Don’t be fooled by the warm weather, holiday cheer is still in the air for members of American Christmas, honored this year as one of the Nation’s fastest growing inner city companies.
On Tuesday, June 30 the Staples Foundation for Learning and the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City induced the Bronx based business, located 1135 Bronx River Avenue, into the Hall of Fame.
“The company’s growth can be attributed to a combination of factors, ultimately it is providing a really great product with really good service,” said American Christmas C.E.O., Fred Schwam.
The honor is given only to companies that make the ICIC published Inner City 100 list, which ranks the fastest growing businesses, for at least 5 years.
In 2009, for its 5th appearance on the list, American Christmas was ranked 89th, earning a more than $ 9 million in revenue for 2007 and employing more than 115 workers during the height of the season, with 82% from New York City and 50% from the Bronx.
“Much of our success is attributed to our staff,” said Schwam. “They bring a tremendous amount of experience. This is a testament of the family we have created.”
Schwam and American Christmas employees joined Derrick Johns, general manager of the Staples at 2040 White Plains Road, and the Staples staff to formally acknowledge the accomplishment.
“American Christmas’s Fred Schwam has demonstrated that hard work and determination are keys to growing a successful business, and he serves as a positive role model for business owners throughout the Bronx,” said Joy Errico, director of community relations for Staples, Inc.
“By honoring American Christmas, Staples Foundation for Learning and ICIC are raising awareness of the important role entrepreneurs play within America’s inner cities in helping to build sustainable, thriving urban communities.”
American Christmas operates year round and has serviced companies and locations such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Radio City Music Hall, Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, Rockefeller Center and more.
