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Founded in 1982!

R.E.D. Canada has a long and proud history.

In 1982 a small select group of independent, full-line foodservice equipment distributors in Canada met to explore the feasibility of establishing a working relationship amongst the various businesses.

At their first meeting, they discussed mutual problems of distributing the equipment and supplies to Canada’s foodservice industry. They discovered that through an open exchange of experiences and ideas each firm benefited and gained information that could be used to better serve their customers.

It was at this meeting that the groundwork was set for R.E.D. Since those meetings, a strong organisation of Canadian distributors has evolved with over 50 locations across the country.

Restaurant Equipment Distributors of Canada Ltd (known as R.E.D.) is an organisation owned by equipment dealers, for equipment dealers.

Our combined buying power leads to providing restaurateurs and foodservice businesses big and small the best prices on the best brands in the industry.

The R.E.D. Team brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for the food equipment and supply industry

CEO

Mario Fiorucci

Entrepreneur and Transformative Leader

Mario Fiorucci joined R.E.D. in 2023 to guide the organization into a new era of growth and collaboration. A lawyer, entrepreneur, and triathlete, Mario combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience and a strong commitment to the foodservice industry.

He holds an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Physics, giving him a solid foundation in both analytical and technical problem-solving. This background, together with his legal and business expertise, helps him connect innovation, strategy, and people.

Following one of the most disruptive periods in foodservice history - shaped by COVID-19 and rapid changes in manufacturing and technology - Mario is focused on helping R.E.D. Members and Vendor Partners grow stronger together in a dynamic Canadian marketplace.

Director of Business Development

Kristy Barber

FE&S Dealer turned Buying Group leader.

Kristy Barber owned and operated Avondale Food Equipment for 13 years prior to joining R.E.D. full-time. She brings a wealth of invaluable experience from both sides of the fence.
Operations

Candice Drummond

Dealer Purchasing & Logistics Leader

Candice Drummond brings with her seven years of experience in the Foodservice Equipment & Supplies industry. Her in-depth knowledge of the industry, familiarity with both vendors and members, and most importantly her passion for the industry aligns perfectly with the values we uphold at R.E.D.
President

Jonathan Nava

Fearless leader at Canada Food Equipment and elected President at R.E.D.

Jonathan is the elected President of the R.E.D. Board of Directors. He brings a strong vision for a strong R.E.D., and is passionate about helping its Members and Vendors.
Vice-President

Jennifer McErlean

Owner of Barrie Food Equipment, helping businesses thrive from mom-and-pop to national chains.

Jennifer McErlean is passionate about the food equipment industry and shares her wealth of experience on the R.E.D. Board.
Treasurer

Michael DeFrancesca

Co-Founder of Phoenix Food Equipment in Vaughan, Ontario.

Michael, Robert and Julia are siblings, and the founders of Phoenix Food Equipment. The business was started in 2021 with a plan to change the way businesses purchased their restaurant equipment. They did not like the transactional approach, and preferred to deal with customers in a way that builds lifetime relationships by making the experience as easy as possible and maximizing customer value. The Phoenix is a reminder for themselves and their customers that success requires perseverance and a spirit that never dies.
Director

Louis Chang

Louis Chang is the Owner and President of Paragon Food Equipment in Vancouver, British Columbia, a position he has held for over 40 years.

Louis is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) by training and also holds credentials in Adult Education. Fluent in English and French, as well as Cantonese, Louis brings both financial acumen and strong cross-cultural communication skills to his work.

He looks forward to contributing his experience and perspective to support the continued growth and success of R.E.D.

Director

Mark Wallace

Partner at Canadian Restaurant Supply has been helping commercial kitchens succeed since 2017.

As a dedicated partner at CRS, Mark Wallace brings a profound understanding of customer needs in the commercial kitchen design and supply industry. His unwavering commitment to excellence, combined with a deep respect for each client's unique vision, ensures that every project is approached with care and integrity. Mark's focus on fostering successful outcomes for all involved reflects CRS' core values of Commitment, Respect, and Success, making him a trusted leader in delivering results that exceed expectations. Through his leadership, CRS continues its mission of Helping Kitchens Succeed.

Our Mission

To support food equipment dealers with dedicated programs that enable their businesses to provide the best pricing and customer experiences in the industry.

Our Vision

We aspire to be the most valued business relationship for every RED Member and Vendor partner.
OUR WHY

We are more than just a buying group.

The Foodservice industry in Canada represents more than $100 Billion annually in the Canadian economy, and employs nearly 5% of the Canadian population! From full service to quick service restaurants, from cafeterias to bars, from hospitals & nursing homes to schools & malls, foodservice affects everyone everyday.

R.E.D. Canada is in the middle of it - we connect the manufacturers of essential equipment on one end to the distributors who sell, install and maintain that equipment.