Fond Memories of Gerry D’Amour

Commentary From Our President

Fond Memories of Gerry D’Amour

Michael D. Sleeper, Chief Executive Officer, Imperial Distributors, Inc.

I was first introduced to Gerry D’Amour in the late fifties by my father’s younger brother Arnold Sleeper, who owned a Health and Beauty Aid rack jobbing business in Springfield, Mass. Both he and Gerry returned home after World War II, believing that with determination and hard work they would be successful. Gerry gave my uncle a great opportunity when he chose AJ Sleeper Company as Big Y’s supplier for HBC. Although Uncle Arnold seldom spoke to me about his customers, his admiration for Gerry made a lasting impression.

Gerry always worked closely with his suppliers to create strong relationships that benefited both vendors and Big Y. He made it known that suppliers delivering orders were not to be kept waiting at the back door,

and he instructed his sister Yvette to pay vendors two days before their bills were due.

Gerry’s solid values extended well beyond his suppliers. He was extremely committed to his employees, his customers and his community. He was a mentor and great teacher who constantly challenged store managers and staff to find a better way to do things and to think about the future. Gerry was an innovator and well ahead of his time. His command of the business was his trademark – knowing every phase of the operation with impressive attention to detail. As the consummate merchant, Gerry knew how to sell more by selecting just the right products and merchandising them to their full potential.

Gerry’s work ethic was legendary. He wrote Big Y’s store ads on Sunday nights, and often worked seven days a week. He somehow found time to be actively involved in his community, giving generously of his time and being wonderfully philanthropic.

While his accomplishments were extraordinary, for many it was Gerry’s warm smile, genuine humility and respect for others that will always be remembered.

The legacy of Gerry D’Amour will be his profound impact in creating a very successful supermarket chain with his brother Paul, his love of family and positive influence in encouraging them to continue to lead and grow Big Y, and his guidance and “world class” values which define Big Y today.

For comments or questions, contact us by phone at 508-756-5156, or e-mail: msleeper@imperialdistributors.com

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