About Us | Hickory

**A tastier, yet healthier, lifestyle**

Our Story

Embark on a journey through time as we share the story of our humble beginnings. What started as a business founded by WWII refugees from Hungary on Long Island City, NY has evolved into a trusted and respected force in the industry.

Did you know?

Hickory used to manufacture a pizza oven. This pizza oven, called VPO, or Visual Pizza Oven, was a large 54" deck oven that spun and allowed for pizza to be cooked in minutes!

Watch VPO-54

2 days ago

Years in business

56+

Models

Generations of Owners

120+

Countries Served

1946

Under his guidance, we broadened our range from stainless steel work tables to include innovative additions like rotisseries and warmers.

Our Story, est. 1946

In 1946, visionary Martin Kalman founded Old Hickory, sparking a legacy of crafting top-notch, American-made products.

1978

October, 1978

Marked a pivotal moment as a new corporation emerged, led by President Steven Maroti and Vice President/Secretary and Steven's mother, Aniko Heller. They not only acquired the assets and name but also steered the legacy into a new era.

Mr. Kalman was Steven's grandfather's best friend and they had all fled Hungary.

1994

August, 1994

Hickory moves to a spacious 46,000-square-foot facility located in North Bergen, New Jersey from its original location in Long Island City, Queens, New York.

2017

July, 2017

Ayman Megala's acquisition marked a transformative moment at Hickory Industries. With over 20 years in the food service industry and a prowess for working with his hands, he became owner-operator, propelling the company to new heights of growth and success.

2021

March, 2021

Ayman's passing brought challenges, yet Michelle Megala, at 23, courageously became President and CEO. Leading a women owned business, Michelle is dedicated to upholding Old Hickory's legacy with exceptional products exceeding customer expectations.

f u t u r e

2024 and BEYOND

At Hickory Industries, our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction propels us. With Michelle's leadership and our dedicated team, we look forward to crafting superior products for years to come.

Our Team

Cortney McLain, Customer Exp Manager

Montclair State University alum, heads customer service, tech support, & inside sales. Prioritizing people with a personal touch, she fosters trust with large & small clients. Formerly running a studio, her background informs her approach.

Charles T., Plant Foreman

With over 25 years at manufacturing expertise, Charlie is an incredible asset. His knowledge of the equipment and familiarity with all parts enable seamless navigation of the production process.

Michelle Megala, CEO

2nd-gen CEO of Hickory Industries Inc., is leading the 75-year-old company in the specialty kitchen equipment industry. She oversees all aspects of the business, actively networking to maintain Old Hickory's legacy as a trusted brand.

Maikel G., Technician

Our esteemed IT head and technician hailing from Alexandria, Egypt. His profound technical expertise, exceptional skill set, and unwavering work ethic make him indispensable.

Katrice M., Bookkeeping

Katrice, with experience for small and large enterprises, brings a wealth of bookkeeping knowledge to her role. As a recent mother, she skillfully manages both AP and AR.

AP: AR:

Melissa S., Purchasing Specialist

Melissa, with a background in manufacturing and customer service, holds a BS in Finance from Kean University. She excels in driving cost-effective purchasing strategies and supporting organizational goals.

TBD, Sales

TBD Apply Here

Melissa M., Support

Northwestern University graduate class of 2023, Melissa brings her knowledge in social policy and data science to contribute to the family business.

We now have two continuous rotisseries from Old Hickory. One with three spits and one with seven spits. The build quantity on these things is fantastic, simple to operate, and hassle free. We roast chickens and vegetables and are able to keep up with high demand. There hasn't been any down time over here.
Every time we contact Old Hickory for sales or advice, we get someone who knows us and our products, which feels great. They do custom builds to fit our exact specs, and kit us out with smart accessories that we actually use!

Chef Laurence • Poulet Sans Tete

Excellent old school customer service
Jens Hommert • Owner, Speranza Inc

Of all of the commercial rotisseries machines we sell, Old Hickory makes the best bar none. They are built like tanks, will last decades, and our customers are never disappointed. When you see an Old Hickory up close you can immediately see the difference. Heavier gauge steel, thicker glass, stronger welds, more thoughtful design. They are just built better.
Steve • Management, Kitchenall.com