National suppliers work with manufacturing customers across the country. They are setup for large scale, high volume distribution. They can offer long term contracts on your oils, and can help you strategize to find the best long term program. They partner with freight companies to deliver your oil, and will often work with surrounding businesses in the area.
Local suppliers work on a much smaller scale. They work with local companies, and often have their own delivery trucks. These suppliers may offer free shipping as a bonus because they make the rounds themselves. Minimum orders are smaller (e.g., 1 drum or a few cases), and inventory may rotate in and out.
Ingredient distributors are local suppliers that deal with a range of ingredients. Often, they will focus on a particular industry (like bakeries or Italian restaurants). They can work on a local or national level. They usually purchase each of their items in bulk from a National Supplier, and sometimes have a slightly higher cost. However, they can consolidate your deliveries saving you money on transportation. Some also help your business run smoother by assisting in maintaining inventory levels, placing orders and watching over all of your ingredients with you.
Centra Foods is a National Supplier.