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Business Journals

Table of Experts: Women Owned Business

The Dayton Business Journal recently held a conversation focused on Women-Owned Companies. Cory Earl, Market President & Publisher of the Dayton Business Journal, interviewed Beth Radford, President & Owner at Allied Shipping and Packaging Supplies, Inc. expand CORY EARL: Let's kick things off by hearing your story to present day. What inspired you to start your business? Tell us about your journey — how did you get here? BETH RADFORD: I began my career in the packaging industry fresh out of high school, working for a company in Cincinnati. This early experience sparked a lasting passion. Fast forward to 2010, I started as a PT customer service representative at Allied Shipping and Packaging Supplies (ASAP). Eager to learn and take on more responsibility, I quickly found myself wearing many hats and became the right hand to the former owner, Shelly. Together, we worked to expand the company's reach, and in 2013 began to utilize our WBENC certification and actively collaborate with woman-owned business to grow together. Another pivotal point came in 2015, when I completed two transformative courses: Aileron's Course for Business Leadership and the Kauffman FastTrac Business Development Course, sponsored by P&G through WBEC ORV. That same year, I became COO. As Shelly became more involved with her other company, my leadership responsibilities grew. In the fall of 2022, Shelly became ill and sadly passed away in 2023. Her wish was to have the company remain a WBENC certified Woman-Owned business and she entrusted me with carrying the business forward. This was a very difficult time that is not easily put in words. We worked together to ensure a smooth transition. I am proud to honor her legacy and maintain the business she and her father, Big Jim, built. Jim began the company in 1982. I will forever be grateful to my sister, mentor, partner, and dear friend for this opportunity. EARL: Can you describe what your business does and who you serve? RADFORD: ASAP is dedicated to providing creative and sustainable packaging solutions for the Aerospace, Automotive, Manufacturing & Distribution, Medical & Pharmaceuticals, as well as Food & Beverage industries. With a rich history spanning over 40yrs, we specialize in crafting custom packaging solutions that protect and showcase your products. We provide products and services such as Cold Chain products, Custom & Branded Packaging, Kitting & Assembly, Packaging Materials & Equipment, Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI), Warehousing & Distribution. Our service extends from Sidney to Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Richmond, Indiana to name a few. We also have Nationwide dropship capabilities. We pride ourselves on our outstanding customer service and delivery teams with combined experience of over 100 years. EARL: What has been your proudest moment so far? RADFORD: I would have to say my most proud moments so far are keeping the doors open, obtaining 100% ownership and WBENC certification in my name. I'm very excited to build a new chapter and legacy and cannot wait to see what the future holds for all of us here at ASAP. EARL: Who has been a mentor or major influence in your entrepreneurial journey? RADFORD: I've had many influencers and mentors through the years, however, I am most grateful for a few remarkable women who stepped in without hesitation and help me navigate through the loss and grief of Shelly, and the transition of the business. I've known most of these women for years through my involvement in various women in business networks - Cheryl Borland- Hochshied Law, Becky Edgren- Puroclean, Stacy Shew, my right hand here at ASAP, Tara Abraham from Accel and Paula Gamer from C200. EARL: How do you support other women in business or your local community? RADFORD: Whenever the need arises, I always check my Dayton WiBN and WBENC databases to see if there are women-owned business owners that offer the services or products I am looking for. I also actively collaborate with other women business owners as much as possible – whether its working on client projects or partnering through Better Living's work program which creates employment opportunities for approximately 120 adults with developmental disabilities. It's an incredible initiative that aligns with our company values. EARL: What resources or networks have helped you grow your business? RADFORD: I am involved in several networks that have provided a sisterhood of support and sense of belonging for many years. Each one offers its own dynamic – mostly free education, resources and knowledge. My personal go-to networks are Dayton WiBN, WBEC ORV (WBENC), Ellevate Cincinnati, C200 Protégé Program, Dayton BBB, Dayton Chamber, Little Miami River Chamber Alliance and Women in Christian Leadership. EARL: What's next for you and your business? What impact do you hope to make through your business? RADFORD: At Allied Shipping and Packaging, we're not just preparing for the future—we're building it. Since 1982, our company has been driven by a clear purpose: to deliver exceptional service, superior quality, and innovative packaging solutions. Looking ahead, our strategy is focused on meaningful growth. We're expanding our footprint, streamlining internal operations, and embracing cutting-edge technologies. We believe in being trusted advisors. When you call Allied, you'll speak directly with a knowledgeable team member—because real relationships lead to real solutions. That's what sets us apart. Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, we're proud to be a WBENC certified Woman-Owned business rooted in community. Our commitment to giving back includes support for local and regional organizations. We are also excited to partner with Better Living's meaningful work program, creating employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. Our vision for the future includes a strong focus on sustainability—developing custom packaging solutions that protect your products while showcasing your brand. EARL: What advice do you have for other women thinking about starting a business? RADFORD: My advice would be to take advantage of all the free resources (or low cost) available through your local Chamber of Commerce, SBA office, and professional networks such as the ones I have recommended. Listen to your peers and don't hesitate to ask for help. Believe me, you are not alone in feeling unsure or apprehensive about the future – we've all been there at some point. And you will find that many of us are more than willing to share insights and lessons learned. If you'd like to connect with any of my networks that have supported me on my journey, I'd be more than happy to make introductions. These include: Dayton WiBN, WBEC ORV (WBENC), Ellevate Cincinnati, C200 Protégé Program, Dayton BBB, Dayton Chamber, Little Miami River Chamber Alliance and Women in Christian Leadership. EARL: With that, we'll conclude today's discussion. Once again, I'd like to thank you Beth for sharing your journey and perspective with our readers. I'm certain they will agree! MEET THE EXPERT Beth Radford, President & Owner, Allied Shipping and Packaging Supplies, Inc. Beth Radford is a passionate advocate for women in business and a committed leader in the packaging industry. As President and Owner of Allied Shipping and Packaging Supplies, Inc., Beth leverages her experience and vision to drive innovation while championing the empowerment of women entrepreneurs. For over 13 years, Beth has been an active member of the Women's Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley (WBEC-ORV) and has also dedicated nine years to Dayton's Women in Business Network (WiBN). Her leadership and commitment to community involvement have earned her numerous accolades, including being named a Dayton BBB/WiBN Top 25 Woman of Impact in 2021, WBEC-ORV Advocate of the Year in 2017, and WBEC-ORV Rising Star in 2024. That same year, she graduated from the prestigious C200 Protégé Program. Beth has served on several committees within both WBEC-ORV and WiBN, including as long-time Chair of the WBEC-ORV Dayton Forum Luncheons. She is also a proud member of the Dayton Better Business Bureau and participates in the Moraine Police Department's Business Outreach Program. Her community engagement has extended to volunteering for National Night Out that promotes police-community partnerships and serving on the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) Outreach Committee at Southbrook Christian Church. Outside of her professional life, Beth is a proud mother of three grown sons and resides in Mason, Ohio. She enjoys spending time with her family, especially near the beach, and finds joy in sketching, painting, traveling, kayaking, fishing, and exploring the outdoors.