As you're researching olive oil suppliers, it's important to know that there are a few different types of suppliers that you could choose. Below is a review of the two most common, the local distributor and the national supplier, because these are likely the two that you will be weighing.
Learn about Local and National Olive Oil Suppliers
A local distributor is a supplier that offers olive oil, sometimes among many other ingredients. They purchase the olive oil from a national supplier and warehouse it themselves, which increases the cost. Because they’re situated locally, they may offer cheaper/free shipping and fast delivery, which sometimes can outweigh the increased product cost.
A national supplier is a large olive oil supplier that deals with higher volumes. They work with customers around the country for their olive oil needs, and typically have lower prices due to their buying power. You may see an increased shipping cost (supplier is often located across the country) and a longer lead time (due to volume that they pack and ship).
There are pros and cons to working with each type of supplier, but it’s most important to fit the supplier to your needs. Let’s review:
Local Distributor: Pros & Cons
- Have lower minimum orders, and can often offer a smaller volume or just one drum at a time.
- Can combine your oil needs with other ingredients for one efficient delivery.
- May have lower shipping costs, because they’re located within the same region.
- May have higher prices, because they have to purchase olive oil from a bulk supplier and add their own margin.
National Supplier: Pros & Cons
- Have higher minimum orders, ranging from one-five pallets.
- Typically have lower prices, because of their buying power and because you’re purchasing direct, avoiding the “middleman.”
- May have higher shipping costs, depending on the location of the inventory. These suppliers work with customers across the country.
It’s important to do a delivered price comparison when you’re selecting your supplier. And of course, don’t forget to factor in dependability, trustworthiness, and quality into your supplier comparison.