About True Grade
Building a Legacy of Integrity, Quality, and Sustainability
At True Grade, we’re more than a food distributor—we’re a partner in your sustainable journey. By providing ethically sourced and fully traceable food products, we help you achieve your sustainability goals while ensuring quality and integrity. With partnerships spanning multiple continents, we work with farmers, processors, and distributors who share our values, allowing us to deliver the best to our customers.
To lead the transformation of food distribution through sustainable practices and responsible sourcing. We’re committed to reshaping food supply chains, focusing on reducing environmental impact through innovative solutions. By helping our customers lower their Scope 3 emissions, TrueGrade not only drives value but also contributes to a healthier planet.
To lead the transformation of food distribution through sustainable practices and responsible sourcing. We’re committed to reshaping food supply chains, focusing on reducing environmental impact through innovative solutions. By helping our customers lower their Scope 3 emissions, True Grade not only drives value but also contributes to a healthier planet.
awards & certifications
Our Values
Integrity
Sustainability
Innovation
Partnership
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Empowering Success through People and Passion
TrueGrade’s success is built on the expertise and dedication of our team. Every member plays a critical role in delivering the exceptional service and quality that our clients expect. Notable leaders include:
ANTONIO MALAVE
Co-Founder, Partner & CEO:
Antonio Malave is a seasoned leader with over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, specializing in seafood, logistics, and foreign trade zone operations. He holds a B.S. in Food Science from the University of Florida and has been instrumental in TrueGrade’s expansion into new markets and product categories. Under his leadership, TrueGrade has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.
Antonio's strategic vision and expertise in seafood sourcing, efficient supply chain management, and leveraging foreign trade zones have driven the company to achieve significant milestones. His personal accolades include being named on ASI's Top 30 Under 30 and twice being nominated for EY Magazine's Entrepreneur of the Year. Antonio’s commitment to technology and sustainability has positioned TrueGrade as a trusted partner for leading cruise lines, food service providers, and retail brands.
GENE KLIGER
Partner & President:
Gene Kliger, a U.S. Army veteran and industry leader, brings over four decades of expertise in protein procurement, production, and sales. He has been instrumental in bringing hundreds of different brands onto cruise ships, establishing himself as a trusted expert in the industry. Gene’s vast experience includes pioneering cost-saving innovations in protein sourcing and delivery for onboard cruise ship operations, ensuring efficiency without compromising quality.
Starting his career as a butcher at Iowa Beef Processing in 1974, Gene worked his way up to become a leading expert in protein procurement. Since joining TrueGrade in 2020, Gene has leveraged his extensive knowledge and industry connections to give the company a strategic advantage in food distribution.
Why True Grade
2700k sq. ft
Facilitiy SpacesOur state-of-the-art Foreign Trade Zone facility spans over 270,000 square feet, with room for expansion.
2000M lb
Shipped AnnuallyTrue Grade has successfully shipped more than 200 million pounds of high-quality products every year to destinations worldwide.
10,0000+
Tons of CO2 Emissions ReducedBy optimizing our logistics and supply chain operations, we have significantly reduced carbon emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future.
970%
On-Time Delivery Rate Our commitment to logistical excellence ensures reliable, timely deliveries for our clients across all ports.