Hi,
2020 has been a year like no other. It has challenged us to react to situations many of us never thought we would see in our lifetimes. Yet here you are, trying your best to work through new and ever-changing situations, navigating new regulations, and working harder than ever to sustain the businesses you’ve grown to be successful. This past year has brought out your true compassion, whether providing meals for those in need, sacrificing your own needs to support your employees, or connecting communities through food in a such a trying time. Without a doubt, 2020 has been a struggle. We want to say thank you for everything you’ve done, and everything you continue to do. Your spirit of propelling forward, despite all the difficulties, is inspiring and humbling.
Looking ahead, as you can already see, things will be different for our industry. This year showed us that progress and change are key in order to emerge a stronger, more resilient industry. We will succeed only if we change and progress too. This can’t be done alone, we all need to lean in so we can drive change. We will be forced to think more creatively and be more resourceful. We are an industry of people, and each person is a thread in the fabric of our culture. Alone, one thread can easily be broken, but woven together they are as strong as steel. Our industry has and is continuing to prove itself strong as steel, yet flexible as fabric.
We are here to be your partners, to support you when you need it most. Supporting you is supporting the industry. We are prepared for the new dining experience that is about to unfold. Whether it’s navigating the newest regulations, crafting a menu centered around current trends, or creating new recipes perfect for delivery, we want to help. And if you’re not sure where to begin, we’re only a phone call or an email away. Our job is to help you wherever we can so you can focus on doing what you love most. We understand the hardship and responsibility you face day in and day out – count on us to be there by your side.
So as we turn the calendar to 2021 it is our opportunity to not just accept a “new normal” but together as an industry create a “better normal". Wishing you and your families a happy and healthy holiday season and a prosperous New Year!
Your UFS Chef Team
Einav Gefen, Dana Cohen, Rob Wallauer, Brandon Collins, Rudy Smith, Kyla Tuori, Kyle Jakobi, JC Lopategui, Alvaro Lima, & Robert Louette
