~ by Michele Fiyak-Burkley, South Central US Sales Representative
Before I was an employee-owner, I was a long-time customer.
I spent the past 25 years in the book publishing industry, from unpaid student intern to associate director as an editorial, design, and production manager. Throughout my production years, I worked with many book manufacturers, each with their strengths and specialties. But whenever I had a project where quality truly mattered, there was always one name at the top of my list: Friesens.
For 10 years, Friesens was my go-to printer for highest quality work. I trusted them with the most demanding and high-profile projects on my list, including museum and photography books, often oversized or with specialty treatments, where color accuracy and print precision were critical. These were the kinds of books where the smallest details made a significant difference, and Friesens produced them with care and expertise.
Their print quality was exceptional, and their customer support was outstanding. What impressed me most was their attentive, solution-driven team. If I ever ran into a production question or challenge, they explained the process, shared their knowledge, and helped me find solutions. That partnership gave me confidence in every project I sent their way. If I couldn’t figure something out, I knew Friesens could.
Over the years, I developed not only professional trust but genuine respect for the people who worked there. So, when the opportunity to join Friesens as an employee-owner arose, the decision was easy. I loved the books I made with them, and I wanted to be part of the company that worked at that level of excellence. Even more, I wanted to introduce new customers to the experience I had valued so much.
What I’ve discovered since joining Friesens has only deepened my respect for the company. In many ways being a new employee feels like a continuation of being a customer, as I am helped along as I learn the ropes, my endless questions are readily answered, and patience and respect are shown at every turn. Every member of Friesens cares deeply about the books we produce and the people we produce them for. There’s a culture here of helpfulness, kindness, and genuine pride in our craft. We respect our customers, and we work every day for their success.
What once impressed me from the outside, I now get to help deliver from the inside. Being part of that process feels like a natural next chapter in my book-making journey. I am proud to be part of the team that delivers the same level of quality I relied on as a customer.
