66 January | February 2026 abasto.com scar Gonzlez: Governance as the Foundation for the Future For scar Gonzlez, the current tran- sition goes beyond a presidential change. It is a generational reshu- ffling where emotion and strategy coexist at the same table. He sees this moment as a natural evolution of the work the 13 siblings have done for more than four decades. scar doesnt hesitate when discussing Miguels legacy: intuition, common sense, wisdom, and an unusual mix of calm and strength. He describes Miguel as someone capable of listening to anyone, from a supplier to a customer with marital problems. Its no accident many called him Father Miguel. During nearly 20 years as co-pre- sident, scar has promoted an un- conventional leadership model: au- thority based on consensus. Major decisions at Northgate have been unanimous, a rarity for family busi- nesses of this size. That governance style has become, he says, the back- bone that will allow the company to survive future generations. Today, his vision is to build an ever- green company capable of reaching 100 years. To achieve that, he empha- sizes firm foundations: governance, transparency, and fairness. Without When you see the commitment, the transition becomes easier, and you realize that what you planted is already sprouting and you start to see the fruits. scar Gonzlez that, in a large family, its impossible to make decisions, he says. scar Gonzlez Operationally, his goal is clear: remain the leading reference for authentic Mexican food in the U.S. The strategy is aggressive, with ex- pansion plans across California and neighboring states, and a second Mercado Gonzlez already in develo- pment, fueled by the creativity of his nephews. Technology is also a priority, but not as an end in itselfrather, as a tool to improve employee life. scar aims to eliminate processes that dra- in staffnightly inventories, manual countsso they can focus on what no artificial intelligence can replace: human service. Continuation of page 64 Continues on page 68 FOOD INDUSTRY