Office Products Incorporated (OPI) has been in business for 65 years. In celebration of this milestone Great Bend Chamber of Commerce will host a Business After Hours event, taking place on Wednesday, May 8, from 5-7 p.m. at Dry Lake Brewing. This will be an evening of networking, excitement, fun and most importantly celebration for OPI’s legacy.
Guests can expect a variety of door prizes, exclusive giveaways, and drinks as they join in celebration of OPI. Adding to the festivities, the Flatlanders food truck will be conveniently stationed out back offering delicious bites.
For longtime business partners, customers, or friends of OPI, this event is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishment of 65 years of service and dedication from OPI.
OPI has 10 locations including: Great Bend, Larned, Ellinwood, St. John, and Hoisington among others. Since their opening in 1959 under a different name: Perry Vink Office Supply, OPI in Great Bend has offered a full line of office products from office furniture to copier and computer sales and services. The Great Bend store is located at 1204 Main St.
This business began as a means to provide for one’s family. Terry Vink’s father was a farmer looking for a way to make end’s meet. Once Vink’s father learned he didn’t have enough land he began to work part-time here and there at various businesses in Great Bend. Eventually he took a partnership to open Perry Vink Office Supply and bought out his partner, making him the sole owner. His sons Terry, Kenny, and Craig then began taking over in various positions including manager and owner.
Owner Terry Vink credits the success of OPI to their customer service.
“We have excellent customer service, and we have staff that know what they are talking about,” Vink said. OPI is aware of the competition with online markets, but truly believe in the value of a good customer service team.
Looking at the 65 years of business, OPI has built a name and reputation for themselves in Barton County. The value of being a local business is having the opportunity to support other local businesses. “We are so grateful for the support from the community over the years,” Vink said, “I’m very proud to that this business has continued on.”
Business Insight is a regular feature of the Great Bend Tribune, showcasing locally owned businesses and encouraging folks to shop local. Contact news@gbtribune.com for more information.
