True story: Polaris began in 1990 in CEO Greg Stine's basement. Originally working as a consultant for users of desktop publishing software, Greg was often faced with projects that required graphic design. Enter current designer (and current staff member) Tate Shields. In those early years, Greg and Tate worked closely to produce literature for a number of companies, including current Polaris client Rosboro.
After 1995, as the company grew, new offices were purchased in Oakridge. Mary Richardson, who is now the company's VP of Operations, joined the company and Polaris began moving beyond a consulting business to one providing a variety of marketing services (graphic design, print management, database design and project management). During this time, Polaris grew steadily by adding staff and clients.
In 2000 Polaris branched out and, through acquisition, opened the Portland office while adding Internet and website expertise along with an expanded B2B client base. Polaris also began to establish a strong client base in the San Francisco Bay Area, eventually attracting more than a dozen companies. With continued steady growth, Polaris grew from four employees in 2000 to 11 by the end of 2005.
Also during this time, our expertise grew substantially, to offer a full range of marketing services, including:
- Graphic design and print management
- Website design, programming, email services, and hosting
- Advertising and media planning
- Public relations services
- Mailing and fulfillment services
- Miscellaneous project management
In 2005, we restructured the company by creating distinct departments (sales and marketing, administration, design, writing, and project management), which lead to a more streamlined and effective organization. Our expertise has grown due to the improving quality of our staff and the ongoing experience we gain working with such great clients. They know we enjoy a good challenge and rarely hold back.
In 2006 we added a consultant who gives us a full-time presence in the San Francisco Bay Area. Judi Ettlinger, a building industry and marketing veteran, joined our team as a consultant, strengthening our position in the Bay Area, the building industry and other core markets. We also outgrew our Oakridge and Portland offices, moving into a much larger, consolidated space in the Eugene/Springfield area.
Polaris has come a long way from that basement nearly 20 years ago. We're excited to see what the next few years will bring.