Akintayo Temitope, better known as Kintz in the print and branding industry, is one of the most visible entrepreneurs in South-Western Nigeria. Having branded many notable clubs, hotels among many other outfits, he told ROTIMI IGE about his industry, challenges, among other topics.
What influenced your choice of career?
My father was one of the indigenous printers with the brand name S.O. A. printing press. In those days, printing was done using the setting case, setting stick and letter-press machines. I got my love for printing, publishing and branding from my father. Today, I am into the same business making my father proud.
Printing and design in the 21st century have become influenced by new technology. What exactly has changed about how your business is being done in present day and how have you adapted?
It is true. Printing in the 21st century has become highly digitalised. The availability of computerised graphics designs has made it easier to bring your thoughts, dreams, and ideas etc to life. The introduction of high-tech machines like CTCP, direct imaging and large format machines, Komori offset machines and so on, has made it possible to deliver a lot more complex jobs with class and panache.
What challenges have you faced in your craft?
Employees (operators) and vendors (engineers) have their way of frustrating the business, especially if you are working with the wrong ones.
How does inflation, among other factors affect your business. Tell us about the problems faced in your industry and possible solutions.
The present economic situation has made all printing materials extremely expensive leading to an enormous increase in the cost of production. Power is also a major issue; we pay through our noses for electricity we do not consume and run-on diesel most times, yet all of these cannot be fully factored into our pricing.
You are also into branding hospitality (club and hotel) outfits. What would you say is required for good outlook for any of your clients to attract customers?
In hospitality, ambience and aesthetics are key. There is a need to set standards which the organisation must never compromise when it comes to security and good service. The organisation must also upgrade at intervals and have a strong maintenance culture.
What other businesses are you into?
I am also into consulting for clubs, lounges and hotels. We help entrepreneurs in the hospitality business with construction, finishing, branding and staffing (recruitment and training) and thankfully, today, we have a long list of satisfied clients (hotels and lounges) all over the country.
You are quite a socialite. Would you say being sociable improves one’s network and net worth in today’s world?
In my line of business, socialising helps a lot, but it must be done with sense. You need a good circle of friends, people who will mention your name in a room filled with great opportunities, friends who discuss business ideas not people.
Tell us about your fashion sense?
As the wise saying goes “You don’t get a second opportunity to make a first impression”. I am a smart dresser if I say so myself (smile) I love a simple look, smelling good, wearing nice shoes and smart attires as the occasion demands.
Describe your typical day?
My typical day starts with prayer in the morning after which I proceed to the office to get some work done. I move around town monitoring our diverse projects and at the end of the day, I hang out with my friends. At least twice a week, I visit the gym in the evening to work out before going home.
What could you have become if not a branding agent?
If I wasn’t a branding agent, I most probably would be a brand ambassador.
Tell us a bit about your background and early memories of family life.
I was born in the late 70s into the family of Pa. Samuel Oyekola and the Late Mrs Grace Ajoke Akintayo. I am a graduate of Banking and Finance. I have some background in the Marketing of Financial products and services.
One of my fondest memories growing up was Christmas preparations with my mother and my siblings and cousins. She taught us about car safety with the quote “If you stick out your arm so far, it might go with another car” wise words indeed.
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