About

Dave DeWalt

I'm a foodservice lifer, having worked in the industry since 1974. I started as a dishwasher, busboy, and short-order cook in Charlevoix, Michigan. Then I attended Michigan State University, and received a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management (with a Foodservice Marketing emphasis) in 1979.

From 1979 through 1994 I held a variety of Foodservice Marketing and Sales Management positions with Sara Lee Bakery, Vlasic Foods, and Awrey Bakeries. During this time I earned a Master’s Degree in Marketing and Finance from the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University. In 1994 I joined A.T. Kearney as a Management Consultant specializing in strategic and supply chain projects for food industry clients.

In 1996 I started Franklin Foodservice Solutions. My goal: "To help food manufacturers align marketing and sales decisions with supply chain realities".

In 2007 I wrote and published Understanding Foodservice Redistribution, then in 2008 wrote and published Understanding Jan-San Redistribution. Then I wrote Navigating the Foodservice Channel, a book about the Foodservice Supply Chain and the interactions among manufacturers, distributors, operators, brokers, and the many other participants in this fascinating business.

I also write the monthly “Stirring The Pot” newsletter. Subscribers to this FREE E-Newsletter also have access to my library which includes hundreds of commentary on foodservice marketing, sales, supply chain, pricing, brokers and related topics. In addition to my consulting work, I founded the SMART Share Group, a consortium of foodservice brokers. I also founded and facilitate the Foodservice Supply Chain Alliance.

My background has provided a unique ability to design and conduct projects which provide measurable results for our clients. I'm am able to draw on formal consulting techniques, practical knowledge, and an excellent network of industry experts who are available to contribute to a client’s success. 

My versatile, action-oriented and pragmatic approach to problem-solving reflects my reputation for the ability to tackle a wide range of problems. 

Are you ready to work with a professional who engages exceptionally well with people from the boardroom to the plant floor? Contact me.

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