Vending

Joe Franz retires from AVS Companies

Joe Franz accepts a congratulatory handshake from Vince Gumma. Photo courtesy of AVS Companies.

December 22, 2021

Joe Franz has retired from day-to-day operations at the Texas branch of Elk Grove Village, Illinois based AVS Companies, effective Tuesday, but will remain active in a consultant role with various trade organizations and government agencies in Texas.

Franz has served as the vice president of Texas operations, and he has been an integral part of the company since 2016 when AVS first acquired H.A. Franz & Co.

Prior to joining AVS, he was president of H.A. Franz & Co., a distributor of coin operated equipment for 60 years.

"I first met Joe in 1986 when we both attended various tradeshows and distributor meetings for several manufacturers that both of our companies represented," Vince Gumma, AVS Companies' president, said in the press release. "Over the years we became good friends, both in and outside the business. H.A. Franz and American Vending Sales shared many of the same philosophies towards customer service and dedication to the coin-op industry. I'm extremely happy for Joe and I'm certain we will remain good friends for many years to come."

"It was my pleasure to work with and for Joe and his family for 18 years," said Tony Costa, AVS director of Texas sales and operations. "I have learned a lot from him over the years and I am extremely grateful for his guidance through some turbulent times. He set a great example for all to follow, and he has always done his best to take care of his employees, his customers and the entire coin-op industry."