The Queens Chamber of Commerce has selected four nominees to honor at their Business Person of the Year luncheon that will take place later this month.
This year’s winners are Rao Sannidhi, Sunnyside Pharmacy in the Small Business category; Kenneth Buettner, York Scaffold Equipment Corporation in the Medium Business Category; Peter Meyer, Commerce Bank in the Large Business Category; and Bruce Bendell, Major Automotive Group as a Hall of Fame inductee.
“It is important to recognize our borough’s business leaders for their accomplishments,” said Jack Friedman, Executive Vice President of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. Each of our honorees have overcome obstacles, grown their business and given back to the community. Their successes should be promoted and they should be treated as role models to other business people.”
Each year, the Chamber solicits nominees for their Business Person of the Year awards, and a committee reviews the applications before selecting the winners in the respective categories.
In addition to the Business Person of the Year winners, the Queens Chamber also inducts businesses and individuals into its “Hall of Fame.” This prestigious award honors corporate Chamber members for identifying community needs, charitable contributions and service to the people of Queens.
Bendell established a partnership with his brother in 1972 and built his car dealership for pre-owned vehicles into one of the top 100 in the U.S. with more than $400 million in pre-owned vehicle sales. Bendell also serves on the Queens College foundation board and trustee of Queens Hospital Center and the Long Island City YMCA.
“Bruce Bendell and Major Automotive Group, our Hall of Fame inductee, is a prime example of a business that has beaten the odds, continues to grow and flourish and understands their responsibility to their community,” Friedman said.
This year’s Business Person of the Year luncheon and awards presentation will take place from noon to 2 p.m. on September 18 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.
