I am pleased to be able to give a statement this evening about Imagekind and Cafepress’ merger with the kind permission from Robert D. Martin, Chief Marketing Officer of Imagekind.
Answering Imagekind members concerns about their future now that the two companies are merged, Mr Martin had this to say…
‘This acquisition will allow us to move faster with the innovation many of you have recognized will lead to greater opportunities. There are many areas that CaféPress can help us. They have grown incredibly large very quickly and understand the complex technological issues that massive growth presents. They are also brilliant marketers and we will undoubtedly benefit.
‘We (Cafepress and Imagekind) are unified in our belief that Imagekind must remain its own unique brand where your art and reputations are guarded and safe.’
He went on to say that there are numerous examples of companies who have complex businesses operating as separate and wholly owned subsidiaries. They are able to successfully grow multiple brands that provide value to completely different target audiences because they understand the importance of authenticity and value.
He also touched on the fact that CafePress and Imagekind members had heard of this business deal outside of the respective sites, from third parties.
‘It was with the very best intentions that we planned to simultaneously release the information to the press and our community. I was excited about the IK Blog letter that Kevin Saliba (our CEO) wrote the night before and felt good about being able to communicate the news of the sale to all of you directly. Unfortunately, the word leaked out sometime in the early morning hours and I awoke to word of the impending announcement.
‘Although you learned of this announcement in a manner we didn’t intend I hope you are able to understand that above all we are committed to you and to creating the best online venue for your artwork.’
With this statement in print, and with the fact that both CafePress and Imagekind are both unique businesses each with something to offer the world of art and commerce, 1stAngel believes that we could see a bright new future on the horizon.
We will bring you further news as we receive it.
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3 Comments
I may not be seeing far enough into this but as they are separate entities and focus on separate markets, the advantage is short term IK & CP, and perhaps long term us as members, as buying costs will improve meaning member print & hosting costs may decrease some. But overall unless I am missing something it is like Lexus and Nissan merging, totally different markets.
Yes I believe this is the case. In the long run, as long as Cafepress realise we do not all want to sell mugs, we may see a great improvement in some of IK’s services for fine art
Yes, I agree. Improvements to site design and marketing could make ImageKind a real competitor. Cafe Press might be the key. I hope they do not see Image Kind artists as a cash cow to supplement their profits. I have a problem with art sales sites that charge artists. I think they should make money from sales. I understand that this might not be possible in the long run, but now, there are quality alternatives that are free to artists with unlimited portfolios and terrific community features. ImageKind has been left in the dust, so far.
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