The tenacious architect and father of the U.S. commercial barter industry, Mac McConnell, was the focus of this issue’s 22-page cover story. A candid interview with him, tackling a variety of topics, revealed his opinions on why the barter industry hasn’t attained the stature many foresaw in the late 1970s. McConnell, with 27 years in the industry behind him at the time of this interview in 1986, was a fervent believer that barter’s the greatest business tool around. After reading his comments it’s very hard to disagree with him!

Jack Denny, the Business Exchange regional director from Oklahoma City (and a former Air Force Pilot), began bartering life insurance premiums for real estate equities. He acquired 243 units and a motel as well as 48 residential lots, prior to becoming the BX regional director. In this issue he took us through some of his experiences in working closely with a 330-room 4-star rated hotel. It’s a behind the scenes look at how a barter company can provide products and services to a major hotel.

Jay Marshall, a very active barter company owner from Albany (NY), offered a look at the future of Inter-City trading among barter company owners. We also published a report by William Prouty, CLU, titled “Insurance On Trade—Reality Or Illusion?”

Leo Welt, president of Welt International, covered forms of countertrade; and Trader Drew put on another of his hats to dissect the aspects of becoming a commodity market consultant. There was also an article which provided tips and safeguards to take when bartering for raw land.

Paul Suplizio, Executive Director of IRTA, addressed the California legislature on proposed bill (AB1529). This was especially important to the industry, because passage in California of the proposed legislation would have been the first “nail in the coffin” for the industry as we knew it.

TradeAmericanCard’s Ray Hendron established a new service when he formulated ways to become a barter broker for consumer home shows. Several exchange owners called our office and said they were immediately implementing this new service in their company.

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