Making the Most of Food and Beverage Distributors and Wholesalers in California

Choose California wholesalers to supply your business

Maximize your profits by making the most of food and beverage distributors and wholesalers in California. These companies distribute food at wholesale prices to delis, caterers, grocery stores and restaurants.

California food distributors deliver foods within a specified delivery area and also may provide cash and carry services that allow you to pick up items directly from the warehouse.

Make the most of California food wholesalers by doing the following:

1. Get frequent price checks from food distributors, especially on seasonal items. A distributor that has a surplus of perishables will be more willing to negotiate on the price. You then can use these price breaks to plan promotions or make advance replenishment orders.
2. Use food distributors in California that specialize in foods from your customers’ ethnic groups. Many wholesalers also specialize in a particular type of food such as pizza ingredients, snacks or desserts. 
3. Select food wholesalers that provide reliable food delivery. This will allow you to minimize lost sales due to lack of stock and make it easier to determine your optimum re-order point.
   

 

Join a group for buying from California food wholesalers

Many small business owners pool their buying power to maximize savings when buying wholesale food. California buying groups can use their leverage to negotiate with distributors for the best possible prices.
Try: Huasna Valley Farms is located in Arroyo Grande and also provides information on growing methods. Lindencroft Organics in Ben Lomond provides a box of produce to its members each week and also publishes a newsletter.

Purchase food through a wholesale food California broker

Foodservice brokers represent manufacturers of food, food equipment and food supplies. They can help you find the best prices for a wide range of food products.
Try: FoodBrokerUSA is based in California and provides an FAQ regarding food service brokers. The Bay Brokerage Company in San Carlos serves the San Francisco area and provides a variety of links for food brokers.

Place orders with a local beverage distributor in California

A beverage distributor primarily sells water, soda, beer and sometimes wine. These beverages may not be available from a regular food distributor or wholesaler.
Try: John Lenore & Co. is based in San Diego and provides direct links to its beverage products. Beverage Warehouse in Los Angeles has an extensive catalog of beverages available for shipment within California.

 

• Buy perishable foods from local California food distributors. California companies can make deliveries faster and help you make a profit on these items. Prompt deliveries also make it easier to manage your inventory.
• Identify any particular buying habits of your customers. Many California wholesalers deal in specific foods such as ice cream, cookies or chips.

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