Long hours in the kitchen tend to sharpen two things: standards and perspective. Alan O’Hargain brings both into his role at PMR, where his path from working through holidays and high-pressure service now informs how he supports large chain operators. His approach is direct, built on consistency and follow-through, with a clear understanding of what equipment performance looks like when it actually matters on the line. We sat down with Alan to learn a little more about him.
Tell us a bit about yourself. What path led you into the commercial foodservice industry?
(It was) a long winding path through multiple kitchens, skipping past every holiday, birthday, and Mother’s Day celebration.
How did you wind up at PMR?
An industry friend. Aren’t all the best jobs through a friend?
What types of customers do you work with most?
I work mainly with large regional and national chains.
What do you think makes a great rep group?
The ones that always follow up. It’s amazing how simple it is.
What’s your favorite piece of equipment to sell or demo — and why?
A conveyor oven, customers are still impressed at the quality and volume that can be turned out.
What do you enjoy most about working at PMR?
In truth, the fact that they allowed me to move to the beach 😊
What makes PMR different from other rep groups?
Our manufacturers, they're all top-shelf.
What does great customer service mean to you in this industry?
Follow up and then follow up some more.
If your customers described you in three words, what would they say?
In Decipher Able.
What's something most people don't know about you?
I'm trying to learn Spanish.
What's your go-to comfort food?
I'm a donut connoisseur.
What's your favorite restaurant and why?
Oceanic, here in Wilmington. Their outside deck is my happy place.
Early bird or night owl?
Night owl.
Dream home kitchen gadget?
Not a gadget, but I'd love space for a second dishwasher.
Favorite sports team?
Liverpool.
Bucket list destination?
Roswell, Georgia
Thanks for chatting with us, Alan!
If your team is looking for the best foodservice equipment and the best rep team, PMR has you covered:
