To some, success comes easily. Others must fight for it
every inch of the way.
William Foster, president of the Merit Clothing Company,
Mayfield, Ky., is one of those fellows who has had to work,
and work hard, for everything. Willie, as he is known to
many, is not one to let success go to his head though.
At the helm of his humming business which grosses $15
million yearly, Willie shares the "fruits of his labors" with
any and all who will have them. He theorizes this way, "I
hope the Lord strikes me dead the first time I think I am
any better than the people who work here."
Foster's actions in behalf of his employees bear out these
words. For example, the Merit Clothing Company has a
private library for employees which contains over 5,000
volumes. For the convenience of working mothers, there is a
free day-nursery to care for little tots. A fleet of 18 buses
transports workers to and from their homes. Foster's own
spacious estate serves as picnic grounds and recreation center
for employees who care to use it.
Willie Foster exercises the same generous attitude toward
his company's personnel problems. Foster's open office door,
his flashing smile and understanding eyes welcome all
visitors. Employees' problems are discussed freely and openly.
And still Willie Foster goes right on making new pro-
visions for his happy family. Currently, he is building a large
clubhouse on Kentucky Lake to accomodate each of the 32
company clubs that have sprung up within his organization.
We could all learn something from Willie Foster!!
