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How Acme Paper Built a Multi-Vertical Distribution Business Serving Foodservice, Hospitality, and Facilities | Driven by DCKAP Podcast

Sonia Coleman
April 25, 2025 |
"Our ability to leverage technology will be our differentiator" - Scott Attman, Vice President of Acme Paper on the Driven By DCKAP Podcast

Acme Paper’s Scott Attman on Tech-Driven Growth and the Power of Versatility

Austin, TX — In the latest episode of the Driven by DCKAP podcast, Scott Attman, Vice President of Acme Paper and Supply Co., joins host Karthik Chidambaram, DCKAP founder and CEO, for a conversation on strategic growth, technology investment, and building a culture of innovation. Attman breaks down the five-vertical strategy that has helped Acme Paper thrive in distribution across industries—from restaurants and hotels to healthcare and facilities.

Highlights

  • Five Distribution Verticals, One Strategy: Acme Paper’s customer-first expansion into restaurant design, disposables, facility solutions, and custom branding.
  • Tech as a Differentiator: Attman details the company’s seven-figure ERP implementation and approach to automation.
  • Legacy Meets Leadership: As a third-generation leader, Attman reflects on succession, values, and the role of family in business.

Meeting Customer Needs Through Multiple Distribution Verticals

Acme Paper didn’t just diversify—it built multiple distinct business divisions designed around customer needs: restaurant equipment and design, tabletop and smallwares, disposable packaging, facility solutions, and custom-branded products. These verticals help the company deliver tailored, high-value solutions across industries.

“We help clients create unique solutions to help their business operate. We do that through five different divisions, delivering five days a week with over 50 trucks direct to their businesses,” Attman explained. “We are an ideas organization. We are a solutions organization.”

Investing in Technology to Improve Customer Experience

While some may underestimate technology investment in legacy distributors, Acme Paper sees tech as a competitive advantage. The company recently completed a full ERP system reboot and is leveraging tools like robotics, WMS, and predictive maintenance systems to serve clients better.

“I believe that our ability to leverage technology will shape our clients’ experience and be a differentiator,” said Attman.

Generational Leadership and the Value of Legacy

Founded in 1946, Acme Paper is now in its third generation of leadership. Attman shared personal stories of working with his grandfather and learning by “osmosis” as a child. Today, he is focused on shaping the culture and keeping the door open for the next generation.

“When my father was young—and even when I was young—there were more opportunities to be involved in the business early on. Today, many of those simple jobs are automated, but the door has always been open in our family. If you’re passionate and believe you can add value, you’re welcome here. And that’s true for the potential fourth generation,” he said. “From an early age, I was driven just to live up to what my father, my uncles, and grandfather—and the other 250 employees—were doing. We all take that seriously, and we relish it.”

More Information

About the Driven Podcast

The Driven by DCKAP Podcast is an audio and video show that explores leaders’ stories, digital journeys, and insights on trends in B2B and distribution. The podcast is hosted by Karthik Chidambaram, Founder & CEO of DCKAP, who grew the company from a start up to a global team of more than 200 employees. DCKAP earns several trust badges by G2.com, the world’s largest tech software marketplace, including category “Grid Leader”, “High Performer Americas” and “Users Most Likely to Recommend.”

About DCKAP

DCKAP is a leader in digital solutions that help distributors systems’ talk to each other. Its technology solutions simplify software integrations, e-commerce, and product information management for B2B companies. DCKAP’s flagship product, DCKAP Integrator, helps distributors and manufacturers to automate data between ERP, e-commerce, and CRM systems. Founded in 2005, DCKAP is a global and distributed team headquartered in Austin, TX. Visit DCKAP at dckap.com or follow on LinkedIn.

About Acme Paper & Supply Co.

Acme Paper & Supply Co., Inc. is a leading regional distribution company in the mid-Atlantic markets, providing food service packaging, food service equipment, kitchen design, janitorial solutions, and cleaning supplies and equipment.With more than 75 years of working with restaurants, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, hotels, stadiums and many others, Acme delivers innovative solutions tailored to clients needs. Acme operates with a commitment to sustainability, customer service, and long-term partnerships. Learn more at acmepaper.com.

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