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Editor's Note: As election results are finalized, FEDA will provide more information about what those outcomes mean for FEDA members and how anticipated legislative agendas may affect the foodservice equipment and supplies industry. Stay updated at the FEDA Advocacy Center.
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Congress Faces Key Infrastructure Funding Decisions During Lame-Duck Session
The election may have delivered Democrats control of Congress, but new legislators won’t begin their terms until Jan. 3, 2027. Before then, there are several key pieces of legislation the 119th Congress is expected to take up during the lame-duck session that begins Monday, Nov. 9. Among those items is the Building Unrivaled Infrastructure and Long-Term Development for America’s 250th Act (BUILD America 250 Act), H.R. 8870, a $580 billion infrastructure bill that would provide five years of funding to improve roads, bridges, ports, railroads, and transit systems. FEDA and other business advocacy groups are supporting the bill. As part of the total funding amount, the bill sets aside $474 billion for the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) and creates new fees on electric vehicles. Currently, the HTF is financed primarily by the federal gas tax and has run a deficit since fiscal year 2006. Without action, the fund could become insolvent by 2028, affecting the nation’s ability to maintain its highway infrastructure.
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Election Results Could Revive Faster Labor Contracts Act
With Democrats poised to control both chambers of Congress following the Nov. 3 election results, businesses are already thinking about how the government’s policy priorities may shift in 2027. It will likely take a few months for the larger agenda of the 120th Congress to become clear, as legislators will need some time to draft and introduce bills. However, the congressional shakeup could give new life to proposed legislation that has stalled, including the Faster Labor Contracts Act (FLCA), which is being closely watched by business advocacy groups.
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FEDA Extends Public Review Deadline for Draft Industry Standards
FEDA has extended the public review period for its draft Shipping, Packaging, and Handling Standard (SPHS) and Product Data Standard, giving manufacturers, distributors, and other industry professionals until Dec. 14 to provide feedback. Developed through FEDA’s Future of Distribution Council, the standards offer guidance on reducing freight damage and improving product data quality, consistency, and accessibility. The association encourages members to share the drafts with employees in relevant departments, including warehouse operations, supply chain, product management, technology, and e-commerce, to help ensure the recommendations are practical and reflect real-world business needs.
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Gold Awards Spotlight: Lydia Anderson, KaTom Restaurant Supply
The FEDA Gold Awards recognize members who are advancing the foodservice equipment industry through exemplary leadership and service. Through this new Q&A series, we’re giving Gold Award recipients an opportunity to share the leadership approaches, lessons, and experiences behind their accomplishments. This week, FEDA is featuring Lydia Anderson, installation and project coordinator at KaTom Restaurant Supply. Anderson was honored with an Ascending Young Industry Leaders Award for demonstrating exceptional initiative through innovative technology, professional development, and customer-focused improvements.
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Wasserstrom Team Rides to Raise $51,000 for Cancer Research
The Ohio-based FEDA distributor member took part in Pelotonia 2026, a bicycling event that included a Ride Weekend on Aug. 1-2 and a Gravel Day on Oct. 3. Participants biked together on routes ranging from 24 to 190 miles to raise funds for the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. This year’s routes included roads around the Ohio State University campus in Columbus, Ohio, and along mountain biking trails in southeast Ohio. Since its inception in 2009, Pelotonia has raised more than $339 million for cancer research.
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TriMark Taps Supply Chain Veteran to Lead Operations
Dave Moore brings 38 years of experience in supply chain management, warehouse operations, transportation, demand planning, and network optimization to the FEDA distributor member. In his new role, he will lead TriMark’s warehouse operations, demand planning, freight and logistics, transportation, and safety functions.
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Nemco Promotes Cory Shank to Chief Operating Officer
In his new role, Shank will oversee Nemco’s day-to-day operations, including internal processes and supply chain management. His focus will be on improving efficiency, aligning internal resources, and ensuring the company is well-positioned to support its long-term business objectives. Shank joined Nemco in late 2023 and previously held roles at Colwell and General Electric.
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Vollrath Names New Director of National Accounts
Fred Fritchen will lead the strategic sales team and oversee Vollrath’s national account strategy. His focus will be on strengthening key customer relationships, identifying opportunities for growth, and aligning strategic sales efforts with the needs of Vollrath’s customers.
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Hoshizaki America Expands Consultant and Design Team With Manager for Western U.S.
Lisa Addison joins Hoshizaki with extensive foodservice industry experience, including previous roles with ITW. Her industry knowledge and understanding of the consultant and design community will support Hoshizaki’s continued efforts to build stronger relationships with consultants and increase its presence in foodservice equipment specifications.
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Upcoming FEDA and Other Industry Events
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National Restaurant Association Show
May 22-25, 2027
LEARN MORE
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Full Calendar of Industry Events
Ongoing
LEARN MORE
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Support the FEDA Learn Institute
The FEDA Learn Institute is supported in part by donors to the FEDA Education Foundation, which develops important and relevant education and training programs for distributors. Learn about becoming a Diamond Donor and be recognized within FEDA for your support.
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The FEDA Weekly News is published by the Foodservice Equipment Distributors Association. FEDA's mission is to provide advocacy, education, and service on behalf of foodservice equipment and supplies distributors and dealers.
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