Afwendling

A.F. Wendling's Foodservice started as a simple fresh meat delivery service when Albert Wendling founded the company in Charleston, West Virginia in 1913. Over 112 years later, it's grown into West Virginia's largest independent family-owned broadline foodservice distributor, serving restaurants, hotels, institutions, and foodservice operators across West Virginia, Virginia, Western Pennsylvania, and neighboring states.

The company calls their approach "The Wendling Way"—a commitment to premium products and personalized customer service that honors Albert Wendling's original vision.

• •Fresh Meats - beef, pork, poultry, and specialty cuts
• •Seafood - fresh and frozen options
• •Produce - fresh fruits and vegetables
• •Dairy - cheese, milk, and dairy products
• •Frozen & Refrigerated Items - comprehensive selection
• •Non-Food Products - paper goods, chemicals, cleaning supplies, and more

In 2024, A.F. Wendling's invested in a new 7,990+ square foot USDA-inspected meat processing plant at their Buckhannon headquarters. The facility enables:

• •Custom meat cuts tailored to customer specifications
• •House-branded meat products including ground beef, Italian sausage, and signature bratwurst
• •Greater control over product quality and availability

The company operates from 100 Wendling Plaza in Buckhannon, WV, a facility that expanded significantly over the decades:

• •1913-1976: Initial growth led to refrigerated truck fleet and two new buildings
• •1976-2007: Five additional buildings acquired (55,000+ sq ft total)
• •2007-2018: 11,800+ sq ft of new freezer space installed
• •2024: New offices and 7,990+ sq ft USDA processing facility completed

• •Family-Owned Means Personal Service: Third-generation ownership ensures every customer gets individualized attention. When you call, you reach a person—not an automated system. Cara Carpenter (Administration) notes: "When you call our number, you are going to hear, 'Cara Carpenter, A.F. Wendling's Food Service.' It's not an automated service."

• •Relationship-Focused Approach: Chris Wendling, Owner & President, explains: *"We like our customers to feel like family...it's all about building relationships and working together. At the end of the day, we just want to know we helped make a difference for our customers."

• •Direct Account Support: Mary Ann Folmsbee (Sales) emphasizes: *"What sets us apart from our competitors is just being personable with every customer that walks through the door and calls on the phone."

A.F. Wendling's makes it easy to become a customer:

• •Complete online application to start a new account
• •Sales team reaches out to discuss your specific needs
• •Credit application available for qualified businesses
• •Online ordering available for existing customers

A.F. Wendling's hosts annual food shows to connect with customers, vendors, and the community. Their 2026 Spring Food Show is scheduled for May 6th, 9am-3pm at Canaan Valley Resort (Davis, WV), featuring 80+ vendors, food demonstrations, giveaways, and networking opportunities.

They're actively hiring for positions ranging from warehouse associate to management. Benefits include paid time off, 401k matching, comprehensive insurance, and wellness PTO.