Leaving a worldclass legacy of growth

Letter From The Presidents

I accepted the role of President and CEO when Rick Clendenning retired in April 2018, and it has been an honor that SAKATA INX and INX have trusted me to serve in this capacity. I had some big shoes to fill when Rick left because he was a strong force and leader in the industry and at INX for so many years.

I know I could not have accomplished all of the projects I’ve been involved in without the many dedicated co-workers I’ve been blessed to work with over the years. I got my start in the ink industry 49 years ago as a mill operator at the Sinclair & Valentine Ink Co. in Milwaukee. Three years later in 1977, I moved over to Acme Printing, which later was acquired by INX and SAKATA INX. Working as a member of the third shift set me on my path to what has been a memorable and remarkable journey.

INX International bids a fond farewell to President and CEO John Hrdlick, who is retiring

I have been fortunate to be a part of many important developments over the years. Some that stand out include the construction and expansion of many manufacturing facilities as part of a multi-year capital improvements program. This work – including increasing the size of our Research & Development campus in West Chicago –involved properties on three continents. I’m proud these efforts were instrumental in making us a stronger organization and a leader in the metal decorating industry.

Our world-class facilities today are second to none and I know this because I’ve visited all of them. The pandemic that began in 2020 has certainly brought a new set of challenges to our industry. But I believe the decisions we’ve made over the years have made us more agile. Along with the changes we’ve implemented, we are positioned to react more quickly for the betterment of our customers.

Our team is the core reason for the success of INX. Since I announced my intention to retire last December, Bryce Kristo and I have worked together to ensure a smooth transition. I am confident under his leadership, INX is positioned for continued growth and success.

My retirement is bittersweet to some extent since five years as President and CEO seems like a short time. Yet I am no different than those who have retired before me. It’s time for my wife Dawn and I to reconnect with our family in North Carolina, where I fondly recall spending 12 years over two stays at our facility in Charlotte. We are looking forward to spending more time with the grandchildren and welcoming our seventh and eighth this year.

Hrdlick, President & CEO INX International Ink Co.