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Show IDEAS PAY DIVIDENDS It is interesting to read the 43th annual report of the second largest chain store system in the United States. It started from a very small beginning as the result of the dream of an individual who walked from house to house taking grocery orders and then delivering them. He saw the money that could be saved under a cash and carry plan. In the face of the strongest opposition, he made his dream come true-first in one store then in several. His goal was to buy on a quantity basis and sell retail at a minimum mark-up per unit sale, by eliminating every possible overhead over-head cost then common to delivery and credit systems. He believed that people would be glad to carry their own purchases pur-chases if resulting savings were transferred to them in lower prices. u A generation later the balance sheet of the company he started, showed a gross annual business of nearly three-quarters three-quarters of a billion dollars, done in 2,452 stores scattered over 22 states and 4 provinces of Canada. Thus a dream which was based on the service idea is today providing opportunities for thousands of men and women in all parts of the country to learn a business in which they can advance or from which they can step out and into activities for themselves with training that will better assure their chances for success. Building up 2,452 stores and nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars' business annually looks like "big business,'' busi-ness,'' but when broken down over the territory covered, it becomes highly local activity in each state and town, working work-ing to hold its own with independent and chain competition. If you have an idea for service you have a chance to put it into effect in the United States. Don't be envious of success. Try to go the other fellow one better. |