Top Food Distributors for 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding the right food distributor is an important step if you own a grocery store, run a restaurant, or need food supplies for your business.

Distributors- also known as wholesale suppliers- help get food from producers to places where people buy or eat it. In this guide, we'll look at our picks for the top food distributors in the USA for 2024. Each one has a special tag that highlights what they are best at.

This is an overall foodservice list. For a restaurant-specific list, see our list of Top Food Distributors for Restaurants. For a grocery-specific list, see our list of Top Food Distributors for Grocery.

Summary of Top Food Distributors in 2024

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1. Sysco - Best Overall

Sysco Corporation is the world's largest food distributor, founded in 1969 and headquartered in Houston, Texas. They serve over 650,000 clients and are not just limited to the grocery space- they serve restaurants, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and hospitality businesses as well. With more than 320 distribution facilities worldwide, Sysco's vast network ensures generally timely delivery and a undeniably broad product range.

Why Choose Sysco?

• Huge Product Selection: Sysco offers over 400,000 products, ranging from fresh produce, meat, and seafood to kitchen equipment and supplies. This extensive catalog allows businesses to source all their needs from one supplier.
• Global Reach: Operating in over 90 countries, Sysco provides consistent service and products globally, which is beneficial for businesses with multiple locations or those seeking international products.
• Advanced Technology: Sysco utilizes state-of-the-art technology for inventory management, online ordering, and tracking. Their Sysco Portal allows customers to place orders, monitor deliveries, and manage accounts efficiently.
• Quality Assurance: Sysco maintains strict quality control measures, ensuring that all products meet high standards of safety and freshness.

Website: sysco.com

2. US Foods - Best for Restaurants

US Foods, founded in 1989 and headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, is one of the largest foodservice distributors in the United States. They serve approximately 300,000 restaurants and foodservice operators, offering a wide range of products and services designed to help businesses succeed.

In 2013, Sysco announced plans to merge with US Foods in an $8.2 billion deal. However, in 2015, the merger was blocked by a federal judge due to antitrust concerns, as it would have significantly reduced competition in the food distribution industry.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, US Foods expanded into retail, partnering with major chains like Kroger and over 20 other retail distribution partners to adapt to changing market demands.

Why Choose US Foods?

• Restaurant Services: US Foods offers comprehensive support, including menu planning, culinary training, and business consulting, helping restaurants innovate and stay competitive.
• Exclusive Products: They provide a range of high-quality, exclusive brands that offer unique ingredients and products not available elsewhere, allowing restaurants to differentiate their menus.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: US Foods is committed to sustainability, focusing on reducing their environmental footprint through energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing.
• Technology Solutions: Their online platform, US Foods Online, provides easy ordering, tracking, and management tools for customers.

Website: usfoods.com

3. Performance Food Group - Best for Customized Services

Performance Food Group (PFG) was founded in 1885 and is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. PFG provides a range of food products and services to over 200,000 locations, including restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities. They focus on delivering customized solutions to meet the unique needs of each customer.

Why Choose PFG?

• Personal Touch: PFG works closely with clients to tailor services and products to their specific business needs, whether they're independent restaurants or large chains.
• Wide Range of Products: They offer access to many national and proprietary brands, covering everything from fresh and frozen foods to beverages and kitchen supplies.
• Expert Help: PFG provides support with marketing strategies, menu development, and supply chain optimization, helping businesses improve efficiency and profitability.
• Technology Integration: Their online ordering system and data analytics tools assist customers in managing inventory and tracking trends.

Website: pfgc.com

4. McLane Company - Best for Convenience Stores

McLane Company, founded in 1894 and headquartered in Temple, Texas, is a leading supply chain services company providing grocery and foodservice solutions. They specialize in serving convenience stores, mass merchants, drug stores, and chain restaurants.

Why Choose McLane?

• Special Expertise: With a deep understanding of the convenience store market, McLane offers products and services tailored to this sector, including snacks, beverages, and general merchandise.
• Efficient Operations: McLane uses advanced logistics and technology to streamline operations, ensuring accurate orders and timely deliveries.
• Nationwide Service: Operating over 80 distribution centers across the U.S., they guarantee consistent and efficient delivery schedules.
• Value-Added Services: McLane offers marketing support, data analytics, and merchandising services to help retailers maximize sales.

Website: mclaneco.com

5. Gordon Food Service - Best Family-Owned Distributor

Established in 1897, Gordon Food Service (GFS) is the largest family-operated broadline food distribution company in North America. Headquartered in Wyoming, Michigan, GFS serves customers in the foodservice industry across the U.S. and Canada.

Why Choose Gordon Food Service?

• Family Values: GFS prides itself on building strong, personal relationships with customers, offering attentive service rooted in family-owned business values.
• Extensive Product Range: They provide a wide variety of products, including fresh produce, meats, pantry staples, and kitchen supplies.
• Educational Opportunities: GFS offers workshops, culinary demonstrations, and business solutions to help customers grow and succeed.
• Innovative Technology: Their online platform, Gordon Ordering, simplifies the purchasing process with easy access to product catalogs and account management.

Website: gfs.com

6. KeHE Distributors - Best for Natural & Organic Products

KeHE Distributors, founded in 1952 and headquartered in Naperville, Illinois, is a leading distributor of natural, organic, specialty, and fresh products. They serve retailers across North America, focusing on sustainable and innovative food solutions.

Why Choose KeHE?

• Product Knowledge: KeHE specializes in health and wellness trends, offering expertise in the natural and organic market segment.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Committed to sustainability, KeHE emphasizes environmentally responsible sourcing and operations.
• Supports New Brands: They work closely with emerging brands, helping them navigate the market and reach retail shelves.
• Marketing Support: KeHE provides merchandising solutions, promotional planning, and data insights to help retailers drive sales.

Website: kehe.com

Read our blog post here to learn more about reasons to order from KeHE.

7. UNFI - Best for Health-Conscious Retailers

United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI), founded in 1976 and headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, is the largest publicly traded wholesale distributor of health and specialty food in the United States and Canada.

Why Choose UNFI?

• Wide Network: Serving over 30,000 customer locations, UNFI has an extensive distribution network that ensures timely delivery and broad market reach.
• Huge Product Range: With over 250,000 products, including natural, organic, specialty foods, and private labels, UNFI caters to diverse customer needs.
• Advanced Systems: They utilize cutting-edge technology for efficient ordering, inventory management, and supply chain transparency.
• Sustainability Initiatives: UNFI is dedicated to social responsibility, focusing on environmental sustainability, waste reduction, and supporting local communities.

Website: unfi.com

Read our blog post here to learn more about reasons to order from UNFI.

8. Reyes Holdings - Best Beverage Distributor

Reyes Holdings, founded in 1976 and headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, is a leading global provider of food and beverage distribution services. Through its subsidiaries, Reyes Beverage Group and Martin-Brower, it is one of the largest beer and beverage distributors in the U.S.

Why Choose Reyes Holdings?

• Beverage Experts: Specializing in the distribution of beer, craft beverages, and non-alcoholic drinks, they have extensive industry knowledge.
• Strong Partnerships: Reyes Holdings works with major brands like Coca-Cola, Heineken, and craft breweries, providing a diverse product portfolio.
• Efficient Delivery: Utilizing advanced logistics and a vast fleet, they ensure products are delivered fresh and on time.
• Customer Support: They offer marketing services, sales support, and data analytics to help clients grow their beverage sales.

Website: reyesholdings.com

9. Ben E. Keith Foods - Best Regional Distributor

Founded in 1906 and headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, Ben E. Keith Foods is a premier distributor of foodservice products. They have a strong presence in the Southern United States, serving customers in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and surrounding areas.

Why Choose Ben E. Keith Foods?

• Local Knowledge: With deep roots in the region, they understand the local market and customer preferences.
• Quality Products: Ben E. Keith offers a wide range of fresh and frozen foods, beverages, and supplies, emphasizing quality and freshness.
• Customer Care: They provide personalized services, including culinary resources, business reviews, and marketing support.
• Community Involvement: The company is active in local communities, supporting various initiatives and charities.

Website: benekeith.com

10. C&S Wholesale Grocers - Best for Grocery Stores

C&S Wholesale Grocers, founded in 1918 and headquartered in Keene, New Hampshire, is the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the U.S. They supply independent supermarkets, chain stores, and institutions with a vast array of products.

Why Choose C&S Wholesale Grocers?

• Huge Inventory: Offering over 140,000 products, including national brands and private labels, they meet the diverse needs of grocery retailers.
• Innovative Technology: C&S employs advanced supply chain technology for efficient warehouse management, ordering, and distribution.
• Trusted Leader: With a century of experience, they have established themselves as a reliable partner for retailers nationwide.
• Customized Solutions: They provide tailored programs, marketing support, and merchandising services to help retailers succeed.

Website: cswg.com

Buffalo Market - Up-and-Coming Distributor

Founded in 2020 by Polish-born San Francisco native Adam Olejniczak, Buffalo Market is an innovative food distributor specializing in helping emerging brands gain access to major retail chains like Costco and Walmart. They focus on natural, organic, and sustainable products, aiming to revolutionize the food distribution industry.

Why Watch Buffalo Market?

• Supports Emerging Brands: Buffalo Market is dedicated to helping new and innovative products reach mainstream markets, providing opportunities for smaller brands to grow.
• Technology-Driven: They utilize advanced logistics and data analytics to optimize distribution routes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
• Eco-Friendly: Committed to sustainability, they prioritize environmentally friendly practices, including using electric vehicles and reducing waste.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Buffalo Market offers personalized service, working closely with both suppliers and retailers to meet their specific needs.

Website: buffalomarket.com