Gordon Food Service is one of the largest food distribution companies in North America. With over 120 years of experience, the company has established a reputation for quality and innovation in the food industry. As a family-owned business, Gordon Food Service has grown significantly over the years, both organically and through acquisitions. One question that often arises is, “What companies does Gordon Food Service own?”
Gordon Food Service has made several strategic acquisitions over the years, expanding its product offerings and geographical reach. Some of the companies that Gordon Food Service owns include Halperns’ Steak and Seafood, Glazier Foods Company, and Ettline Foods. These subsidiaries are from the hospitality and retail industries, and they help Gordon Food Service provide a wider range of products and services to its customers.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the companies that Gordon Food Service owns, their business segments, products and services, geographical presence, customer focus, and corporate values and culture. We will also discuss the market trends and how Gordon Food Service has adapted to them over the years. Finally, we will explore some of the additional services that Gordon Food Service offers, as well as its brand and product expansion.
Key Takeaways
- Gordon Food Service has made several strategic acquisitions over the years, expanding its product offerings and geographical reach.
- The subsidiaries that Gordon Food Service owns are from the hospitality and retail industries, and they help the company provide a wider range of products and services to its customers.
- Gordon Food Service is committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, and it has adapted to market trends over the years to remain a leader in the food industry.
History and Founding
Isaac Van Westenbrugge and Beginnings
Gordon Food Service was founded by Isaac Van Westenbrugge in 1897 as a small butter and egg delivery business in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Van Westenbrugge built a reputation for quality and service, and his business grew rapidly. Over the years, he expanded his product line to include other food items, and by the 1940s, the company had become a general line food distributor.
Growth and Expansion
In 1979, Gordon Food Service opened its first cash and carry store, which allowed customers to purchase products directly from the company. The stores were an instant success and were renamed GFS Marketplace in 1992. As of 2023, they operate more than 175 stores across Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.
Today, Gordon Food Service is one of the largest family-owned and operated foodservice distributors in North America. The company has more than 20,000 employees and serves customers in the United States and Canada. Despite its growth, Gordon Food Service remains committed to its founding principles of quality, service, and value.
Isaac Van Westenbrugge’s legacy lives on, and the company continues to be headquartered in Wyoming, Michigan. Gordon Food Service has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a butter and egg delivery business, but its dedication to providing customers with high-quality products and exceptional service has remained unchanged.
Gordon Food Service Today
Gordon Food Service is a family-managed business that has been providing food service distribution for over a century. The company has a robust operational infrastructure across North America, offering a wide range of products and services.
Family-Managed Business
Gordon Food Service is a family-managed business, with the Gordon family still involved in the day-to-day operations. The company’s commitment to family values is reflected in its mission statement, which emphasizes the importance of food, family, and community. This commitment is also evident in the company’s dedication to providing superior food and support to its customers.
Operational Footprint in North America
Gordon Food Service has a significant operational footprint in North America, with distribution centers located throughout the United States and Canada. The company has 14 distribution centers in the U.S., located in Aberdeen, Maryland; Brighton, Michigan; Concord, North Carolina; Coppell, Texas; Houston, Texas; Imperial, Pennsylvania; Kenosha, Wisconsin; Lithia Springs, Georgia; Miami, Florida; Plant City, Florida; Shepherdsville, Kentucky; Springfield, Ohio; Taunton, Massachusetts. The company also has distribution centers in Canada.
Gordon Food Service’s operational footprint allows it to serve customers in the Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, and Southwest regions of the United States. The company’s stores provide a variety of products and services, including fresh produce, dairy, frozen foods, meats, poultry, seafood, baked goods, and beverages.
Overall, Gordon Food Service’s commitment to family values, combined with its extensive operational infrastructure, makes it a leading food service distribution company in North America.
Business Segments
Gordon Food Service is a company with a diverse portfolio of business segments. The company operates in two main business segments, namely Foodservice Distribution and Retail Outlets.
Foodservice Distribution
Gordon Food Service is one of the leading foodservice distributors in North America. The company’s foodservice distribution business segment serves a wide range of customers, including restaurants, healthcare facilities, education institutions, and other foodservice operators. The company operates a network of distribution centers across the United States and Canada, which enables it to provide efficient and reliable foodservice distribution services to its customers.
Gordon Food Service offers a wide range of products to its foodservice customers, including fresh and frozen meats, seafood, dairy products, bakery items, and other food products. The company also offers a range of value-added services, such as menu planning, recipe development, and training programs, to help its customers improve their operations and grow their businesses.
Retail Outlets
In addition to its foodservice distribution business, Gordon Food Service also operates a chain of retail outlets. The company’s retail business segment operates under the name GFS Marketplace, and it serves both commercial and non-commercial customers.
GFS Marketplace offers a wide range of products to its customers, including fresh and frozen foods, dairy products, bakery items, and other food products. The company also offers a range of non-food products, such as cleaning supplies, paper products, and kitchen equipment.
Overall, Gordon Food Service’s diverse portfolio of business segments enables it to serve a wide range of customers in the foodservice and retail industries. The company’s commitment to quality, service, and value has helped it become one of the leading foodservice distributors in North America.
Products and Services
Gordon Food Service offers a wide range of food products and supplies to meet the needs of their customers. The company is committed to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service.
Quality and Selection
Gordon Food Service offers a variety of high-quality food products, including fresh seafood, meat, vegetables, dough, rice, and specialty products. The company sources its products from trusted suppliers and ensures that they meet the highest standards of quality.
Gordon Food Service also offers a wide selection of supplies, including cleaning products, tableware, and kitchen equipment. The company’s supply products are designed to help customers keep their kitchens clean and running efficiently.
Specialty Products
Gordon Food Service offers a range of specialty products, including tea, butter, and eggs. The company’s tea selection includes a variety of flavors and blends, and its butter is made from high-quality ingredients.
In addition to its food products, Gordon Food Service offers egg delivery services to its customers. The company’s egg delivery service ensures that customers receive fresh, high-quality eggs on a regular basis.
Overall, Gordon Food Service is committed to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service to its customers.
Geographical Presence
Gordon Food Service is a foodservice distributor that operates across North America. The company has a substantial network of distribution centers and subsidiaries spread across both the United States and Canada. In this section, we will explore the areas where Gordon Food Service operates and maintains a presence.
Regional Distribution Centers
Gordon Food Service has 14 distribution centers in the United States. These centers are strategically located to provide efficient and timely delivery of products to customers across the country. The distribution centers are located in the following states:
- Aberdeen, Maryland
- Brighton, Michigan
- Concord, North Carolina
- Coppell, Texas
- Houston, Texas
- Imperial, Pennsylvania
- Kenosha, Wisconsin
- Lithia Springs, Georgia
- Miami, Florida
- Plant City, Florida
- Shepherdsville, Kentucky
- Springfield, Ohio
- Taunton, Massachusetts
State-Specific Operations
In addition to the regional distribution centers, Gordon Food Service also operates state-specific operations in several states. These operations allow the company to provide specialized services and products to customers in those states. Some of the states where Gordon Food Service has state-specific operations include:
- Florida: Gordon Food Service operates state-specific operations in Miami and Plant City, Florida. These operations provide a range of products and services to customers in the state.
- Illinois: Gordon Food Service has a state-specific operation in Illinois that provides products and services to customers in the state.
- Kentucky: Gordon Food Service has a state-specific operation in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. This operation provides a range of products and services to customers in the state.
- Ohio: Gordon Food Service has a state-specific operation in Springfield, Ohio. This operation provides a range of products and services to customers in the state.
- Pennsylvania: Gordon Food Service has a distribution center in Imperial, Pennsylvania. This center provides products and services to customers in the state.
- Texas: Gordon Food Service has state-specific operations in Coppell and Houston, Texas. These operations provide a range of products and services to customers in the state.
- Wisconsin: Gordon Food Service has a state-specific operation in Kenosha, Wisconsin. This operation provides a range of products and services to customers in the state.
Overall, Gordon Food Service has a substantial presence across North America, with a network of distribution centers and subsidiaries that allow the company to provide a range of products and services to customers across the continent.
Customer Focus
Gordon Food Service has always been committed to providing high-quality food products and excellent customer service. They cater to a wide variety of foodservice operators, including independent and chain restaurants, schools, healthcare facilities, and more.
Independent and Chain Restaurants
Gordon Food Service is dedicated to helping independent and chain restaurants succeed by providing them with the best food products and services. They offer a wide range of products, including fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as frozen and dry goods. They also provide specialty products and services, such as custom-cut meats, menu development, and culinary training.
Gordon Food Service understands that the restaurant industry is competitive, which is why they strive to provide their customers with the best possible service. They work closely with their customers to understand their needs and provide them with personalized solutions.
Healthcare and Education Sectors
Gordon Food Service also caters to the healthcare and education sectors, providing them with nutritious and healthy food options. They understand the importance of providing healthy and balanced meals to patients and students, which is why they offer a wide range of products that meet their dietary needs.
They work closely with hospitals and schools to develop menus that meet their specific requirements. They also provide training and support to their customers to ensure that they are able to provide high-quality meals to their patients and students.
In summary, Gordon Food Service is committed to providing their customers with high-quality food products and excellent customer service. They cater to a wide variety of foodservice operators, including independent and chain restaurants, schools, healthcare facilities, and more. They work closely with their customers to understand their needs and provide them with personalized solutions.
Innovation and Excellence
Gordon Food Service (GFS) has always been committed to providing quality products and services to its customers. To achieve this goal, the company has implemented various innovative strategies and practices.
Quality Assurance
One of the ways that GFS ensures the quality of its products is through its rigorous quality assurance program. This program involves testing and inspecting all products before they are shipped to customers. GFS also works closely with its suppliers to ensure that they meet the company’s high standards for quality and safety.
GFS’s commitment to quality is also reflected in its team of experts. The company employs a team of experienced food scientists who are responsible for ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
Supply Chain Management
Another area where GFS excels is in its supply chain management. The company has implemented a state-of-the-art supply chain management system that allows it to track products from the moment they are ordered to the moment they are delivered to customers. This system ensures that products are delivered on time and in excellent condition.
GFS’s expertise in supply chain management is also reflected in its relationships with its suppliers. The company has established strong relationships with its suppliers, which allows it to source the highest quality products at the most competitive prices.
Overall, GFS’s commitment to innovation and excellence has made it one of the leading foodservice distributors in North America. Its team of experts, rigorous quality assurance program, and state-of-the-art supply chain management system ensure that customers receive the highest quality products and services.
Corporate Values and Culture
Gordon Food Service is a family-managed company that values integrity, leadership, partnership, and teamwork. The company’s culture is built on strong relationships that break down barriers and promote innovation and cooperation. By working as an open-minded, responsive team, Gordon Food Service achieves excellence.
Leadership and Teamwork
The company’s leadership team is committed to providing its employees with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed. Gordon Food Service believes in investing in its employees’ growth and development, which is why it offers a variety of training programs and career advancement opportunities.
Teamwork is also a cornerstone of the company’s culture. Employees are encouraged to work together to achieve shared goals and objectives. Gordon Food Service believes that everyone has a unique set of skills and experiences that can contribute to the team’s success.
Commitment to Service
Gordon Food Service is committed to providing its customers with quality products and exceptional service. The company’s employees are trained to provide friendly, knowledgeable service that meets its customers’ needs.
The company’s commitment to service extends beyond its customers to the communities it serves. Gordon Food Service is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion within its organization and the communities it serves. The company believes that everyone is important and that it has a responsibility to create a more equitable and just society.
In summary, Gordon Food Service’s corporate values and culture are built on integrity, leadership, partnership, and teamwork. The company is committed to providing its employees with the tools they need to succeed and to working together to achieve shared goals and objectives. Its commitment to service extends beyond its customers to the communities it serves.
Market Trends and Adaptation
Responding to Demographics
Gordon Food Service (GFS) has been keeping an eye on the changing demographics of the United States. The company has recognized the growing influence of millennials in the food industry and has adapted its business model accordingly. According to a report by Forbes, millennials are now the largest generation in the workforce and have a significant impact on the food industry. They demand healthier options, convenience, and customization.
To cater to this demographic, GFS has introduced a variety of new products that cater to their preferences. The company has also implemented digital solutions that make it easier for customers to order and customize their meals. GFS has also partnered with foodservice providers to offer healthier options such as plant-based proteins, gluten-free products, and organic produce.
Evolving Food Operations
The food industry is constantly evolving, and GFS has been quick to adapt to these changes. The company has invested in technology to streamline its operations and improve its supply chain. For example, GFS has implemented a warehouse management system that helps reduce errors and improve efficiency.
GFS has also recognized the growing demand for sustainable food practices. The company has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, such as reducing food waste and implementing more sustainable packaging. GFS has also partnered with suppliers who share their commitment to sustainability.
In conclusion, GFS has been proactive in responding to changing market trends and demographics. The company has adapted its business model to cater to the preferences of millennials and has invested in technology to improve its operations. GFS has also recognized the importance of sustainability and has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.
Additional Services
Gordon Food Service not only offers high-quality food products, but they also provide additional services to support their customers’ businesses. Here are some of the services that Gordon Food Service offers to its customers.
Rewards Programs
Gordon Food Service offers a rewards program called “Gordon Now”. This program provides customers with exclusive discounts, rebates, and promotions. The program is free to join and is designed to help customers save money on their purchases.
Customers can earn rewards by purchasing eligible products from Gordon Food Service. The rewards can be redeemed for a variety of items, including gift cards, merchandise, and free products. The program also offers a mobile app that allows customers to track their rewards and access exclusive offers.
Support for Food Businesses
Gordon Food Service offers a variety of services to help food businesses succeed. They provide sourcing and value-added services to help customers find the products they need and add value to their menu offerings. They also offer easy ordering and expedient delivery to ensure that customers receive their products quickly and efficiently.
In addition, Gordon Food Service provides support and training to help customers improve their operations. They offer menu development services, recipe ideas, and culinary training to help customers create unique and delicious menu items. They also provide marketing support to help customers promote their businesses and attract new customers.
Overall, Gordon Food Service is more than just a food distributor. They offer a range of additional services to help their customers succeed in the food industry. Whether you need help with menu development, marketing, or sourcing products, Gordon Food Service has the expertise and resources to help.
Brand and Product Expansion
Gordon Food Service has been expanding its brand and product offerings through acquisitions and partnerships, as well as national and international growth. This expansion has allowed the company to offer a wider range of products and services to its customers, including those in the foodservice industry.
Acquisitions and Partnerships
Gordon Food Service has made several strategic acquisitions and partnerships to expand its product offerings. For example, in 2018, the company acquired Ettline Foods, a food distributor based in Pennsylvania. This acquisition allowed Gordon Food Service to expand its product offerings to include a wider range of fresh and frozen foods.
In addition to acquisitions, Gordon Food Service has also formed partnerships with national chain restaurants to provide them with foodservice solutions. For example, the company has partnered with Chick-fil-A to provide them with a range of products and services, including custom menu development and supply chain management.
National and International Growth
Gordon Food Service has also been expanding its national and international presence through the opening of new distribution centers and the acquisition of new companies. For example, the company recently opened a new distribution center in Florida to serve customers in the southeastern United States.
The company has also expanded its presence in Canada through the acquisition of several foodservice companies, including M.K. Foodservice, which is based in Ontario. This expansion has allowed Gordon Food Service to offer its products and services to a wider range of customers in Canada.
Overall, Gordon Food Service’s brand and product expansion has allowed the company to offer a wider range of products and services to its customers. Through acquisitions, partnerships, and national and international growth, the company has positioned itself as a leading food distributor in North America.
