From handcrafted wood-fired pizza ovens to high-speed ovens and thermoplastic slip-resistant flooring, the foodservice equipment industry offers a dizzying array of solutions. Behind every high-quality product lies an equipment rep—once seen as a transactional intermediary but now an indispensable consultant and strategist.
For Succession Reps, a fourth-generation company led by the Kaufmann family, adapting to the changing needs of kitchen equipment dealers, consultants, and operators is central to their rebranding and mission.
“The rebranding of Kaufmann & Associates to Succession Reps reflects our commitment to evolving with the industry while honoring our legacy,” says Dan Kaufmann, Vice President of Sales at Succession Reps.
“It’s about more than selling—it’s about creating value through knowledge, relationships, and operational solutions.”
Succession Reps embraces a consultative approach to align with today’s market. “Our role has expanded to help navigate operations, technological advancements, and evolving market demands,” Kaufmann explains. “It’s not just about the equipment anymore—it’s about how that equipment works for the operator.”
As operators face staffing shortages, regulatory challenges, and space constraints, reps need to understand more than specs. For instance, when assisting a kitchen consultant in designing a university cafeteria, Succession Reps does not stop at providing top-tier modular shelving or blast chillers.
They assess workflow bottlenecks and offer tailored solutions, such as ventless high-speed ovens for faster turnaround in limited spaces or pollution control units for wood-fired kitchens.
Rebranding to Succession Reps is more than a name change—it’s a strategic move to align with the future of foodservice. “The industry is shifting rapidly,” says Kaufmann. “Our new branding sends a clear message that we’re not just here to sell; we’re here to be a partner, a resource, and a problem solver.”
The Succession team is carefully built to meet the unique needs of Metro New York’s equipment and supply dealers and consultants. Led by Mark Kaufmann, CEO, and Adam Kaufmann, President, the team combines decades of expertise and dedication.
Dan Kaufmann, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, drives growth and client relationships, while Bradley Kaufmann, Vice President of Operations, ensures seamless day-to-day efficiency.
Marisa Givliano, a skilled Sales Representative, delivers tailored solutions, and Jenn Anderson, Office Manager, keeps operations running smoothly. Together, this dynamic team provides exceptional support, ensuring clients receive top-tier service and results.
John Pennington, Vice President/Director of Sales and Marketing at AccuTemp Products, Inc., highlights the team’s impact. “The Kaufmann’s and Succession are a trusted partner for us in their role as our manufacturer’s representative for AccuTemp in the NY metro and Northern New Jersey areas.
In this role, they call on Consultants, Dealers, and End Users of our products and promote our brand of steam equipment to all of them,” Pennington noted. “They have built this trust with years of dedicated service in this area.”
He also commends the Kaufmanns’ approach to service, adding, “We love working with the Succession team as they are very responsive and believe in providing the best customer service and customer experience possible, which aligns with our goals as well.”
Succession Reps’ extensive portfolio includes everything from high-end steamers and griddles to premium-quality combi steamers and to-go hot food holders. This diversity allows them to cater to a broad spectrum of needs. “We pride ourselves on helping dealers and consultants select the right tools for every challenge,” Kaufmann notes.
The rise of technology has put vast amounts of information at consultants’ and operators’ fingertips, but Kaufmann sees this as an opportunity rather than a threat.
“The biggest thing we can give our customers is time,” he says. Succession Reps streamlines processes through digital tools like CRM systems, real-time inventory updates, and 3D kitchen layout visualizations. “By saving them time, we let them focus on what matters most—running their business.”
This tech-driven approach extends to their role as advocates for manufacturers. Succession Reps provides feedback on emerging needs, ensuring factories stay aligned with market demands. “Manufacturers expect us to be their eyes and ears in the field,” Kaufmann explains.
Labor shortages remain a pressing concern for operators, and Succession Reps works to address these issues head-on. Whether by recommending high-speed ovens that reduce reliance on skilled labor or slip-resistant safety flooring to enhance workplace safety, the team prioritizes solutions that meet today’s challenges.
Kaufmann emphasizes their hands-on approach: “We visit kitchens, observe workflows, and recommend changes that maximize efficiency. It’s about designing smarter kitchens, not just selling equipment.”
The relationship between reps, dealers, consultants, and operators has never been more symbiotic. Succession Reps fosters collaboration through factory visits, live demos, and test kitchen events. “Consultants need to see how a piece of equipment performs before they recommend it. We make sure they have that opportunity,” Kaufmann says.
For instance, when introducing their premium-quality juicers, Succession Reps arranges live demos for chefs and consultants. “These hands-on experiences build trust,” Kaufmann says. “They leave knowing exactly what the product can do.”
Succession Reps’ rebranding effort is also about visibility. “Our new identity helps us maximize exposure and market share for our diverse portfolio,” Kaufmann explains. By representing lines like Titan thermoplastic flooring, handcrafted pizza ovens, and modular shelving systems, they position themselves as a one-stop solution for dealers and consultants.
As the foodservice landscape continues to evolve, Succession Reps remains a trusted partner for innovative solutions. Dealers and consultants can reach out directly to Dan Kaufmann and the Succession Reps team for personalized support, factory visits, and cutting-edge solutions tailored to their needs.
Whether it’s high-speed ovens or handcrafted pizza ovens, Succession Reps has the expertise and products to drive success in today’s challenging market. For more information, visit Succession Reps or call (631) 226-2222.
