Robert S. Pontes

Class of 2006

Bob was born on October 9, 1946, in Fall River, MA. He received an associates degree in business from Roger Williams Junior College and served in the U.S. Army as a Specialist 5th Class where he worked with the Korean Military Advisory Group.

Upon his return to the U.S. in 1970, Bob joined Adams/Brooks Drugs and worked his way up the ladder to senior buyer. In 1987, he became a buyer for Garber Brothers, and then started his own brokerage firm, RSP Associates, the following year.

Two years later, however, Bob went back to buying at Auburn Merchandise Distributors, Inc. After serving as director of purchasing and marketing, he was promoted in 1998 to vice-president of purchasing and marketing, the position he held at the time of his induction. Bob credits his father for his success because he pushed him to do his best everyday.

Bob’s professional achievements include the Boston Confectionery Salesman’s Club’s 1984 Candy Man of the Year Award and a 2005 Outstanding Achievement Award from Professional Candy Buyer Magazine.

He has also been an active member on industry committees including the NCA Buyers Advisory Committee and the New England Convenience Association’s Trade Show Committee, as well as participating in speaking engagements at the All Candy Expo and NCA State of the Industry Conference.

Bob has been involved with figure skating for many years and served as president of the Powtucket-Providence Figure Skating Club at the time of his induction. He also works with his church and various charity organizations and in his spare time enjoys golf and music.