Client Feature: Think Patented and Banking with Benefits
A local print and promotional production company gains confidence with a bank that can grow with it
Overview
Founded in 1979, Think Patented built a reputation for color quality and quick delivery and steadily grew from a straightforward printing company to an extension of their clients' operations. Think Patented now offers an integrated workflow that combines print production, mailing, fulfillment, promotional products, and campaign support to deliver consistent quality, predictable timelines, and budget control.
As the company grew, it changed and evolved, and so did what they needed from a financial institution. Think Patented wanted an institution that could meet their complex financial needs while building a personal relationship based on trust. They found First Financial Bank and have been pleased with what the relationship has brought to their borrowing, their accounting, and their employees’ experience.
The Problem
Think Patented had been a First Financial Bank client in the early 2000s. New ownership took over in 2006 and faced drastic market changes in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. Company leadership decided to move away from First Financial, and the company stayed with the new institution for about a decade. It was during this time that David McNerney joined Think Patented, starting in sales and gradually taking on increased responsibilities. In 2023, David prepared to step into his current role of President and CEO. During the transition process, David and his leadership team noticed that Think Patented was not getting the service and attention they were looking for from their existing bank.
Looking to the future, David wanted a bank that could grow as Think Patented grew. He wanted competitive rates, but he also wanted a strong sense of trust. He needed an institution that would treat their nimble, growing business as more than just a number while being big enough to handle future needs. The team conducted an extensive search for the right fit, narrowing it down to three possibilities and ultimately selecting First Financial Bank.
“First Financial felt like the right one in a lot of areas,” recalled David. “The discussions they were having with us were open and honest. They did a great job conveying why we would be happy with First.”
Banking with First Financial
Now comfortably settled into the relationship, the benefits are evident. Almost right away, First Financial Bank was able to help Think Patented with acquisition financing1 at an impressively efficient pace. Both parties point to mutual trust as the reason the acquisition process moved forward with such speed.
“When we needed something, they knew it was mission critical, and what they provided was timely and accurate,” explained First Financial Bank Senior Relationship Manager Michael Howard, “There is deep mutual trust between our teams — it makes all the difference here.”
That trust instilled confidence while operations adapted to working with a new financial institution. The accounting team integrated easily with First Financial, and they are now exploring other tools and services such as switching their credit card program2 to one that offers rewards that make sense for the company. One of the things leadership considered when selecting First Financial Bank was what other services are available to help employees. Through the f1RST WORKlife® & Financial Wellness program, the bank has already led two budgeting seminars, which were attended by many Think Patented staff.
“We care about our people,” said David. “I appreciate the way First Financial’s values align with ours.”
“It’s more than just business,” he went on. “They call to ask about us as people. It’s a relationship — the experience with First Financial Bank is what a great banking relationship should be.”
