CEO & Founder
Rich Wolverton
ABOUT ME
Throughout my 40 years of experience in foodservice distribution, I saw many entrepreneurs with good products, but no plan.
Grow Foodservice was formed with the simple idea of helping good people grow their business and find the path to profitable sales.
I deliver proven strategies and contacts to increase your efficiency, time-to-market and lower your stress at entering a new food product into the supply chain. I specialize in product concept through national distribution to restaurants and organizations.
I love what I do, and I know what it takes to grow your business.
EXPERIENCE
- VP Category Management
- Director Supplier Relations
- Food Sales
- New Business Development
- Pricing
Partner
Pam Panuccio
ABOUT ME
With 35+ years in both Foodservice and Retail distribution, I have an in-depth view of the distribution industry from conception to execution. My areas of expertise include product development, packaging development for both foodservice and retail, costing and pricing, supply chain and understanding all options when partnering with Distributors. In this industry, being prepared and having a plan is key to your success.
I’m passionate about the products and the people behind the products. Helping entrepreneurs grow and succeed is very rewarding.
EXPERIENCE
- Director Category Management
- Category Management
- Alternative Sourcing
- RFP Process Implementation
Partner
Scott Schmitz
ABOUT ME
I believe entrepreneurs and small businesses are the heartbeat of the American Dream. I’ve spent my entire 34-year career in the foodservice distribution industry, and most of that time was spent supporting small businesses and helping them thrive in this challenging business.
I’ll be utilizing my skills in sales, marketing, business development, and leadership to help Producers, Manufactures, and Operators succeed in foodservice distribution. I build strategic and tactical plans as a pathway to distribution and into operator’s kitchens. I look forward to the continued connections in this great industry.
EXPERIENCE
- Executive Leadership
- VP Sales and Marketing
- National and Independent Restaurants
- Business Development
How We Help Your Foodservice Business GROW
Based on their decades of experience in foodservice sales, marketing, and business development, founder Rich Wolverton, along with partners Scott Schmitz and Pam Panuccio, know what it takes to help your food business grow.
Grow Foodservice was formed to deliver industry expertise and insights throughout all areas of foodservice, with a focus on distribution.
What makes us different? We build a unique partnership with every client and work closely alongside them to develop innovative strategies and business plans resulting in efficient distribution of their products.
Ethos
We are committed to these cultural beliefs and energize people who share them.
Transparency
Do the right thing.
Servant Leader
Create a great project of collaboration.
Risk & Reward
Advise on and take well-reasoned risks to achieve results.
Consistency
Be consistent in all circumstances, not just the easy ones.
Time Matters
Avoiding “time sucks” like meetings without clear agendas & deliverables.
Integrity
We are focused on being your advocate. It is linked to our purpose.
Planned & Flexible
We plan out our work with a schedule and then we flex as needed.
Words Matter
Look for the positive and praise it.
Inclusive
We appreciate communication styles and temperaments. Seasoned to tear down communication barriers while honoring people.
No Bull
Speaking the plain truth fostering understanding.
Respect
We are mindful to choose words that demonstrate respect and honorable intent.
Always Learning
Nobody knows it all. No matter how much some insist! We are always learning and improving how we serve our clients.
Life Long Learner
The industry is growing and changing, and we are too.
Know My Why
We understand the role and responsibilities of partnering.
Gratitude
Living life through the lens of gratitude sets a positive attitude.
Faith
We have an advocate. Trust in God.
Do What Is Right
We will always strive to do what is right and good.
Feed Dreams
Bringing your product to market is literally feeding the American dream.
