D'Addario 019954279141
A Family Tradition
The theory of keeping as much "in house" as possible has served the D'Addario family well. The company owns a tremendous printing facility today, complete with color Heidelberg presses, that share the building across the street from the main factory in Farmingdale with Evans Drumheads. Most of the company's marketing, packaging artwork, and print ads are conceived and executed by its own marketing and creative staff, which has brought the company more cost-efficient and successful campaigns time and time again. But D'Addario's unbounded success is also due in part to its worldwide distribution and dealer networks. The company markets its products in the United States through wholesale distributors and over 5,400 retail music stores. In addition, the export markets are handled by 120 distributors in 101 countries. When James D'Addario took his father, John, Sr., his mother Mary, and his own wife and three children to visit the town of Salle in 1996, never could he have imagined a warmer reception. A parade through the town, a feast at the mayor's home, a key to the city; all were presented to the D'Addario family. The news of the success of the D'Addario cordaro had made its way back to this tiny town; and the town, like a proud great-great-great-great-great-great grandfather, was smiling. When John D'Addario Sr. passed away in June 2000, he was surrounded by his wife, his children, and grandchildren. He had the distinct pleasure of watching his children succeed beyond his wildest expectations, and he was very proud. Today, thirteen family members, grandchildren and cousins, work for J. D'Addario & Company, Inc., and great steps are being taken by John, Jr. and James to pass down the family vision and tradition. The biggest tradition, and the one least likely to receive any headlines, is D'Addario's appreciation for their employees. A company that started with family has grown to require the talents of so many people working together towards the same goal. What has become important is to preserve the values of the family while encouraging the growth of the company. John, Jr. and James are convinced that it can be done. |