Why Work with a 3M Preferred Converter like DuraTech?

The 3M™ brand is recognized globally for its many adhesive products and technologies. We are proud of our long standing relationship with 3M™ and our designation as a 3M™ Preferred Converter. In the early 1990s, 3M™ formed the Preferred Converter status. We were one of the first graphic converters to become 3M™ Preferred and we have maintained our designation ever since. To date, there are 73 Preferred Converters, of which 9 are considered graphic converters.

What does it mean to be a Preferred Converter?

Jessica Legleiter, the Converter Markets Training Manager at 3M™ says, “3M™ Preferred Converters are an elite subset of US based Converters we lean on for accelerated, year on year growth. Preferred Converters are 3M™’s most valued, loyal converters. They display brand loyalty, lead with 3M™ for new customer applications and protect existing business. They engage with 3M™ regularly at all levels of their business; participate in joint business planning, and enjoy a mutually beneficial merchandising program that incents growth year after year.”

Legleiter further explains that a company must be nominated to become a Preferred Converter by their 3M™ Converter Markets Specialist. The approval is determined by a number of factors, including overall size, growth, history, engagement with 3M™, local converter landscape in a given area, etc. It’s also a designation that is earned each and every year.

How does being a Preferred Converter help you, our customer?

As a preferred converter, we get the best pricing and service so we can pass that along to our customers, essentially giving you the best product for the cost of a lessor product.

What can our customers expect from DuraTech, a 3M™ Preferred Converter?

As a 3M™ Preferred Converter, we have access to employee training, such as the 3M™ Converter University. Each year, several of our DuraTech Team members attends the university, which provides us extensive knowledge on 3M™ products and technologies.

Our Sales Manager, Paul Hatlem says, “I believe our customers expect us to be experts on 3M™ materials – advantages, application, options, and how they compare to other companies. Customers should be able to call DuraTech and get the same answers to questions that they would get if they called 3M™ directly.”

DuraTech is also a 3M™ beta site for new product development.

What 3M materials does DuraTech convert?

  • 3M VHB™ Tapes: bonding tape comprised of closed cell foam and pressure sensitive adhesives
  • 3M™ Single Coated Foam Tapes: urethane or vinyl foam tapes for cushioning, sealing, and absorbing vibrations
  • 3M™ EMI/EMC Solutions: EMI and RFI shielding for absorbing, grounding and more
  • 3M™ Reclosable Fasteners: For replacing rivets, screws, bolts, nails and welds
  • 3M Safety-Walk™: nonslip materials to prevent costly injury from slipping
  • 3M Bumpon™ Protective Products: elastomer cushions for decreasing noise and preventing scratches
  • 3M™ Transfer Tapes: Pressure sensitive adhesives
  • 3M™ Label Materials: Pressure sensitive polyester, vinyl and paper

We have over 40 years of experience manufacturing custom graphics, including printed decorative and functional overlays, appliques and pressure sensitive products. We also offer in-mold decorating (IMD), in-mold electronics (IME), doming and membrane switches. Contact us for a quote.