INNOVATION AND QUALITY
GALIPO FOODS
GALIPO FOODS
INNOVATION AND QUALITY
THE KEY DRIVERS BEHIND GALIPO FOODS’ SUCCESS
Project by: Malvern
Kandemwa
Words
by:
Michelle Duncan
Sebastian Galipo, the Founder and Managing Director of Galipo Foods Company, has transformed the business into one of Australia’s leading food service distributors. With a keen eye for market trends and a deep commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Galipo has built a company renowned for its extensive product range, exceptional service, and innovative business practices. With a passion for culinary innovation and a keen business acumen, Sebastian has positioned Galipo Foods as a prominent player in the market, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.
Sebastian Galipo, Founder & MD, Galipo Foods
Sebastian Galipo’s journey took a pivotal turn during his second year of law studies when he realised that the legal field wasn’t his true calling. Motivated by an enterprising spirit, he decided to pursue a different path. In 1983, he founded Galipo Foods, beginning as a small food service distributor selling meat for a yiros company. His initial setup consisted of four chest freezers in his home garage and a one-tonne truck for deliveries. However, Sebastian recognized the immense potential beyond these humble beginnings. Galipo Foods didn’t limit itself to niche products. Instead, Sebastian focused on building strong relationships with customers and broadening the company’s offerings. Over time, the product range expanded to include thousands of items, establishing a convenient “one-stop-shop” model for clients. This approach saved customers from dealing with multiple suppliers and solidified Galipo Foods’ position in the industry.
Now employing 230 people, Galipo Foods boasts a fleet of 60 trucks and delivers over 6,500 assorted products throughout South Australia. Galipo’s clients include a diverse array of independent outlets such as cafes, hotels, school canteens, aged care facilities, takeaway and pizza bars, as well as major contract customers like Barnacle Bill, Domino’s, Spotless, and Subway. It was voted No.1 distributor in 2023, 2019, 2017, 2016 and 2014 by the Foodservice Suppliers Association of Australia. It also won the state award every year from 2014 to 2023 and was recognised as No.1 nationally in
Australian School Canteen Association honoured Galipo as best schools’ food distributor in 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2022. Galipo Foods solidified its status as a family-run enterprise in 1988 when Sebastian’s brother, Bill, joined as a partner. Today, Bill serves as the Joint Managing Director alongside Sebastian, further cementing their shared leadership in steering the company forward.
Galipo Foods’ growth necessitated several moves to larger
premises over the years. Initially relocating to Stepney in 1988, the company eventually settled into a significant distribution centre at Dry Creek in 2003, which expanded to an impressive 33,000 square metres. In 2017, Galipo Foods expanded its distribution reach by acquiring Mid North Smallgoods, enhancing its presence through Port Pirie and Port Augusta. The acquisition of Centre State Foods in 2018, founded by Eric Skinner in Kadina to serve the Yorke Peninsula, further bolstered Galipo Foods’ regional footprint and operational capacity.
2018 by Countrywide Australasia.
Galipo Foods has been at the forefront of innovation within the Australian food service industry, pioneering several advancements that have set it apart:
INNOVATIVE FACILITIES:
Galipo Foods became the first Australian food service company to incorporate a full tasting kitchen on its premises. This facility allows for the testing and development of new products and recipes, ensuring quality and innovation in its offerings.
TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION:
The company was also among the first in the nation to implement a voice-directed warehouse management system. This advanced technology optimises warehouse operations by enabling voice commands for picking, packing, and inventory management, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
Sebastian has championed the integration of technology in various aspects of Galipo Foods’ operations, from inventory management to marketing strategies. By harnessing the power of digital tools and e-commerce platforms, the company has strengthened its online presence, personalised customer interactions, and gained valuable insights into market trends and consumer preferences
Amidst its rapid growth and technological advancements, Galipo Foods has maintained a strong commitment to its family-oriented values:
EMPLOYEE CULTURE:
Despite its expansion, Galipo Foods strives to preserve a familial atmosphere within the workplace. Many employees have been with the company for extended periods, contributing to a cohesive and dedicated team environment.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
Galipo Foods extends its family-centric ethos to the wider South Australian community through extensive support for approximately 55 charities and community groups. This commitment reflects the company’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond its business operations. Through its innovative spirit, dedication to employee well-being, and community involvement, Galipo Foods continues to set benchmarks in the food service industry, ensuring both internal cohesion and external community support.
GALIPO FOODS BECAME THE FIRST FOOD SERVICE COMPANY IN AUSTRALIA TO INCORPORATE A FULL TASTING KITCHEN ON ITS PREMISES.
With Galipo Foods, Sebastian has found his dream job and, despite the obstacles, his passion for the business has made it a path work sticking to. He has driven significant growth and innovation. The company’s extensive product range, commitment to quality, and focus on customer satisfaction have made it a leader in the food service distribution sector. Through strategic infrastructure upgrades, robust partnerships, and innovative technology transformations, Galipo Foods continues to enhance its operations and expand its market presence. Moreover, a strong commitment to sustainability and employee development underscores the company’s dedication to responsible business practices and longterm success. Sebastian Galipo’s vision and strategic initiatives ensure that Galipo Foods remains a trusted partner for its customers and a respected player in the industry.
