The food distribution sector plays an important role for both producers and retailers, as well as for managers operating in the foodservice industry. For producers in the Food & Beverage sector, in fact, a good distributor can significantly help to the growth and diffusion of their brand. The same goes for retailers and foodservice operators: relying on the professionalism of distributors means guaranteeing quality food that meets the expectations of end consumers, thereby obtaining a return in terms of image and income.

Why it is important to collaborate with food distributors: services and advantages

Food distributors act as intermediaries between producers and resellers (grocery shops, deli shops, retail stores, catering services, restaurants, etc.), dealing with the storage and transport of goods.

Partnering with a distributor can be beneficial to both parties. Manufacturers may prefer to sell to distributors to maintain a constant streamlining of production and resources. Retailers and foodservice operators, on the other hand, can partner with a local distributor for food and beverage supplies, in order to optimize the logistics, based on actual needs and requests, without having to deal with the storage of goods.

Let's see below what are the characteristics that make a successful distributor and help to create a relationship of trust with its partners, whether they are producers or retailers.

Quality control of goods

From the point of view of retailers and foodservice operators, one of the advantages that can be obtained from collaborating with food distributors is an integrated quality control. This aspect represents a guarantee for companies that buy wholesale products from the distributors, as well as for end customers and consumers.

The intermediation activity of the distributors also includes a careful selection of goods, as well as the active search for excellent quality food and beverage producers. This allows retailers to buy wholesale food and beverages without having to deal with selection and control activities, thus saving time and money.

Outsourcing of transport and storage

In addition to quality control, retailers and catering businesses can benefit from the transport and storage service of goods supplied by distributors. All this translates into optimization of warehouse space and savings in transport costs.

Strong presence in the reference market

From the point of view of producers, distributors of food, wine and beverages (including food wholesalers and importers) who have a strong presence in their target market, with solid logistics available to their customers, can help brands to penetrate new markets, both national and international.

Let's consider, for example, the high demand for Italian products in the world, and the distributors and importers (specialized or not) who supply the retail and catering industry. In this case, distributors and importers are essential for food and beverage producers, which have the opportunity to conquer foreign markets, thanks to the distributors' customer base and local reputation.

Search for niche products and international specialties

Food distributors have the ability to find and supply products with specific characteristics that meet end-customer requests. The research and selection of new products should take into account all the new trends in the food and beverage market, for example: international specialties and other niche products (gluten-free foods, vegan / vegetarian products, organic foods, etc.).

Therefore, thanks to importers and distributors, food producers are able to promote their brand in new markets and, at the same time, retailers are able to respond to new trends and customer expectations.

Simplification of orders

In addition, food distribution services can simplify the order management process. Most distributors are equipped with technological tools and information systems that allow them to efficiently manage the data about orders and products (frequency of orders, prices, promotions, etc.) and the communication with B2B customers (expecially for discounts, special offers or new products that are available for resellers), thus optimizing operational managment, increase sales and customer satisfaction.