Joan's Trophy

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History

Joan's Trophy & Plaque Co. originated in the residence of Don Whitesall in Peoria, Illinois in 1970.  The business then moved in 1972 to 2108 N. Prospect.  When Don Whitesall passed away in 1973, his wife Joan (company's namesake) continued operation until 1975 when she sold the business.

Diana and Don Gustin purchased the small business, with its good name and reputation, in June of 1977.  Four full time people (including the owners) were employed at that time.  The business has been on a continual rise since 1977 and presently (May 2001) employs 20 people.  Joan's Trophy & Plaque Co. incorporated in 1983 and moved from its first location of 3000 sq. ft. on Prospect to 6500 square feet at 414 N.E. Jefferson (downtown Peoria) in 1985.

Joan's Trophy & Plaque Co. has grown from a small "trophy shop" to a multi faceted corporation retailing all types of awards - both local and world wide.  Quality, speedy service, good management and excellent employees have been the key to the continued growth of this company.

Advertising specialty items were added to the corporate line of products in 1987.  An additional building at 310 Bryan St., Peoria, was added to house the new Laser Engraving Department in 1991.  This location was remodeled in time for the new Industrial & Computer Engraving Department in 1993.

The most recent move was made in February 1997 to 508 N.E. Jefferson (one block from former location).  The move gave the company a total of 25,000 sq. ft. of production, storage and showroom space.

Publishing four full color catalogs throughout the years has been Joan's main marketing and advertising tool.  Most recently, 30,000 copies of the 32 page "Recognizing the Elite" catalog was printed.  No mass mailings are made.  Distribution is selective.

Joan's Trophy & Plaque Co. meets their customers' needs by keeping educated and up-to-date with the ever-changing awards industry.  Employees are sent to seminars for management and self improvement.  Diana and Don Gustin were honored by the Awards and Recognition Association as two of the first dealers in the nation to have achieved the title of "Certified Recognition Master" (completing 170 hours of education in their field).  The company is also a member of Award Associates of America, a buyers group of large select award companies throughout the country.