Food and Beverage Manufacturers Basics

Get information about food manufacturing companies

New food-related businesses must get an understanding of food and beverage manufacturers basics when choosing products for their customers. Food is the foundation of businesses like restaurants, groceries, vending companies, hotels and caterers. Gathering knowledge about product offerings, prices, regulations and marketing is an important first task.

There is a multitude of companies, products and research available. With so many choices, finding the right information can seem overwhelming. Here are some ways to get started with gathering information about the food manufacturing industry:

1. Compare listings of food manufacturers.

2. Get information from food research websites.

3. View news and information provided by food manufacturing associations.

4. Narrow your research to the type of food manufacturer needed for your business.

5. Keep up with food industry news.

 

Browse listings of foreign and U.S. food manufacturers

Check out company listings to get familiar with what food manufacturers have to offer. Use listings and links to company websites to compare food manufacturers' product offerings and service.
Try: PR contains detailed information about food manufacturers broken down by sub-industries. Find products, services and articles with the Intuit Business Food Manufacturing Directory. Search by region or business type to locate manufacturers.

Find information at food manufacturers association and research websites

There are many research companies dedicated to food service, as well as food manufacturers' associations for the general industry and sub-industries. These companies provide research and information about trends, regulations and other food news.
Try: The Food Marketing Institute conducts comprehensive research for the food manufacturing industry and provides facts, figures and information on its website. TradePub provides an extensive list of free food and beverage podcasts, magazines, white papers and other documents. Find more information from food manufacturing associations like the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association and the Grocery Manufacturers Association

Narrow down food manufacturing companies by specialty

You need to find manufacturers that provide the products and value that is right for your business, whether you run a restaurant, grocery store or other food retailing operation. Specialty listings of food manufacturers zero in on the type of products required for your business.
Try: PowerBrands provides information about the beverage industry and links to top brands. The Snack Food Association has lists of members that manufacturer snack foods. The DMOZ Open Directory Project lists frozen food manufacturers.

Keep up with news about food and beverage manufacturers

Keep on top of food industry news. You'll find out what products and trends are hot and learn from other food retailers' experience.
Try: The Food and Beverage-Network offers up-to-date information about new companies and product offerings. The NPI Center provides breaking news about food industry trends, regulations and marketing.

 

• Look for expositions and events for the food production industry. Events sponsored by food associations are usually held annually. They can give a good overview of available products and a chance to speak to vendors directly.

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