Why we recognize and award

Dec. 2, 2013

Another year is ending for the vending, micro market and OCS industry. It’s a time for reflection and recognition. In this issue, we recognize people who have been making a difference all year, and usually, for the past several years. It’s a great honor, and it’s one of my favorite issues to write.

Congratulations

There are numerous studies out there about what drives people to work hard. Job security and money are on the list, but also, recognition for a job well done. Most go-getters and industry pioneers aren’t thinking about “what’s in it for me,” and now, we honor them for leading, for helping, for showing us the way to achieve. They are our mentors and our friends. They deserve our congratulations.

Recognition sends a strong message to the recipient. It shows that the organization, person, publication or industry cares about good performance. It shows the organization values those who go above and beyond. The recognition will hopefully inspire others to be an integral part of an industry that has helped them achieve.

Regular and fair

It’s important to reward and recognize excellence on a regular basis. That’s why since 1994, Automatic Merchandiser has been running the Readers’ Choice People of the Year program. More than 50 people went online this year to nominate those who were the best – those who guide, share and drive the industry forward. Nominators submitted comments that left me wanting to know these people and made choosing just five a difficult process. But we had to do it. This year’s leaders come from four states and have very different stories and motivations. Two are long time operators in the industry and have seen vending and OCS go through many changes, challenges and recoveries. They both feel positive about the future.

In the broker and distributor categories, each winner has worked for decades with operators and counts themselves lucky to be part of such a close-knit industry.

This year’s manufacturer rep winner is a well-respected team member of a micro market supplier – one of the newest and most profitable ventures in recent vending history.

The profiles start on page X. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I did.

As we launch into 2014, I also want to recognize the hard work of my staff. They are on the masthead for all to see, but that 6-point-type doesn’t reflect their hard work and dedication to make Automatic Merchandiser the best publication it can be. They work hard each and every day and I’m sincerely grateful to be part of their team.

I also want to recognize all of you, who read these pages and use the information to run more successful businesses. Thank you for your support and continued efforts to drive the vending, micro market and OCS industry forward.

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