The founders of our organization were pioneers in developing snack and beverage programs for non-traditional retail formats, revolutionizing the way grab-and-go products were placed in hardware stores, auto parts chains, and electronics retailers. Prior to their work with Nestlé USA Corporate, it was rare to find a structured snack and beverage program in these environments. The Nestlé team launched its first pilot program in West Marine Boating Stores and, between 1995 and 1999, expanded the initiative into multiple retail chains across the U.S.. Recognizing the success of these programs, one of our founders was sent to Switzerland to help implement similar models worldwide. Beyond traditional retail, our team was also instrumental in co-founding the Hotel Pantry concept, leading to their involvement in hotel distribution and long-term advisory roles for emerging and established brands looking to expand into grab-and-go and alternative food service channels.

The growth of alternative retail and foodservice distribution was further influenced by long-term partnerships with distributors specializing in snack programs for non-food retailers. Key industry players such as Marjack Company Inc., Liberty Distribution, and Continental Concession Supplies Inc. (CCSI) played a major role in the expansion of candy, snacks, and beverage offerings into movie theaters, stadiums, office supply stores, home improvement centers, and other high-traffic retail environments. Marjack, a key distributor for Blockbuster Video, grew to $158 million in revenue before being acquired by Vistar. Liberty Distribution, founded by James Schweikert in 1998, became the leading specialty distributor for non-food retailers, supplying major chains such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy, and AutoZone, with over 50,000 retail locations serviced by three national distribution centers. CCSI, led by Adam Gottlieb, dominated the concessions sector, serving movie theaters and entertainment venues.

Over time, Vistar acquired all three of these companies, consolidating its position as the dominant distributor for specialty, vending, concessions, and alternative retail formats, operating with 20 distribution centers and 9 Merchant’s Marts nationwide. Through these partnerships and innovations, our founders helped shape the evolution of snack distribution across a wide range of non-traditional and foodservice channels.