Tony Tedeschi

The Whitford Way Tony Tedeschi

How do you keep a business innovative and cutting-edge in a world that constantly changes? The answer can be found in the history and example of Whitford Worldwide.



From its founding in 1969, Whitford has risen to the challenges before it, often in unconventional ways. Barely a year in business, Whitford encountered a problem with its nonstick coating not withstanding a customer's heat requirements, the result of inaccurate specs on the part of the customer. In response, Dave Willis, the cofounder of Whitford, worked with his chemist and the customer to reach the best solution, cementing the customer's loyalty and laying the foundation for the company's reputation among consumers, which has remained solid for fifty years.



That's just one early example of the challenges Whitford has faced and met in this story of a company that has defied the practices commonly taught in business school, prizing innovation and adaptation above all and creating a path to success for itself, its customers, and its employees.



The birth, growth, and continued success of this progressive company is a must read for all those interested in business longevity, continued innovation, and consumer and employee relations.