Jim McCann started his long list of successes as a social worker for St. John's Home for Boys in Rockaway in New York. The young men he helped at this organizational were all in need of guidance to overcome life struggles such as poverty, and the devastating effects of drug abuse. Based on his own statements this experience taught him to be the compassionate and dedicated man he is today.

Taking all that he learned about love, compassion, and even tough management with him, Jim McCann left his humble job as a social worker and opened his own flower shop in Manhattan. It did not take long and he had expanded his covered area with over 14 flower and gift shops in the New York area. Using the knowledge he had of consumer needs and wants he had become the most advanced shop in the New York vicinity staying on top of trends, technology, and any other advancements that would offer his customers better service.

In early 1986 Jim McCann decided to try what most thought to be unrealistic and start a 1-800 number for his rapidly growing flower and gift business. Thus 1-800-FLOWERS was finally born. At first most people thought he had lost his mind and this would be another "great" idea that pops up and then silently disappears but now it is quite clear that this company is on the market to stay.

In 1995, McCann made it easier than ever for people to deliver a special message along with flowers or cherished gift by opening up his company's doors to the entire world through the internet. Chances are you have heard of 1-800-Flowers.com or seen one of their many advertisements on Yahoo, America Online or TV commercials. Jim McCann is proud to admit that he is the first of any gift and flower shop to offer his services on the internet.

The world has thanked and recognized the achievements of McCann in many ways. Not only is his business doing very well, he has been featured by many top magazines for his amazing techniques in marketing and great ideas that always seem to be one step ahead of the rest. He has been granted the Entrepreneur of the Year award by Inc. Magazine, the Retailer of the Year award from Chain Store Executive Magazine, the Advocate of the Year award from Ernst & Young and the Long Island Association, and the Direct Marketer of the Year from Direct Marketing Day New York.

It is clear that Jim McCann puts no limit on success. Whether it be his kind nature or dedicated attitude he has found a way to beat the odds and master all that is put before him.