Do you run a food business? If so, then you’ll agree with us when we say that your choice of food distributor can be the only difference between success and failure. Working with the right distributor can take a significant amount of stress off your shoulders.
With a good distributor, you can be sure of a consistent supply of high-quality ingredients and other supplies for your menu. This will, in turn, ensure you provide quality and reliable service to your customers, which is an essential ingredient for business growth.
But the big question is, how do you find the right food distributor that will help you take your business to the next level?
Here are some of the critical factors you need to consider when choosing your food distributor.
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Have a clear idea of what you need
Finding a reliable Montreal food wholesaler that fits your business, you must have a clear idea of what you want. Therefore, the entire process starts and ends with you.
Sit down and ask yourself a few questions that will help you determine what you are looking for in a distributor. Some of the questions you need to answer include:
- Do you need your distributor to deliver supplies to your premises at specific times?
- Do you want the supplies to be sourced locally?
- How much are you willing to spend?
- How often do you need the supplies to be delivered? Daily or weekly?
Keep in mind that knowing what you want before you start searching for a food distributor may save you tremendous amounts of time and increase your chances of hiring the right distributor.
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Determine products
The next thing you need to do is determine whether the distributor carries a majority of your product needs, including specialty items.
At this time, you need to understand the fact that bigger is not always better when it comes to the size of the wholesaler.
Therefore, instead of focusing on the size of the distributor, focus on the items you need to fulfill your menu. If you are looking for customized items, make sure you are dealing with a specialty distributor who can fulfill your needs fast.
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Consider multiple distributors
In most cases, you will not find a one-size-fits-all distributor. Instead, you may need to hire several wholesalers to get exactly what you need.
Depending on the nature of your food business, you may even be forced to narrow your search to specialty distributors for specific niche items.
To avoid disappointments, make sure you are talking to multiple distributors. Approach the whole issue with an open mind and only go for people you think will help you grow your business.
Identify your primary supplier who will act as the main supplier and a few other secondary suppliers that will complement the primary supplier.
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Consider food safety
We can’t deny the fact that food safety is the most critical aspect of any food business. Therefore, before you close a deal with any food distributor, ask about their food safety management.
Be sure to ask how the distributor ensures food safety and integrity right while on transit. Do they have automated food safety software? Do theyuse temperature monitoring systems? Where does the distributor get their products from?
Answers to these questions will help you make an informed decision.
