How to Become a Distributor for Printed Products

A small-scale distributor of printed materials brings independent periodicals into the hands of inquisitive readers.

As the publishing industry grows increasingly consolidated in the hands of large companies, there is a strong need for distribution networks to provide outlets for small companies and independent voices. Becoming a small-scale distributor of printed materials is one way to help provide a diversity of voices and perspectives to inquisitive readers and consumers. A successful independent distributor of printed materials has a clearly defined niche, and a curiosity that keeps him continually seeking new and interesting books and periodicals.

Things You'll Need

• Inventory
• Van

Instructions

1. Write a business plan for your printed materials distributorship. Describe the types of printed materials you will provide, how you will source them and where you will primarily distribute them. Provide a marketing plan detailing how you will spread the word about the printed materials you carry, how you will introduce your products to new accounts and how you will keep them updated about new offerings. Support your business plan with a balance sheet showing the capital you have available to start your business. Also provide projections demonstrating how much it will cost to start and operate your business and the sales volume you will need to achieve in order to break even and earn a profit.

2. Contact your city and state revenue departments about business licenses required for wholesale distribution of printed materials. If hiring employees, register with the IRS as an employer and also with your state's employment insurance and industrial insurance divisions.

3. Contact publishers of independent periodicals and negotiate wholesale prices and payment terms. Search online for interesting publications. Contact organizations that do outreach in the field where you will focus and ask about recommendations for printed materials and resources your company can distribute. For example, if you plan to distribute periodicals about artisan food and food politics, contact your local division of Slow Food USA as well as organizations that raise awareness about sustainable food.

4. Contact retail outlets that are appropriate for the type of printed materials you will be distributing, such as wellness centers if you specialize in periodicals about alternative health. Provide a list of periodicals and prices, as well as an order form.

5. Purchase a van to use for distributing your printed materials. Pay a detailing company to write your company name and contact information on the side. Purchase commercial liability insurance for your van.

References

• Wholesaler's Network: Magazines Wholesale
• Publishing Central