When you are running a business, especially a business in the food industry, it’s crucial to find the right bulk food supplier for the ingredients and products you need. A wholesale food supplier can provide you with exactly what you require when it comes to food supplies, but they can also give you some substantial discounts which can definitely benefit you in regard to savings. But buying from a wholesale food supplier doesn’t mean you should sacrifice quality – far from it. How do you choose a food supplier for your business? Here’s your essential guide.
What you should remember
In wholesale food supply, it’s all about the volume. This means that the more you buy, the better the price. Of course, if you’re just starting out in the food sector, it may not be entirely possible for you to buy in bulk – but as you grow as a business, you may be able to negotiate a better deal if you purchase more from the food supplier. Here’s a tip, though: even if you are just a small business, there are some items which you may be able to buy in bulk without worrying about their freshness or worrying about spoilage, such as olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes or semi dried tomatoes, fruit juice products, and so on. These products can be stored for a while without spoilage, and if you have the financial resources, it’s always better to buy them in bulk.
Finding a supplier
When it comes to finding a supplier of food products, here’s what you can do:
- Research on the net
One of the best methods of finding a supplier would be to do some research on the Internet. When you do a search, specify the kind of food product you need and include your postcode – this will help you zoom in on suppliers who are in the same region or locality. It’s always best to deal with locally-based suppliers or suppliers who are at least based in the same country, as they are more likely to deliver the goods on time and save you money in shipping as well.
- Ask for recommendations
You can also ask for recommendations from other business owners in the food sector, especially those who have been in business for a long time. They may be able to give you sound recommendations on suppliers they have been doing business with for years. It may also be a good idea to check out trade shows and conferences; these events often attract suppliers whom you can personally speak with, and this makes it easier for you to decide if they can offer you a feasible arrangement.