ABASTO.COM NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2025�29 Growth by category Te categories with the most signifcant potential for ex- pansion include frozen foods, snacks, and beverages, espe- cially products such as frozen cassava and plantains, vege- tables, tequeños, and churros. It is also driving the growth of its beverage portfolio with exotic juices such as passion fruit, soursop, and pear, stren- gthening its appeal in the mul- ticultural market. According to data from GraceKennedy Foods USA, the company is recording double-digit an- nual growth and more than 20 multi-category launches each year, consolidating its position in the industry. A legacy that drives the future Multicultural development as a competitive advantage Multiculturalism is not only part of the company’s DNA, but also guides its innovation strategy. Each product is desig- ned to resonate with diverse consumers, ofering authentic Strategy and leadership: Alberto Young’s footprint at GraceKennedy Foods USA Geographic expansion and strategic alliances With roots in the Northeast, Southeast, and Mid-Atlan- tic regions, GraceKennedy Foods USA is expanding into Chicago, Texas, and Califor- nia, markets where the mul- ticultural population drives demand. Growth has been made possible by alliances with Walmart and Kroger, which ensure stronger national distribution. Tese partner- ships reinforce the ability to respond quickly to demand and maintain product avai- lability in all communities. F rom his beginnings as a sales manager in Belize, Alberto Young learned that success is built on disci- pline, purpose, and a pas- sion for service. Today, as general sales manager for the northeastern United States at GraceKennedy Foods USA, he leads with the same determination that has carried him throu- gh more than 20 years with the group. “I’ve always liked sales and commercial manage- ment. My father was also a well-known salesman. Like father, like son,” he says with a smile that re- veals pride and gratitude. His story is that of a pro- fessional who knew how to transform opportunity into a career and efort into re- sults. A CAREER MARKED BY GROWTH His relationship with Gra- ceKennedy began in 2001, when he contacted the company to distribute some of its products in Be- lize. In 2004, he ofcially joi- ned the team, convinced that international expe- rience would be key to his development. Since then, he has held key positions: general manager and di- rector of GraceKennedy Belize, director of business development, and head of the Atlanta Food Division. In 2015, he led the crea- tion of the distribution network in that city, a fun- damental step in the ex- pansion of GraceKennedy Foods USA. EDUCATION, LEADERSHIP, AND MOTIVATION Graduating with honors and as the top student in his class at the University of the West Indies, Young completed a Master’s in Business Administration that strengthened his stra- tegic vision. My team inspires me. I am motivated to help them achieve their goals and constantly innovate. BUILDING THE FUTURE OF THE NORTHEAST Among his priorities are expanding the GraceKen- nedy and La Fe brands, improving sales processes, and developing new busi- ness channels. His goal is clear: to po- sition the company as the number one distributor of multi-ethnic foods in the northeast of the coun- try. With vision and com- mitment, Alberto Young embodies the values of growth, diversity, and ex- cellence that distinguish GraceKennedy Foods USA. Channel and distribution strategy GraceKennedy Foods USA operates with a mixed distri- bution structure: DSD (direct store delivery) from its cen- ters in New Jersey, Florida, and Atlanta, and partners- hips with regional distribu- tors in the South, Midwest, and West Coast. experiences that transcend borders and generations. With a strong distribution network, strategic alliances, and a vision focused on au- thenticity, GraceKennedy Foods USA and its La Fe brand are moving toward 2026 to expand, diversify, and strengthen their leader- ship in the U.S. market. With more than 100 years of history, GraceKennedy has made diversity the engi- ne of its growth. It celebra- tes an open and inclusive corporate culture, refected in its multicultural team and its commitment to re- presenting the rich culinary diversity of its consumers. Tis human and strategic approach has set GraceKen- nedy Foods USA apart from its competitors.