Max Bender is named CEO of BENDER. In the family tradition, he learned the business from the ground up, starting as a warehouse associate and driver before moving into sales and then becoming a Branch Manager. 29 Oct The Waterbury, Hartford and Norwalk showrooms are renovated and add tile and lighting products. Their innovative interactive displays earn BENDER the National Kitchen and Bath Association Award for Most Innovative Showroom, as well as the company’s fifth Home Building Industry (HOBI) Award. At one time or another, all of the Bender children worked at the company. Jack instituted the policy that family members start out in the warehouse and work their way up. David maintains this rule today. (Pictured clockwise from top left: Judy, Norman, Lois and David)