Fresh strawberries, a common product distributed by food distributors in the USA
Fresh strawberries, a common product distributed by food distributors in the USA
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Top Food Distributors in the USA: A Comprehensive Guide for Your Business Growth

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Navigating the complex landscape of Food Distributors in the USA is a critical step for any food and beverage business aiming to launch or expand its presence. The right distribution partner can be the key to unlocking market access, ensuring efficient supply chains, and ultimately, driving growth. In the competitive US market, understanding the role of food distributors and identifying the best fit for your product is paramount.

This guide provides an in-depth look at the leading food distributors in the United States, offering expert insights into their strengths, specializations, and what makes them stand out. Whether you’re a startup food company or an established brand looking to optimize your distribution network, this comprehensive overview will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and select the perfect food distribution partner to propel your business forward.

Understanding the US Food Distribution Network

The United States boasts a vast and intricate food distribution network, essential for delivering food products from manufacturers and producers to foodservice operators, retailers, and ultimately, consumers. This network is composed of various types of food distributors, each playing a unique role in the supply chain.

Broadly, food distributors can be categorized into:

  • Broadline Distributors: These are the giants of the industry, offering a wide range of products across all food categories – from fresh produce and meats to frozen foods, dry goods, and even non-food supplies. They cater to a diverse clientele, including restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and educational institutions.
  • Specialty Distributors: Focusing on niche markets, these distributors specialize in specific product categories like organic foods, ethnic foods, beverages, or premium quality ingredients. They often serve specialized retailers and restaurants seeking unique or high-end products.
  • Cash and Carry Distributors: These distributors operate like wholesale supermarkets, allowing businesses to purchase products in bulk and transport them directly. They are popular among smaller restaurants, caterers, and independent food retailers.
  • Systems Distributors: Primarily serving large chain restaurants, systems distributors manage the entire supply chain for these clients, ensuring consistent product delivery and quality across all locations.

Choosing the right type of food distributor depends heavily on your product, target market, and business goals. Factors such as geographic reach, product specialization, customer service capabilities, and technological integration should all be carefully considered.

To help you navigate this landscape, we’ve compiled a list of the top food distributors in the USA, based on expert analysis and industry reputation. This list highlights key players that can serve as potential partners for your food and beverage business.

Top Food Distributors in the USA – The Definitive List

To curate this list of top food distributors, we consulted with over 20 industry experts within the GourmetPro network. These experts, with extensive experience in launching and scaling food businesses in the US, provided invaluable insights into the current distribution landscape. Our ranking methodology considered several critical factors, ensuring a comprehensive and unbiased evaluation of each distributor’s capabilities:

  • Annual Revenue: Reflecting market share and financial stability.
  • Founding Date: Indicating industry experience and longevity.
  • Customer and Facility Count: Demonstrating operational scale and reach.
  • Client Types: Illustrating versatility in serving diverse market segments.
  • Industry Specializations: Highlighting niche expertise and focus areas.
  • Growth History: Assessing adaptability and market responsiveness.
  • Client Reputation: Signaling the quality of service and partnerships.

Based on this rigorous analysis, here are the top 16 food distributors in the USA that stand out for their market presence, service quality, and industry influence:

16. Cheney Brothers

Cheney Brothers, Inc., a family-run food distribution company established in 1925, is headquartered in Riviera Beach, Florida. Generating an impressive $3.0 billion in annual revenue, Cheney Brothers services over 20,000 customers spanning the US, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Their network includes 11 strategically located distribution centers, enabling them to efficiently supply high-quality products to restaurants, hotels, and institutional clients. Cheney Brothers is known for its commitment to quality and customer service in the foodservice distribution sector.

15. Core-Mark Holding Company

Established in 1888, Core-Mark Holding Company is a leading food and beverage distributor specializing in the convenience retail market. Based in Westlake, Texas, Core-Mark boasts an annual revenue of $16.4 billion and serves over 40,000 convenience store locations across the US and Canada. With 32 distribution centers, they provide innovative merchandising solutions and a diverse product range tailored for convenience stores. Their partnership with major retailers like 7-Eleven underscores their expertise in this specific segment of food distribution.

14. C&S Wholesale Grocers

C&S Wholesale Grocers, a privately-held food distributor founded in 1918, is based in Keene, New Hampshire. With an annual revenue of $33 billion, C&S serves over 7,700 customers across the US through a network of 50+ distribution centers. Their specialization lies in supplying grocery stores, chain restaurants, and institutional accounts with a vast array of products. C&S’s long-term relationship with Ahold Delhaize, a global food retail leader, demonstrates their capacity to manage extensive food distribution networks efficiently.

  • Website: https://www.cswg.com/
  • Contact: (603) 354-7000
  • Headquarters: Keene, NH
  • Distribution Centers: 50+

13. UNFI

United Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI), established in 1976, is a premier distributor of natural, organic, and specialty foods in the US market. Headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, UNFI generates $29.86 billion in annual revenue, serving over 15,000 retail customers across North America. Their infrastructure includes 58 distribution centers, supporting their commitment to sustainable and high-quality products that meet the growing demand for healthier food options. UNFI’s collaboration with retailers like Sprouts Farmers Market highlights their leadership in the natural and organic food distribution sector.

  • Website: https://www.unfi.com/
  • Contact: (401) 528-8634
  • Headquarters: Providence, RI
  • Distribution Centers: 58

12. SpartanNash

SpartanNash, founded in 1917, is a versatile player as both a food distributor and grocery retailer, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Generating $9.4 billion in annual revenue, SpartanNash serves customers across the US and overseas through 18 distribution centers. They cater to independent retailers, national accounts, and military commissaries, with a strong focus on private-label products. Additionally, SpartanNash operates over 145 grocery stores and distributes to more than 2100 locations, showcasing a broad reach in food distribution and retail.

11. Maines Paper & Food Service

Maines Paper & Food Service, a foodservice distributor founded in 1919, is headquartered in Conklin, New York. With an annual revenue of $3.5 billion, Maines serves over 7,000 customers from 9 distribution centers across the US. They specialize in supplying chain restaurants, independent operators, and institutional accounts with a comprehensive product range. Maines’ partnerships with major restaurant chains like Applebee’s demonstrate their proficiency in large-scale foodservice distribution.

10. Shamrock Foods

Shamrock Foods, established in 1922, is a leading foodservice distributor based in Phoenix, Arizona. With an annual revenue of $4.8 billion, Shamrock Foods serves over 24,000 customers across the US through 11 distribution centers. They focus on providing high-quality, fresh ingredients to restaurants, healthcare providers, and educational institutions. National restaurant chains like Village Inn rely on Shamrock Foods for their dependable food distribution services.

9. Ben E. Keith Foods

Ben E. Keith Foods, a family-owned food distributor established in 1906, is a prominent player in the southern US. Based in Fort Worth, Texas, the company generates $5.5 billion in annual revenue and serves over 14,000 customers from 11 distribution centers. Ben E. Keith Foods specializes in supplying independent restaurants, regional chains, and institutional accounts. Their long-standing relationship with Sonic Drive-In highlights their capability to support large-scale foodservice operations.

8. Reyes Holdings

Reyes Holdings, founded in 1976, is a major food and beverage distributor with a significant focus on beer distribution. Generating over $30 billion in annual revenue, Reyes Holdings is headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, and operates across North America, Europe, and South America. They serve a diverse customer base, including retailers, bars, and restaurants, through multiple subsidiaries. Reyes Holdings’ partnerships with leading brands like Coca-Cola and Heineken underscore their strength in beverage distribution.

7. KeHE Distributors

KeHE Distributors, established in 1953, is a leading natural and organic food distributor with an annual revenue of $5.5 billion. Headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, KeHE serves over 30,000 retail customers across the US and Canada, utilizing 18 distribution centers with over 5 million square feet of warehouse space. Recognized for their sustainable practices and commitment to natural, organic, and specialty products, KeHE caters to the growing health-conscious consumer segment. Their impressive client roster includes prominent retailers like Whole Foods Market, demonstrating their expertise in this specialized area of food distribution.

  • Website: https://www.kehe.com/
  • Contact: (630) 343-0000
  • Headquarters: Naperville, IL
  • Distribution Centers: 16

Fresh strawberries, a common product distributed by food distributors in the USAFresh strawberries, a common product distributed by food distributors in the USA

6. The H.T. Hackney Co.

The H.T. Hackney Co., founded in 1891, is a well-established wholesale distributor based in Knoxville, Tennessee. With an annual revenue of $5.9 billion, Hackney serves over 20,000 customers through 28 distribution centers across 22 states. They specialize in convenience store distribution, offering a broad product selection including food, beverages, and non-food items. Hackney’s extensive experience and customer-focused approach have fostered partnerships with major convenience store chains such as Circle K.

5. Gordon Food Service (GFS)

Gordon Food Service (GFS), a family-owned foodservice distributor founded in 1897, is one of the largest privately-held companies in the US. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, GFS generates over $12 billion in annual revenue, serving over 100,000 customers across the US and Canada. Operating 28+ distribution centers, GFS focuses on meeting the needs of restaurants, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. GFS’s dedication to service, quality, and sustainability has attracted leading clients in the foodservice industry.

  • Website: https://www.gfs.com/
  • Contact: (800) 968-4164
  • Headquarters: Grand Rapids, MI
  • Distribution Centers: 28+

4. McLane Company

The McLane Company, established in 1894, is a Texas-based food and beverage distributor with an impressive annual revenue exceeding $51 billion. Serving over 110,000 clients, McLane operates 80+ distribution centers across the US. They specialize in grocery and foodservice supply chain solutions for convenience stores, mass merchants, and drug stores. McLane’s long-standing partnership with Walmart highlights their expertise in managing large-scale distribution channels.

3. Performance Food Group (PFG)

Performance Food Group (PFG), founded in 1885, is a leading food distributor in the USA, reporting an annual revenue of $56.7 billion. PFG serves all 50 states from its Richmond, Virginia headquarters, with over 150 distribution centers nationwide. They boast a vast customer base of 300,000, ranging from independent restaurants to national chains, and specialize in customized solutions for their clients. PFG’s client roster includes major names like KFC, demonstrating their ability to handle significant distribution demands.

  • Website: https://www.pfgc.com/
  • Contact: (804) 484-7700
  • Headquarters: Richmond, VA
  • Distribution Centers: 150+

2. US Foods

US Foods, founded in 1989, is a major foodservice distributor in the US with an annual revenue of $28.1 billion. Headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, US Foods serves over 300,000 customers and operates 70+ distribution facilities. They cater to independent and multi-unit restaurants, healthcare and hospitality entities, and other foodservice businesses. Known for their high-quality private-label products and commitment to sustainability, US Foods, with over 6,000 suppliers and substantial scale, is a compelling partner for large players entering the US food market.

1. Sysco Corporation – The Top Food Distributor in the USA

Sysco Corporation is the undisputed leader in the foodservice distribution industry, generating an impressive annual revenue exceeding $68 billion. Established in 1969 and based in Houston, Texas, Sysco has expanded its reach to 90 countries, serving over 700,000 customers with 333 distribution facilities. Sysco primarily serves restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, and lodging establishments. Their growth is driven by a strong focus on customer service, efficient supply chain management, and a broad product offering encompassing fresh and frozen foods, beverages, and equipment. Sysco’s extensive network makes it the top food distributor in the USA and globally.

  • Website: https://www.sysco.com/
  • Contact: (281) 584-1390
  • Headquarters: Houston, TX
  • Distribution Centers: 172+ (only in the US)

Choosing the Right Food Distributor for Your Product

Selecting the ideal food distributor is a pivotal decision for your food and beverage business. While the size and reach of distributors like Sysco, US Foods, and PFG are significant advantages, the “right” distributor ultimately depends on your specific needs and business objectives. Factors to consider include your product type, target market, geographic focus, and desired level of partnership.

For businesses seeking to launch or expand in the US market, a strategic approach to food distribution is essential. Understanding the nuances of the US distribution landscape and carefully evaluating potential partners will pave the way for sustainable growth and market success.

For further guidance on choosing the right US food distributor for your specific needs, review our expert guide for detailed insights and actionable advice.

FAQs About The Top 16 Food Distributors in the USA

Q: Who is the largest food distributor in the USA?

A: Sysco Corporation holds the title of the largest food and beverage distributor in the USA. With an annual revenue exceeding $78 billion, Sysco surpasses the next largest distributor, PFG, by a significant margin of approximately $25 billion. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, Sysco’s extensive network of over 330 distribution centers across North America and diverse product offerings solidify its position as a leading force in the food and beverage distribution industry.

Q: How many distributors are there in the USA?

A: The US food and beverage distribution industry is incredibly diverse, encompassing thousands of distributors, ranging from small, specialized operations to large, national corporations. While pinpointing an exact number is challenging due to constant market evolution, the top 16 distributors highlighted in this article represent some of the most prominent and influential players. These leading food distributors cater to a vast array of clients and offer a comprehensive spectrum of products and services across the US market.

Q: What are the top USA food companies?

A: The top food companies in the USA, often partnering with the food distributors mentioned above to reach consumers, include:

  • PepsiCo: Renowned for beverages like Pepsi and snack brands such as Lay’s.
  • Nestlé USA: Offering a diverse portfolio including brands like Stouffer’s and Nestlé Toll House.
  • Tyson Foods: A major producer of chicken, beef, and pork products.
  • General Mills: Famous for cereals like Cheerios and snack products like Nature Valley.
  • Kraft Heinz: Producing household staples such as Heinz Ketchup and Kraft Macaroni & Cheese.

These companies dominate the US food market with their extensive product lines and strong brand recognition. In today’s rapidly changing market, maintaining a competitive edge requires continuous adaptation and strategic partnerships throughout the food supply chain, including effective food distribution strategies.

To optimize your distribution strategy and identify the ideal food distribution partner for your products in the US market, contact GourmetPro’s experts for personalized guidance and support.

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