Executive Data Control buys Memphis firm

Last edited 5:18 p.m., Feb. 27, 2013

Executive Data Control Inc. has expanded with the acquisition of a Memphis, Tenn., screen-printing business.

The Springfield-based print supply chain management company received a $450,000 low-interest Missouri Linked Deposit Program loan from Missouri Treasurer Clint Zweifel to purchase Sundial Shirt Co., according to a news release.

As part of the acquisition, EDC is expanding locally by relocating Sundial to Springfield and bringing five employees to add to EDC's staff of 16.

“This loan from the Missouri Linked Deposit Program has helped us grow our business and create new jobs right here in Springfield,” EDC owner Stephen Visio said in the release. “Instead of paying a higher interest rate, we’ve been able to put that money directly into business operations."

EDC anticipates $4.5 million in 2013 revenues, and expects the merger to affect the local economy to the tune of a $100,000 capital investment.

“Small businesses like EDC are the lifeblood of Missouri’s economy,” Zweifel said in the release.

Zweifel was in Springfield today at EDC's headquarters, 4331 W. Calhoun St., to cut the ribbon on the expansion along with Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce officials.

Executive Data Control - which has had clients such as Bass Pro Shops, O'Reilly Automotive Inc., Oxford HealthCare and Ferrell-Duncan Clinic - provides reward programs, business cards, inventory and other printing services. Sundial claims a loss rate of less than 1 percent for its screen-printed products, according to SundialShirt.com. John Wachob, an Evangel University graduate, founded Sundial about 10 years ago. Through the deal, he will serve as vice president and co-owner of EDC.

EDC began providing contract embroidery services in 2011 with the acquisition and relocation of Embroidery House from Nixa.