USF Honors Top Drivers, Selectors at Safety Rodeo

SAN ANTONIO, TX (Aug. 19) U.S. Foodservice (USF) put 54 of its drivers and warehouse selectors to the test last weekend with a series of trials at the company's Third Annual National Driving Competition in San Antonio, Texas.

Representing the best of USF’s 12,000 drivers and warehouse selectors from all around the country, competitors squared off in four categories to test their ability to safely navigate an obstacle course. Tractor-trailer drivers, "pup" tractor-trailer drivers, forklift material handlers and pallet jack handlers also demonstrated industry and safety knowledge through a written exam.

"Safety is the top priority for U.S. Foodservice, and that's why this event is so important to us," said Stuart Schuette, coo at U.S. Foodservice. "We're pleased to have this opportunity to recognize the skills, talent and dedication that our drivers and warehouse workers use every day to serve our more than 250,000 customers across the United States."

Winners of the 2009 U.S. Foodservice National Driving Competition were honored during a banquet at the historic Empire Theater. First-place winners, each of whom won a $2,000 prize, were:

  • Tractor-trailer - Steve Berwald, Minneapolis division.
  • Pup tractor-trailer - Kevin Merritt, Salt Lake City division.
  • Forklift material handler - Clint Wood, Salt Lake City division.
  • Pallet jack handler - Victor Orozco, Omaha division.

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