PENNSAUKEN, N.J. — Tomorrow, September 25, will mark the retirement of Williams Trading Co. senior sales representative Bob Cichetti after almost 40 years with the distributor.
Cichetti began his career at Williams Trading when family friend Bob Pyne Sr. founded the company.
“[H]e employed a couple of my brothers and my sister as well, so I asked if there was room for one more Cichetti and the rest as they say is history,” the industry veteran said.
Over the years, Cichetti has worn many hats as the company grew, and is looked upon as a beloved mentor, friend and family by Williams Trading owners and employees, the company said.
With close to four decades working in this industry under his belt, Cichetti has seen the adult business through many changes, one of which was how this industry was viewed by the public.
“When I started in this business it was taboo,” he said. “Only a handful of people knew what I did for a living so you didn't brag to your friends about what you did. Most people thought I was in the remodeling business, [but] the stores we remodeled were adult bookstores!”
Cichetti says that he’s seen the ups-and-downs in the business, and has served as a mentor to many employees over the years. To anyone starting out in the adult industry, he offers this parting advice: “Take advantage of the fact that the business is thriving and give it your best shot, because the people that you will meet in the trade are some of the best people you will ever meet anywhere. I would like to think that the relationships that I built over the years are the best ever."
When asked about his future plans, he said, “I never thought that I would retire, I just thought that I would work for close to forever, but I do have a garage full of power tools just begging to be used — the problem is I have no idea how many bird houses will fit in the trees in my yard.”
“The Pyne family would like to thank Bob Cichetti for over 39 years of service and dedication to Williams Trading Co. and the adult industry. We wish Bob happy retirement for years to come and will miss him,” CEO Bob Pyne Jr. said.
