Great American Dessert, Company
In 1955 leaving his wife and son behind in England, Ralph Goodman sailed across the Atlantic and arrived in New York City. Right after his arrival he went to the Bakery Union in search of a job. He asked for an opportunity to show them what he could do. They were all amazed by his baking and decorating skills, and after only 4 days he had a job. Being very young and energetic he not only took one, but three jobs working throughout the whole day. He wanted to make enough money to send for his wife and son Michael. Finally after 6 months they were together again in New York fulfilling their dream of a better life.
In 1958 Ralph Goodman and his two partners formed The Cake Stylists. Joined by loyal bakers, decorators and pastry chefs, under the watchful eye of Ralph, they started out. One of the first people to join the company was Horst (Charlie) Schumacher, an (eighth generation German pastry chefs from a line dating back to 1530). Charlie is still with the company, and manages the bakery.
Several years later, the oldest partner sold his interest in the company to the two remaining partners. In the early 1970's, Ralph's oldest son, Michael, bought out the remaining partner and joined his father as 50% owner in the business. At this time the company sold primarily to local families, caterers and hotels. Michael began expanding the business out of New York by locating independent frozen food wholesale distributors who sold to hotels, restaurants, country clubs and caterers in their area.
In the fall of 1990 Michael hired John Van Dusen (formerly with Carnation Company) to be his National Sales Manager. John's job was to continue the company expansion throughout the country.
In 1992, The Cake Stylists introduced out Granny's Cheesecakes. The company introduced 15 varieties of restaurant quality 10" Cheesecakes, beginning at the San Francisco Fancy Food Show in March of 1992. By the end of the year, cheesecake represented nearly 22% of the companies total sales.
In 1996 Ralph (now in his early 70's) decided to retire. Michael began looking for someone to buy out Ralph's 50% interest in the company. He decided upon Montana Bakery, a regional manufacturer located in Connecticut. The companies merged in late 1996.
At this time the combined company manufactured quality products under the following brands; The Cake Stylists, Granny's, Montana, Sweet Dreams and Quiche By Rhoda Lee. The partners decided to rename the company, and so The Great American Dessert Company was born.
The Great American Dessert Company has won some of the baking industry's highest honors including the First Place, Outstanding dessert and Outstanding Dessert Finalist several times at the International Fancy Food Show, voted Best Cheesecake at the Long Island Food Show and numerous other awards. They were also rewarded "Partner in Education Award" for the support and commitment to hiring individuals with special needs. Mr. Michael Goodman, President, administers all of the day-to-day activities of this growing company.