Starting in the ninth grade, Adrian E. Kaiser III spent every summer working at his family’s business, Acme Refrigeration of Baton Rouge.
As Business Report details in its new Executive Spotlight feature on Kaiser, it was after attending Louisiana Tech University that Kaiser went to work full time at Acme, tasked with computerizing the company. Since then, he has ascended to president of the company and has continued to lead it into the 21st century.
By working under his father for 25 years, Kaiser learned first-hand the secret to sustaining and growing a family business: building relationships. Today, Kaiser prides himself on his 42 years with the company—noting he’s never had another job—which currently has a network of 17 branches covering the entire state and extending into east Texas and Mississippi.
Sustaining a family business across decades takes focus and dedication. As Baton Rouge has grown more competitive over the years, Kaiser says it has become increasingly crucial to “perform and stay close to customers.”
Kaiser finds that one of the biggest challenges in his industry is dealing with regulations. “Government regulations run our business,” he says. “Most people would not believe some of the things they have done.”
Read the full Executive Spotlight Q&A with Kaiser. Here’s a sample of what you’ll find:
What is it like to work with so many family members?
“We have always been a family business. My grandfather started Acme in 1945 just after World War II, my father took over from my grandfather and I have continued that tradition. My son, Ryan Kaiser, is now in training to hopefully lead the company as the fourth generation. We are celebrating our 70th year in business in 2015.”
