Transparency is paramount in any business relationship, especially in the print industry. When a company champions itself as trade-only, clarity in its operations is not just expected—it’s crucial for trust. For years, many in the printing community have lauded 4over, recommending their services and building partnerships. However, recent discoveries have raised questions about 4over’s transparency, specifically concerning their connection to Zoo Printing.
One of the primary concerns revolves around the apparent secrecy surrounding 4over’s ownership of Zoo Printing. Publicly available resources, such as the Better Business Bureau and employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, suggest a clear link between the two companies. These sources highlight 4over’s acquisition of Zoo Printing and the subsequent challenges and employee sentiments related to this transition. Despite this publicly available information, the relationship isn’t overtly stated by 4over, causing confusion and distrust among industry professionals.
The trade-only model of 4over is predicated on serving print resellers and businesses, not directly competing with them. The concern arises when entities that are not traditional print resellers, such as realtors, churches, or restaurants, are found to be using 4over’s services. This raises questions about the enforcement of their trade-only policy and whether Zoo Printing operates under the same restrictions, or if it blurs the lines, potentially competing with 4over’s intended trade partners.
Adding to the complexity, there are instances where 4over’s statements seem to contradict public records. For example, the connection between 4over’s owner and Lithobooks, as indicated in incorporation papers, contrasts with claims of ignorance about Lithobooks from 4over representatives. This discrepancy further fuels concerns about transparency and the extent to which 4over is forthcoming about its broader business network.
The core issue isn’t necessarily the ownership itself, but the perceived lack of openness about it. In an industry built on partnerships and trust, hidden affiliations can erode confidence. For businesses relying on 4over as a trade partner, understanding the full scope of 4over’s operations, including its relationship with Zoo Printing, is vital. This transparency is not just about knowing who you are doing business with; it’s about ensuring fair practices and maintaining trust within the printing trade community.
