History
110 years in business is a long time! These are some highlights from along the way...
1913
Max Starr, an immigrant from Russia, founds Boston Showcase Company in Roxbury, MA. The company crafts fine millwork including showcases for department stores, bars for restaurants and cabinetry.
Photo: Max Starr, Founder of Boston Showcase Company
1948
Milton Starr, the oldest of Max’s four sons, takes over as President after Max’s untimely passing. Jason, the youngest son, graduates from Harvard and establishes the distinguished University as the first food service equipment and supplies account in BSC history, a relationship that still endures.
Photo: Harvard University
1950’s
The four Starr boys, including Leonard and Erwin, work in the business, while BSC designs and supplies hotels throughout the United States and in parts of South America. BSC also supplies the Mr. Donut chain, which preceded Dunkin’ Donuts.
Photo: Original Mister Donut logo
1960’s
As dining out becomes increasingly popular, our customer footprint grows. Anthony’s Pier 4, which establishes itself as one of the most famous restaurants in the nation, opens in Boston (1963) with the help of BSC, which designed the kitchen and supplied the equipment and smallwares until their closing in 2013.
Photo: Anthony’s Pier 4 in Boston
1970’s
Jason’s sons Alan (1973), followed by Jack (1976) enter the business. Both serve as Vice Presidents during their careers. Following an amicable buyout of his brothers, Jason becomes President.
Photo: From left, Jack, Betty, Karen, Jason and Alan Starr
1980’s
Through Jason’s close relationships with prominent hoteliers, Boston Showcase Company works with Embassy Suites, Sonesta Hotels and Guest Quarters on numerous projects.
Photo: The Royal Sonesta in Cambridge on the Charles River
1990’s
BSC continues working with restaurants and hotels including Grill 23, Top of the Hub, Langham Hotel and Boston Park Plaza. Additionally, BSC expands its footprint as a foodservice equipment contractor for school, hotel, assisted living and office projects.
Photo: A perfectly cooked steak at Grill 23 in Boston
2000’s
BSC completes their largest equipment project ever the Boston Convention Center (2004). Alan becomes the fourth Starr President (2007) while Alan’s son, Andy, joins the business the same year.
Photo: Boston Convention Center, courtesy of Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau
2010’s
Jack’s son, Matt, joins BSC full-time (2011). BSC celebrates 100 years in business (2013) with a party in the showroom. Sales expand rapidly with prominent chains including Davio’s and Newport Restaurant Group as well as projects at Facebook, Amazon and Spotify. BSC launches online ordering and e-commerce (2018) with BostonRestaurantSupply.com.
Photo: From left, Jack, Karen, Betty and Alan Starr at our 100-Year Celebration
2020’s
The decade began with a bang as the COVID-19 pandemic devastated the restaurant and commercial foodservice industry. BSC banded together, retained nearly every employee during the pandemic and came out the other side as strong as ever.
In 2023, 4th generation cousins Matt Starr and Andy Starr became President and CEO, respectively, and are leading the company that now has more than 60 employees.