In the late 19th century, a time when horse-drawn carriages and gas lamps filled the streets, Vollrath's early salesmen recognized the importance of personal connection. Their determination would not only define the company's humble beginnings but also lay the groundwork for a legacy that continues to thrive today. 

The door-to-door sales approach was a common and effective method for reaching consumers, from pharmaceuticals to magazine subscriptions. Without the convenience of phones or online shopping, salesmen took to the streets, traveling by horse to connect directly with potential customers. This personal touch allowed for a direct and intimate interaction between the salesmen and the community, fostering a sense of trust and familiarity that laid the foundation for Vollrath's enduring customer relationships. 

Jacob Vollrath, the visionary founder of the company, recognized the power of this direct engagement and sought to make it more accessible. While catalogs are now widely used in many industries, they were once a testament to the influence the Vollrath Company and its sales techniques had on the lives of many. Though just a 32-page collection of line drawings, Jacob’s first catalog provided a glimpse into the diverse range of products offered by Vollrath. In a new age of technology, where consumers now make purchases with a few clicks on their phones, the door-to-door and paper catalog approach of Vollrath's early salesmen may seem obsolete. However, the nature of that personal connection and commitment to customer satisfaction remains at the core of Vollrath's values. 

Vollrath’s salesmen were celebrated throughout the years for their dedication. The technique would often be reenacted during parades in Sheboygan, WI, bringing the nostalgia of door-to-door salesmanship back to life. These reenactments not only paid homage to the company's roots but also served as a reminder of the enduring commitment to community engagement and personalized service. 

Fast forward to today, Vollrath's legacy lives on not only in its high-quality products but also in the spirit of our ongoing commitment to personal connections with our customers. Looking back at those early days, we recognize the ingenuity and determination that laid the groundwork for a company that has stood the test of time. Their commitment to connecting with customers at a personal level, a tradition rooted in the 1880s, continues to be a driving force in Vollrath's success today.