NAVIGATING A MISSION
Navis aims to establish an industry-leading foodservice distribution platform serving independent customer channels across the northeast region.
COMPANIES
We invite inquiries from interested Northeast-based independent foodservice distributors who may wish to explore joining our mission of creating this dynamic and customer-centric enterprise.
THESIS
At Navis Food Partners, we believe in the vibrant and diverse independent food venues that define the food scene in New England and the broader Northeast. By uniting companies with unique capabilities, value-added services, diverse customer channels, and specialized category offerings, we are creating a platform of independent brands and companies that cater to the needs of our innovative customers.
STRATEGY
Over the past 30 years, the relentless consolidation of the foodservice distribution industry has significantly reduced the number of supplier choices available to restaurant operators. Many successful food distributor brands have been absorbed into large, publicly traded broadliners, dominating the industry and diminishing diversity.
Navis Food Partners offers a different approach.
We are committed to preserving and investing in the legacy brands of our companies and leadership teams, while enhancing the competitive advantages that have made these companies successful. All customer-facing functions—selling, marketing, local procurement, and distribution center operations—remain under the control and responsibility of the local company leadership. Meanwhile, back-office functions such as finance, accounting, treasury, and IT are supported by Navis Food Partners’ shared services.
This strategy allows our companies and teams to concentrate on what truly matters for their success and that of their customers, while Navis optimizes processes, leverages technology, and scales operations to drive growth.
TEAM
Robert Berkowitz – Chairman Emeritus. After more than four decades of leadership at City Line Distributors and two years as CEO of Navis Food Partners, Robert Berkowitz will transition to the role of Navis Chairman Emeritus while continuing to serve on the Board of Directors and remain a major equity holder. In this capacity, he will continue to actively support the company by focusing on platform strategy and identifying accretive acquisition opportunities.
Sean Griffin serves as Navis Food Partners’ Executive Chairman, contributing his 40 years of leadership across all sectors of food distribution. Throughout his distinguished career, Sean has held pivotal roles, including CEO of SuperValu, COO of UNFI, and Region President of Performance Food Group.
Owen Schiano has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Navis Food Partners, effective July 14, 2025. A seasoned executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience, Schiano has built a reputation for driving business transformation, scaling complex operations, and delivering consistent results in the distribution industry. Schiano brings to Navis a deep understanding of the evolving distribution landscape and a commitment to innovation, collaboration and long-term value creation.
Navis Food Partners is further strengthened by a highly experienced and accomplished Board of Directors, providing strategic guidance and support.