Company History

Our family opened our 1st print shop in 1972. In the early 80’s, our focus shifted from printing to direct mail. And, in 1999, Eric Coard purchased the company for the sum of it’s debt when founder and father, Richard “Rip” Coard passed. Eric carried on the family business thru 2004 when it was finally handed over to brother, Brad Coard.

Eric Coard and wife, Sandy founded National Mailhouse Corporation in 2005 in the garage and room over the garage in their Suffolk, Virginia home. But, the business grew quickly and was relocated into larger office and production space located on Market Street in Downtown Suffolk, Virginia where the company continued to grow.

However, the deep recession of 2008 took it’s toll and forced them to cut back on living and business expenses to survive. So, in 2010, they relocated to a far more affordable home in Southampton County and purchased two old buildings on Main Street in Downtown Boykins to house their business.

After substantial renovations to both buildings, National Mailhouse Corporation has stood the test of time in this rural community where time seems to stand still. They have never regretted their move to Southampton County. To the contrary, the move turned out to be a huge blessing in disguise.

Their business continues to thrive. But, now, with far more affordable living and business expenses, they don’t have any of the stress associated with "big-city-life" and commercial rent. They love the peace and tranquility of Southampton County and love it’s people.

National Mailhouse Corporation and Whittington Station Printing have a distinctly human approach to the printing and direct mail business. the Coard’s always figured that putting people before profits just made good commonsense. The local connections they’ve made in the community have helped them create a loyal following, as has their ability to keep promises and to consistently provide effective direct mail pieces and beautiful printing.

None of this would be possible, of course, without wife and partner, Sandy Coard. They call each other "co-workers" and are always focused on partnering and working with great people who help them build the company.

They also use their business to help support The Coard Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides food and necessities 24/7 to anyone in the community who needs it through Boykins Blessing Box. They also provide monthly financial assistance and good deeds wherever the Board of Directors may deem there is a worthy cause. Many, if not most of their print jobs profit is given away through client’s donations to The Coard Foundation in lieu of an invoice for the printing. These are tough times, but there is ALWAYS someone, somewhere who needs a helping hand. And, The Coard Foundation tries to do their part by offering that helping hand wherever possible.