Company

Serving you, so you can serve others.

Since 1954, Eastern has specialized in the wholesale distribution of protein, as a leader in both the industry and the community. Our goal is to provide our customers with the highest quality service and products that fit their specific needs. Our commitment to consistent excellence is uncompromised, and we measure success in satisfied customers. Let us show you the Eastern difference today.

What Sets Us Apart.

At Eastern, we love what we do.

Our knowledgeable sales professionals have an average tenure in the protein industry of over 20 years. We know that missteps can be costly, so we focus on the details to make sure that you get just the product you need, just in time.

The relationships we’ve cemented over 70+ years with vendors around the world translate to a big advantage for our customers. Our procurement experience and scale position us uniquely to meet the evolving needs of our customers in ways others cannot.

Ever wish you knew exactly where your shipment was 24/7? With Eastern, you can. Our in-house logistics department ensures you know exactly when your shipment will arrive. We’re available 24/7 to provide all of our customers with accurate shipment tracking information and updates, so you’re always in the know, and always satisfied. That’s our promise to you.

The history of eastern quality foods

Good Taste Runs in the Family.

Eastern Quality Foods was founded in 1954 as Eastern Poultry Distributors, Inc. by John C. Rueger in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The company began by brokering fresh whole birds from producers on Maryland’s Eastern Shore to customers throughout Baltimore, Washington, and Philadelphia. This origin inspired the company’s name and established its commitment to quality and trusted relationships.

For many years, Eastern operated as a small but successful trading company. In 1977, the business entered its second generation when John’s youngest son, Tom Rueger, joined the company, bringing an entrepreneurial vision and a drive to expand beyond traditional poultry distribution.

Recognizing the growing demand for further-processed chicken, Tom expanded the business by launching Brandywine Foods in Cochranville, Pennsylvania. Continued growth led to the opening of a second, significantly larger processing facility in Cleveland, Mississippi, in 1990. Designed for efficiency and scale, the new plant more than doubled production capacity and supported the company’s rapid expansion.

In 1996, Brandywine Foods was sold to Tyson Foods, marking the end of that chapter and the beginning of a new phase for Eastern. With expanded industry expertise and a strengthened team, Eastern continued to grow under family leadership, building a reputation as a reliable, long-term partner within the protein industry.

In 2003, the third generation joined the business, continuing the company’s steady growth and evolution. In 2015, the company rebranded as Eastern Quality Foods, a name that more accurately reflects its broader capabilities and expanded product offerings beyond poultry.

Through organic growth and strategic acquisitions, Eastern Quality Foods has evolved into a diversified protein company serving customers across the United States and internationally. Today, the company offers poultry, seafood, beef, and pork, supported by a team of more than 100 employees.

While Eastern Quality Foods has grown significantly since its founding, it remains grounded in the family values, integrity, and commitment to quality that have defined the company from the beginning. Built on trust and lasting relationships, the future looks bright.

Our Values:

  • INTEGRITY
    It’s not what we sell—it’s what we stand for.
    We do exactly what we say we will, staying true to our word, our values, and ourselves. Strong character builds a strong company.
  • COLLABORATION
    A family that works together, grows together.
    We are united in our vision, but diverse in our backgrounds, skill sets, and experience. There’s nothing we cannot do as a team.
  • DRIVE
    We succeed when our customers succeed.
    We understand that what works today, might not work tomorrow, so we relentlessly pursue forward-thinking ways to add value for our customers. To be the best, we must get better each day.
  • SERVICE
    We make our customers’ lives easier.
    We listen to their needs, create a detailed plan of action, and follow through no matter what. We are here to serve others.
  • EXCELLENCE
    We are protein professionals.
    We take pride in being masters of our craft, delivering products and value our customers deserve. Our expertise is what distinguishes us from the rest.

Corporate Responsibility

From our people to our business practices, Eastern is committed to operating responsibly and making a difference for our community, industry, and planet. We know that by working together with our partners, we can pioneer the next chapter in providing proteins with the highest standards.