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
It has been two years since I purchased the The Pierce Company. I have learned many lessons and continue to find enjoyment in owning this business.

We moved the company to 3307 Snelling Ave. The new location is just around the corner on 33rd. Not more than a couple hundred feet from the old location. Please come and visit us if you are in the neighborhood.

Plans for 2009 include updating our website and attending PPA conferences. Look for a new look and feel to our website early in 2009. We also plan to attend three PPA conferences this year. Iowa is in the books with Wisconsin and Brainard coming soon. If you are not on our email list for our monthly specials please subscribe now. Sign up is available on our home page. We plan to introduce some new backgrounds in '09 that I hope you will like. I do not plan on printing a catalog this year as we have made it available via download from our website.

I have a great team and we all look forward to helping you in 2009. Thanks for being our customer and please email me if you have questions or concerns.

Ralph M Shea
ralph@thepierceco.com