Distribution • Logistics • Cold Storage
FROM STRATEGY TO SHELF
Joe Ward on Scaling Quirch Foods Through Innovation, Culture, and Global Agility
With nearly six decades of growth behind it, Quirch Foods has evolved into a leading food distribution company across the U.S., the Caribbean, and Latin America. At the centre of its next phase of transformation is Joe Ward, Chief Operating Officer, whose extensive background in food manufacturing, distribution, and private equitybacked ventures is helping Quirch optimise scale, strengthen supplier relationships, and future-proof its operations.
In this exclusive interview, Joe shares how Quirch is investing in technology, championing sustainability, expanding through strategic acquisitions, and empowering its people, all while staying agile in the face of global disruption. From sourcing to service delivery, Joe offers an inside look at how Quirch Foods continues to deliver operational excellence and customer value in a rapidly changing supply chain landscape.
Professional Journey
Can you walk us through your professional journey and what led you to your current role as Chief Operating Officer at Quirch Foods?
I began my career in the food industry as a member of the initial launch team of the Direct Division at Frito-Lay. Along with approximately 50 others, we were recruited out of graduate programs across the country to help establish the company’s foodservice, vending, and club store channels. Growth was rapid, providing significant opportunities for advancement.
After more than six years at Frito-Lay, I was offered the opportunity to join Auntie Anne’s and lead a similar initiative, establishing their retail and foodservice division. I went on to do the same at Pine Valley Foods, and was later asked to assist with the turnaround of the Fresh Division at Hanover Foods Corporation. While at Hanover, I had the privilege of working with several start-up food ventures in a co-packer capacity.
During that time, I was introduced to several private equity firms expanding into the organic and natural foods space. This led to an opportunity to lead Hot Mama’s Foods, then a privately held, largescale manufacturer of salsa, hummus, and specialty products. I was brought in to take the company public, and after a few years, it was successfully sold.
I then spent about a year assisting food manufacturers with acquisitions and brand expansions, eventually updating my LinkedIn profile, which prompted a call from Bunzl Distribution. I had partnered with Bunzl previously for just-in-time supply of non-perishable consumables at both Hanover and Hot Mama’s, so they were seeking someone who understood the value Bunzl provided in the food manufacturing supply chain. I spent 10 wonderful years there.
Most recently, I was contacted by Modern Executive Solutions regarding the position at Quirch Foods, which ultimately led me to my current role.
Quirch Foods’ Mission and Operations
Quirch Foods has grown into a leading distributor of food products across the U.S., the Caribbean, and Latin America. How does your role as COO support the company’s mission and operational excellence in these diverse markets?
Quirch has an impressive record of growth and development, rooted in the incredible corporate culture established by the Quirch family nearly 60 years ago. Building upon that foundation, the company has expanded rapidly in recent years, both organically and through acquisition.
In 2024, the company reached a point of maturation where it was deemed the right time to enhance our corporate structure, operations, and go-to-market strategies in order to fully capitalise on our size, scope, and economies of scale. I was brought in to lead this effort and to help drive operational excellence across all the diverse markets we serve.
Operational Strategy in Food Distribution
Food distribution is a fast-paced and highly competitive industry. What operational strategies have you implemented to ensure efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction across Quirch Foods’ logistics and supply chain?
Quirch has a strong track record of investing in the latest technologies to support ongoing operational efficiencies and procurement strategies. Our continuous improvement mindset enables us to control operational expenses, maximise our purchasing power, and pass those savings on to our customers. When we win, our customers win and that philosophy drives everything we do.
Sustainability in Food Supply Chains
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the food industry. What steps has Quirch Foods taken under your leadership to create more sustainable and responsible supply chains?
Sustainability can be addressed in many ways. At Quirch, we aim to maximise sustainability in everything we do, from ongoing assessments of our energy and fuel consumption to the farms and ranches where our products are sourced. We’re constantly seeking the most sustainable approach across our operations. We continue to invest in energy-saving technologies, including motion sensortriggered LED lighting in our warehouses and offices, advanced routing software to reduce miles driven, and detailed monitoring of vehicle idle time. On the procurement side, sourcing from growers and packers committed to sustainable practices is a key part of our corporate mission. Sustainability isn’t just a goal,, it’s a guiding principle across the entire supply chain.
Technology and Innovation
How is Quirch Foods leveraging technology and data analytics to improve its operations, from procurement to delivery?
As mentioned earlier, this is a key differentiator for Quirch. From our robust, proprietary ERP system to our use of AI to support operational and procurement decisions, we remain focused on investing in the latest technologies to maximise efficiency. These innovations not only enhance our internal processes but also allow us to share the benefits of improved performance and cost savings with our customers.
Risk Management in Distribution
Given the complexity of international logistics and supply chain challenges, how do you manage risk across Quirch Foods’ operations?
Over nearly six decades of operations, Quirch has built strong relationships with suppliers in more than 50 countries across every continent. This ongoing supplier diversification strategy enables us to rapidly pivot from one supplier to another, ensuring stability in our supply chain.
It also allows us to consistently maintain the freshest, highest-quality inventory for our customers, even in the face of global disruptions.
Workforce Development and Culture
What initiatives are in place at Quirch Foods to foster workforce development, retention, and a strong organizational culture?
Our culture is the cornerstone of our company. We promote inclusion, recognition, and a sense of family, while maintaining accountability and ensuring we have the right people in the right roles.
Recently, we restructured our organisation to create clearer growth paths for our team members. In addition, we’re expanding our training programmes through Workday to equip our employees with the tools, support, and guidance they need to succeed. Investing in our people is central to our longterm success.
Quirch has a strong track record of investing in the latest technologies to support ongoing operational efficiencies and procurement strategies.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Partnerships are a cornerstone of any successful distribution network. Can you elaborate on how Quirch Foods collaborates with its core partners, such as suppliers, logistics providers, and retailers, to create mutual value?
As distributors, we create value for both our suppliers and customers. Positioned at the centre of the supply chain, we act as strategic partners rather than mere intermediaries.
We align closely with our suppliers to enhance efficiency, optimise planning, and ensure a smooth flow of goods. At the same time, we maintain regular engagement with our customers to understand their evolving needs and deliver tailored solutions. This dual focus allows us to drive mutual value and long-term success across our partner network.
Adapting to Market Disruptions
From inflation to supply shortages, the food distribution industry has faced numerous disruptions in recent years. How has Quirch Foods adapted to maintain stability and service levels?
As mentioned earlier, our vast network of global supply partners, combined with our growing scale and scope, gives us the ability to adapt, adjust, and pivot in response to market fluctuations and emerging needs.
This flexibility has been key to maintaining stability and high service levels for our customers, even during periods of disruption.
Future Outlook for Quirch Foods
Looking ahead, what are your top priorities for the continued growth and innovation of Quirch Foods in an evolving food distribution landscape?
We will continue to grow both organically and through acquisition. Our top priorities include investing in technology, strengthening partnerships with suppliers and customers, and staying ahead through continuous innovation.
Most importantly, we’re committed to investing in our most valuable asset, our people. Their talent and dedication will drive the next chapter of growth at Quirch Foods.
Quirch Foods, a family-founded leader since 1967, is one of the largest refrigerated food distributors in the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean. Operating 23 facilities and nearly 400 trucks, it delivers quality proteins and ethnic specialties. Committed to sustainability, ESG, and tech-enabled service, Quirch supports retailers, foodservice, and cruise lines globally.
Joe Ward COO