All In the Family: Bardell Printing

Co-workers, co-owners — brothers, family.

Originally formed in 1978, has been serving customers in the greater New Haven area for more than 30 years.

Owned and operated by brothers Gary and Frank Gambardella, since 1982 the business has been an East Haven staple.

'Together as a Family'

The two brothers, who grew up in Hamden and both graduated from Quinnipiac University, originally began the business with their parents, Anthony and Lil.

"So we started this together as a family," Gary, who now lives in East Haven, said.

Unfortunately, their mother Lill passed away two years ago.

But, Anthony — who owned and operated his own printing business for years prior to going into business with his two sons — is still an active presence at the family's Michael Street storefront, rolling up his sleeves and helping out with printing duties.

"He's 94 and still printing," Frank, now a New Haven resident, said.

'Anything That's Ink on Paper'

When it comes to printing services, Bardell's run the gamut: from the big corporation's advertising campaign to the individual customer's greeting card need.

"We wanted to serve both," Gary said of the company's diverse customer base.

Because of this, no printing job is too big or too small for Bardell's.

"Anything that's ink on paper, we do," Frank said.

'We've Got It All'

But that's not all. In 1991, the company expanded — both physically and in the services it provides, adding an entire division of office furniture and supplies to its small business repetoire.

"We decided it was time to diversify," Frank said.

And it has been a good move, as business continues to be steady and strong.

"We've got it all: everything from a printing need to a rubber stamp to office furniture to every day items," Gary said.

'Customer Service is Paramount'

When asked what has led to the East Haven business' longterm success, both Gary and Frank spoke of their emphasis on the customer.

"Customer service is paramount," Gary said. "Because basically, we're a service organization."

Frank agreed.

"We are always trying to provide the best service we can," he said.

They both also pointed to another secret weapon: their father.

"We've got the oldest pressman around," Frank said with a smile.