IFDA President and CEO Mark S. Allen Announces Retirement

For Immediate Release                                                                                     

MCLEAN, Va. (June 26, 2026) — The International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) today announced that President and CEO Mark S. Allen plans to retire in early 2027, following 27 years with the association.

Allen joined IFDA in 1999 as the senior vice president, industry relations, prior to becoming president and CEO in 2004, a role he has held for more than 22 years. He has been instrumental in expanding IFDA’s influence and impact, helping strengthen the association’s role as a leading voice for the foodservice distribution industry.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to represent America’s foodservice distribution industry,” said Allen. “I have been fortunate to work alongside a dedicated IFDA team, a talented board of directors and an industry full of people who care deeply about serving their customers, communities and one another. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and confident that IFDA is well-positioned for continued success.”

During Allen’s tenure, IFDA expanded its member programs, strengthened its advocacy and industry engagement, and elevated the association’s work on issues central to foodservice distribution, including workforce development, safety, supply chain resilience, technology and operational excellence.

“On behalf of the board of directors and our members, I want to express our deep appreciation for Mark’s transformational leadership of IFDA and his dedicated service to the foodservice distribution industry,” said Mike Sweet, chairman of IFDA’s board of directors and president of Ben E. Keith Foods. “Throughout his tenure, Mark has been a trusted colleague and a true champion for the industry and organization. He has strengthened the association’s impact and helped position the industry for long-term success. We are grateful for his tremendous contributions and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

“As a board member, I have had the opportunity to see Mark’s leadership up close and watch how he has guided IFDA’s growth and development over the years,” said Susan Adzick, vice chair of IFDA’s board of directors and president of McLane Restaurant. “Mark has brought a strong vision and a deep commitment to IFDA, and his leadership has helped elevate IFDA’s role across the industry. His impact will be felt for years to come.”

As IFDA prepares for this next chapter, the association has engaged Spencer Stuart to conduct a national search for Allen’s successor as part of a planned transition. Allen will continue to lead IFDA until the transition is complete.

About IFDA
The International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) is the premier trade organization representing the $400 billion foodservice distribution industry. This industry ensures a safe and efficient supply of food and products to more than one million restaurants and foodservice outlets in the U.S. daily. Learn more at ifdaonline.org.

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Media Contact:
Caitlyn Blizzard
cblizzard@ifdaonline.org