REP FIRM SETS RECORD, WINS BAG END "REP OF YEAR" HONORS FOURTH TIME

It’s beginning to sound like a broken record. Audio Biz of Wauconda, IL, won the 2001 “Rep of the Year” award for BAG END Loudspeaker Systems, the fourth time in the last five years the firm has taken the coveted honor.

That honor and other awards were handed out at BAG END’s annual sales meeting during the recent NSCA show in Denver, CO.

Noting that the tragic events of 9/11 created a tough business environment for everyone, Jim Wischmeyer, president of BAG END, complimented the staff at Audio Biz for persevering through a tough period.

"Almost anyone can make a sale when times are good, but – as the old saying goes, ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going,’” said Jim Wischmeyer, president of BAG END. “The Audio Biz staff earned its award by turning in a tremendous year under very trying circumstances.”

Along with the company award for over all achievement, Pat McConnell, Audio Biz’ rep in Wisconsin, received individual recognition from BAG END for individual effort as a “Star Performer.” The honor is accorded to those who demonstrate “focus and ability to grasp what others only image.” Audio Biz represents BAG END in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.

Also receiving “Star Performer” honors from BAG END for their performance in 2001 were Jeanette Hurwitz of Sirius Marketing of Antioch, CA and Andrew White of Bencsik Associates in Ocala FL.

The award for best inside office staff went to two firms for last year’s effort: Aldridge Marketing of Houston, Texas, and GP Marketing of Kirkland, WA The 2001 “Star Team Leader” honor went to Jeff Poole of Jamm Distributing of Flossmoor, IL.

Because of the unusual circumstances in 2001, the Barrington, IL, loudspeaker manufacturer created a new award: the “Johnny Appleseed” for generating the most new leads last year. That honor went to Steve McNeil of Mac West Marketing of Chatsworth, CA.