A Third Generation Business with Diversity in Mind

THIRD GENERATION Cuban-American, Mark Govin together with his younger bother run their family business. Markmaster Inc. has been in existence for almost 90 years. Markmaster is an award winning manufacturer and supplier. As a Hispanic owned and managed company, diversity and inclusion are built into their core values.

“There aren’t many of us in the business,” stated Mark. In an area such as Tampa, Florida you would’ve imagined to be more minority owned business like theirs, but in reality it’s the opposite. Markmaster clients include both large corporations together with small local business. From graphic products such as banners and signs to smaller products such as name badges and any other personalized business essentials.

The business is built with around 74 employees including a national sales team. Just like many other businesses during this past year, the count of team members definitely dropped. “It wasn’t what we really wanted but not even the PPP covered everything that we needed,” explains Mark.

Today, the business continues to run its physical location together with their online presence, which it’s one of their future goals: to increase more online sales. “It’s coming back. I see us moving forward,” expressed Mark regarding his vision after this past year.

Markmaster and. Comerica carry a long and successful relationship as both vendor and customer. “We have a great relationship going both directions and we are very pleased with that,” said Mark.

Markmaster takes part of Comerica’s diversity program and has gotten them at a very positive position. They have been coached, mentored and much more. “Through the program, Comerica always has their input and has helped us grow successfully.”

As for the future, Markmaster’s business plan is to continue to increase their corporation clients while growing their online capabilities and developing new products.