Expert Insights
August 12, 2026
What does it take to lead a multi-generational family business through decades of retail change?
In this Expert Insights interview, Audrey Hogan sits down with Blake Gillum, President of DCR, to discuss lessons learned from the early days in a video store to now leading a long-standing point-of-sale technology company. Blake shares why people are always the priority, how DCR has lasted since 1961, and what advice he has for others navigating careers in retail or family-owned businesses.
Watch the full interview to hear Blake’s grounded approach to growth, trust, and the value of relationships.
Early jobs build essential skills: Blake started in customer service at Hollywood Video, where he learned how to work with people — a foundation for leadership.
Family business means earning it: DCR avoids favoritism by keeping personal and business relationships separate and promoting based on merit.
People over product: Long-term success is built on relationships — with clients and within the team.
Longevity comes from trust: DCR has team members who’ve been with the company for 40+ years, and they’re treated like family.
Try what feels unfamiliar: Blake’s advice to new professionals is to take chances — the best careers aren’t always planned.
The retail tech space is rewarding: Though niche, it’s a people-driven industry filled with opportunity, support, and community.
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DCR (Data Cash Register Systems): A family-owned reseller and developer offering point-of-sale (POS) systems to restaurants, grocery, fuel, and retail operations since 1961.
Point-of-Sale (POS): The technology used at checkout in retail and hospitality, often including registers, barcode scanners, and integrated payment systems.
Value-added reseller: A company that enhances existing hardware or software by adding services like installation, customization, or support.
Merit-based promotion: A workplace culture where career advancement is based on performance and ability, not favoritism or family ties.
Hollywood Video: A former video rental chain similar to Blockbuster, where Blake held his first job.
00:08 – Blake Gillum:
My first hourly job was actually at a video store — Hollywood Video, similar to Blockbuster. It was one of the best times of my life. I loved interacting with customers, and the best part was I got to rent any movies I wanted for free.
00:31 – Audrey Hogan:
Are you a movie nerd?
00:33 – Blake Gillum:
I was, not so much anymore.
00:36 – Audrey Hogan:
What was your favorite part of that job?
00:39 – Blake Gillum:
Interacting with people. Everyone came in happy — it was Friday night, they were excited for movie night. I think everyone should have a job where they interact with the public. You learn so much.
01:17 – Audrey Hogan:
What do you do now?
01:19 – Blake Gillum:
I’m the President of DCR, a value-added reseller and developer based in Nashville. We’ve been servicing restaurants, grocery, fuel, and retail since 1961.
01:41 – Audrey Hogan:
I didn’t realize you’ve been around that long.
01:50 – Blake Gillum:
We have — it’s a third-generation company. We’re blessed with amazing people and clients.
02:00 – Audrey Hogan:
Is it still the people that you love about your job?
02:06 – Blake Gillum:
Always. Products change, but people and relationships last. Real relationships equal results. Our culture is built on trust — both with clients and within our team.
02:42 – Audrey Hogan:
You’ve had a unique experience in a family business. That’s a different kind of pressure. What’s your advice for others in that world?
03:39 – Blake Gillum:
Keep personal and business separate. That’s not always easy, but it’s crucial. When I joined, we didn’t even tell people I was family. Everyone should succeed based on merit, not bloodline. And if someone else can do the job better, they should get it — family or not.
04:48 – Blake Gillum:
We’ve got team members who’ve been here 40+ years. That’s our family. Whether they’re related or not, everyone plays a vital role in our success.
05:21 – Audrey Hogan:
You really do spend more time with them than your own family.
05:30 – Audrey Hogan:
For someone in an early career, maybe at their own version of Hollywood Video — what advice would you give?
05:46 – Blake Gillum:
Don’t be afraid to take opportunities. Nobody grows up dreaming of going into point-of-sale — I didn’t even know what POS was. But this opportunity came up, and it changed everything. Be open to the unexpected.
06:34 – Audrey Hogan:
That was wonderful. Anything else you want to share?
06:38 – Blake Gillum:
I hope others have as much fun in this industry as we do. It’s a big industry, but it’s also small — tight-knit and community-driven. The people really are what make it special.
06:56 – Audrey Hogan:
Thanks for the time.
06:57 – Blake Gillum:
Glad to join you.
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