Ruiz Foods

Ruiz Foods is the largest frozen Mexican food manufacturing
company in

Fred Ruiz, Chairman, remembers, “I was in college when my dad and I decided to pursue what we’ve always called our ‘American Dream. The dream of this father and son team was to establish a company that would generate $3.5 million in sales during their lifetime.  A decade ago, annual sales of their frozen Mexican food products such as burritos, tamales and enchiladas totaled $94 million. That figure has nearly tripled in the past 10 years, thanks to astute leadership, the growing population of Hispanics in the United States and Americans’ increasing familiarity with Hispanic foods. Ruiz Foods consistently ranks among the Top 50 Hispanic-owned companies in the United States.

In 1983, Ruiz Foods received the United States Small Business Persons of the Year Award. The Award was presented by President Ronald Reagan in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, DC. It is an honor the Ruiz family will never forget. Several years later, Ruiz Foods was inducted into the United States Small Business Administration’s Hall of Fame in Washington, DC. It is an honor they share with Nike, Federal Express, and Winnebago. It was during this time that Kim Ruiz Beck, Fred’s oldest daughter, began her full time career in the family-owned business. “I always hoped my children would seriously consider becoming involved in the company,” explains Ruiz. “So when Kim expressed an interest, I couldn’t have been more pleased.”

Starting as a Coordinator in the Marketing Department, Kim knew she had much to learn. “I couldn’t learn fast enough. Sometimes I felt overwhelmed,” recalls Beck. “But I also knew that the family business is where I wanted to be, so I simply worked harder.” Over the past decade, Kim has spent time learning every department in the family business. She left the Company for several years to secure her master’s degree. In the fall of 2001, Beck, now 37, was named Vice-Chairman, an appointment that reflects her father’s confidence in her leadership ability. Her responsibilities include working with the board of outside directors and the sibling partnership group.

Kim continues to sharpen the leadership abilities she’ll need to succeed her father as Chairman; a post he feels will capitalize on her talents. She serves as the bridge between the business, the Board of Directors, and the family.

F. Bryce Ruiz, Fred’s oldest son, is 27. He will be completing his MBA, returning to Ruiz Foods as Vice President Corporate Quality and Technical Services in the Summer of 2003. His undergraduate degree was in food science and he also grew up working in the business.

Two other siblings are Matthew, 17, a high school senior who has spent summers at the factory; sister Kelly, 32, who remains involved with the board but not daily operations. With the largest market share for domestic sales of frozen Mexican foods, Ruiz Foods markets to retail grocery, convenience store, vending, foodservice, and warehouse clubs. Most of the products are under the flagship El Monterey® brand and include: burritos, taquitos, enchiladas, tamales and Mexican appetizers. Each reflects a commitment to prepare truly authentic-tasting Mexican food that has been passed down in the Ruiz family for generations.

“We’re leaders, not followers,” expresses Ruiz. “We’re progressive. I have no doubt we will continue to lead our industry.” The future is full of opportunity for Ruiz Foods and the original dream of a father and son team has now been embraced by the next generation of Ruiz family members. Through their ambition, hard work and continued willingness to learn and grow, the Ruiz tradition of quality and excellence will remain the standard that has become the cornerstone of their success and commitment.

For More Information:

www.elmonterey.com