Ray Davis has crafted a remarkable career characterized by diligence, a talent for addressing issues, and a keen ability to listen to those around him.
At 71, he owns nearly 80 patents and, through his Dallas-based enterprise, ADCO Industries, has designed and marketed millions of products that assist businesses in enhancing safety measures and increasing profits. Noteworthy among his creations are 35 variants of box cutters and the Sit and Shop retail cart—which debuted in 1984, long before the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Each of these innovations stemmed from a client’s need, with Davis harnessing his relentless creativity and determination to devise a solution.
Throughout his journey, he has built valuable relationships with influential figures, such as Wal-Mart’s founder Sam Walton, which proved advantageous when he ventured out independently in the 1970s.
Davis’s creativity knows no bounds: a member of his executive staff remarks, “You ought to be cautious about what you mention around here, because Ray will go without sleep for three nights straight, working on a solution.”
Recently, Davis shared insights with SUCCESS regarding his entrepreneurial path, his approach to problem-solving, and the significance of having a passion for our work.
Q: While you were assisting Wal-Mart with store launches, Sam Walton made a specific request. How did the Sit and Shop cart come into existence?
A: His daughter had suffered a serious car accident in Mexico, but he wanted her to accompany him to store openings. He asked me to seek out a type of sit-down cart for individuals who required assistance while navigating the store. When I found nothing suitable, I went ahead and designed the Sit and Shop. It likely remains my most widely recognized product—over 2 million people utilize one of my carts daily in retail environments.
Q: What personal encounters have fostered your lasting relationship with box-cutting tools?
A: I was slicing through a box in a store aisle when a shopping cart collided with me. It left a significant scar on my arm, and I lost a fair amount of blood, although it was never life-threatening.
Later, I witnessed a traumatic incident in Louisiana that continues to trouble me. A young woman, merely 19 and a new mother, accidentally cut herself while opening a box. She mistakenly placed the cutter in her pants pocket, and as she retrieved it, she severely injured her leg, hitting an artery. I remained with her, attempting to staunch the bleeding, but she nearly succumbed. Fortunately, EMTs arrived and saved her. That incident galvanized my resolve to act.
This took place in 1978, and it took me a few years to develop a product I could make myself. I secured a patent in 1980, and the initial box cutter I invented [featuring a spring-loaded safety mechanism] continues to be sold today. Amazingly, to my knowledge, no one has ever injured themselves using that design!
Q: Do you employ a structured method for solving problems? Is your perspective something that can be learned, or is it innate?
A: I usually choose a problem that isn’t exclusive to just one person but carries the potential for a marketable fix—create this, and thousands or even hundreds of thousands will want it. I focus on uncovering the root cause of the issue…
I believe this can be learned. Yet first and foremost, you must be sure that the business you’re entering is what you truly want to pursue, as it’s akin to entering into a marriage—you can’t do it halfway. You need to commit fully with your heart, mind, and energy—everything. The endeavor should consume your thoughts, and if you genuinely wish to succeed, you must dedicate yourself entirely. You’ll face numerous challenges and unforeseen hurdles. If you allow these to deter you, you’ll be destined for failure. So, if one route is blocked, seek an alternative. Find a way—never surrender.
Q: What, in your opinion, is the cornerstone of success?
A: Unwavering determination. People can sense your expertise through your tone when you’re confident in your knowledge. Conversely, if you’re unsure, it will be glaringly apparent—whether it resonates or it doesn’t.
It’s reminiscent of the rush you feel in fearful situations; they say it can enable people to execute feats they typically wouldn’t achieve. An entrepreneur embodies that constant adrenaline surge.
Q: What guidance do you provide for aspiring entrepreneurs?
A: Ensure you have comprehensive knowledge about your venture and document your goals. Define what success looks like for you. Don’t simply declare, ‘I want to make money’ or ‘I want to accomplish this.’ Specify, ‘I aim to sell 10 million units of this and 5 million units of that by a designated timeframe.’ And then take action—make it happen.
If you don’t establish clear objectives, how will you recognize when you’ve achieved your aspirations?
