From specialty food expert to Hall of Famer—Gary Chandler has continued to help fuel growth and success for the specialty industry for over 51 years. The former second-generation Owner of Chandler Food Sales earned a spot in the Specialty Food Association’s (SFA) Hall of Fame, honored for decades of industry impact.
“Being welcomed into the SFA Hall of Fame means a lot to me. When I first started in the industry in 1973, my parents and I would attend the Fancy Food Shows twice a year,” Gary reflects. “Back then, it was much smaller and almost had a family kind of atmosphere. Now, it’s grown a lot and there are some big companies involved. Seeing that section of the business grow—especially deli—has been very exciting.”
Now a distinguished food brokerage, Chandler Food Sales was launched by Gary’s father, Lindy Chandler, in 1966. The company originally focused on cookies and crackers before acquiring another existing company and evolving into a specialty food brokerage in 1978. In early 2000, Gary and his brother purchased the burgeoning business.
“At that time, things were starting to transition to a more heavy emphasis on specialty foods,” Gary explains to me when I ask about his vision for the company back in 2000. “Chains were beginning to upgrade their assortment and take the deli business kind of to the next level, so we took that as an opportunity to grow alongside the category.”
As the Specialty Food Association shared, Chandler Food Sales has contributed to the success of hundreds of specialty food brands—especially in the shelf-stable, natural, and organic space—as well as to the success of the retailers with which the company works. Some of the brands that the broker represents have been on its roster for over five decades.
After witnessing the company grow for more than 50 years, I ask Gary about some of the most influential moments of his career.
“I’ve been in the same job, doing the same thing for 50 years, and looking back at it, no two days were ever alike,” Gary recalls. “That has always appealed to me. On a more personal level, I have enjoyed being on the ground floor and playing a part in the growth of Central Market. It’s been amazing to see them grow into what they are today.”
Looking ahead, Gary envisions nothing but steady growth for the specialty sector, especially as online ordering becomes more prevalent at retail. As Gary gears up for retirement, Chandler Food Sales is now owned by Gary’s son and nephews.
Congratulations to Gary on this exciting recognition and to the company for several decades of generational growth!
