Primary Source Plans for the Future

Urbandale-based Primary Source remains optimistic as it plans for the future. First established in 1985, owner Mary Anne Kennedy bought the marketing promotions business in 1997, growing it into a highly visible mainstay in the local small business community. Its promotional products and awards are staples for trade shows, conferences, events and sales visits. In early March, its sales decreased significantly as business events were cancelled and businesses shut down due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Due to the lack of sales this quarter, Kennedy anticipates Primary Source’s revenue will plummet this summer. She utilized an SBA-backed Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan through Great Western Bank to cover rent, utilities and payroll for its six employees for the next two months.

As Iowa’s business community recovers from the shutdown, businesses will need to promote their brand, products and services more than ever to let everyone know they are open for business. Kennedy believes Primary Source’s promotional products and direct mail marketing gifts will be in high demand and position the company to recover by the end of the year. She encourages business owners and organizations to use the current downtime to plan ahead and order marketing promotions and recognition gifts now to be ready for the anticipated business boom.