Innovation is integral
because it's in our roots.
After over half a century supplying some of America’s favorite restaurant chains, being Customized is more than who we are, it’s how we do business.
Our Mission
We’re committed to being the last supply chain partner you will ever need. Applying our strategic thinking, PFG Customized works every day to be trusted partners and collaborators, providing restaurants with whatever they need to make their dining experiences stand out.
Our Culture
At PFG Customized, we don’t just supply ingredients or fulfill orders. We fulfill experiences and supply uncompromised restaurant concepts. Our ‘yes, and’ culture means that when customers entrust us with their vision, we put our network of resources to work, delivering that vision through bold supply chain strategy.
Our Commitment
At the heart of PFG is our commitment to serving communities across the nation. Inspiring our associates, providing innovative, sustainably-sourced products, and positively impacting the environment through energy management are all crucial to this mission.
Our Roots are Our Story
c. 1930
With humble beginnings as a small produce company, PFG Customized Distribution was founded by Kenneth O. Lester, Sr. in 1930. For $286, Mr. Lester bought a small produce business in Alexandria, TN, which consisted of a 3/4 ton truck and goodwill.
Move to Lebanon, TN
Following the depression, Kenneth eventually moved the business to Lebanon, TN, where he brought on his son, Kenneth O. Lester, Jr., who assumed responsibilities in developing frozen foods, a new product segment at that time.
Decades of Growth
Under the leadership of the father-and-son team, the company grew steadily, and in the 1960’s recognized the need for a different type of company—one that could serve an emerging population of casual dining customers.
Still Going Strong
From a small one-man operation in 1930, the Kenneth O. Lester Company has grown into a full-line foodservice distributor with over 1,700 associates serving PFG Customized customers across the United States and in more than 40 countries.
Our Associates are the Face of Our Company
Our reputation with the customer rests with each of us. Our actions and attitudes on a daily basis have the power to strengthen our relationships with our customers and to continue the Lester/Customized tradition. In the fast-paced foodservice industry in which we operate, customer service is the key to success.
THE DEFINITION OF CUSTOMIZATION
We don’t tell you how to stock your kitchen or run your business. You tell us. We pivot for our customers to implement distribution solutions and personalized strategies. We don’t tell you how to stock your kitchen or run your business. You tell us. We pivot for our customers to implement distribution solutions and personalized strategies.
Flexibility is our model
Join a Team Who is in it for the Long Haul
We celebrate and value our people and their variety of talents, values and styles. By capitalizing on our differentiations, we have grown to be one of the nation’s premier foodservice distributors in the country.
See What We Have to Offer
We’re Only as Successful as Our Customers
Capitalizing on 80+ years of distribution experience, we are proud to be known for our honesty and integrity. This is a tribute to the core values of our associates.
Partner with Us
Find a Distribution Center Near You
Our strategically placed distribution centers across the country afford us targeted execution and maximum efficiency. Visit our Contact page to find the distribution center serving your area.
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