YOUNGSTOWN — Despite COVID-19 restrictions decimating its nonprofit customer base and a double-figure decrease in sales, Nannicola Inc., a distributor of charitable gaming and fundraising products, is proud that it was able to bring back most of its 71 employees by year’s end.
“We have weathered many storms over 80-plus years with COVID being the most recent,” says Charles Nannicola, president. “The family business has been able to handle these difficulties due to dedicated employees, a strong customer base and long-term planning.”
Nannicola sells bingo items, instant bingo/pull tab tickets, electronic bingo games and the prizes that can be awarded with such games.
Pandemic restrictions placed on gatherings and hours of operations hurt nonprofit organizations’ fundraising and, in turn, the company’s sales, Nannicola says. Because of this, the company focused more on its for-profit customers.
Last year the company acquired Sun Novelty in Lorain. It also bolstered online revenue through Walmart Marketplace. This year it plans to expand its e-commerce with Fulfillment by Amazon.