Qualities You Should Look for in a Food Distributor

Whether you are searching for a food distributor for the first time or have been in business for years and are in need of a new distributor, finding the right one can seem like an overwhelming task. The process of finding a reputable food distributor for your grocery store, restaurant, or other business entity can be made simpler when you are armed with the right information. In this post, we will introduce you to the top four qualities you should look for in a food distributor.

Reliability (and a Proven Track Record of It)

Before you enter a relationship with a food distributor, you want to be assured they will be reliable. So how can you be sure a food distributor will deliver every time, on time, providing you with the correct inventory and the right brands and products? Do a little research and see what past and current clients of the distributor have to say. Are the reviews positive? Does the distributor provide references to call and testimonials on their website? If other clients have nothing but glowing things to say about the distributor, it’s a safe bet they will be reliable when catering to your needs.

The Right Price

It goes without saying that affordability is often a key component of any supplier-distributor relationship, and it’s only natural that you would want to stay within budget. With this in mind, cheaper isn’t always better. While it is possible to find a distributor who provides what you need at an affordable rate, you don’t necessarily want to go with the distributor that boasts the lowest prices. When the prices are almost suspiciously low, it could be an indication that the distributor is cutting corners in other areas, such as quality of the products, reliable transportation, or salaries. Before shopping around for distributors, have a price point in mind. This will help you find the right distributor at an affordable rate, without compromising on the quality of the product.

Transparent Communication

Just as with any relationship in life, whether personal or professional, clear communication is crucial. Without it, no relationship will succeed. When first meeting with a distributor’s sales representative, gauge their ability to communicate. Are they responsive to your initial phone call or email? Are they easy to get in touch with during normal business hours, or do you find phone calls going straight to voicemail and emails remaining unanswered? A distributor’s ability to communicate, especially before you even start your working relationship, will be a good indicator of how the rest of the relationship will go.

The Quality of Their Products

This is arguably the most important thing to examine before going into business with a food distributor. After all, the quality of their products will be a reflection of your business. If you are a grocery store, for example, and a customer purchases a food item from you that is low quality, they’re not going to blame the distributor. They’re going to blame you! Shouldn’t you have a reputable food distributor who will be able to guarantee high-quality products with each delivery? In addition to ensuring the products themselves are of excellent quality, the food distributor’s inventory should be reliable. Do they represent the brands you are looking for? Do they have affordable products for your budget shoppers? Determine the products you need and communicate the specifics to the distributor before going into business with them.

Are you a business operating in the Caribbean and in need of a food distributor? Get in touch with one of our Merchants Sales Associates today. We would be happy to assist with your business needs and answer any questions.