When Lori Stafford managed a local restaurant, she often relied on Office Products Inc. (OPI) for help with many business-related products and services.
Today, Stafford is on the other side of the OPI counter as its new in-store sales representative.
“I am so glad for the opportunity to be part of this family-owned business,” Stafford said. “The Vink family treats each employee and customer as one of their own.”
Stafford’s duties include inventory control and clerical duties, in addition to serving walk-in customers.
“That is the best part of the job,” Stafford said, referring to her interaction with the public. “No day is the same and no customer is the same. OPI has a long history of understanding that individual customers have individual needs.
“When I managed The Page,” Stafford continued, “OPI always found solutions for me. If I had a computer problem, they walked me through it. I could call any time and they would be there. It is gratifying to be able to help customers find the answers they need.”
In addition to a decade at The Page, Stafford’s background also includes employment at First National Bank. She indicated both jobs prepared her to work effectively with customers face-to-face or on the phone.
Stafford is a Great Bend native and Great Bend High School graduate; she attended Barton Community College for three semesters. She has three daughters and four granddaughters.
Jim Grabbe, OPI sales manager, said Stafford not only brings talent to the job but also a deep knowledge of the community.
“So many people who come into OPI already know Lori,” Grabbe said. “This is a huge plus for us and our customers. It is always nice to deal with a friendly, familiar face. Since OPI is all about personal relationships, Lori is the perfect fit.”
OPI is located at 1204 Main in Great Bend, 516 Broadway in Larned and 724 N. Main in Russell.