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The Remarkable Man continued ly on heavy equipment, anything to increase our profit margin." Changing conditions notwithstanding, Sam's career continued to flourish, as he moved from assistant purchasing agent to manager of purchasing, and eventually to manager of merchandising for all departments. In the mid 1930s, Albert Pick bought the L. Barth Co. of New York, a similar business but smaller, and the company became known as Pick-Barth. As a result of the acquisition, Sam was elevated to vice president and began the challenging task of integrating the employees of both firms into a cohesive unit. The dealership grew, and his role in that successful expansion,along with his other innate abilities,earned him the title of company president. The Beginning of FSEI Some of Sam's fondest memories surround the early years of the Food Service Equipment Industry, Inc., the forerunner of FEDA. Sam recalled the circumstances necessitating the formation of this new association: "Conditions in 1933 were terrible—competition was fierce and the economy as a whole was in serious trouble. Making money in this environment was difficult. I got 14 firms together, all of whom were in the same boat, and began to hold meetings in Chicago to discuss how we were all going to survive. These firms were outstanding—the best in the industry.After several annual meetings, we grew significantly, as many firms joined to have their voices heard. We were developing an industry where ethics were first and foremost. We also established guidelines for the hiring and retention of employees and introduced innovative marketing methods. "FSEI gave credibility to dealers. We increased our status among our customers by teaching them the advantages to be gained by working with dealers—credit, delivery, etc.—services that we had to charge for, but which were worthwhile. We passed this message to our customers and to the entire industry as well." The Association grew, not rapidly but gradually, with most prospective members being recommended by a firm within the group, a process that kept the quality of membership high. From FSEI, NAFEM (North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers) and other quality organizations came into being after others in the industry witnessed how foodservice equipment dealers had effectively addressed their concerns with one strong voice. Sam served as FSEI's president, performing most of his duties from his office at Albert Pick. During the first several years of the Association's existence, Albert Pick & Co. assumed all the expenses of FSEI's annual meetings. We hope you have enjoyed this look back at the beginning years of FEDA and its remarkable founder K Remember the old FEDA meetings? Past Presidents Jim Touhey (far right) and Arnie Thoreson (left) at the 1984 FEDA Annual Convention. Left: An early Food Service Equipment Industry Inc. meeting. STAY HYDRATED ON A BUDGET WITHOUT SACRIFICING st le y Our Stainless Cold Bev r eve eve ver v Beverage Dispenser offers h a high class look without breaking the bank. That's hat hat s a That's something to drink to. Find us online: SERVICE IDEAS, INC. 2354 VENTURA DRIVE • WOODBURY, MN 55125 800-328-4493 • WWW.SERVICEIDEAS.COM July/August 2013 43