Path to Success
A history of meeting customer needs
We built Retail Ready Foods Inc. from the ground up, taking it from a small family-owned startup in 1988 to the large, respected international company we are today. From our certification as Canada’s first licensed retail distributor of Certified Angus Beef to the launch of LiberTerre, our subsidiary that delivers sustainable, farm-fresh, antibiotic-free meats, we have always been focused on understanding the demands of the market – and meeting them with just-in-time supply of high-quality proteins.
1988Our first year in business
Three decades ago, John Ferraro starts delivering quality meats at the pace and price Canadian customers wanted.
1990Headquarters open in Kitchener
Two years in, the company opens its first head office in Kitchener, Ontario.
1990Become captive sales agency for Sherwood Foods
We start exploring new, value-added business ventures – our partnership with Sherwood Foods was the first of many.
1993Certified as First Licensed Retail Distributor of Certified Angus Beef in Canada
This certification reaffirms our commitment to providing customers with the highest quality products in a changing market. Today, Certified Angus Beef® is purchased 76% more than all other brands.
1996Awarded Top International Volume Distributor for Certified Angus Beef
We are proud to be recognized as Canada’s leading Certified Angus Beef seller.
1997Headquarters moves to Mississauga
We relocate to Mississauga, Ontario to house a larger team and serve an expanding customer base.
1999Entered the ready-made market
In partnership with Sandridge Food Corporation (formerly RMH Foods), RRFI creates and co-packages a line of refrigerated and frozen entrees for distribution.
200144th Street brand launched
Consumer packaged goods brand 44th Street is created, helping time-strapped families with quick heat-and-serve meal options.
200644th Street sold to MacGregors Meat & Seafood
Our in-house brand becomes a staple on the shelves of a key customers.
2008Pilot project with Sara Lee
RRFI pilots a risk management project with Sara Lee Foods, exploring margin management as a new business venture.
2010LiberTerre brand
In response to consumer trends, we develop Liberterre to deliver top-quality taste and traceability standards as a premium pork producer.
2014Retail Ready Colombia SAS opens
RRFI goes international with an office in Colombia, giving us access to South American markets.
2015LiberTerre sponsors The Great Camp Adventure Walk for SickKids
The Great Camp Adventure Walk for SickKids is a 5 to 20 km walk that benefits SickKids, bringing the spirit of summer camp to downtown Toronto and helping make sick kids better.
2016Recognized by Canada Pork International
We are recognized as a member of good standing by Canada’s leading pork export association – CPI, alongside other industry leaders, tapping into the growing Asian export market.
2016Headquarters moves to Toronto
With the goal of attracting top talent, RRFI’s head relocates to the heart of Toronto’s financial district.
2017Summer student program launches
Our first summer students start working with us, learning the ropes and paving their way to career success.
2018 – Alexander Cave Appointed New CEO
After 30 years at the helm, John Ferarro steps down to pursue various philanthropic interests. Alexander (Xander) Cave is appointed as the new CEO.
2018Celebrating 30 years in business
We reflect on the staff, clients, and partners that have made it possible for us to celebrate 30 years of success in Canada.