Stimulating growth
At its core, ACN is essentially a marketing firm for its network of representatives. It must focus on the next big thing while always fine-tuning its current services. It must evolve with advancing technology and tap into emerging industries. ACN’s sales and penetration into new market segments depend on it, especially if it is to reach its $1 billion revenue goal in the next few years.
“Our 13-year track record has taught us that you must always be ahead of the game to be successful,” says fellow founder and Chairman Robert Stevanovski. “You must have future thinking and know precisely the right time to act, whether it’s a new product line such as a (Voice over Internet Protocol) with video phone or a change in our business plan.”
The VoIP market is expected to grow into a $9 billion industry by 2008, and the spread of deregulation in the gas and energy markets opens up pockets where companies such as ACN can step in to sell services.
“When you have a marketing engine as we do, you can be pretty light on your feet,” Provenzano says, adding that marketing services as opposed to products makes the company even more nimble.
Meanwhile, Provenzano says ACN, with representatives in 18 countries on three continents, will continue to expand internationally. In turn, the company will translate services it offers to overseas markets to the United States. For example, Provenzano sees potential to build a strong cellular phone business here after ACN’s mobile services proved successful in Europe.
Gradually, Provenzano and the founders are building a corporate structure that looks much more like a solid, square block than a pyramid. The sign of true growth, Provenzano says, is when independent, hard-working people stand at the top along with ACN’s founders.
“There is a big difference between success and significance,” Provenzano says. “People who are significant look beyond their own personal success.”
How to reach: ACN Inc., www.acninc.com, (248) 699-4000
