Wholesale food distributors are essential in the food industry because they get manufactured food products into retail stores then into consumers hands. If you want to start a wholesale food distributor business, it takes quite a bit of planning and resources, but it can be very profitable. First of all, you need to make a decision on what kind of food you will distribute. You may decide on bakery goods, produce, packaged foods, meat or another category. Your decision will determine the amount of building space you will need and the equipment needed such as refrigeration, for example. If possible, visit other wholesale food distributors to see how their warehouse space is used as well as how they inventory their stock. In addition, see how pick and pack tasks are arranged. You will need to go to the county clerk and get a tax ID number as well as an assumed name certificate. In some areas, you may also need to get a resale license. Next, get an employer identification number from the IRS website. You also need to file with your particular state as a sole proprietor, corporation, limited liability partnership or limited liability corporation. You will also need to rent a warehouse capable of housing your business. Many large cities have specific areas that group seafood, produce and meat distributorships in the same neighborhood. The advantage of such a community is that available buildings are already set up with adequate loading dock space and may already be racked for food storage or have commercial refrigeration in place. Keep in mind, an ordinary warehouse will not do for most types of manufactured food, especially produce and pasteurized products. If you cannot find a food grade warehouse in your area, contact a rental company to get the space you need. It is also important that you get in touch with local zoning boards, health authorities and other government offices to apply for the proper licenses, permits and other documents needed to start your wholesale food distributor venture. A flood, fire or other disaster could put you out of business fast, so do not skimp on protection and limit your coverage to just liability. You may be asked to show proof of your insurance so be prepared. Contact food manufacturers to set up accounts to purchase their product in bulk. Get in touch with companies that sell food products that are very marketable and that are in demand so develop a source list. Once youve built a good reputation, the food manufacturers will come to you. Make sales calls to retail grocers and shops in your area to set up delivery times and days. Remember to keep in touch with department managers regularly since seasonal product changes and consumer buying habits change. It is important to be prepared to make emergency deliveries if a store runs low on product. Remember that communication and excellent customer service is the key to success in this field, so make frequent contact with retail customers to build a relationship that lasts. Last of all, buy or lease commercial trucks to move the food to other parts of your state and the country once your whole food distribution company is established. Keep in mind, the trucks will need to be temperature controlled and all drivers must have commercial licenses.
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