For Gene, being a leader meant more than building a successful drugstore business and taking risks. It meant building a strong positive culture in which his employees could thrive. It meant engaging with his team members on a daily basis, actively visiting prospective real estate sites and continually pushing the envelope of business possibilities. With Gene’s irresistible personality, people wanted to spend time with him, hear what he had to say and seek his advice.
"The Great Eugene" in time became "The Great Mentor." His aim was not only to influence future business and philanthropic leaders, but to empower and encourage his staff, his managers and his executive team. Gene knew the importance of imparting his experiences directly and just by doing for others to see and emulate. Greatness came by creating opportunities and inspiring others to reach their highest potential just as young Eugene Applebaum did in becoming "The Great Eugene."
"To be successful in retail you have to like it AND love it. I loved what I did. I found all the locations, signed all the leases, had 9,000 employees and I did not lose sight of my goals."
"A big part of Arbor Drugs’ success was my good nose for picking good people. We placed people in positions where they could grow and develop their full potential."
"Once I got into the pharmacy business, I knew I was headed in the right direction. I really took to the business—understanding all the ins and outs and developing my own unique approach."
"After 35 years of running one of the largest and most successful drugstore chains, I sold the business to CVS and made more time to devote myself to helping others through philanthropy."
