to build on a rich history of commitment to customers , shareholders , associates and local communities .
“ The values on which my grandfather founded the business still drive us today , including the importance of people and growth . Growth is the lifeblood of any company ; growth fuels investment in people , customers , and suppliers . The other concept is reinvention . Values can remain the same , but it ’ s important to evolve because the world is changing , as are our customers ’ needs .
Our in-plant program is a great example of reinvention as we have transitioned from being a transactional supplier to becoming a partner that extends to our customers ’ internal operations .
“ My grandfather believed in embodying empathy and integrity . He also championed a sense of community which is akin to today ’ s concept of ESG . He believed the company was accountable to more than its shareholders and believed in giving back . Our company brand promise , ‘ Built to Make you Better ’ is a nod to the past , our sense of community service , and a nod to the future playing a bigger role in our customers ’ operations .
“ We have an open-door policy which extends to associates , suppliers and customers . If there is an issue , I and the rest of the executive team will personally reach out to the customer concerned . MSC ’ s structure is not hierarchical ; the leadership team stays close to our front-line team , which is fundamental to the success of the company ,” Erik explains .
The company prides itself on successful partnerships and innovative technology
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