#United States #Ontario #Ajinomoto Foods #Foodservice Growth #Bill Flack

Ajinomoto Foods North America Accelerates Foodservice Business with Strategic Executive Appointments

Ajinomoto Foods North America, known for its diverse lineup of specialty frozen food products, is taking significant steps to enhance its influence within the foodservice industry. With the recent appointments of Bill Flack as Senior Vice President, Head of Foodservice, and Ed Shabaz as Director of C-Store Sales, the company is positioning itself for profound growth in an evolving market where demand for innovative, globally-inspired cuisine continues to rise.

Strategic Moves for Rapid Growth

These appointments come at a crucial moment as the foodservice sector, encompassing an expansive market exceeding $900 billion in annual sales in the U.S., is undergoing a transformation driven by consumers' cravings for authentic flavors and convenience. Ajinomoto aims to leverage its strengths in culinary expertise to fulfill these consumer desires, thereby solidifying its position as a go-to partner in the foodservice landscape.

Bill Flack will oversee Ajinomoto's entire Foodservice division, a pivotal role in driving the company’s growth strategy. With decades of experience in foodservice and consumer packaged goods (CPG), Flack has an impressive track record of leading organizations to achieve remarkable sales and profitability. His earlier roles at Kerry, Olam Food Ingredients, and Schwan's have equipped him with the necessary skills to initiate impactful changes and foster connections with key industry players like Starbucks and Costco.

“I am thrilled to be part of such an iconic brand,” stated Flack. “Ajinomoto has a proud history of providing delicious options to foodservice, and I’m excited to amplify our leadership in Latin Mexican and Asian cuisine. The opportunity to introduce authentic products like Gyoza and bold-flavored dumplings across North America represents significant growth potential.”

Driving Convenience Store Sales Strategy

Joining Flack, Ed Shabaz brings over 20 years of experience in the convenience retail sector, where he will be responsible for formulating sales strategies that integrate the foodservice and CPG channels. Notably, prepared foods now account for over twothirds of total foodservice sales, and Shabaz’s expertise will be key to expanding Ajinomoto's reach in this area, making it indispensable to convenience retailers striving to enhance their food offerings.

“With convenience stores evolving into food destinations, Ajinomoto is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation,” explained Shabaz. “My goal is to foster powerful partnerships and drive innovation that will make Ajinomoto a household name that consumers trust and desire.”

A Vision for the Future

The strategic appointments of Flack and Shabaz represent Ajinomoto's steadfast commitment to redefining the frozen food experience. The company’s mission focuses on blending authentic global flavors and operational excellence to enhance the success of its partners. By aligning its offerings with consumer trends, Ajinomoto is not merely reacting to the market but proactively shaping its future in foodservice.

As the company embarks on this new chapter, it combines culinary creativity with a focus on well-being, community, and joy through food. The integration of these values into its business model not only helps Ajinomoto maintain its reputation for high-quality products but also fosters deeper connections with consumers.

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc., a subsidiary of the globally recognized Ajinomoto Group, is dedicated to delivering cultural and high-quality frozen food products aimed at enriching the lives of consumers and elevating their everyday dining experiences. The firm embraces its purpose to enhance quality of life through food while being recognized for innovation and culinary excellence in the industry. Look out for Ajinomoto's continued evolution in foodservice as they meet the ever-evolving needs of consumers and partners alike.