American Jewish Committee Honors Culinary Depot for Community Work

FEDA distributor member Culinary Depot was honored at the American Jewish Committee Food Service & Hospitality Division’s 64th Annual Tribute dinner on Dec. 2 in New York.

Sholem Potash, founder of the New York-based dealer, and Michael Lichter, CEO, accepted the Visionary Leadership Award at the event. The award honors organizations that demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation and commitment to building stronger communities. Culinary Depot was selected because of its deep involvement in charity and support, as well as its expertise in the foodservice industry.

“This award is deeply meaningful to us because it reflects the values we strive to live by every day — integrity, compassion and a commitment to helping others,” Culinary Depot said. “It is a reminder that success is not only measured by business growth but by the positive difference we make in people’s lives.”

Since its founding in 1999, Culinary Depot has strived to serve as an industry leader through acts of kindness, generosity and a dedication to creating opportunities for others. The company credits its success to teamwork, innovation and a passion for serving not only customers but also its surrounding communities.

“I grew up in a home where my father dedicated his life to a school for impoverished children,” Lichter said in his acceptance speech. “And I always thought I would continue in his way. When I ultimately joined my father-in-law’s business, my rabbi taught me that it doesn’t matter what you are doing, with the right intentions it is all holy. That is the message [of the AJC dinner], each small impact makes the world a better place.”