About RBG

WHO WE ARE

About RBG

Restaurant Buying Group is a group purchasing organization (GPO) who aspire to help independent foodservice operators lower their costs and increase their profits. We have become more than just a group for restaurants.  Our program has become so diverse, we are able to work with many different types of foodservice operators in the industry.  As operators continue to see food costs rise as well as all other costs associated with running a business, GPO’s have become a must in our industry.  Our journey and partnership with our members have guided us towards a stronger commitment to our members and establish our vision, mission and value as a company.

Male restaurant server standing in a restaurant holding a plate of food. The background is a high-top wood table with higher chairs with two servers behind the bar in the further back.

Our Mission

Restaurant Buying Group, a group purchasing organization (GPO) for independent foodservice operators, strives to help independent food operators save on all aspects of their business and to utilize a group purchasing power to compete with chains.

Our Vision

To develop a trust with our members in which they will utilize all aspects of the GPO for their business needs, questions, and guidance. This trust will lead them to work with their RBG Account Executive on a regular basis while allowing Restaurant Buying Group to facilitate all programs available to reach maximum profit.

Our Values

Restaurant Buying Group applies both our mission and vision statements by working with independent food operators to save on items used by an operator on a daily basis. This can include food, paper products, credit card processing, general liability, workers compensation, beverage products, grease traps, equipment and so much more. As RBG grows as a group purchasing organization (GPO), we continue to find new ways to grow the value-added segment of our company to offer the independent food operators more ways to save. We value our partnership and trust of our members and will work hand in hand with them on all their operational needs. Our RBG team is comprised of individuals who have experience is areas surrounding the food industry and it is our goal to use these years of experience to help others develop and grow their business to be as successful as possible.

Our Team

This is a headshot portrait of Angela in her office

Angela Franklin

President

As the President of the Restaurant Buying Group (RBG), Angela serves as the vital liaison for RBG operations, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration among members. With a keen eye for detail, she expertly manages all accounting functions, oversees pricing contracts, and is instrumental in negotiating new agreements to benefit our members.

In addition to her financial expertise, Angela creates our monthly newsletters, keeping members informed and engaged with the latest updates from RBG’s distribution and benefit partners. She also maintains the RBG website, ensuring that all information is current and accessible.

Angela’s dedication to supporting independent food operators and her commitment to excellence make her an essential part of the RBG team.

Oscar Hernandez portrait photo

Oscar Hernandez

Vice President

Since joining the Restaurant Buying Group (RBG) in July 2020, Oscar has leveraged his extensive background in both restaurant operations and food distribution to enhance the services offered to our members. His comprehensive knowledge of the foodservice industry enables him to identify opportunities and solutions that benefit independent operators.

Oscar’s professionalism and unwavering commitment to customer service foster strong relationships built on trust with our members. He believes in going above and beyond to support operators, ensuring their needs are met and their voices are heard.

As Vice President of RBG, Oscar continues to play a pivotal role in driving the organization’s mission forward, dedicated to empowering independent food operators every step of the way.

John Castaldo portrait photo

John Castaldo

Consultant

With over 40 years of experience in multi-unit restaurant operations across the United States, John is a seasoned veteran in the food service industry. He founded the Restaurant Buying Group (RBG) in Northern California to empower smaller, independent food operators to collaborate and secure contracts for lower prices. His vision and leadership have helped countless businesses thrive in a competitive market.

Since retiring in January 2023, John has continued to lend his expertise as a consultant for RBG, guiding the organization and its members toward greater success. His deep understanding of the industry and passion for supporting independent operators make him an invaluable resource.

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Bella Fishman

Executive Administrator

Bella Fishman joined Restaurant Buying Group in June 2023, bringing a strong background in customer service and an eye for efficiency to the team. As Executive Administrator, Bella is responsible for a variety of essential functions, including clerical duties, cold calling potential customers, and bookkeeping. Her organized approach and proactive mindset make her an invaluable resource in ensuring smooth daily operations and a positive experience for clients.