PMR Preview: Mike Whitten

For more than a decade, Mike Whitten has been a steady presence at PMR, blending mentorship, experience, and a genuine love for the industry. As one of the principals, he’s seen firsthand how foodservice has evolved: through consolidation, rising costs, and now, the growing role of technology. But at the heart of it all, Mike’s motivation stays the same: good people, good food, and a good challenge.

Tell us a bit about yourself. How did you wind up at PMR?

I merged my Rep group with PMR in 2010. It's been almost 16 years! Time flies!

What do you enjoy most about working at PMR?

Working with good people who are, without a doubt, the best in our industry.

What excites you most about your job?

I enjoy mentoring our employees.

How did you get started in the foodservice business?

I worked for an equipment dealer in college… obviously, it stuck!

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the restaurant industry today?

Inflation – restaurants are struggling with spiraling costs.

Are there any current trends in foodservice that stand out to you?

Consolidation in the industry on all levels.

Where do you see the future of the industry headed?

 AI will have a huge impact on the future of the industry. It will be interesting to see where it goes.

What is your favorite restaurant, and why?

Litton’s in Knoxville. Best burger in Tennessee!

If you could pick three dinner guests, living or dead, who would they be and why?

• John Ward – University of Tennessee legend
• Gerald Ford – who picked up the pieces
• Jimmy Buffett – for the good times!

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Well, I try to play golf. After 50 years of playing, I’ve finally figured out I may need to change hobbies!

Who are your biggest influences?

Two people:

• Morgan Fraley who took me under his wing early in my career and taught me a LOT about foodservice equipment.
• My former business partner, Terry McGovern, who offered me opportunity and mentorship in the manufacturers' rep world.

What is the one item you can’t leave home without?

Unfortunately, my cell phone!

Where did you grow up? Any interesting places you’ve lived throughout your life?

I grew up in Chattanooga, Tennessee, waaaaay before it became a trendy place to live.

What is your favorite vacation destination?

You can’t beat the 30a beaches (in the Florida panhandle).

What’s at the top of your bucket list?

I would like to travel to the western U.S. and Canada (and maybe play a little more golf).

Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us Mike! 

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