The Custom Ink story began in 1999 with a realization: bringing people together shouldn’t be hard, and business didn't have to be soulless.

Co-founder Marc Katz was working a Wall Street job that lacked "heart." He wanted to build something meaningful—something that helped people capture the passion they felt for their groups, teams, and causes. Alongside college friends Mike Driscoll and Dave Christensen, Marc saw an opportunity to turn the chaotic process of ordering custom t-shirts into something fun, easy, and reliable.

Whatever the "office" lacked—often just Marc’s green couch and a phone line—the vision made up for. They weren’t just selling shirts; they were selling the feeling of belonging.

Growing Up With You 

As our customers’ ambitions grew, so did we. What started as a website for family reunions and rec leagues expanded into a comprehensive partner for global enterprises and fast-moving organizations. We realized that to truly serve the "organizers" - the unsung heroes planning the events and building the culture - we needed to offer more than just a print on a tee.

We improved our capabilities to master all kinds of custom products and merch, from tech accessories to drinkware, and built a logistics network that ensures your deadline is always met. We moved from that green couch to a global footprint, but the goal remains the same: to take the stress off your plate so you can focus on your team.

A New Chapter of Innovation 

In 2024, after nearly 25 years of leadership, Marc passed the torch to David Doctorow, who joined us as CEO. While Marc continues to guide the spirit of the brand as Chairman, David brings a fresh focus on digital experience and operational excellence. Together, they represent a commitment to Custom Ink’s future—honoring our history while aggressively innovating to meet the complex needs of the modern organizer.

We’ve come a long way from the green couch, but our passion for helping you create something great hasn't changed a bit.