OUR HISTORY
Strategies is a family-owned company based in Appleton, Wisconsin. Started in 1991 by Doug and Renae Dobbe, we’ve been a top promotional products distributor for more than 30 years.
An Unwavering Commitment to Our Customers
From our humble beginnings in a small basement in Appleton, Wisconsin, to an award-winning branded merchandise and decorated apparel company, a lot has changed over the past three decades. However, our commitment to our customers never has. We refuse to cut corners and strive to move brand experiences forward with a unique, hands-on approach.
APRIL 1991 - NEXUS
Doug and Renae start Strategies in the basement of their Appleton, Wisconsin, home. Originally the name of the company was Nexus, meaning “a connection or series of connections linking two or more things.”
The budding business quickly outgrew the couple’s basement. We moved into space in the Edison Center along the banks of the Fox River in Appleton.
SEPTEMBER 1998
After a period of fast growth, we purchased a rundown office/warehouse at 2315 E. Newberry Street. Renovations began immediately.
In January of 1999 renovations were complete thanks to the team’s efforts. We were able to move into our new space.
AUGUST 2002
Strategies hosts our first Customer Appreciation BBQ event. This has become an ongoing kickoff to summer tradition for our team and valued customers for 20 years.
SUMMER OF 2015
Our second renovation project began. The goal was to create a fun and professional space where our customers and team members could feel at home. We added modern technology and transformed the inside and outside of the building.
A renovated building called for a renovated brand. The inspiration for our original logo came from a knight chess piece. However, there was some confusion between our logo and a professional sports team. We wanted to distinguish our brand and create a brand image that was representative of our target objectives.
2015 REBRANDING
Once the renovation of our building was complete, it was time to also renovate our brand. We designed it to look like the Knight in a chess set. The Knight is known as being a tactical and powerful piece. It moves and operates just a little bit different than everyone else and is very, you guessed it, strategic.
AUGUST 2022
The purchase of heat transfer equipment provides quick turn times for certain apparel projects.
BE A PART OF WHAT’S NEXT
The world of branded merchandise and decorated apparel are ever changing. We meet with our supplier network and attend industry shows to stay up-to-date on the latest trends.
Whether you’re planning an employee incentive program, launching a new product or service or simply want to continue to build loyal relationships. We will help guide you through the process and help you find proven products and concepts that will give you the ROI you’re looking for.
