As a third-generation pumper, Rob Ratta is as old-school as they come. But the owner of R.M. Ratta Corp. in Ayer, Mass., also embraces new, unconventional strategies – such as hiring a business-consulting firm and an in-house sales rep – to increase business volume, break into new markets and boost profitability.
“I always try to look ahead of where I am at the moment,” Ratta says. “And I like thinking outside the box. I got that from my old man, no doubt about it.
“I knew there was room for improving the business – there’s always room for improvement,” he continues. “So
