Some companies evolve naturally over time. Others are built with intention, shaped by the people who stand behind them. Italfoods belongs to the latter. Founded in 1989 as a modest importer, it has grown into one of Ottawa’s most respected food distributors, led by partners Domenic Scanga and Frank Adamo, whose shared heritage and values have carried the business across generations.
For both men, the story began long before they owned the company. Dom entered the industry at 23, working as a sales representative for the original Italfoods. Frank spent years building experience in retail, administration, and customer relationships. When the opportunity to purchase the company appeared in 2005, the timing was far from ideal. “The economy wasn’t great, there was a lot of competition, and we both had young families,” Dom recalls. “We put everything we had into the business.” Frank adds, “We both knew our strengths and weaknesses. We always met in the middle with everything that came our way.”
Their values are rooted in immigrant families who built their lives in Canada from nothing. “Our true Italian values and traditions are what continue to guide us,” Frank says. Integrity, hard work, and loyalty shaped Italfoods’ culture from the beginning. Even today, the team gathers on Fridays for a family-style lunch, a small but meaningful tradition that Dom says “brings everyone back together and shows our appreciation for their hard work.”
Two generations of the Italfoods family, from left to right: Julian Scanga, Ariana Scanga, Christina and Domenic Scanga, Frank and Crystal Adamo, and Alyssa Adamo.
A major turning point came with the launch of their private label program in 2007. “When our private label importing became a reality with the arrival of our extra virgin olive oil, that’s when it felt like the start of our legacy,” Dom says. “Our families were so excited and invested.” The sense of legacy deepened as their next generation stepped into defined roles within the company. “Having them work with us and alongside us means everything,” Frank adds.
Italy remains central to Italfoods’ identity. Integral are the annual trips to meet the farmers, producers and distributors behind the foods Canadians enjoy. “Italy is not just a work trip, it’s personal,” Dom explains. “We meet the suppliers and their families, learn the culture of each region, and watch how products are prepared. We can ensure our customers are getting genuine, quality food.” Many of Italfoods’ signature items were discovered during these trips, including their Spicy Italian Bomba, balsamic glaze, and the seasoning used in their house-made sausage. “Being face to face with the people who make our products is invaluable,” Frank says. “These foods are enjoyed by so many Canadians who love Italian cuisine.”
Another milestone came in 2013 with the opening of their 30,000 square foot facility in Carp, complete with a dedicated showroom and fully equipped test kitchen. “It was a dream to create a space where we could test products, host vendors, and show hospitality,” Dom says. The test kitchen has become a central hub for demonstrations, product selection, and supplier collaboration. Frank calls it one of their strongest assets. “Our showroom in Carp allows us to bring customers into our kitchen and show them what we’re capable of. It has helped us promote our brands, test new ideas, and innovate with suppliers.”
ItalFoods’ private label line, a significant step in the company’s growth and its commitment to delivering authentic Italian flavours.
But growth has also brought challenges. Rising import costs, labour shortages, currency fluctuations, and the long-term effects of the pandemic have reshaped the food service landscape. “Everything from freight charges to utilities has impacted us,” Frank says. Dom adds that communication is what keeps them grounded. “We work together as a team and within the family. Maintaining good principles and adapting to the needs at hand is vital.”
The next generation is already shaping Italfoods’ future in meaningful ways. Marketing Director Ariana Scanga has defined Italfoods’ digital voice with warm, personal storytelling. “I’ve leaned into who we are as a family business built on tradition, quality, and connection,” she says. Sales Associate Julian Scanga has strengthened client relations and expanded Ital Storage, the company’s growing storage and logistics branch. Alyssa Adamo, Office Administrator, oversees core administrative functions while also supporting human resources and managing aspects of the company’s multinational chain business operations. Together, their contributions reflect a modern, well-rounded approach to leadership, built on the foundation Dom and Frank established. “Their youth and enthusiasm have brought many new ideas to the table,” Frank says. “With guidance, they are ready to continue the success we’ve built.” Dom adds “Working together with loyal staff, along with new technology, they’ve updated our systems, improved how we manage inventory and ordering, and made our business more efficient and safer. We are so grateful to the dedication and commitment of our whole team.”
The next generation of ItalFoods, taking on roles in marketing, sales, and administration as they prepare to carry the business into its next chapter.
Looking ahead, Italfoods is focused on thoughtful, market-driven growth. Dom notes increasing interest in non-alcoholic beverage options, gluten-free products, and labour-saving ingredients for busy kitchens. Frank highlights recent successes, including their Italfoods Muffuletta listed with Costco and ongoing private label collaborations with national retailers. Attendance at food shows and regular travel continue to fuel new product discovery and fresh opportunities.
For Dom and Frank, the future is grounded in continuity. “As one of the last locally owned foodservice companies in Ottawa, it’s important to be diligent and continue supporting our loyal customers; to stay connected to the community that always supported us” Dom says. Frank puts it simply: “Upwards and onwards. Our future looks bright, and with the next generation involved, we hope to take it to the next level.”
A legacy built to last, shaped by heritage, strengthened by family, and rooted in the flavours that brought them here.