Rockland Business Spotlight: Hard Work Pays off for this Wholesaler

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. The plan behind this series at Patch is to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

This is as much about supporting local businesses as it is about celebrating the places and faces that make our community special. Click here to get to a simple form where local business owners can answer a few quick questions to be part of this ongoing feature.

Our spotlight today is on Mitchell Sedotto.

Business: Majwholesalers Inc./Margal Dist. Inc.
Owners: Mitchell Sedotto
Website: martinsfamouspastryshoppee.com
Address: My office is in my home in Blauvelt; my warehouse is located in Nanuet on Prospect Street.

How did you come up with the name?

Margal was formed in 1984 and is a combination of my wife’s name (Marguerite) and my son’s name, Alfonse. MAJ are the initials of my wife, son & daughter Jaclyn who came later on.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

Mostly it was convenient and a centrally located spot. Ialso have a warehouse in Newburgh.

Briefly, what business are you in?

I distribute Martins Potato Bread and Rolls throughout the Hudson Valley.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

At first it was getting the people to buy our product because it was relatively unknown.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

No because I was raised in a family business and I knew what to expect. I knew hard work and dedication would prevail. I knew that we had a great product and that is half the battle.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

Becoming a wholesaler for Martins. I now have 18 routes that i control or manage.

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

Definitely our slider rolls. They have become a real big seller. Not our best seller but it is amazing how well they have grown in the last several years.

How do you deal with difficult customers?

I give them what they want and just try to keep them happy. More importantly I treat everyone the same. or the way I would like to be treated.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

I have continually donated product to charities to raise money for good causes. I am a sucker. I rarely say no.