LOS ANGELES — Komar Company's Morton Hyatt has been named the recipient of XBIZ’s prestigious Industry Pioneer Award.
Hyatt is president of the family owned, Baltimore-based adult products distribution company that has served retailers with magazines, movies, toys and lingerie for decades.
The Industry Pioneer Award distinguishes Hyatt as an influential leader in the adult retail industry, widely respected for his dedication to ensuring the optimal circulation of quality products throughout the market. The honor acknowledges Hyatt’s professional ethics, integrity, and corporate social responsibility.
“When I think of the folks who have preceded me as award winners, I am flattered and honored to be the recipient of XBIZ’s prestigious Industry Pioneer Award," Hyatt told XBIZ. "It seems like only yesterday that I started in the business, but it’s been an adventurous 35 years. Adventurous in the sense of constant changing products, innovations, and competitors.
"Komar Company has always had an international flavor, and we do business around the world. I cannot thank my suppliers and customers enough for the confidence they have placed in Komar. Without their constant support and our dedicated staff, we could not have grown into one of the premier distributors in this country. Thank you again for making me the recipient of this award.”
“Morton and his company have made a lasting mark on the retail industry as a trusted supplier of products," said Alec Helmy, founder and president of XBIZ. "In honoring Morton, we also honor Komar Company as a respected family business — one that is a cornerstone of the distribution business."
XBIZ Associate Publisher Sara Ramirez adds, "With great pleasure, XBIZ will celebrate Morton's remarkable career and dedication to his company and the industry as a whole with this special honor.”
Hyatt partnered with Sam Boltansky to acquire the Komar Company in 1985.
Fifteen years later, Hyatt gained 100 percent ownership of the company after buying out Boltansky's interest.
After growing out of their first two buildings in 1990 Komar Company moved to their 100,000-square-foot warehouse facility on the north side of Baltimore.
Today, Komar Company truly is a family business, where his daughters — Helen and Adrianne — helm the company’s decision-making.
The Komar Company continues its success in the Annual Green Valley North Turkey Trot — going into its 31st year — to benefit crohns and colitis disease research.
Hyatt founded the nonprofit organization and Thanksgiving-day running event after he was diagnosed with crohns disease, and so far the group has raised more than $950,000.
