I agree with all the responses about the fault lying with management for not standing up for the person that brings in the bacon. COMMUNICATION with all parties in a timely manner, not the day before, would have made the salesperson a happy camper. The damage was already done, but I assume the orders were processed, so if I was the salesperson, I would do like the others said and bring the donuts, lunch, drinks, whatever to try and difuse the situation from happening again.
Everyone in our company needs a break from time to time, but the rule is to schedule the time-off several weeks in advance, with the exception of a family emergency, but even if an emergency pops up, or time-off is given, there is always a backup available to take care of business.