In today’s Out of Home (OOH) market, technology matters, but partnerships drive success. That’s the story of North Star Media Partners and Formetco, a collaboration rooted in trust, service, and shared vision. For Chuck Bolkcom, founder of North Star Media Partners, aligning exclusively with Formetco and his sales rep, Bobby Tatman, has become the cornerstone of his company’s growth.
A Partnership Built on Trust
Bolkcom recalls his first impressions clearly: “From our initial discussions, I trusted the Formetco platform for its combination of high-quality images, reputation for service, energy efficiency, and value. Bobby’s attention to my needs has been the backbone of our partnership.”
That trust hasn’t wavered. “My advertisers see the difference and know their brands will shine on our locations,” Bolkcom says. For him, the signs’ quality gives North Star’s inventory a distinct advantage in a competitive marketplace.
Collaboration in Action
The relationship with Formetco has consistently gone beyond supplying equipment. When regulatory challenges threatened to stall North Star’s expansion along a major Twin Cities highway, Tatman drew from his experience with other operators to help chart a path forward. Together, they developed a network of eight 13.3mm digitals that not only met requirements but raised the bar for quality in the market.
The Forest Lake project along Highway 35 is a prime example. Facing a tight deadline and complex site conditions, Tatman personally visited the location, provided recommendations, and worked alongside Formetco’s install crew to deliver signs in just three and a half weeks. “Every Formetco project includes an installation crew that goes above and beyond,” Bolkcom says. “It’s always an amazing experience.”
Growing Side by Side
For Bolkcom, the partnership has been the key to scaling quickly. “The price/value equation is excellent because Bobby goes to bat for me to package the signs I had in my plan. The energy efficiency is amazing. And the install teams will not stop until it’s right.”
Today, North Star proudly operates 14 digital faces across the Twin Cities. Each one reflects not only advanced technology but also the collaboration and trust behind every project. “It’s a difference my advertisers can see,” Bolkcom explains.
A Shared Vision for the Future
As North Star continues to grow, Bolkcom sees Formetco less as a vendor and more as a strategic partner. “Our relationship includes an ongoing series of conversations where Formetco is on the ground floor of every project, driving confidence I can select the right sign, have amazingly short lead times, and installation partners that make every project worry free. It could not be better, end to end.”
For Bolkcom, the bottom line is simple: “Bobby is a key adviser and his service is incredible. This partnership is the foundation of our success.”
See the Partnership Come to Life
From solving regulatory hurdles to building an expanding network of 14 digital faces, the North Star–Formetco story is one of growth fueled by collaboration. And while words tell part of the story, the real impact is best seen in action.
👉 Watch the sizzle reel to experience the partnership for yourself!
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