ROSEMONT, IL (Oct. 8, 2009)—U.S. Foodservice (USF) has announced the recipients of its first annual vendor recognition program, with Windsor Foods selected as 2009 Vendor of the Year out of more than 700 vendors. Eleven other vendors were recognized, as well, in key product categories and for specific areas of performance excellence.

During an award ceremony at in Rosemont, Pat Mulhern, president of USF's Monarch Food Group, said, "It is a real pleasure to recognize Windsor Foods and the other great suppliers who in 2009 have shown U.S. Foodservice and our customers extraordinary support. Our recognition program honors exceptional suppliers who help U.S. Foodservice and our customers prosper in all aspects of our business."

Vendors were evaluated by 60 U.S. Foodservice divisions and the Monarch Food Group support office on 10 criteria: food safety, product quality, sales growth in the independent sector, gross margin improvement, merchandising support, divisional sales support, logistics, national account support, USF-exclusive brands and business friendliness.

"These prestigious awards recognize the best vendors in the food industry," said Bob Aiken, ceo of U.S. Foodservice. "We're proud to honor our vendors for their invaluable contributions to the success of our customers and our company."

Six companies were recognized for their superior performance in the following product categories:

• Center of the Plate - Icelandic USA
• Disposables - Georgia Pacific
• Dry Groceries - ACH / Tone's
• Frozen Groceries - Campbell's Soup Company
• Produce - Reser's Fine Foods
• Dairy - Michael Foods

The following companies also were awarded the Departmental Excellence award:

• Food Safety and Quality Assurance - Tyson Foods
• Sustainability - Trident Seafoods
• Diversity - Windsor Foods
• Logistics - Kraft Foodservice
• Exclusive Brands Partnership - Campbell's Soup Company
• Business Friendliness - Pilgrim's Pride