Our History

The history of our company is rich in culture and tradition. From the very start, back in the 50’s, the motto was “take care of the customers and the employees.” Today, a half century later, that unwavering commitment still exists.

In the words of John Crunk, our Chairman of the Board, “You don’t have to tell good people how to take care of customers, they just know.”

Today our organization spans 5 states and employs about 300 people. With the spirit of our past intact; work hard, take care of the employees and the customers, we are poised and looking forward to the next 50 years.

1955	The year was 1955 and a man by the name of Robert J. Young leaves Bell & Howell to start a company of his own selling and servicing Ditto Duplicators. In 1955, the newly established Robert J. Young Company employed 4 individuals. The original location was at 830 8th Avenue South in downtown Nashville.
1958	In 1958, an 18 year old boy named John Crunk started part time for the company doing deliveries and odd jobs. John was attending Falls Business college and studying to be an accountant.
1957	Company revenues top $100,000.
1962	Move into a larger facility at 620 8th Avenue South.
1967	At 27 years of age, John Crunk is now selling and servicing equipment and buys a 30% share of the company.
1973	Company moves again to the current 22,500 square foot location on 809 Division Street.
1974	John Crunk purchases another 19% of the company bringing his ownership to 49%.
1978	Hunter McCarty joins the company as a sales representative. The company has grown to over 1.5 million in revenue.
1980	In 1980, John Crunk buys 1% to become equal partners with Mr. Young.
1981	Phil Kirby, Danny Youmans and Steve Huff all join the organization. Chip Crunk starts working in the warehouse and with delivery as a part time summer job.
1982	Takes on the Ricoh line of products.
1986	John Crunk buys the other 50% to become sole owner of the company. The year John took ownership, the company did over $6 million in revenue.
1987	Chip Crunk starts full time with the company as a sales rep.
1988	First million dollar month. John Crunk promised the entire company a cruise if they could do it…so they did.
1989	Chip is promoted to sales manager.
1990	Robert J Young Leasing company is formed to support the financing needs of its customers.
1994	Chip is promoted to Chief Operating Officer.
1996	Chip is promoted to President and CEO.
1998	In March of 1998, fire destroys half of 809 building. Takes the rest of the year to clean up and remodel.
1999	Name changes from Robert J Young Company to RJ Young Company.
2003	Takes on the Canon line of products.
2005	50th Anniversary. Company revenue tops 50 million.