The Next Generation Unites The Gellert Global Group
What It Means for Specialty Buyers
In 1945, Leon Rubin began importing Polish ham with a simple philosophy: treat suppliers like partners. He founded Atalanta Corporation, believing that businesses built on trust and personal connections would endure. Now, eighty-one years later, this principle has blossomed into a remarkable food importer that sources products from over 60 countries and offers over 5,000+ different items to American consumers. The company is now undergoing a carefully planned succession that has been years in the making. The third generation of the Gellert family— siblings, Andy, Tom, and Amy, along with their cousin Josh—is taking the reins. Andy and Tom serve as Co-CEOs, Josh is President, and Amy has taken on the newly created role of Chief of Culture. George Gellert, who has led the company through significant expansion, will remain as chairman, providing invaluable generational wisdom that cannot be taught in business school.
This unified structure enables buyers to access DeMedici's curated portfolio, Camerican’s century of global sourcing relationships, and Atalanta's expertise in specialty food items. However, the main advantage lies not in operations but in relationships. The combined buying power and logistics of a $1.7 billion company are led by individuals who have grown up in the business and understand that a cheese promotion or holiday gift basket program is about more than just filling shelf space: it’s about storytelling, differentiation, and providing customers with unique offerings.
“The thing about our business is that our customers are personal friends. Our employees are personal friends. People we buy from are personal friends. Our bankers are our friends. Our whole universe – even though it’s business – we all socialize, and it’s one big happy family.”
- George Gellert
In the world of specialty food, where authenticity, traceability, and trust distinguish the exceptional from the adequate, these principles are not just warm words—they form the foundation of our business model.
ANDY GELLERT
TOM GELLERT
LEON RUBIN
GEORGE GELLERT
AMY GELLERT LEBOVITZ JOSH GELLERT
This consolidation brings together an impressive roster of food importers, each with its own storied history and specialty.
Atalanta Corporation, founded by Rubin himself, is now the largest privately held food importer in the country.
Established in 1916, Camerican sources frozen and shelf-stable fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other items.
DeMedici Imports, part of Atalanta, DeMedici was founded in 1979 as the importer of Badia a Coltibuono, the first Tuscan extra virgin olive oil to be marketed in the retail channel.
Finica Food Specialties Limited is our Canadian importer and distributor of specialty and gourmet items worldwide. They have been in operation since 1968.
Established in 1945, J.F. Braun is the leading supplier of shelled nuts, dried fruits, and snack items.
GGG Manufacturing converts globally sourced materials into value-added products tailored for retail, foodservice, and e-commerce customers.
How shifting consumer expectations, TikTok-fueled debates, and evolving wellness priorities are reshaping the definition of “healthy” across foodservice.
By Katie Baldwin and Hannah Howard, Staff Writers
A Moving Target: Health in the Social Media Era
“Healthy” is no longer a fixed category…it’s a conversation. And in 2026, that conversation unfolds largely on social media. TikTok and Instagram can transform niche nutrition theories into widespread anxieties or aspirations in a matter of hours. Restaurants often feel the impact first. The seed-oil debate is one of the most recent examples, with influencers questioning the healthfulness of
widely used oils like canola, soybean, and sunflower. Some wellness creators even advocate a fully “seed-oilfree” lifestyle, favoring alternatives such as avocado or coconut oil, while others encourage using traditional fats like beef tallow. Whether operators intend to overhaul their oil selections or not, the conversation has heightened interest in menu transparency and sparked new questions about ingredient sourcing.
At the same time, the rise of GLP-1 medications is slowly reshaping eating behaviors. With 11% of consumers now on GLP-1s, operators are seeing shifts toward smaller
portions, more protein, and a heightened awareness of nutritional trade-offs. These trends may be subtle now, but they are laying the groundwork for the kinds of health-conscious choices diners will expect soon.
What Consumers Now Expect From “Healthy” Out-of-Home
Despite all the noise around what constitutes “betterfor-you,” consumers themselves are fairly consistent in their expectations. They want simple, recognizable ingredients, protein-forward dishes, and straightforward transparency—not a lecture on wellness. And they’re eager for restaurants to help bridge the gap between how they want to eat and how they typically end up eating when dining out.
That gap remains significant. While data from Technomic shows 33% of consumers choose health-focused foods away from home most or all the time, the number jumps to 63% at home, suggesting that consumers still feel more confident and in control of their health choices in their own kitchens. Meanwhile, 29% say they would visit restaurants more often if healthier options were available, showing there is notable room for growth in offering foods that meet wellness aspirations without sacrificing flavor, comfort, or creativity.
Foodservice operators are clearly listening. According to recent Technomic research, three-quarters of operators report that their interest in offering health-focused items has increased over the last three years. More than half say they plan to expand the number of health-forward items on their menus over the next two years, and 59% have already increased their spending on health-focused ingredients compared with two years ago. This isn’t a passing fad—it’s a meaningful evolution in how menus are built and how purchasing decisions are made.
The Health Claims That Matter Most
Not all health claims resonate equally. The ones that drive visits are the ones consumers trust: words like house-made, all-natural, high-protein, and clean-label. These cues signal freshness, realness, and minimal processing. They reassure diners that the food aligns with their values without veering into restrictive or overly “diet-driven” territory.
Transparency plays a significant role as well. Nearly half of consumers—49%, up from 43% just a few years ago—
Gellert Global Group’s
portfolio offers numerous opportunities to build health-forward dishes without compromising flavor or creativity. For example, Big Picture Foods Regenerative Kalamata Olives add both nutrient density and a compelling sourcing story to grain bowls, salads, or spreads. For guests attuned to the seed-oil conversation, cooking with Del Destino Extra Virgin Olive Oil provides a cleanlabel alternative with a neutral profile and high performance in the kitchen.
Mediterranean-inspired dishes can shine with Olivado Avocado & Coconut Oil, which supports menu transparency and boosts the perceived healthfulness of a dish thanks to its alignment with the Mediterranean diet. Meanwhile, Scelta Ecopouch Sous-Vide Sliced Mushrooms add umami flavor without any citric acid or ascorbic acid that canned
Learn more about regenerative agriculture and its potential nutritional benefits
say they are more likely to visit a restaurant that clearly communicates its ingredients. Whether operators are breaking down the components of a grain bowl or being upfront about cooking oils, transparency builds loyalty.
The Forecast for 2026
Looking ahead, Technomic predicts that health will stay top-of-mind for diners, but operators will need to balance wellness with the flavor and indulgence guests expect. As definitions of “healthy” shift—shaped by legislation, ingredient scrutiny, and GLP-1 behaviors—menus that
use high-quality, whole ingredients and deliver strong value will stand out. Momentum is building around “stealth health,” functional ingredients, and nutrientrich grains and seeds that boost nutrition without compromising taste.
How Operators Can Act Now
One of the most effective steps operators can take is to turn toward clean, simple, high-quality ingredients. Consumers respond well to dishes that focus on freshness, clarity, and whole-food components— especially when menus highlight those elements in a straightforward, inviting way. High-protein offerings also continue to hold strong appeal, not only for fitness-minded diners but also for those adjusting their eating habits due to GLP-1 medications.
mushrooms usually contain. Just 100% non-GMO mushrooms, vacuum sealed with heat to bring fresh flavor to protein-rich entrées or plant-forward offerings. In addition, Camerican offers a broad range of frozen organic fruits and vegetables, helping operators deliver key health claims—organic, clean-label, minimally processed—right on the menu. These convenient, consistent ingredients make it easier to build dishes that satisfy wellness-minded diners without adding operational complexity.
Beyond the products themselves, GGG can also help operators share the story behind these ingredients—supporting menu transparency and giving diners a clearer picture of where their food comes from. Whether an operator is highlighting premium EVOO from DeMedici, specialty imports from Atalanta, global staples from Camerican, or dried nuts and fruits from J.F. Braun, GGG’s depth of sourcing knowledge provides rich material for crafting meaningful, trust-building menu narratives.
Equally important is embracing transparency, whether by explaining sourcing decisions, clearly labeling cooking fats, or telling the stories behind premium ingredients. When operators can communicate that their choices are intentional and thoughtful, consumers notice—and reward that transparency with repeat visits.
Finally, a balanced approach is essential. Health-forward dishes should deliver the same flavor impact, visual appeal, and sense of abundance that guests expect from dining out. “Healthy” succeeds when it’s delicious first and virtuous second.
Healthy Menu
Inspiration
In 2026, there is no one-size-fits-all definition of “healthy.” Instead, health is a shifting collection of values—clean ingredients, transparency, functional benefits, whole-food simplicity—that consumers increasingly want to see reflected in the foodservice experience. Operators who understand these nuances and blend them with the flavor and excitement diners crave will be well positioned to meet the moment and stay ahead of the trends shaping tomorrow’s menus.
Modern grocers are transforming convenience into a culinary experience.
Walk into any forward-thinking grocery store today, and you'll notice something has changed. The prepared food section is no longer relegated to a lonely hot bar in the corner or a few tired sandwiches under heat lamps. The Prepared Foods category has undergone a complete transformation, evolving into a sophisticated culinary destination that is redefining how we think about this section of the grocery store. Offerings span the entire culinary spectrum from breakfast to desserts, snacks, and everything in between; the mission is clear and the same as ours, to be a part of every food experience.
In an era where time is our most precious commodity, these ultimate time-savers deliver just that back to your day. The labor-saving promise extends beyond the consumer as well. For grocers, pre-packed formats streamline operations and reduce waste, creating efficiency throughout the supply chain. At its core, the appeal remains the same: no prep, no mess, easy grab-and-go. Today, Prepared Foods has emerged as a legitimate culinary choice and is now seen as quality food, ready when you are.
Consumers demand quality ingredients, and grocers are responding. Clean labels are in. Seed oils are out. Shoppers scrutinize ingredient lists with the same care they would when cooking from scratch and prepared food programs are rising to meet these expectations.
Specialty prepared foods have become the secret weapon of the modern host. From artfully arranged cheeseboards to restaurant-quality hors d'oeuvres. These social mediaworthy platters transform anyone into an effortless entertainer.
A hot new brand, gorgeous updates, and exciting additions - our cheese portfolio has seen some big changes!
Since 2001, Snowdonia Cheese Co. has combined award-winning, contemporary cheeses with Welsh tradition to create products bursting with character. Fast forward to 2025, and this wonderful brand has done it again! We are excited to share that these items have joined the portfolio:
Aged Cheddar 12 Months
Aged Red Leicester
Vintage Cave-Aged Cheddar
Salted Cow Butter
Port Wine & Sage Derby Cheese
Cracking Good Cheese Co., a GGG brand started as a vision to unite three cheddar cheeses from the British Isles and bring the authentic taste of Britain to the American table.
We are glad you gave us o’shot - Cracking Good has captured 6% of nationwide cheddar category growth and earned a coveted spot in the Top 30 emerging brands.
From day one, we envisioned a full portfolio of traditional British favorites that would deliver those classic flavors to the American table. Today, the Cracking Good portfolio has matured into something extraordinary – it now includes four Wensleydale cheeses, and two flavored cheddars with more opportunities on the horizon.
To celebrate this evolution, the brand has received a design refresh that is no-nonsense, good cheese! The new look features a pub sign-inspired layout that is delightfully cheeky, refreshingly approachable, and undeniably fun. Every element of the brand's updated personality captures and brings to life the warmth and playfulness of British pub culture.
created this refresh to grow with us as we expand into a broader world of both classic and innovative products, with a design system that feels instantly recognizable and full of personality.
Q: You’ve introduced new flavors and formats as part of this launch. What inspired them?
Celebrity has long been synonymous with quality and flavor in the goat cheese arena, but never one to rest, this brand has seen significant recent innovation. Here we talk to Rosalie Marfuggi, Director of Business Development about all the exciting news for this beloved brand.
Q: What inspired Celebrity’s recent brand refresh, and why was now the right time for it?
A: Celebrity has been a staple in the market for more than 20 years with our iconic fresh goat cheese products. As our partner, Mariposa Dairy, expands into sheep and cow’s milk products, it felt natural for Celebrity to evolve alongside them. The refresh aligned perfectly with exciting new product collaborations and gave us the opportunity to re-imagine the next generation of the brand.
Q: How would you describe the new look, and what does it say about who Celebrity is today?
A: Celebrity is about setting a mood at mealtime and turning the everyday into something a little more special. The new look is fun, approachable, and a little sassy, with retro-inspired colors and a hint of cool-girl “celebrity” energy. It reflects a brand that’s confident but never takes itself too seriously. Kathy Orbe, Senior Graphic Designer,
A: We’re constantly watching food trends and developing products that meet consumers where their taste buds are. This relaunch includes our Celebrity Specialties fresh sheep cheeses, now in a new round shape to stand apart from our goat cheese logs. We’re especially excited about Fresh Dill, which is clean and herbaceous, and Calabrian Chili Orange, which taps into the sweet-heat trend that continues to resonate with consumers.
Q: What do you hope existing fans and new customers take away from this refreshed brand experience?
A: We hope our customers feel a sense of joy and connection when they see the new look. Celebrity should feel like a go-to staple that takes a meal to the next level. Whether it’s original goat cheese in your morning eggs or lavender honey sheep cheese whipped into frosting for a celebration, our goal is to spark creativity and make mealtime feel memorable — like fame you can taste.
Q: Looking ahead, what’s next for Celebrity?
A: We’re thrilled to be launching Celebrity Spreadables, a new line that marks our first step into cow’s milk cheese. We’re also working on an innovative goat cheese format not widely seen on the market. It’s an exciting next step in expanding the Celebrity universe and continuing to surprise and delight our fans.
Founded in 1996, Red Apple Cheese began with a mission to delight cheese lovers through exceptional flavor and quality. The brand’s original line of cold-smoked cheeses—crafted over a unique blend of apple and natural hardwood—quickly earned a loyal following and set the foundation for a tradition of innovation.
Today, Red Apple Cheese continues to evolve, offering a wide range of both smoked and nonsmoked varieties that balance craftsmanship with creativity. From bars, rounds, loaves, and wheels to shreds, snack sticks, bread cheese, and artisanal spreads, Red Apple Cheese brings something for every occasion and palate.
While many of its cheeses are proudly made in Wisconsin using rBST-free milk sourced from some of the state’s oldest dairy farms, select products are produced elsewhere to support the brand’s growing portfolio. Likewise, many—but not all—Red Apple Cheese products are certified Kosher. Consumers can look for these distinctions right on the packaging: the “Proudly Wisconsin” badge and Kosher certification callouts clearly mark each variety that meets those standards.
Now part of the Atalanta family, Red Apple Cheese is bringing new energy to the table. As of October 2025, the brand is outperforming the category by 41% in the Total US Multi-Outlet (MULO) geography.
“Looking ahead to 2026, we’re preparing for an exciting year with a fresh packaging redesign, innovative new flavor profiles, and holidayinspired offerings that celebrate the season in every bite,” says Sarah Jackson, Senior Brand Manager.
By Megan Corey and Eunice Park, Staff Writers
MT VIKOS
Feta PDO Crumbles
A10335 12/5 OZ
MT VIKOS
Whipped Mezze Spread A10337 8/6.3 OZ
MT VIKOS Feta in Brine A10334 8/7 OZ
SONOMA CHEESE Jack Up the Heat Party Tray G000049 12/12 OZ
New Items That Are Actually Cool!
SONOMA CHEESE
Mango Habanero Jack G000190 12/5.3 OZ
CHEESE
G000188 12/5.3 OZ
Kick off 2026 with these products that are chef’s kiss. Reach out to your GGG Sales Representative for more information. These new arrivals just hit different!
SONOMA CHEESE Scorpion Jack G000189 12/5.3 OZ
SONOMA
SNOWDONIA
Red Leicester
G000167 1/5.5 LB
SNOWDONIA
Cheddar, Vintage Cave Aged
G000168 1/5.5 LB
SNOWDONIA
Red Leicester G000163 12/7 OZ
SNOWDONIA
Cheddar, Vintage Cave Aged
G000165 12/7 OZ
SNOWDONIA
Cheddar, Welsh Aged
G000169 1/5.5 LB
SNOWDONIA Sage Derby
G000290 2/2.2 LB
SNOWDONIA
Sage Derby
G000293 8/7 OZ
SNOWDONIA
Cheddar, Welsh Aged G000166 12/7 OZ
SNOWDONIA
Port Wine Derby
G000292 2/2.2 LB
SNOWDONIA
Port Wine Derby
G000294 8/7 OZ
CELEBRITY
Cow Spreadables, Garlic & Herb Double Cream
G000327 8/5.2 OZ
Celebrity
Cow Spreadables, Shallot & Chive Double Cream
G000328 8/5.2 OZ
CELEBRITY
Cow Spreadables, Apple Cinnamon G000326 8/5.2 OZ
CELEBRITY
Cow Spreadables, Fig Honey
G000298 8/5.2 OZ
IL VILLAGGIO
Breadsticks, Artisan Classic
G000089 12/5.3 OZ
IL VILLAGGIO
Ricotta Salata, Wheel A10115 4/7 LB
IL VILLAGGIO
Fresh Ricotta G000023 6/10.4 OZ
RONCARI
Goat Blue G000044 2/3 LB
PIACENTI
Salame, Finocchiona PGI G000060 2/3.3 LB
Skip the stress of holiday planning in 2026. Help your customers savor the season with our curated guide of artisan cheeses, charcuterie, gourmet accompaniments, desserts, and beverages. We made it easy for you to stay ahead of the Q4 rush and to make your product assortment the ultimate holiday selection!
CRACKING GOOD
Wensleydale, Cranberry
G000151 2/2.2 LB
CRACKING GOOD
Cheddar, Mustard & Ale
G000153 2/2.2 LB
CRACKING GOOD
Wensleydale, Mango Ginger
G000149 2/2.2 LB
CRACKING GOOD
Double Gloucester, Onion & Chive
G000283 2/2.2 LB
CASA FLORES
Breadsticks, Spanish Picos
G000123 16/5 OZ
CASA FLORES
Marcona Almonds, Garlic & Parsley
G000307 12/5.3 OZ
LA ROSE NOIRE
Single Origin Chocolate Shell, Plain Medium Round
A8010003 1/100ct
CRACKING GOOD
Wensleydale, Blueberry
G000150 2/2.2 LB
CRACKING GOOD
Cheddar, Caramelized Onion
G000154 2/2.2 LB
CRACKING GOOD
Wensleydale, Sweet Apricot
G000152 2/2.2 LB
What happens when passion for people meets industry trends that are redefining the workplace all while uniting six legacy companies? Seven HR professionals at Gellert Global Group share how they answered the call to specialize in this field, are navigating these seismic shifts, and maintaining our corporate identity during this integration.
Gellert Global Group Human Resource Team on Impact, Innovation, and Integration
By Megan Corey, Staff Writer
Megan: What attracted you to Human Resources, and what keeps you passionate about it?
Sabina: I studied hospitality management and did an internship with Hilton Hotels where I had the opportunity to rotate throughout all the departments. I loved my time in HR because I had the chance to get to know and help all the employees!
Barbie: In my specialized area of HR, Talent Acquisition, I love helping people find new employment. It’s especially rewarding when you work for a great company that you can be proud to introduce new employees to!
Carly: I studied Psychology in college, which sparked an interest in understanding and supporting human behavior, making Human Resources a natural career path. What keeps me passionate is the constant evolution of the field. I love being in a role where I can advocate for employees,
support leadership, and help build a great workplace environment.
Patty: I’ve always been drawn to the business challenge of ensuring that we have the right talent, in the right place, to drive business success. Every day brings a new opportunity to solve complex human challenges that directly impact organizational performance. That intersection of people and strategy is what keeps me passionate about the field.
Andrea: I was drawn to Human Resources because it combines the business side with the human side, helping both employees and organizations grow and reach their full potential. What keeps me passionate is the opportunity to connect with diverse individuals, build relationships, and make an impact through those interactions.
Esther: What drew me to Human Resources is my genuine passion for people and culture. I’m inspired by the opportunity to help individuals realize their potential while aligning their skills with business objectives to achieve long-term success. The ability to create meaningful impact is what keeps me motivated and fulfilled every day.
Lisette: I have always had an interest in helping people and I studied psychology. While attending classes at night, I worked in Human Resources during the day. My experience there broadened my view and exposed me to additional career options beyond psychotherapy.
Megan: What do you consider the most important trends affecting Human Resources and recruitment today, and how are you staying current?
Sabina: I love to read and stay updated. AI is huge right now and it is significantly changing how we do work as HR professionals. It is helping us be more efficient and allow us to spend more time supporting our client groups.
Barbie: As with most areas, AI has become popular in recruiting, used to automate tasks, and reduce bias. Additionally, the focus on hybrid work schedules continues to be a trend.
Carly: The integration of AI and automation is transforming how organizations source, assess, and engage talent. Skills based hiring is also gaining momentum, shifting the focus from traditional credentials to practical capabilities. Additionally, the rise of hybrid work has made employee well-being and engagement more critical than ever. To stay current, I actively participate in HR communities and complete courses for new certifications.
Patty: One of the most significant trends is the rapidly evolving legal and regulatory landscape. Staying current requires a proactive, continuous learning approach— regular reading, professional development, as well as collaboration with legal and compliance partners to ensure we remain fully compliant in every state where we operate.
Andrea: One of the important trends in HR today is the integration of technology, particularly AI. It's driving change, but it's essential to keep a people-centered
“I thrive on collaborating across all levels, building trust, and fostering an inclusive, positive environment where people feel supported.”
approach. Additionally, leveraging data/people analytics can help improve employee engagement and talent management. Other trends include building a healthy and positive workplace culture, embracing skill-based credentials, and prioritizing employee development.
Esther: From the integration of AI technology to a growing emphasis on employee experience and engagement to attract and retain talent. In addition, keeping up with regulatory changes and applying data-driven insights to enable more effective and strategic decision-making. To stay current, I actively follow industry publications and professional networks, and engage in continuous learning through webinars, workshops, and certifications.
Lisette: Hiring practices have changed due to the increased reliance on technological advancements. Previously, the focus was primarily on educational qualifications and prior experience. Now there is also an emphasis on skills-based hiring and competencies such as adaptability and business acumen.
Megan: As new hires, you ask each of us which Gellert Global Group value we identify with the most – which one value do you identify with?
Sabina: Taste Success! We need to take time to recognize and celebrate wins!
Barbie: Generate Teamwork! Encouraging team collaboration breeds positivity in the organization, motivates others, and leads to productive results!
Carly: Exceed Expectations because I believe that going beyond what’s required is where real impact happens.
Patty: Generate Teamwork. In HR, success depends on collaboration—both within our own department and across the entire organization.
Andrea: Lead by Example. I focus on being accountable,
holding myself to high standards, and inspiring others to meet the same expectations.
Esther: Generate Teamwork and Exceed Expectations. I thrive on collaborating across all levels, building trust, and fostering an inclusive, positive environment where people feel supported. I am driven to deliver solutions that create lasting impact for both individuals and the organization.
Lisette: Respect. Respecting others' ideas, contributions, and diverse experiences helps create a positive, productive, and inclusive environment.
Megan: How has Human Resources supported employee engagement during the integration of the six corporate brands Atalanta Corporation, Camerican International, DeMedici Imports, JF Braun, Tipico and Finica into one entity, Gellert Global Group?
Sabina: Throughout 2025, HR and senior leaders have led the charge in harmonizing titles and structures across our entities. We are working on action plans to address areas such as organizational clarity with transparency and fairness.
Barbie: HR has supported employee engagement through a number of efforts but the most impactful, in my opinion, is the development of GGG Connect as our intranet platform where employees can find answers in one place.
Carly: HR has played a key role in maintaining employee engagement throughout the integration by working closely with both leaders and employees to integrate departments and aligned titles. HR has helped ensure a smooth transition through open communication, thoughtful collaboration, and strategic change management.
Patty: Our guiding principle during the integration has been communication. With six legacy companies coming together under one umbrella, we’ve focused on creating opportunities to break down silos and help employees understand one another’s roles and contributions so we can appreciate the collective strength that drives GGG’s success.
Andrea: HR has worked hard to support employees during this integration. There are several platforms we use to constantly communicate, whether they are shared through virtual messages on GGG Connect, during in-person events or understanding feedback from engagement surveys. We also offer employee trainings on change management and have developed programs to recognize individuals and or cross functional groups.
Volunteer and community outreach programs
Esther: HR played and is still playing a pivotal role in supporting employee engagement by ensuring clear communication, fostering a unified culture, and providing consistent support across all teams. Through initiatives such as Town Halls, Department Overviews, workshops and training programs, events, and updates via GGG Connect, HR helps employees stay informed, feel supported, and remain connected. These efforts strengthen trust, collaboration, and a shared sense of belonging.
Lisette: The HR team has made a concerted effort to align policies and practices across all brands. GGG Connect, available across GGG provides a wealth of information, celebrating birthdays, milestones, new hires and life events. The Department Overviews and the Taste Sip and Learn events serve as a method of educating team members about each function and GGG products and an opportunity to meet employees from other departments. All HR events and initiatives are mirrored across locations to reinforce our values, mission and culture.
Megan: How do you maintain corporate culture during this integration?
Sabina: Ultimately, as a team, we want to prioritize connection, recognition, and fun across all GGG locations. We will continue to have culture-building events throughout the year: from initiative celebrations to Spirit Week and Taste, Sip, Learns! We also offer training and development resources through Gellert University to all our team members.
Barbie: By being and staying positive! With change comes challenge but that won’t stop with negativity. Being positive and encouraging can only help to facilitate a positive corporate culture.
Carly: Maintaining corporate culture during the integration has been a top priority for HR. We've introduced communication channels like GGG Connect to keep employees informed and engaged, while also launching more social initiatives and company-wide events to bring teams together.
Patty: Corporate culture ultimately starts at the top—but it’s sustained through consistent action and example at every level. Mission, vision, and values can’t just be words on a wall; they must be reflected in daily behavior and decision-making. In HR, we play a crucial role in modeling that alignment.
Andrea: Maintaining corporate culture during an integration isn't always easy, but I think it starts with making sure everyone shares the same goal: the success of both the employee and the company. It also means living out our company vision - to be part of every food experience. By keeping our passion for food at the heart of everything we do, teams and processes can come together more effectively.
Esther: By consistently reinforcing the Gellert Family vision and Leading by Example. Promoting transparent communication, actively engaging and celebrating achievements, and encouraging cross-functional collaboration. By modeling behaviors and fostering dialogue, we ensure employees feel heard, valued, and connected to the company’s future path.
Lisette: The HR team has made a concerted effort to align policies and practices across all corporate brands. GGG Connect provides a wealth of information, the Department Overviews and the Taste Sip and Learn events serve as educational tools so we all can learn about each function, GGG products and meet employees from other departments.
Employee engagement and cultural celebrations
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