Slate Marketing, Inc. of Winston-Salem, North Carolina has been named 2005, 2006 and 2007 Supplier of the Year by Lorillard's Marketing Service Department.  The award is given each year to a supplier that distinguishes itself as the top performer.

Slate began working with Lorillard in 1996.  Their expertise, design capabilities and innovative technologies quickly led them to become a top supplier.  The company specializes in the development of semi-permanent displays and point-of-purchase materials.  This includes price message boards, flip and backlit signs and inserts. 

"The supplier-of-the-year award is important to Slate Marketing because it represents Lorillard's trust in our ability to design and produce retail merchandising materials that the sales force can rely on," said Bob Peiffer, Chief Operating Officer, Slate Marketing.

In addition to recognizing suppliers that have made major contributions to Lorillard and achieved high levels of quality, the vendor review process is very effective in improving supplier performance.

"While we periodically observe the production process, proof individual programs and provide an evaluation after every project, nothing beats sitting down with the owners and managers of these companies once a year," said Buddy Hine, Manager, Graphic Production.  "We tell them where they stand and they provide feedback to our department.  We're always encouraged by the quality and service improvements we see in suppliers after their reviews."