Posted Mar 24, 2025
This month, as we recognize and celebrate Women’s History Month, we are excited to highlight one of our longstanding community partners, Midwest Foods’ President Erin Fitzgerald, who recently spoke with us and shared a bit about herself, the exciting work she’s spearheading at Midwest Foods, and what it means to be a woman and leader in the food industry.
Erin’s roots in the food service industry run deep. Growing up, her family recognized the need for specialty items and fresh produce in the greater Chicagoland market. Their vision led them to create Midwest Foods in 1998, which has since become a pivotal player in the local food movement. The company started in the South Water Market in the Lower West Side neighborhood of Chicago, and quickly grew over the years, supplying legendary high-end restaurants like Charlie Trotter’s and MK, while working closely with many chefs, supplies, and farmers across the region.
“I love food,” Erin shared. “It’s all about the people and the connections we make.”
For Erin, being president of Midwest Foods is not just about running a company and selling produce — it’s about community, sustainability, and championing those who are often overlooked in the food industry. One of Midwest Foods’ core values is its commitment to supporting underrepresented BIPOC-, woman- and veteran-owned businesses as a foundational part of their local program.
"I think it’s essential to make connections with local growers, especially those who might not have the resources or recognition they deserve," Erin said. "Every year we work with farmers that have been historically underrepresented in the supply chain to access new sales opportunities."
A particularly special partnership Erin shared with us is with Chicago Urban Farm Solutions, led by Deshawn Willingham, who started as an incubator at Windy City Harvest, and now runs a 20-acre farm, growing leafy greens and other crops. Midwest Foods works directly with him to sell his produce, allowing him to focus on what he loves — farming.
"This collaboration has been so rewarding," Erin shared. "We handle the sales, so he can do what he’s best at, while still having a say in his business and working with us to make informed decisions such as prioritizing food safety and educating the community through initiatives like farm tours. It’s a true partnership."
Midwest Foods' success is built on relationships like the one they have with Deshawn. For Erin, Midwest Foods is more than just a supplier — it's about going beyond the transaction and helping people grow, both personally and professionally.
When it comes to sustainability, Midwest Foods' focus on local sourcing is a testament to the company's dedication to making a positive environmental impact, aligning with the sustainability values at Green City Market.
"Midwest Foods has been sourcing locally for over 25 years," Erin shared. "It’s about more than just buying local — it’s about forming meaningful partnerships that allow us to make a difference. If everyone made a commitment to local sourcing, we’d be in a much better place."
Sustainability also extends to their own operations, where Erin highlighted how Midwest Foods has worked to reduce food and plastic waste by using compostable packaging for many of their products, including grab-and-go meals for hospitals and healthcare facilities. The business also donates surplus food to local organizations and food pantries as a dual approach to combating both food waste and food insecurity.
Midwest Foods prides itself in being one of the only woman and independently owned food distributors with an industry-leading local sourcing program. As a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Erin is passionate about supporting other women entrepreneurs. She believes that intentional shopping — buying from local, women-owned businesses — can help create a more equitable business landscape.
"We should all make an effort to support women-owned businesses," Erin says. "When I go to the store, I make sure I’m looking for local products. It’s so important to recognize and support those who are committed to making a positive impact."
Looking ahead this year, Erin and her team are excited to continue growing and making an impact.
“Our local purchasing teams are looking to increase our work with underrepresented, diverse farmers and growers by another 30% this year,” she shared. “It’s all about keeping that momentum going, supporting the community, and making a real difference."
When asked about the women in her own life, and who she looks to as inspiration, the answer was easy. Erin shared with us the personal story of her two grandmothers who worked hard to support their families while working full-time and raising children.
Being around strong women has continued to be a core part of Erin’s life: “It’s important to surround yourself with people who inspire you,” she shared.
Erin’s leadership at Midwest Foods is rooted in these personal values, and her work is a powerful reminder that the food industry — at its best — is built on collaboration, support, and intentional action. When it comes to Midwest Foods, it’s not just about buying fresh produce; it’s about investing in local economies, championing women-owned businesses, and ensuring that the future of food is sustainable and inclusive.
"It’s about the community,” Erin shared. “It’s about supporting everyone who is part of this journey with us."
This past year at Chef BBQ, Green City Market was proud to partner with Midwest Foods, whose work aligns closely with GCM’s own mission to uplift local farmers and the community. We are grateful for Midwest Foods’ generous support and want to specially thank Erin for sharing her story. Learn more about Midwest Foods here and visit our Chef BBQ webpage to learn more about becoming a sponsor in 2025!