From the DNR Group in the 1990s to modern day Pen Point Technologies in 2024, discover how the Redmon family's innovations in handwritting machines, software, and mail have transformed handwritten direct marketing—and made them the clear authorities in the space.
The Redmon Family’s Enduring Influence in Handwritten Mail
From the early 1990s to the present, the Redmon family has profoundly influenced the handwritten mail industry. Their commitment to integrating personal touch in business communications has led to the foundation of multiple companies, each pushing the envelope in the industry’s evolution. The Redmon family is personally responsible for hundreds of millions of handwritten mail pieces being produced over the years. Their efforts have pioneered the entire space of handwritten mail, and led to many companies starting today due to their origins.
The 1990s: Founding of DNR Group
In the 1990s, amidst the digital transformation of direct mail, David Redmon founded DNR Group in Fort Worth, Texas, choosing to specialize in handwritten mail. A company starting with a husband and wife handwriting in the garage quickly grew to employ over 1,000 part-timers to help produce these letters, boosting response rates from 100% to 1000% for non-profits. The idea was sparked by a highly successful campaign at Life Outreach Ministry, where Redmon added handwritten appeals to a fundraising letter, significantly increasing its effectiveness. This success led him to establish DNR Group, which focused on personalized mail pieces that included handwritten addresses and greetings. These pieces consistently achieved at least a 25% response rate, proving that personal touches could dramatically enhance direct mail effectiveness.
Early 2000s: Technological Advancements and Expansion
By the early 2000s, DNR Group had grown exponentially, moving to a larger facility in Louisville, Kentucky, and employing up to 4,500 independent contractors. As time went on, David met a man from France that would turn into a 20+ year partnership that continues to be strong today. Enter.... the MACHINE.
Transformative Technology
The new best handwriting machines specifically designed for direct mail allowed DNR Group to handle larger volumes and reduce their dependency on manual labor. This technological advancement not only streamlined operations but also maintained the authenticity of each piece, revolutionizing how businesses perceived direct mail campaigns. This combined with font technology well beyond its time allowed clients to switch from real handwriting to automated handwriting without skipping a beat. This innovation shortly led to the business being acquired, a huge success and validation that handwritten mail was only going up in the marketplace.
Mid-2000s: Strategic Transition and Growth
After selling DNR Group, David Redmon took on the role of President, now with huge corporate backing. Focused on growth and advancement, he spearheaded the operation for years to come with the new owners in place. Eventually, he parted ways after the purchasing company was also acquired by a larger entity.
Following a few years on the sidelines, he returned to the industry with fresh ideas, founding Pioneer Direct Marketing and acquiring Admiral Printing. These ventures not only marked his comeback but also served as crucial training grounds for his son, Matt Redmon. At these companies, Matt spent countless hours learning the intricacies of the mail space, from operational tactics to strategic marketing, shaping his understanding of the industry and preparing him for future leadership roles. This period was instrumental in continuing the Redmon family's legacy in innovative mail solutions, blending experience with new technologies and approaches.
The 2010s: Matt Redmon’s Role and Technological Integration
Matt Redmon, eventually going off to start his college career, ended up leaving early to co-found the newest venture in the Redmon family: Pen Point Technologies.
He moved down to South Florida alone to build an office, hire employees, and bring on clients into this new venture. Both Matt and his father were in waters they had no experience in... growing the handwriting space through distribution of the technology.
2020: The Launch of Pen Point Technologies
With the founding of Pen Point Technologies, the Redmon family brought their vision full circle. With the help of their 20+ year partners in France, they introduced sophisticated and reliable handwriting machines and software that offered scalable solutions for businesses seeking genuine personalization in their communications. Now, anyone could step into the handwritten mail world and start producing real volumes.
They had clients leasing anywhere from 10 to 200 machines, and generating millions of handwritten mail pieces. The market was growing, and a rising tide lifts all boats.
Looking to the Future
Today, Pen Point Technologies stands as a testament to the Redmon family’s enduring legacy in the handwritten mail industry. The company continues to drive innovation, setting new standards and anticipating future trends in business communications. Here's a quote from Matt Redmon:
"We know one thing and one thing only... handwritten mail. We know what works, what doesn't work, what's possible, and what's a waste of time. We've been a well kept secret for a long time, being the largest producer of handwritten mail in the world. But now, our one and only goal is to get the handwriting industry as large as possible. And as long as you continue to open a handwritten letter, we'll be in business."
— Matt Redmon / PPT Co-Founder
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