It All Started When…
Walter V. Pierce founded
The Pierce Company of
Minneapolis, Inc. in 1931. Rumor has it he purchased a
"Photo Mailer" and was
outraged at the price. He felt
that he could improve the
methods and means by
which photo mailers were
produced and sold.
Upon researching this market,
Walter discovered demand
among many photographers for
a company that could act as a
resource for the professional,
listening to, and meeting their
needs with products designed to
improve studio profits. He
marketed his new photo studio
products and services to
professional photographers
throughout the U.S.
In the 1940's, Pierce
became one of the first
companies to mass produce
and market painted photo
backgrounds.
Walter also utilized his
talent for listening to
customers and meeting their
needs in other markets. In
our 70-year history in the
Minneapolis, MN area, The
Pierce Co. has sold photo
studio supplies, antiques,
artist supplies, ice skates,
ski and sports equipment,
and custom framing services
at many different locations.
PIERCE Today
2010 is the start of my fourth year in business as the owner of The Pierce Company. 2009 was a difficult year for most retailers and I can't wait for the turnaround. We are blessed with great customers like you, I have a great team and we all look forward to serving you in 2010. Thanks for being our customer and please email me if you have questions or concerns.
Ralph M Shea
ralph@thepierceco.com
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Original photo-mailer ad
1950's catalog back cover
Original Pierce backgound, circa 1950
Glamour supply ad from 1958
Art Store mailing art
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