Russell Hendrix wins FEDA Model Workplace Award

 

 

Russell Hendrix is proud to be recognized by the Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association (FEDA) with a 2025 Gold Award in the Model Workplace category.

The FEDA Gold Awards recognize companies and individuals helping move the foodservice equipment and supplies industry forward through leadership, service, workplace practices, customer care, and the development of young professionals. For Russell Hendrix, this recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the people, values, and culture behind the work we do every day.

As Canada’s largest foodservice equipment and supplies dealer, Russell Hendrix has built its reputation on more than products and distribution. Our strength comes from our team, our shared commitment to customer success, and our belief that a great workplace is one where people feel respected, supported, and empowered to make a difference.

A Culture Built on Respect, Accountability, and Integrity

At Russell Hendrix, our culture is guided by three core values: Respect, Accountability, and Integrity. These values shape how we work with customers, suppliers, colleagues, and the communities we serve.

They also support our mission: to empower customers across Canada with high-quality foodservice solutions, industry-leading design, product expertise, distribution, and execution.

Whether we are supporting an independent restaurant, a national foodservice operator, a culinary school, or a community organization, our team brings a shared sense of purpose to the work. We believe customer success starts with employee engagement, collaboration, and a “we win together” mindset.

RH Cares: Purpose in Action

A major part of Russell Hendrix’s workplace culture is RH Cares, our social responsibility program focused on supporting communities, addressing food insecurity, and helping the next generation of culinary talent.

Since launching in June 2023, RH Cares has supported more than 45 charitable organizations across Canada with over $200,000 in commercial foodservice equipment, appliances, and smallwares. These donations help food banks, shelters, non-profits, and food security organizations strengthen their operations and serve more people in their communities.

RH Cares is also shaped by employee input. Through employee feedback, our team expressed a strong desire to see Russell Hendrix deepen its social responsibility efforts. The program is one way we have listened, responded, and created meaningful opportunities for employees to participate in giving back.

The impact has been felt internally as well. Employee survey results showed an increase in positive perceptions of Russell Hendrix’s social commitment, with agreement that the company’s commitment to social responsibility is genuine rising from 56% in 2022 to 67% most recently.

Supporting Culinary Education and Future Industry Leaders

Russell Hendrix is also committed to helping develop the next generation of foodservice professionals.

Through RH Cares, we support culinary schools, aspiring students, chef associations, and industry partners with donations, grants, sponsorships, scholarships, and access to commercial foodservice tools and equipment. We are also proud to support Canadian culinary talent on the world stage, including through our partnership with the Junior and Senior National Culinary Teams Canada.

Our Vancouver test kitchen has hosted the National Culinary Teams Canada as they prepare for international culinary competitions, providing access to a professional environment where chefs can practice, refine, and showcase their skills.

This work reflects our belief that investing in people strengthens the entire foodservice industry.

Recognizing Employees Who Give Back

Russell Hendrix also celebrates employees who make a difference outside the workplace.

The Larry VanderBarren Humanitarian Award, established as part of RH Cares, recognizes team members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to volunteering and community service. Over the past two years, five Russell Hendrix employees have received the award, with each recipient directing a $2,000 donation to a charity of their choice.

In addition, every RH employee receives eight hours of paid volunteer leave each year, encouraging team members to support causes that matter to them and their communities.

These programs reflect a simple belief: when people are supported as whole individuals, they bring more purpose, pride, and connection to their work.

A Model Workplace Is Built by Its People

Being named a FEDA Gold Award winner in the Model Workplace category is a proud moment for Russell Hendrix. It recognizes the culture our team continues to build together — one rooted in service, collaboration, responsibility, and care.

It also reinforces our ongoing commitment to being more than a supplier. We are a national team of foodservice professionals working together to support customers, strengthen communities, and help shape the future of the industry.

To every Russell Hendrix employee across Canada: thank you. This recognition belongs to you.