The Transition to Employee Ownership

A family owned and operated business for 107 years, Dennis Paper & Food Service became the largest employee owned foodservice distributor in New England in 2015. Ron Dennis, President and Owner at the time, saw how the deep personal commitment of his employees had developed into a culture that deserved the ultimate recognition. So, he sold the company to the employees in January of 2015, and the Dennis Employee Stock Ownership Plan was formed.

Now, 8 years later, Dennis Paper & Food Service has grown to nearly 200 employees, constructed an advanced 130,000 sq-ft facility and become a shareholder in UniPro – the world’s largest foodservice cooperative. Through all the changes over the past 112 years our focus, determination and dedication to our valued customers remains the same.

“We all have a stake in the business. It gives us pride in what we do and helps us go the extra distance for our customers. It’s more than a job, it’s who I am.” – Mario Tribuzio 2019 Dennis Difference Award Winner

The Difference is People

The daily efforts of individuals and departments, the partnerships formed with our customers and a deep-rooted culture of safety unite to bring us closer everyday to our vision of being the leading foodservice distributor in New England. Underscored by a tenaciously competitive spirit, we call the magic that comes out of this synergy the Dennis Difference. Each year we recognize a Dennis Difference Award recipient who is nominated by their peers. As well as a Safety Person of the Year chosen by our operations department. These individuals go above and beyond the normal call of duty. Celebrating our companies independent spirit and employee-ownership the awards are presented annually; a recognition of employee-owners by employee-owners.

“Everything I do in my day-to-day duties to increase safety and decrease accidents not only benefits the company. But also me directly, as an employee owner.” – Ginger Shubert, Director of Risk Management

US and ESOPs

“In an ESOP you no longer work for somebody, now you’re working with everybody.” – Travis Estes, Lead Buyer

A Historic Future

The dedication to service and quality that exists at Dennis today was established 100 years ago, and will continue to thrive long into the future thanks to employee ownership. Now, more than ever, the commitment of our team to the success of our business, our customers and the foodservice industry can mean the difference between success and failure; and when you own the company failure is not an option. Dennis Paper & Food service delivers thousands of items to Maine and New Hampshire’s restaurants and food operations, convenience stores and delis, schools, institutions and many many locally owned independent businesses. We couldn’t do what we do, the way we do it, without the dedication and hard work of our employee-owners and for that we are truly thankful.

Dennis ESOP News

¹Nest Egg Communications

Congratulations to Mario Tribuzio, our 2020 Dennis Difference Award recipient!

The Dennis Difference Award was established in 2015. Nominated by their peers, the Dennis Difference Award is presented to one deserving employee each year. Among several considerations, the award is voted on and honors the employee’s distinguished commitment to upholding our company values. For many there is no higher form of recognition than being recognized by one’s peers. This Award does just that – it is for employees by employees.

From Mario’s nomination:

When I think of someone this lives the Dennis Difference Mario is the first that comes to mind.

From a professional standpoint, I have witnessed him working with new accounts to help set them up for success. An example would be helping a new owner learn the meat business and how to make it more profitable, as well as maintain the best quality cuts to help establish the business. He is always helpful at reception should there be a customer that has questions about a product or isn’t quite sure exactly what it is that they might be looking for. He also is a great resource for new Dennis Account Executives should they have questions or need support.

He is a valued member of the safety committee and often contributes great suggestions. He is also active in his local fire dept, the Lions club and his church. He sets a good example and is often willing to help where needed.

I believe that what we consider our company core values are the same as his personal standards.