How to Run a Food Distribution Business

Food distributor clients can include grocery stores, restaurants and hotels.

A food distribution company is responsible for moving food products from the manufacturer to the retailer. These companies are usually housed in large, warehouse-type buildings, and clients can include grocery stores, restaurants, schools, hotels and health care facilities. Once you have started your business, hired your employees, purchased your vehicles, and secured your contracts, it is time for the day-to-day operation. Here are some steps that can help.

Instructions

1. Create a detailed plan outlining your daily goals, such as service routes, deliveries and type of food being delivered.

2. Create strict inventory control measures to ensure there is always enough of what you need on hand. Purchase computer software to organize inventory, shipping and receiving, accounting, client management, receiving lists, purchase orders, invoices and payments.

3. Develop and maintain solid relationships with both retailers and manufacturers. Let them know you are available should any emergency situations or special orders come along.

4. Continue to market and promote your business. Seek out new manufacturers in trade publications or at trade shows and offer your services. Create a website to showcase your services and client list. Visit new retailers and offer them special introductory deals to sign on with you.

Tips & Warnings

• Monitor how well the food items that you deliver to retailers are selling, so you can communicate with manufacturers and keep everything moving smoothly from manufacturer to store shelf.

References

• Entrepreneur: How to Start a Wholesale Distribution Business
• StartUpBizHub: How to Start a Frozen Food Distribution Company