Finding high quality, yet reasonably priced restaurant supply options is a task that is absolutely pivotal to the success of a local eatery. Whether they turn to national distributors, regional suppliers, or local farmer’s markets, eateries have a wide variety of suppliers to meet their needs.
Wholesale Suppliers
National distributors like Sysco and US Food have warehouses located throughout the United States. With so many different locations, their products are typically available for next-day or same-day delivery. Since they are such large organizations, they are able to offer a wide selection of products and ingredients.
There are also smaller, local operations that are able to offer a wide variety of products and ingredients for neighborhood eateries. Because they are less massive, they move fewer products. However, their size allows them to focus on a higher level of quality.
Whether national or local, these food distributors take time to evaluate the market. A sales representative is assigned to each local eatery whose sole purpose is to evaluate the needs of the restaurant. The distributor works closely with the manager to keep the shelves stocked with foods that will sell.
Product Transportation
National and regional distributors transport goods by trucks. Perishable items like meat, fish, dairy, and produce require specialized temperature-controlled trailers so they can arrive at their final destination fresh and unspoiled. Non-perishable items include dry goods like flour, rice and other dry ingredients. These items as well as paper goods can be transported in a non-specialized semi.
Sometimes, restaurants opt to support local farmers and purchase their produce and meat. The chef will typically visit the farmer’s market in the morning and handpick any meats and produce he needs for that day. Then, the goods will be delivered to the eatery before preparation begins.
Franchise Fast Food
Traditionally, the head chef, sous chef, or kitchen manager will do the majority of the restaurant supply shopping. Franchised eateries, on the other hand, often have no choice when it comes to meats, dry goods, and produce. This is especially true for fast food establishments. Fast food supplies all come from the same distributor no matter where the specific franchise is located.
Cost is one of the major factors for national chains. As a franchise, the company can purchase food in bulk based on various regions. For instance, there are hundreds of McDonalds located in various cities. One truck can bring supplies to several, saving on the cost of food and transportation.
The second major factor is quality consistency between franchises. Ideally, you should be able to get the same quality hamburger from a one place in New York as you would at another in California. The food is purchased from the same company and made in the same way.
Benefitting the Public
Restaurant supply stores are major sources of income for food distributors across the United States. Some companies are also able to offer their products at wholesale prices to the public. If you like to buy in bulk, but don’t want to purchase a warehouse store membership, this may be a great option for your family!