THE GOODMAN VENDING STORY
The Goodman Vending story begins in 1946 when Erv Goodman of Lebanon, PA was discharged from the US Air Force. He took his mustering out pay and invested it in a dozen used candy machines costing $15 each. Goodman Vending Service was born.
Vending machines in industrial plants were a comparatively new concept in 1946. It was difficult to place machines because clients expected a loss of production if employees were allowed snacks on the job. This attitude began to change in the late 40's and early 50's as vending was accepted and even welcomed as a means to keep employees happy, and yes, even more productive on the job.
In 1948 Goodman hired his first employee, Bill Buckholz, who was paid $25 per week and all the candy he could eat. Business increased and in 1953 a decision was made to place some vending machines in the Reading area. Business flourished and in 1963 the Lebanon branch was sold and the Reading branch was expanded.
Food vending (sandwiches, etc.) began in 1965 and an Office Coffee department was opened in 1970.
Seven feet of water during the disastrous flood of 1972 was a setback, but an emergency government loan allowed GVS to purchase a building on Morgantown Road, which was to be their home for 16 years.
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About the same time, Erv Goodman semi-retired and moved to Florida. Business continued to grow. Ten years later, Bill Buckholz purchased the company. Goodman Vending is still a family owned business and Erv Goodman calls often to support and cheer the company's growth.
In December 1989, GVS moved to a brand new, specially designed 23,000 square foot building on Tuckerton Road. This year was additionally notable because Bill's son Tony came into the business after graduating from Albright College with a degree in business administration.
In January 1994, R & V Vending of Lebanon was purchased and now functions as a separate entity under the trade name of RV Goodman Vending. Tony served as President of RV from its inception and in 1999 took over responsibility of both facilities.
Goodman Vending continues to prosper and currently employs 75 people. Goodman Vending has built a reputation for quality products and exceptional personal service. They believe that business is fun. It shows in their work, their service and in their carefree, humorous, but always professional attitude.
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