Vistage Member Marcus Whitener named NAMA Industry Person of the Year

San Diego, March 18, 2014 – Vistage member Marcus Whitener has been recognized by the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) as the 2014 Industry Person of the Year. This award recognizes an individual who has consistently exemplified the highest standards of professional excellence throughout his or her career in the vending, coffee service, or food service management industry and who has been an inspiration to others. The winner must have exhibited a history of service to their communities and to the industry through efforts with NAMA and state associations. They are innovative, possess a willingness to expand conventional practices and practice consistent ethical business standards in accordance with the NAMA code of ethics.

“Marc is an excellent choice as the NAMA Industry Person of the Year,” said Dean Gilland, NAMA’s vice president of sales/CTW, in a prepared statement. “He’s committed to the industry as well as his community. We’re very excited for him.”

Since 2006, Marcus Whitener has been the CEO of Refreshment Solutions in New Orleans, the largest vending operator in the state of Louisiana. The company has 4,000 machines in the market serving 35,000 customers each day. Whitener’s company has been at the forefront of adapting to new technologies, most notably credit card acceptance and bundle purchases.

Whitener, who serves on NAMA’s Board of Directors, is also a NAMA Certified Executive (NCE), a designation awarded to professionals who demonstrate the commitment, knowledge, integrity and leadership characteristics that distinguish themselves in their field.

Whitener and his fellow awardees will be honored at the NAMA OneShow in Chicago, IL on April 9 to 11, 2014. To learn more about the OneShow, visit namaoneshow.org.

About Vistage Worldwide, Inc.
Vistage is the world’s largest CEO coaching and peer advisory organization. Since 1957 we’ve been guiding CEOs and owners of small and midsize businesses to greater success. It’s why Vistage member companies average 21+ years, while most U.S. businesses fail within five. Today, 45,000 members in 40 countries turn to Vistage to become better leaders who drive better outcomes. Learn more at vistage.com.

Media Contact
Katie McWeeney | Vistage
858.523.6875 | katie.mcweeney@vistage.com