Straight talk

My first note as the new publisher is an easy one; I get to introduce myself to you. I have a long career in publishing, and when I was offered the opportunity to work with the top-notch team at Gourmet News, I jumped at the chance. This position also allows me to reconnect with the gourmet industry.

As I begin my tenure, I am committed to delivering three things to you as a reader and decision-maker in your business.

First, good value. When I was the publisher of Seafood Business, the leading seafood industry trade magazine, I learned about the notorious practice of "soaking" scallops. By immersing raw scallops in a chemical solution, they absorbed water, which later evaporated during cooking, revealing a much smaller scallop. Once those suppliers who soaked their scallops were found out they soon discovered they couldn't sell any product. Buyers wouldn't tolerate not receiving full value for their dollar.

At Gourmet News we will continue to deliver news that's important and relevant to you in running your business. We know that, as a decision-maker, you depend on solid information to help you make decisions. We believe in delivering top value in news.

My second commitment to you is quality. Years ago I was a store manager for a chain of gourmet shops called the Cambridge Coffee, Tea and Spice House.

As I traveled between locations in Boston and upscale suburbs, I quickly learned our customers expected high quality products, whether it was cheese, coffee, tea or hard goods. Trying to pass off second-rate merchandise was unacceptable.

At Gourmet News we'll continue to deliver top quality news stories, meaningful special reports, buyer's guides and educational source books. You can count on us for the highest quality industry news and information available.

Finally, I am committed to integrity. Both my grandfathers and my father were in the wholesale food business in and around the old Boston market. I grew up learning that your word was your bond and deals done on a handshake meant something.

At Gourmet News, we will continue to deliver straight talk. At the same time, we will treat everyone we contact with fairness and respect. You can count on what you see in our pages.

I'll be doing a lot of traveling in the next few months and hope to visit many of your in your businesses. I'll also be attending major trade events in many industry segments. Please take a moment to introduce yourself should our paths cross. Stop by the Gourmet News booth at trade shows and say hello. I want to learn more about your business so we can continue to develop information that meets your needs. I hope to meet you soon.

Rick Rector

Publisher

rrector@gourmetnews.com

Copyright United Publications, Inc. Sep 2003
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved