As a part of the 100th anniversary celebration of Premier Dental, I recently had a chance to sit down with Julie Charlestein, the company's president. She is the fourth generation of her family to lead the company, which was founded by her great-grandfather and namesake, Julius Charlestein, in 1913.
Premier, based in Plymouth Meeting, Pa., is a family-owned and operated company that develops, manufactures, and distributes healthcare products through a worldwide network of dealers.
Proofs: What are some of Premier's secrets to success that have enabled the company to thrive for 100 years?
Ms. Charlestein: There is no one thing that allows any company to be successful, and Premier is no exception. First, and most important, is, of course, our team. We have a very talented, driven, and committed group that aims to grow Premier, and this group is certainly an integral part of our success. We have also had very wise predecessors and teachers who have instilled in us a corporate culture of integrity, fairness, and balance. It is these things that have given us the security and sense of purpose to continuously reinvent ourselves.
Proofs: While Premier has had so many time-tested products, there are constantly new innovations coming out from the company (such as Traxodent, pictured below). How do you balance introducing new products with keeping more renowned products in the forefront?
Ms. Charlestein: The fact that Premier is able to have world-leading legacy products, as well as world-leading innovations, is a tremendous sense of pride. We closely monitor the needs of the market, and the particular countries that we are servicing, then determine what product mix will be appropriate and have the greatest chance for success.
Proofs: What are some of Premier's short- and long-term plans for the future?
Ms. Charlestein: We continue to recognize the strong growth areas of hygiene and restorative, and will be focusing our R&D in those areas. We will, of course, let the enormity of this milestone serve as the impetus for constant vigilance and pursuit of success.
Proofs: Talk about the importance of Premier's relationships with the dealer rep.
Ms. Charlestein: WE LOVE THEM! The retail rep is truly an extension of Premier. They are our ambassadors, assisting in delivering our messaging and technology to the many providers of oral health. As with our own team, we create very strong, and often lifelong, relationships with the retail reps, and trust them to be a part of Premier's mission. We are thankful for their continued and steadfast support.
