As a business owner operating a restaurant or other dining establishment, a food production facility or outfit, or another type of business specialising in food items, you know that you need good food suppliers. But whilst there may be plenty of food suppliers offering everything from wholesale pickles to fruit concentrate, you need to be sure that your food supplier can provide you with a good service combined with excellent products. So how do you ensure that your food supplier is the best for your needs? Here’s your step-by-step guide to finding the proper food supplier for your business.
- Establish what you require
You have to establish what you require when it comes to your food supplier, what your criteria are. What do you want your supplier to do for you? Your criteria should include aspects such as lead times from orders to delivery, maximum as well as minimum order quantities, the supplier’s handling and storage facilities, how your supplier will deliver the goods, their terms regarding payment and returns, the robustness of their quality assurance process, and if there is a specific contact within the company with whom you can get in touch for any questions or concerns.
Once you set your own criteria for a food supplier, it will help you narrow the list down to those who fulfill your requirements. For instance, if you are looking for wholesale pickles suppliers for example, will they deliver the goods in the time you require and in good quality? Think about all these aspects when starting your selection process.
- Identify your methods for looking for a supplier
The next step is to identify your methods for finding a food supplier; should you publish in a trade publication and ask for bids, or will you approach companies directly for quotes and proposals? You should set a reasonable time frame for the selection of suppliers and appoint staff members to assess the different proposals and come up with a shortlist.
- Evaluate the quotes and submissions
Once you have created a shortlist of proposals and quotes, evaluate each one as carefully as possible. Compare each quote and proposal and make notes of points that are not very clear about the proposal. Make sure to closely review the specifications and services the supplier has outlined, and review the proposed contract or agreement with each supplier so you can be sure they fit your needs and expectations.
- Closely monitor the supplier
When you have already chosen your food supplier, you should also make it a point to monitor and closely review their performance on a regular basis. Even the best suppliers can make mistakes or deliver lackluster service, so schedule regular reviews. This will allow you to keep a keen eye on their service and the quality of their products, and with regular reviews, you can also have a better idea of whether or not their service or products have fulfilled your expectations once it is time to renew the contract or agreement.
Finally, you need a food supplier that is in line with your business’ goals and objectives and who can be an effective partner who helps you reach those goals and objectives. Your food supplier should be an invaluable partner, helping you enhance your productivity and deliver quality items and goods to your customers.
