Gordon Food Service Embraces Digital Transformation
In a bold move reflecting its commitment to innovation, Gordon Food Service (GFS), one of North America’s largest privately-held foodservice distributors, is embarking on a digital transformation journey by partnering with Google Cloud. This strategic alliance aims to leverage AI tools to revolutionize workflow efficiency across the company's expansive workforce. With over 127 years of industry experience, GFS is already adept at understanding the importance of integrating cutting-edge technology into its operations.
On October 9, 2025, Google Cloud announced the extension of its collaboration with GFS, focusing on the comprehensive adoption of Google Workspace and the implementation of Gemini Enterprise, an innovative platform designed to infuse AI capabilities into the hands of every employee.
Empowering the Workforce with Google Workspace
Gordon Food Service has quickly rolled out Google Workspace among nearly 12,000 employees, providing essential tools like Gmail, Docs, Drive, Sheets, and NotebookLM. This move integrates technology into everyday tasks, enabling employees to access crucial data more efficiently and streamline their workflows. The integration of Google Workspace allows GFS to unify diverse data points, enhancing operational efficiency and maintaining its legacy of innovation.
Brendan Bonthuis, GFS's Chief Information Officer, emphasizes, "Innovation is at the core of our longevity, and our partnership with Google Cloud is essential to our growth strategy. Google Workspace directly integrates AI into our daily workflows, helping our workforce to serve our clients more effectively with quality services and products."
Gemini Enterprise: Unlocking AI-Driven Insights
In conjunction with Google Workspace, GFS is harnessing the power of Gemini Enterprise to empower its IT and development teams. This platform allows them to build customized AI tools and solutions that specifically cater to the foodservice industry. With Gemini Enterprise, employees can leverage sophisticated AI agents for various business operations, including:
- - Data Unification: Employees can consolidate disparate data from key SaaS products like ServiceNow and Jira into a centralized location, facilitating better data accessibility and informed decision-making.
- - Sales Optimization: Sales teams are now equipped with the advanced insights provided by Gemini's research tools, creating proactive and targeted sales plans that seek to grow customer accounts effectively.
- - Enhanced Marketing Strategies: Marketing managers utilize the AI agents within Gemini Enterprise to derive actionable strategies, thus improving market share by identifying trends and solutions swiftly.
- - Improved Knowledge Sharing: The introduction of AI features such as “take notes for me” in Google Meet and the NotebookLM research assistant facilitates better organizational knowledge sharing, enabling teams to connect and learn more effectively.
- - Engaging Content Creation: The HR Benefits department uses features in Google Workspace to create interactive content, ensuring employees have clear access to important benefits information.
"For an entrenched company like Gordon Food Service, embracing innovation is fundamental for future growth," Jose Gomes, VP of Retail and Consumer Goods at Google Cloud, stated. "By integrating Gemini directly into their operations, we are aiding in their transformation into an AI-centric industry leader."
The Road Ahead
As Gordon Food Service embarks on this transformative journey, the integration of Google Cloud's platforms marks a significant milestone in redefining foodservice logistics and operations. By enhancing productivity through AI-driven technology, GFS aims to not only meet customer expectations but also to set new standards in the foodservice industry. Their strategic approach serves as an inspiring model for other companies looking to harness the power of AI and digital innovation.
This collaboration between Gordon Food Service and Google Cloud underscores a pivotal shift in the foodservice landscape, setting the stage for a more sustainable, efficient, and technology-driven future.