A new chapter in national foodservice delivery has begun with the formal launch of Auswide1, an independent business formed by leading Countrywide Members to deliver tailored, large-scale supply chain solutions for national foodservice contract customers, including catering groups and franchise networks.
Auswide1 is closely affiliated with Countrywide Food Service Distributors, Australia’s largest network of independently owned foodservice distributors. Its establishment reflects a strategic evolution in how national accounts are serviced – combining centralised customer management with the proven capability of local distributors across the Countrywide network.
Auswide1 will now take over all operational elements of the national contracts business, previously run by the contracts division within Countrywide. As part of this transition, Countrywide Members will continue to play a key role in providing local distribution solutions for Auswide1 across the national customer base.
Jeff Dhu, CEO of Countrywide, welcomed the transition:
“The creation of Auswide1 marks a forward-thinking move by some of our most experienced Members. It allows for enhanced national coordination while maintaining the local expertise that contracts customers trust. We’re excited to see Auswide1 take the reins of national contracts to build even stronger service outcomes.”
Auswide1 is led by a Board of Directors made up of respected leaders from within the Countrywide Membership:
- Nathan Narayanan, General Manager of Galipo Foods
- Alister Kenley, Director at Cadell Foodservice
- Manny Meletis, Managing Director at Daily Fresh Food Service
These Directors bring decades of hands-on experience in foodservice logistics, customer service, and supply chain management.
Karina Ernst, CEO of Auswide1, commented:
“Auswide1 is purpose-built to meet the needs of national contract customers by aligning high-level account management with seamless on-the-ground service. Our model ensures consistency, accountability, and responsiveness – qualities that national brands demand. Backed by a trusted network of distributor partners, we’re ready to support the needs of national contract customers.”
Auswide1 will provide national account coordination, strategic oversight, and tailored supply chain solutions, while its distributor partners – including those from within the Countrywide network – will deliver day-to-day operations at the local level.
This model ensures national contract customers receive the benefits of both centralised management and localised expertise, delivering a powerful new standard in national foodservice distribution.
For more information about Auswide1 and its services, visit www.auswidefoodservice.com.au.