How to find a good food supplier?



Based on studies carried out over the past few years, we have noted some pointers for F&B operators to shortlist their food suppliers.

Look at their references, licenses and experience
A food supplier’s reputation is a good way to gauge if you have found the right partner. This can be done by research through industry people, online reviews, website, social media platforms etc. For licenses and inspection accreditations, you can check with the relevant issuance authorities via email or online checks. And it is, of course, important that the chosen supplier has met all food safety regulations as mandated by the authorities.

Distance
The quality of raw ingredients will always be better if you choose to purchase from a food supplier of fresh products who is nearby your operating venue. Quality and freshness of produce is one major factor where customers are more than willing to pay for the price you have set. If your product is not fresh and even for you selling at a low price, you will not have customers patronising your outlet now and in the future!

Negotiate good prices
The other important factor when looking for food suppliers is to ensure that their prices match your business’s budget. Depending on your business operating expenses, you should set the cost of the raw materials that is feasible for your business. And as a guide, you should be looking at a cost of 20%-35% for raw materials purchase.  

In conclusion, local food supplier and local food distributor are important to your business scaling and sustainability. In Singapore context, we have shortlisted a few good suppliers based on feedback from F&B operators;
  1. Oregano Trading
  2. SSKim Enterprise
  3. Chinatown Food Supplier






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