PBAC 3.0 New Ownership: Leadership, Legacy, and What’s Next

As the foodservice industry continues to evolve, so too does PBAC —a trusted name in Metro New York and the Tri-State area for more than 35 years. This October, PBAC entered an exciting new chapter with a change in ownership and leadership. While transitions can sometimes spark uncertainty, PBAC’s new president, Joshua Erdheim, is committed to honoring the company’s legacy, supporting its dedicated team, and driving solutions to meet the challenges and opportunities of today’s market.

In this exclusive Q&A, we sit down with Joshua Erdheim, the new president of PBAC 3.0 to discuss leadership philosophy, the company’s vision for the future, and what clients and partners can expect as PBAC continues to set the standard for service, expertise, and reliability.

 

PBAC Leadership Team

Q&A With PBAC’s New President

Q: How would you describe your leadership style, and how will it shape PBAC’s future?

A: I believe in mentoring and guiding the team while encouraging them to take ownership and pride in their work. From top down our ideology is to solve problems, address customer concerns and to be an honest and reliable resource for our customers. My sales experience which originated in the field will funnel to the team to help them understand the industry needs and challenges. It is important that we work as a team and through our collective experiences and knowledge outperform the expectations set upon us.

Q: What excites you most about leading PBAC at this pivotal time?
A: With product and technological innovation it forces our team to stay ahead of the curve and be aware of industry and market trends that help our business and our customers. CRM systems and AI platforms are going to change the way we do business as we evaluate opportunities and manage projects which will expand our capabilities even further.
Q: How do you plan to honor PBAC’s 35+ year legacy while bringing new ideas to the table?
A: I have watched and learned from industry icons and veterans; founding partners Michael Posternak, Steve Bauer and former president Larry Cantamessa for 20 years. Their methodologies, ideas, tactics and creativity will always be part of my daily rhetoric. Their ability to focus on growth, team inspiration and wisdom which produced results reflects upon me to lead the team to success. They have engrained in me the value of building and strengthening personal relationships as that is the key to our industry.
Q: What are your short-term and long-term goals for PBAC under your leadership?

A: The short term goal is to continue to develop our team to be long term strategic partners to our consultants, dealers and end users. We want to be a top performer for all of our manufacturers, convert market share, and be a preferred and trusted vendor for our clients. Our focus is driving sales starting at the end user level and building the foundation through that relationship. The long term goal is to identify and grow the next generation of talent within our team.

Q: How will you ensure a smooth transition for both clients and team members during the change in ownership?
A: This is the easy part as we have been conducting our business in this manner for the past several years. There will be no difference or affect to our clients as in essence nothing will be changing. If anything there will be additional support and resources available. Founding partners will continue to mentor the leadership team which will assist throughout transition.
Q: What do you see as PBAC’s greatest strengths in the current foodservice market?
A: Experience of the sales team. Diversity of skill sets, expertise, and talent in the leadership and knowledge of the sales team. We each have deep and extensive relationships with our customers.
Q: Are there any new initiatives or innovations you plan to introduce at PBAC?
A: We plan to grow our Salesforce utilization and tie it to our enhanced project management that evolves through adaptation of AI. The launch of our new test kitchen in Deer Park, NY is going to be monumental in our representation and growth. It will be referred to as our Culinary Center of Excellence and be inclusive of our latest and greatest products from all of our manufacturers.
Q: In what ways do you plan to support and empower the existing PBAC team?
A: Educating them and helping them through sharing personal experiences. Empowering them to learn on their own and through additional support and training. Transfer of knowledge and increased introductions to assist with further transitioning.
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you anticipate in the foodservice industry, and how will PBAC address them?
A: Tariffs, political turmoil and a possible recession are things that will keep us in limbo . Imports and inferior products continue to come into the market. PBAC will continue to represent, specify, and sell products that are superior and offer premium features and benefits. The advantage of having local presence, service, and support will be a differentiating factor or how we “sell ourselves”
Q: What message do you have for PBAC’s long-standing clients and partners about this transition?
A: Have no fear, PBAC is here and stronger than ever. Our team is the best in the business backed by extensive experience and the next generation of leadership.
Q: How do you see PBAC’s role evolving in the Metro New York and Tri-State foodservice markets?
A: We plan to go beyond just the Tri-State market as our customer base and dealers continue to extend nationwide.
Q: What are you most looking forward to accomplishing in your first year as President?
A: I’m especially excited about launching our new test kitchen, which has been in development for over a year.
Q: How do you plan to leverage PBAC’s Culinary Center of Excellence and demonstration capabilities for client engagement?

A: People want to touch, see and feel these advanced products. They want to evaluate if it makes sense for their business. Equipment costs have risen and customers are more financially aware. They need to feel part of the exploration process to help justify the purchase. Competition is stronger than ever making demonstrations and live training necessary to allow our products to shine and sell themselves. Our partners have similar business strategies founded on relationships with end users, organizations and other key markets. This is a facility we will both be proud of.

Q: What advice would you give to other leaders taking on a legacy company in a dynamic industry?
A: Be sure to have proper mentoring and guidance throughout the transition. Communicate clearly and provide sufficient notification to your manufacturers, dealers and consultants so there are no surprises resulting in a seamless transition. Be open and receptive to making changes that challenge your vision yet benefit your business and your customers..

Looking Ahead: The Future of PBAC 3.0

As PBAC transitions to the new ownership, the company remains steadfast in its mission to deliver exceptional service, innovative solutions, and trusted expertise to its clients and partners. With a leadership team rooted in the company’s proud history and energized by a bold vision for the future, PBAC is poised to continue its legacy of excellence—now and for decades to come.

Whether you’re a long-time partner or new to PBAC, you can expect the same dedication, reliability, and forward-thinking approach that have made PBAC a leader in the foodservice industry. Stay tuned for more updates, including the grand opening of our new test kitchen in Deer Park, NY, and ongoing solutions designed to help your business thrive.

For more information or to connect with the PBAC team, reach out today—PBAC 3.0 is ready to support your success, every step of the way.

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