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Distribution Company Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Distribution Company Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Distribution Company business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Distribution Companies.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Distribution Company business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

KitchenWare Distributors is a startup distribution company located in Long Beach, California. The company was founded by Nelson Fuller, a former senior executive in a kitchenware company based in Chicago, Illinois. Nelson made over ten million dollars in kitchenware sales during the past two years for his former company, and felt the time was now right to start his own company in California. Because Long Beach is a leading port for ships bringing goods into the U.S. from China and other Asian countries, Nelson believes the greatest kitchen product range and highest dollar value can be amassed via the Long Beach import area.

KitchenWare Distributors specializes in selling kitchen products, including tabletop, tableware, cookware, and cutlery, to independent retailers, retail chains, and e-commerce platforms. Nelson recruited his wife, Jamie Fuller, to join him in the new startup, as her former position was a marketing manager for a small kitchen appliance company. Her new role will be as the Executive Manager of tabletop and cookware products.

Product Offering

The following are the services that KitchenWare Distributors will provide:

  • Large-volume sales to kitchen product companies, including brick-and-mortar and ecommerce
  • 24/7 customer service representative support
  • Competitive pricing
  • Diverse product selection
  • Free transport from Long Beach to customer location
  • Package pricing based on company loyalty programs
  • Tiered products based on customer’s target audience

Customer Focus

KitchenWare Distributors will target retail companies, retail chains, and kitchenware stores. KitchenWare Distributors will also target e-commerce platform companies that specialize in kitchen product sales. KitchenWare Distributors will target industrial restaurant and kitchen supply companies. KitchenWare Distributors will target state and federal government cooking and kitchen supply sites.

Success Factors

KitchenWare Distributors will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

  • Friendly, knowledgeable, and highly-qualified team at KitchenWare Distributors.
  • Customer service representatives with 24/7 service for clients.
  • Free transport from Long Beach to customer distribution centers or retail stores.
  • Unique logistical software program designed for kitchen product retailers.
  • KitchenWare Distributors offers reasonable pricing with free transportation included; both excellent savings.

Financial Highlights

KitchenWare Distributors is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its kitchen product line of goods. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the marketing costs. The breakout of the funding is below:

  • Office space build-out: $20,000
  • Office equipment, supplies, and materials: $10,000
  • Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $150,000
  • Marketing costs: $10,000
  • Working capital: $10,000

The following graph outlines the financial projections for KitchenWare Distributors.

KitchenWare Distributors Pro Forma Projections

Company Overview

Who is kitchenware distributors.

KitchenWare Distributors is a newly established full-service distribution company based in Long Beach, California. KitchenWare Distributors is committed to becoming the most reliable, cost-effective, and efficient choice for retail chains, retailers and kitchenware supply stores in the U.S. KitchenWare Distributors will provide a comprehensive menu of customer support services for any client to utilize. Their full-service approach includes free transportation from the dock at Long Beach to the city of the client distribution center or retail store.

  KitchenWare Distributors will present and sell through a vast array of kitchen products, including tabletop, kitchenware, cookware, serveware, and cutlery. The team of professionals are highly qualified and experienced in distribution and negotiations. KitchenWare Distributors removes all headaches and issues of the process of buying and transporting inventory for retail stores by taking excellent care of the inventory items and stock and ensuring that all issues are taken care of expeditiously while delivering the best customer service.

KitchenWare Distributors History

KitchenWare Distributors is owned and operated by Nelson and Jamie Fuller, both former executives working within the kitchen products industry in a kitchenware company based in Chicago, Illinois. Nelson made over ten million dollars in kitchenware sales during the past two years for his former company, and felt the time was now right to start his own company in California. Because Long Beach is a leading port for ships bringing goods into the U.S. from China and other Asian countries, Nelson believes the greatest kitchen product range and highest dollar value can be amassed via the Long Beach import area.

Since incorporation, KitchenWare Distributors has achieved the following milestones:

  • Registered KitchenWare Distributors, LLC to transact business in the state of California.
  • Has a contract in place at one of the office buildings, where the marketing department and administrative group will set up their 10,000 square foot office space.
  • Reached out to numerous former clients and contacts to include KitchenWare Distributors as a distribution vendor.
  • Began recruiting a staff of fifteen customer service representatives and five office personnel to work at KitchenWare Distributors.

KitchenWare Distributors Services

The following will be the services KitchenWare Distributors will provide:

Industry Analysis

The kitchen products industry is expected to grow during the next five years to over $44 billion. The growth will be driven by the consumer interest in premium kitchen countertop appliances that perform with precision. The growth will also be driven by smart kitchen appliances (remote turn on/turn off capabilities). The growth will be driven by color palette changes in 2027-28. Technological advances will drive the U.S. market growth. The growth will also be driven by eco-friendly, and sustainable tableware products. Costs will likely be reduced as kitchenware categories within lifestyle choices are discounted. Costs will likely be reduced as consumers turn to e-commerce for tableware and cookware choices, which reduces shipping costs overall.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

KitchenWare Distributors will target retail chains, retail stores, kitchenware stores, and government contract customers within California and the U.S. population. .

Customer Segmentation

KitchenWare Distributors will primarily target the following customer profiles:

  • Retail chains
  • Retail stores, specifically kitchen product stores
  • Ecommerce kitchen product companies
  • State and government contractors for kitchen products

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

KitchenWare Distributors will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below.

Strategic Distribution Group

The Strategic Distribution Group is located in New Jersey, near Ports America, Inc. The company receives goods via ship transport initiated in Shenzhen, China and directed to retail chains and kitchen stores throughout the U.S. The company was started by a partnership between Hershel Barts and Mark Tokien, formerly kitchen product managers for a major kitchen appliance manufacturer.

The Strategic Distribution Group offers limited discounts on product assortment groups or packages; however, shipping from the port to the retail chain market is provided at no cost. The strength of the company lies in the experience of the partners and the sales history in this industry sector they represent.

Cooking & Eating, Inc.

Cooking & Eating, Inc., headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a large retail chain that offers a distribution service to clients and guests who want shipment and associated logistics packaged together by Cooking & Eating, Inc. The company was founded in 2014 by Eddy Walker, who found the distribution ties were weak in the Southwest portion of the U.S. and wanted to improve the strength of the industry while also owning a cooking video company that could capitalize on the location and new product introduction.

Currently, Cooking & Eating, Inc. is focused on cooking videos for a YouTube audience of 1.5 million viewers and video reels for TikTok which demonstrate cooking and eating in comedic fashion. The owner of the company, Eddy, enjoys appearing and leading the conversational topics on the show, as well as introducing his company once again to the final outcomes of this year.

Retread Distributors & More

Retread Distributors & More specializes in closeout lots, damaged inventory, returned products and “scratch & dent” appliance units. Their clients include major resellers, such as Overstock.com, and other secondary markets who purchase lots at greatly discounted prices and then hope to sell those lots at a miniscule profit. Retread Distributors & More is owned by Dottie Masters, a woman who has been a leader in the reselling industry for over forty years. The company is one of several owned by Dottie, and as such, it presents a “bargain basement” type of atmosphere, albeit one with excellent pricing and values that can be very profitable for retailers should they choose to sell such inventory items.

Competitive Advantage

KitchenWare Distributors will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

  • KitchenWare Distributors offers reasonable pricing with free transportation included; both advantageous savings.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

KitchenWare Distributors will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

  • Highly-qualified team of skilled employees who are able to provide comprehensive customer service support.
  • Free shipping from Long Beach port to client retail location.
  • Unbeatable 24/7 customer service for clients.
  • Tiered discounts geared to assist all clients in savings
  • Pricing packages that are advantageous for clients

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for KitchenWare Distributors is as follows:

Word of Mouth/Referrals

KitchenWare Distributors has built up an extensive list of contacts over the years by providing exceptional service and expertise to the former clients of Jamie Miller. Former clients have already committed to follow both new co-owners to the KitchenWare Distributors company and refer the new company to their associates.

Professional Associations and Networking

Both Nelson and Jamie Miller are members of national trade associations and both will continue to network and offer services to other members. The company may also choose to sponsor activities during trade shows that will highlight the new company.

Website/SEO Marketing

KitchenWare Distributors will extensively utilize their website. The website will be well organized, informative, and list all the services that KitchenWare Distributors provides. The website will also direct interested buyers to several pages of product inventory, including pricing and available quantities of each. Customers can buy online using the “Buy” page on the website. The website will list the contact number of their customer service representative and introduce them both via the Chat Box on the website. KitchenWare Distributors’s website presence will focus on SEO marketing tactics so that anytime someone types in the Google or Bing search engine “kitchen products company” or “kitchen supplies near me”, KitchenWare Distributors will be listed at the top of the search results.

The pricing of KitchenWare Distributors will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive excellent value when purchasing their services.

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for KitchenWare Distributors. Operation Functions:

  • Nelson Miller will be the co-owner and president of the company. He will oversee all staff and manage client relations.
  • Jamie Miller will be the Executive Manager of the tabletop and cookware divisions.
  • Ken Stevens will be the Marketing Manager who will provide all marketing for KitchenWare Distributors.

Milestones:

KitchenWare Distributors will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

  • 5/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease office space
  • 5/15/202X – Finalize personnel and staff employment contracts for the KitchenWare Distributors
  • 6/1/202X – Finalize contracts for KitchenWare Distributors clients
  • 6/15/202X – Begin networking at industry events
  • 6/22/202X – Begin moving into KitchenWare Distributors office
  • 7/1/202X – KitchenWare Distributors opens its office for business

Management Team

Financial plan, key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for KitchenWare Distributors are the fees they will charge to the clients for their products and services.

The cost drivers will be the overhead costs required in order to staff KitchenWare Distributors. The expenses will be the payroll cost, rent, utilities, office supplies, and marketing materials.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

KitchenWare Distributors is seeking $200,000 in debt financing to launch its distribution company. The funding will be dedicated toward securing the office space and purchasing office equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated toward three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and marketing costs for the print ads and association memberships. The breakout of the funding is below:

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

  • Number of Client Purchases Per Month: 63
  • Average Revenue per Month: $616,000
  • Office Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, distribution company business plan faqs, what is a distribution company business plan.

A distribution company business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your distribution company business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Distribution Company business plan using our Distribution Company Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Distribution Company Businesses? 

There are a number of different kinds of distribution company businesses , some examples include: Exclusive Distribution Business, Direct Distribution Business, Selective Distribution Business, and Intensive Distribution Business.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Distribution Company Business Plan?

Distribution Company businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start a Distribution Company Business?

Starting a distribution company business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop A Distribution Company Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed distribution company business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your distribution company business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your distribution company business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Distribution Company Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your distribution company business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your distribution company business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Distribution Company Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your distribution company business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your distribution company business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising.

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Distribution Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

distribution company business plan

Distribution Company Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their distribution businesses.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a distribution company business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to easily write a distribution company business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your distribution company as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a distribution business or grow your existing distribution company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your distribution company to improve your chances of success. Your distribution company business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Distribution Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a distribution business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for distribution businesses.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a distribution company.

If you want to start a distribution company or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to easily write each essential component of your distribution company business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of distribution business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a distribution company that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of distribution businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

  • Give a brief overview of the distribution industry.
  • Discuss the type of distribution business you are operating.
  • Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
  • Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
  • Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of distribution business you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of distribution businesses:

  • Exclusive Distribution Business: Operates as the sole distributor for its client in a specified region.
  • Direct Distribution Business: Sells products directly to retail stores.
  • Selective Distribution Business: Typically operates in niche industries with limited retailers.
  • Intensive Distribution Business: Provides distribution services to a high number of retailers.

In addition to explaining the type of distribution company you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of clients served, the number of retailers secured, reaching $X amount in revenue, etc.
  • Your legal business structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the distribution industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the distribution industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your distribution company business plan:

  • How big is the distribution industry (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your distribution business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your distribution company business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, schools, organizations, government, and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of distribution business you operate. Clearly, schools would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other distribution businesses.

distribution company competition

  • What types of customers do they serve?
  • What type of distribution business are they?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What are they good at?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a distribution company business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of distribution company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide exclusive distribution services, selective distribution services, intensive distribution services, or direct distribution services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of yo ur plan, yo u are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your distribution company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your distribution business located in a busy retail district, a business district, or a standalone office or warehouse? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your distribution company marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

  • Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
  • Reach out to websites
  • Distribute flyers
  • Engage in email marketing
  • Advertise on social media platforms
  • Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your distribution business, including answering calls, scheduling shipments, billing clients and collecting payments, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to acquire your Xth client, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your distribution business to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your distribution company’s’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing distribution businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a distribution company.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance s heet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

distribution sales growth

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your distribution business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a distribution company:

  • Cost of equipment and office supplies
  • Cost of rent or mortgage on a facility
  • Cost of purchasing and maintaining trucks/trailers
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

start-up costs

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or a copy of the wholesaler and auto insurance policies you’ve purchased.  

Writing a business plan for your distribution company is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the distribution industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful distribution company.  

Distribution Company Business Plan Template FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my distribution company business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your distribution company business plan.

How Do You Start a Distribution Company Business?

Starting a distribution company business is easy with these 14 steps:

  • Choose the Name for Your Distribution Company Business
  • Create Your Distribution Company Business Plan
  • Choose the Legal Structure for Your Distribution Company Business
  • Secure Startup Funding for Your Distribution Company Business (If Needed)
  • Secure a Location for Your Business
  • Register Your Distribution Company Business with the IRS
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get a Business Credit Card
  • Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
  • Get Business Insurance for Your Distribution Company Business
  • Buy or Lease the Right Distribution Company Business Equipment
  • Develop Your Distribution Company Business Marketing Materials
  • Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Distribution Company Business
  • Open for Business

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Distribution Company business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s business plan services can give you a winning business plan.

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Business Plan Template & Guide For Small Businesses

How to write a business plan for a distribution company?

business plan for a distribution company: entrepreneur scanning parcels

Writing a business plan for a distribution company is essential in order to get your business off the ground, improve profitability or raise financing. 

Whether you are starting up a new distribution company or looking to grow an existing one, having an effective and comprehensive business plan is key.

This guide will provide detailed information on why writing a business plan for your distribution company is important, what information it should contain, and what tools can be used to write your own. 

With this guide as your reference, you will have all the knowledge needed to create an effective and successful business plan for your distribution company.

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a distribution company?

What information is needed to create a business plan for a distribution company, how do i build a financial forecast for a distribution company, the written part of a distribution business plan, what tool should i use to write my distribution business plan.

There are several reasons to write a distribution business plan. Below, we cover some of the most important ones!

To set a clear roadmap

Writing a business plan for a distribution company is an important step for entrepreneurs to ensure the long-term success of their venture. 

It requires you to think strategically and set objectives that will guide your decisions over the next 3-5 years.

This is especially critical for startups who need to consider all aspects of their business idea and ensure it can be viable before investing time and money, but also beneficial for established distribution companies looking to expand or improve operations in the coming years. 

By having a clear roadmap laid out before them, you can have a better understanding of what needs to be done in order to reach your business objectives. 

Planning ahead also helps you anticipate any potential obstacles that may stand in the way of success, allowing you to take proactive measures and adjust your plans accordingly. 

To get clarity on your cash flow

One of the most important benefits of having a business plan is that it allows you to regularly compare your financial performance against what was planned and make necessary adjustments in order to keep your forecast accurate. 

By doing this regularly, you can identify potential financial issues (such as an unexpected cash shortfall) early on and take corrective action before they become serious problems. This also enables you to seize opportunities that may arise along the way in order to maximise profits or grow faster.

To secure financing

Having a comprehensive distribution company business plan is also essential for getting financing from banks or investors. 

Banks use the business plan to assess your borrowing capacity, identify potential collateral, and decide whether they think you will be able to repay the funds they lend your company. 

Similarly, creating a business plan for your distribution company is also an essential step when looking to secure financing from equity investors. 

Investors will carefully review the business plan to ensure that their investment in your distribution company can generate good returns. As such, they will want to see evidence of healthy growth and profitability as well as strong cash flows in your business plan. 

With a comprehensive and well-thought-out business plan, you can be confident that you are presenting potential lenders or investors with all the information they need to make an informed decision about financing your company.

Now that we understand why it is important to write a business plan for your distribution company, let's look into what information is needed in order to create one.

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distribution business plan online

Writing a distribution business plan requires research so that you can project sales, investments and cost accurately in your financial forecast.

In this section, we cover three key pieces of information you should gather before drafting your plan!

Carrying out market research for a distribution company

Carrying out market research prior to writing a business plan for your distribution company is essential in order to get an accurate understanding of your target market and competitive landscape 

This information is invaluable when it comes to forecasting revenues and creating realistic projections in the business plan. But also in order to convince and demonstrate to the reader that there is a real opportunity to be seized on the target market.

Developing the marketing plan for a distribution company

Getting a clear picture of the road to market for your distribution company is also a prerequisite for writing the actual business plan itself.

This will be key when it comes to both forecasting sales and marketing expenditures in the financial forecast, and communicating your strategy effectively in your business plan. 

The staffing and equipment needs of a distribution company

Distribution companies require serious capital expenditures - from fleets of trucks and warehouses to highly specialised packing equipment - and a significant workforce. 

It is essential to think through the recruitment plan, financial investments, and any other costs (and associated timings) that may be associated with the business before you start drafting the document. 

Once you've gathered the information mentioned above, it will be time to start working on the financial forecast for your distribution company. Let’s see what this entails

The objective of the financial forecast for a distribution company is to obtain 4 key financial tables: the Profit & Loss (P&L) statement, the balance sheet, cash flow forecast and a sources and uses table. 

Let’s have a look at each of these in a bit more detail.

The projected P&L statement

The projected P&L statement of a distribution company shows us how much money the company will make and how much it is expected to grow in the future. 

example of projected profit and loss statement in a distribution business plan

The projected balance sheet of your distribution company

The balance sheet for a distribution company is a financial document that provides an overview of the company’s assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point in time. 

This statement serves as a snapshot of the business's financial health and can be used to determine the company’s ability to repay its debt in the short term (liquidity) and medium term (solvency). 

Assets are items of value that your company holds, such as cash, inventory, accounts receivable and property; liabilities are the money owed to creditors or other businesses; and equity is what remains after liabilities have been subtracted from assets (and can be used as a proxy for shareholder value).

By looking at a company’s balance sheet, lenders, investors, and the business owner can gain insight into the financial health of the company. 

example of projected balance sheet in a distribution business plan

A balance sheet is a valuable tool for assessing how the company is doing financially, and ultimately its ability to remain sustainable and profitable over time.

The projected cash flow statement

A projected cash flow statement is a helpful tool for a distribution company. It shows how much money the company will have coming in and going out over a certain period of time. 

This helps you plan and ensure the business has enough capital for growth and investments. 

distribution business plan: projected cash flow example

The initial financing plan

The initial financing plan (also called the sources and uses table) shows the sums that the company needs to start and how they will be used. 

It is important to have this so that you know how much capital is needed to deliver the business plan and what it will be used for. 

distribution business plan: example of sources and uses of funds

The sources show where the money comes from, such as investors or loans. The uses show what the money will be used for, like buying equipment or working capital. By having a source and use table, you can make sure that your business has enough money to get started!

Now that you understand what the financial forecast is made of, it's time to move on to another key part of the business plan - the written section. 

The written section is an important component, as it provides the context needed to understand and interpret financial figures. 

Let's dive in and take a closer look at this essential piece of your distribution company’s business plan.

A comprehensive business plan for your distribution company contains seven key sections: executive summary, presentation of the company, products and services section, market analysis, strategy section, operations section and financial plan.

1. The executive summary

The executive summary of a distribution company plan should start with a concise overview of your business. 

This section should then include an overview of the market, highlighting any competitive advantages that your company has. 

You should also include key financials such as expected revenues, costs, and profit margins.

Finally, this section should include a clear and concise explanation of the ask that your company is making to potential investors or lenders. This could include an overview of the funding required, and what it will be used for. 

The executive summary should succinctly capture all of these important details in order to convince stakeholders to read the rest of your business plan.

2. The presentation of the company

When writing the presentation of a distribution company for a business plan, it is important to focus on three key elements: structure and ownership, location and management team.

Starting with the structure and ownership, it is important to provide an accurate description of the legal framework of the company. This includes information about the type of business entity the company is operating under, the ownership structure and whether any external investors are involved. 

Additionally, investors may be interested in understanding any equity or debt held by the company and how the capital has been allocated.

The location of a distribution business is also critical for success. Any information about where the warehouse facilities are located as well as how many and what size they are should be included in the business plan. 

This information should also include geographic reach and any serviceable areas where the company has a particularly strong presence.

Finally, a complete description of the management team is essential for investors. The management team’s expertise and experience in the industry must be highlighted, including information about their roles and qualifications. 

3. The products and services section

When writing the products and services section of a business plan for a distribution company, it’s important to include detailed information about what your company actually does. 

You should start with an overview of the types of services offered - such as transportation, storage, packaging, click and collect, etc. - and then move on to specifics like which modes of transport are used (airfreight, sea-freight) or what type of packaging is available (pharmaceutical goods, food and beverage, standard good parcels, etc.).

It’s also important to provide details on any additional value-added services provided by the company; these could include things like custom labelling and product assembly. 

Additionally, mention if there are any special certifications or accreditations that make your business stand out from competitors in terms of quality control and safety standards. Ultimately these factors will be key in convincing potential investors that this is a viable business opportunity worth investing in.

packaging parcels to be distributed: illustration for the products and services section of the business plan

4. The market analysis

When presenting the conclusion of your market analysis in your distribution company's business plan, it is important to include information about demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers at entry, and regulation. 

This will ensure that the reader of the business plan - whether they be a bank or an investor - has all the necessary information to make an informed decision with regard to the size of the opportunity in the target market.

Demographics and segmentation should cover the target market size as well as any other pertinent data points such as verticals served. Understanding these details will help provide insight into which segments are viable targets for the company’s products and services. 

Additionally, understanding who your competitors are within those segments is key to assessing whether the company is well-positioned to capture the opportunity

It is also important for the reader to understand any potential barriers at entry that could limit your ability to enter certain market segments; this could include regulations from governmental agencies or clients being locked in existing long-term contracts with other distributors. 

5. The strategy section

When writing the strategy section of a business plan for your distribution company, it is essential to include information about your competitive edge, pricing strategy, marketing plan, milestones and risks and mitigants. 

The competitive edge should be outlined in detail; this includes any unique features or services that set your company apart from competitors. 

Additionally, the pricing strategy must be included to demonstrate how you intend to remain profitable while still offering competitive prices in order to attract customers. 

A comprehensive sales & marketing plan should also be included, this outlines how you intend to reach out and acquire new customers as well as retain existing ones with loyalty programs or special offers. 

It’s also important to include specific milestones along with dates so that everyone involved has clear expectations of progress being made over time and what the next sets of goals are. 

Finally, identifying potential risks early on and providing mitigating factors is essential in order for investors or lenders to feel secure in investing their money into your venture.

6. The operations section

In order to present the operations of your distribution company in a business plan, it is important to provide detailed information about the staffing team, roles of staff members, and recruitment plan. 

This should include job descriptions for each role, details on how they will be compensated, and an outline of the recruitment and training processes. 

Other key elements of a distribution company’s operations that need to be addressed in the business plan include any assets and intellectual property owned by the business. 

This includes physical items such as warehouses (whether owned or leased), trucks, and equipment needed for daily operations. 

Additionally, any relevant intellectual property such as brand names, logos and copyrights should be clearly stated in the plan.

Finally, it is important to outline the suppliers that a distribution company plans to work with. This should include information about contractual arrangements and payment terms for each supplier. 

With this information included in the business plan, potential investors or lenders will have a better understanding of the operations that are required to run a successful distribution business.

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will include the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that we have discussed the content of a distribution company business plan, let us look at some of the tools available to help you create one.

In this section, we will review the three main solutions for creating a business plan for your distribution company: using Word and Excel, hiring a consultant, and using online business plan software.

Create your distribution company's business plan using Word and Excel

Using Microsoft Office’s Word and Excel applications for writing a business plan for a distribution company may seem like a cost-effective solution for business owners. 

While this is true in terms of cost, there are also some drawbacks to this approach that should be considered when making the decision to use Word and Excel.

Creating an accurate financial forecast for a distribution company in Excel can be extremely challenging and time-consuming unless one is an expert accountant and financial modeller. Additionally, financiers may not view such an analysis as reliable since it was created by someone other than a professional.

Furthermore, once created it can be difficult to keep a financial forecast up-to-date. 

Writing the actual business plan in Word is also inefficient as it requires the business owner to start from scratch and spend hours formatting the document afterwards.

Hire a consultant to write your distribution company's business plan

Outsourcing a distribution company plan to a consultant or accountant can be a viable solution for business owners looking to present their plan to investors or banks. 

Consultants and accountants are both well-equipped to write business plans and create financial forecasts. 

However, there are some drawbacks to outsourcing a business plan. For one, accountants may lack the industry expertise to accurately forecast sales. 

Additionally, hiring consultants or accountants will be costly and there is potential for unexpected extra costs if modifications or updates need to be made to the plan. 

Furthermore, entrepreneurs who outsource their distribution company's plan have less control over the outcome of the project than if they had written it themselves. 

Finally, not all consultants have experience with business planning related to distribution companies and may not possess the same level of expertise as an entrepreneur who is very familiar with their industry. 

Use an online business plan software for your distribution company's business plan

Another alternative is to use online business plan software . There are several advantages to using specialised software:

  • You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan 
  • You can be inspired by already written business plan templates 
  • You can easily make your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you, without error
  • You get a professional document, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank
  • You can easily update your financial forecast and track it against actual financial performance to see where the business stands

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try our software for free by signing up here . 

We hope that this article has helped you to better understand how to write the business plan for a distribution company. Do not hesitate to contact us if you still have questions!

Also on The Business Plan Shop

  • Do I need a business plan? Your questions answered
  • Business Model vs. Business Plan
  • How to write the business plan for a grant application?

Know someone in the distribution industry? Share this article with them!

Guillaume Le Brouster

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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DISTRIBUTION STRATEGY

The big picture on distribution strategy.

Distribution models drive the economics and growth potential of companies.

Many companies are innovating through low-cost and viral digital and online distribution channels.

In most industries, some company is compressing the value chain by going direct...shouldn't it be you?

When growing distribution, focus on alignment and synergy with other business model elements.

THERE ARE 3 MAIN DISTRIBUTION STRATEGIES

Distribution is how a business makes its value proposition available to customers. There are three main distribution strategies:

1. Direct - company-owned channels

2. Indirect - 3rd party channels

3. Hybrid - both company-owned & 3rd party

Direct distribution is about company-owned channels, which could include a company's website, contact center, sales team , retail, and office locations. Indirect distribution is about intermediaries such as distributors, agents, brokers, online-only and omnichannel retailers, value-added resellers, partners , and franchisees. Hybrid distribution utilizes both direct and indirect channels.

Different Distribution and Channel Strategy Options

1. Going Direct - Customer Experience & Economics

More and more companies are moving from indirect distribution to direct or hybrid distribution. These companies want to lower costs and pricing by compressing the value chain while owning the customer experience and relationship.

Companies with direct distribution remove an often expensive intermediary from the value chain. Much of traditional retail utilizes keystone pricing (100% markup, $10 factory cost translates to $20 wholesale, which translates to $40 retail). By going direct, a company can take that $10 product and price it at $25 or $30, while making much more in gross margin. The first retail direct distribution innovators were back in the 70s with the likes of The Gap, Victoria's Secret, and other vertically integrated retailers. Today companies like Anker (power packs) and Vice (golf balls) are utilizing direct and low-capital, low-cost online channels to disrupt their markets .

Direct distribution also gives the company ownership to craft and manage their customer experience and relationship, which drives conversion, and loyalty and is crucial for complex sales, and innovative products and services. Apple took the world by storm by going direct with Apple Stores, and Tesla did the same when they rolled out Tesla showrooms in high-traffic malls. Both Tesla and Apple differentiated themselves from their competition by owning their customer experience and relationship, while also benefiting from compressing their value chain.

Pretty much every industry has innovators leveraging direct distribution to improve the customer experience and relationship, cost and pricing economics , and overall agility. If your business isn't direct, it may be time to try and figure it out.

2. Indirect Distribution - Efficiently Scaling

A company with indirect distribution, partners with 3rd parties to sell and fulfill a company’s value proposition. These 3rd parties can be retailers, value-added resellers (VARs), partners, franchisees, distributors, and brokers. For many industries, such as the beverage industry (Coke, Pepsi), the norm is to leverage indirect distribution, in the form of distributors, supermarkets, convenience stores, vending machines, and restaurants. Even in a predominately indirect distribution industry, such as beverages, there are always players looking to take out middlemen, such as Trader Joe's, an entire grocery retailer that only sells its own brands.

Companies often utilize indirect distribution to focus on their core competencies , while gaining access to customers by leveraging channel partners. A company with indirect distribution gives up margin to channel partners but saves on the costs and capital necessary to go direct. For a company leveraging indirect distribution, the key to growing sales is to drive better value and economics for channel partners than the competition . For retailers, it is driving superior gross margin dollars per square foot. For VARs, it is total sales and margin versus the cost of sales.

If your company primarily leverages indirect distribution, deeply understand players that are going direct, because they are most likely changing the industry dynamics through better economics and more consistent and elevated customer experiences.

3. Hybrid - Almost the Best of Both Worlds

Many companies have a hybrid distribution model, utilizing both 3rd party and direct channels to sell and fulfill their value proposition . With hybrid distribution, companies get the broad distribution of indirect channels, while owning the customer experience and expanding margin through their direct channels.

Nike is a great example of a hybrid distribution model. Nike sells in tens of thousands of 3rd party stores and retailers across the world. Yet, in 2017, direct channels, including Nike.com, and more than 1000 flagship and outlet stores accounted for  28% of Nike's total sales versus 10% in 2010. And, Nike is differentiating their direct channels with personalized Nike ID shoes, exclusive styles, and the broadest selection. Not only are they owning the customer experience, relationship, and data through direct channels, but they

Nike has a hybrid distribution model. Nike sells in tens of thousands of 3rd party stores and retailers across the world. Nike also has direct channels, including Nike.com, and more than 1000 flagship and outlet stores accounted for 28% of Nike's total sales in 2017 versus 10% in 2010. Nike is differentiating their direct channels with personalized Nike ID shoes, exclusive styles, and the broadest selection. Nike is heavily investing in their direct channels because they own the customer experience and make 2-3X in gross margin on each pair of shoes they sell directly versus indirectly. Nike sells a pair of shoes that cost $20 to the manufacturer to a retailer for $40, and the retailer marks it up to $80 to the customer. In this example, Nike would make $20 on the shoes, but if they sell them on Nike.com for $80, then they would make $60 in margin on the shoes. This margin expansion is a big reason why more companies are going direct.

The one longer-term potential disadvantage of a hybrid model is that a direct distribution model could come in and structurally undercut the pricing of the industry.

If you are looking for a business coach to collaborate on your distribution strategy, set up some on-demand one-on-one time with Joe Newsum , the creator of this content and a McKinsey alum

DISRUPTIVE DISTRIBUTION MODELS

Disruptive distribution models are becoming more and more central to the core strategy of companies. Think about Southwest, which doesn’t sell tickets through Expedia, Priceline, and travel agents, but only on southwest.com and 1-800-I-FLY-SWA. Tesla has redefined car retailing with showrooms in shopping malls, bypassing typical dealer networks. Apple wanted to give customers the ultimate showroom to showcase their new products and opened the most productive and profitable retail store network in the world.

Maybe your distribution model is what it is, and you have to follow what the industry does. Though, given the reach and innovation of online distribution models, and what other competitors might be doing in innovating their distribution model, it may make sense to reexamine your distribution model and take some time to think through if you have the right distribution model for your situation or you need to innovate .

In 2012, Dollar Shave Club took the world by storm through distribution innovation. Michael Dubin, the founder of Dollar Shave Club, identified the age-old problem that, " razors are really expensive in the store. It's a frustrating experience to go and buy them. You have to drive there. You have to park your car. You have to find the razor fortress. It's always locked. You have to find the guy with the key. He's always doing something else that he doesn't want to be helpful."

At the time, the razor market was on the plateau of its adoption curve , and was a typical mature market two-company race, with Gillette owning 80% of the market and Schick a distant second. In 2012, a Gillette Fusion ProGlide blade would have set you back a cool $4. So, when Dollar Shave Club, comes out of nowhere with the coolest bootstrapped $4,500 viral ad to ever hit Youtube, promising "F**cking Great" blades for $1 a month, customers loved the value proposition. Within two days of the viral video, Michael's team racked up 12,000 orders and ran out of supply.

At the heart of Dollar Shave Club's value proposition is the cost savings that are passed on to the customer from disintermediating traditional shaving industry distribution of retail stores. Then add on the cost savings of bypassing traditional marketing for cost-effective viral marketing , and you can start to understand the $1 a month for blades value proposition.

The value proposition and go-to-market were so strong that Dollar Shave Club grew to $65 million in revenue in two years, and in five years had 8% of the market and $240 million in revenue. In 2016, Unilever bought Dollar Shave Club for $1 billion.

The Big Decision - Which Distribution Model?

When expanding, think about distribution models, direct distribution growth strategy.

If you have direct distribution, then you need to focus on the strategies for your direct channels, which may include a website, contact center(s), sales staff, and locations. Your direct channels are an integral part of your overall customer funnel. You drive revenue growth by increasing and accelerating awareness, consideration, conversion, loyalty (repeat business), and advocacy . Understanding where your customer funnel excels and lags is critical to prioritizing investments. Read up on developing and executing a great sales strategy and marketing strategy . Furthermore, there are the foundational operations and IT strategies necessary to drive efficient and effective execution within your website and contact centers.

If you have locations, then you have three options to grow:

1. Optimize Locations

2. Grow the Number of Locations

3. Rationalize Locations

Optimizing locations involves driving revenue per location through operational and service excellence, new leadership , remodeling, and improving sales and marketing. For growing the number of locations, leverage the geographic strategy module to understand how to choose the right geographies to expand into that are aligned with your targets and economics. While rationalizing locations is often necessary to shed unprofitable and non-aligned locations from the portfolio.

INDIRECT DISTRIBUTION GROWTH STRATEGY

3 main options to grow indirect distribution.

There are three main ways to grow revenue with 3rd party channel partners, 1. Optimize, 2. Grow Points of Distribution, and 3. Rationalize. 

1. Optimize – Increase sales within existing channels by improving the value proposition, customer journey, marketing, and sales

2. Grow Points of Distribution – Increase the total number of productive points of distribution (e.g., channel partners, stores)

3. Rationalize – Shed points of distribution that are non-productive, or are not aligned with the brand, customers, markets, or other business model elements

1. Optimize Channel Partners

In the end, the relationship between a company and its channel partners always comes down to value. The more value a company can drive through a channel partner, the more the channel partner will focus on the company. Channel partnerships are co-dependent relationships. Similar to the overall business model strategy , it is crucial to differentiate the customer value proposition and amplify the sales and marketing strategies within a channel partner while providing them with efficient processes and operations.

So, when thinking about growing sales within existing channel partners, answer the following questions :

How can you differentiate your value proposition with and improve the overall economics for your distribution partners?

What marketing campaigns and strategies will drive volume for your distribution partners?

What sales support strategies will drive velocity and conversion in your channel partners' sales cycles?

What processes need improvement to better support channel partner growth and satisfaction?

1. Optimize : Utilize a Partner Growth Plan

2. grow points of distribution, 3. rationalize channel partners, putting it all together in a plan.

Distribution is a critical growth element of any business model. Whether you rely on direct, indirect or hybrid distribution, it is important to develop a strong distribution strategy to focus the execution of the teams.

If you would like to talk to an expert about your distribution strategy, set up some time with Joe Newsum , a McKinsey Alum with significant experience with distribution strategy.

download the distribution strategy worksheets & templates

To get you started on creating a killer distribution strategy, download the free PowerPoint Distribution Strategy Worksheets & Templates, which includes:

1. Distribution Partner Growth Plan 2. Distribution Partner Assessment Matrix 3. Distribution Growth Strategy One-Pager

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Distribution Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Distribution Business

Written by: Natalie Fell

Natalie is a business writer with experience in operations, HR, and training & development within the software, healthcare, and financial services sectors.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on June 17, 2022 Updated on February 14, 2024

How to Start a Distribution Business

Investment range

$3,700-$9,800

Revenue potential

$50,000-$150,000 p.a.

Time to build

Profit potential

$43,000-$105,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Retailers all over the world rely on distributors to provide them with high-quality products. From cosmetics to clothing, distribution partners help big companies behind the scenes by procuring goods from manufacturers, and make significant profits from selling those goods at a competitive markup. After years of steady growth, the US wholesale industry is worth trillions, while the global market is expected to expand nearly 10% annually through 2026.

But before you start ordering items in bulk, you’ll need to learn what it takes to launch your distribution business. Luckily, this step-by-step guide contains the entrepreneurial insight and information you’ll need to get your business started and pointed toward success. 

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Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Before starting a distribution business, it’s important to consider the pros and cons.

  • Flexibility – Set your own working hours
  • Good Money – Markup prices as much as 30%
  • Provide Value – Help retailers sell great products
  • Stiff Competition – Wholesale distribution is a crowded market
  • Tough Customers – Deal with demanding retail customers

Distribution and wholesale industry trends

Industry size and growth.

  • Industry size and past growth – The US wholesale trade market is worth $10.5 trillion in 2022 after growing 3.8% annually since 2017.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/wholesale-trade-united-states/ ))
  • Growth forecast – The global retail and wholesale market is expected to grow 9.5% annually through 2026.(( https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2022/06/01/2453860/0/en/Retail-And-Wholesale-Global-Market-Report-2022.html ))
  • Number of businesses – In 2022, 716,035 wholesale trade businesses operated in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/wholesale-trade-united-states/ ))
  • Number of people employed – In 2022, US wholesale trade businesses employed 6,705,023 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/wholesale-trade-united-states/ ))

distribution industry size and growth

Trends and challenges

Trends within the distribution industry include:

  • Health and wellness supplements, like ashwagandha and matcha tea, have become some of the most lucrative products for distribution businesses. 
  • Technological advancements have brought increased automation to distribution. Companies are now able to track stock levels and manage logistics in real time.

Challenges within the distribution industry include:

  • Retail customers can be extremely demanding, especially when it comes to shipping. As a distributor, you’re responsible for making sure customers get their products on time, which can be tough to manage when procuring products from overseas.
  • Large, big-box retailers like Costco are removing the middleman completely and buying directly from manufacturers. Offering services that manufacturers do not provide like inventory management can help wholesale distributors stay competitive.

distribution industry trends and challenges

What kind of people work in distribution?

  • Gender – 17% of distribution managers in the US are female, while 83% are male.(( https://www.zippia.com/distribution-manager-jobs/demographics/ ))
  • Average level of education – The average distribution manager has obtained a bachelor’s degree.
  • Average age – The average distribution manager in the US is 46 years old.

distribution industry demographics

How much does it cost to start a distribution business?

Startup costs for a distribution business range from $3,700 to $9,800. Main costs include a computer, a website, distribution software, and marketing expenses. If you decide to purchase or lease a warehouse to store inventory, costs will be much higher. 

Many wholesaler distributors make great money selling products on ecommerce platforms like Amazon. If you’re interested in learning more, sites like Udemy offer online courses for under $100 that can be completed in just a few hours. 

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your distribution business, including:

How much can you earn from a distribution business?

The average markup on wholesale products is 25%, and the pricing of your items will vary greatly depending on which products you sell. After factoring in operating costs, expect a profit margin of around 85%.

If you choose to run a distribution business that sells smartphone accessories, you could purchase them from a supplier at $10 a piece and sell them to retail customers at a 25% markup for $12.50. In your first year or two, you could work out of your home and sell 20,000 units per year, bringing in $50,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $43,000 in profit, assuming that 85% margin. 

As your business grows, sales could climb to 50,000 units a year as you increase your markup to 30%. At this stage, you would hire additional staff, reducing your profit margin to around 70%. With annual revenue of $150,000, you’d make a handsome profit of $105,000.

Use our markup calculator to calculate your sale price and how much revenue and profit you will earn with different markup percentages.

distribution business earnings forecast

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry when it comes to starting a distribution business. Your biggest hurdles will be:

  • Competition from other distributors
  • Finding reliable, high-quality manufacturers

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a distribution business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research distribution businesses in your area to examine their products, price points, and what sells best. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a wholesale distributor that offers custom branded packaging services.

distribution du business plan

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as cosmetics or educational materials.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

Wholesale distributors procure products in bulk from suppliers and then sell them to specialty retailers. The retailers then brand the items and sell them at a higher price point. Your business might also handle the storage of customer inventory, packaging and labeling, and shipping to end buyers.

How much should you charge for wholesale distribution?

Distributors make money by purchasing products in bulk and selling them to retailers at a markup. Pricing can vary greatly depending on which products you sell and the clients you serve. The average price markup is between 20% and 30%.  

If you store inventory out of your home or ship it directly from supplier to retail customer, your ongoing costs will be fairly low. Aim for a profit margin of 85%.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will be retailers who are looking to purchase products in bulk for resale. You’ll need to tailor your marketing efforts to the specific niche you serve. Advertise your products and services on social media sites like Instagram and Facebook. Consider networking with businesses on LinkedIn to generate additional leads.

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your business grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers for various roles and may need to rent out an office or warehouse. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

  • Central location accessible via public transport
  • Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
  • Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
  • Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

distribution business idea rating

Step 3: Brainstorm a Distribution Business Name

Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

  • Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
  • Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
  • Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
  • Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
  • Including keywords, such as “distributor” or “wholesale distribution”, boosts SEO
  • Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Reliable Distribution Co.” over “Beverage Distribution Services”
  • Avoid location-based names that might hinder future expansion
  • Use online tools like the Step by Step Business Name Generator . Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Distribution Business Plan

Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:

  • Executive Summary: A brief summary outlining the core aspects of the distribution business, including its mission, objectives, and key highlights.
  • Business Overview: A concise description of the distribution business, detailing its structure, industry, and the value it brings to the market.
  • Product and Services: Clear and specific details about the products or services the distribution business offers, emphasizing their unique selling points.
  • Market Analysis: An examination of the target market, including its size, trends, and potential for growth, to inform business strategies.
  • Competitive Analysis: A thorough evaluation of competitors in the distribution industry, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to the business.
  • Sales and Marketing: A strategic plan outlining how the distribution business will promote and sell its products or services to the target audience.
  • Management Team: Introduction of the key individuals responsible for leading and managing the distribution business, emphasizing their relevant experience and skills.
  • Operations Plan: Detailed information on the day-to-day activities and processes involved in running the distribution business efficiently.
  • Financial Plan: A comprehensive overview of the distribution business’s financial projections, including revenue, expenses, and profitability, to demonstrate its financial viability.
  • Appendix: Supplementary materials, such as additional data, charts, or documents, providing further support and context for the distribution business plan.

what to include in a business plan

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to distribution businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your distribution business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

  • Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
  • General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
  • C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
  • S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

types of business structures

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2023

distribution du business plan

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

distribution du business plan

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

  • Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
  • SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
  • Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
  • Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
  • Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
  • Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a distribution business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.  

types of business financing

Step 8: Apply for Distribution Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a distribution business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your distribution business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

  • General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
  • Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
  • Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
  • Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
  • Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
  • Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
  • Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
  • Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

types of business insurance

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as Zoey , Znode , or NetSuite to create quotes, track shipments, and run sales reports. 

  • Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
  • If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

For your distribution business, the strategy should focus on highlighting your efficiency, reliability, and the breadth of your distribution network. Emphasize your ability to streamline supply chains, your expertise in logistics, and your commitment to timely and accurate delivery.

The goal is to establish your business as a key partner for manufacturers and retailers, offering solutions that optimize their operations and enhance their market reach. Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

Kickstart Marketing

  • Professional Branding : Your branding should communicate efficiency, reliability, and logistical expertise. This includes everything from your logo and website to your fleet branding and staff uniforms.
  • Direct Outreach : Network with potential clients like manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. Attend trade shows, industry conferences, and business networking events to build connections.

Digital Presence and Online Marketing

  • Professional Website and SEO : Develop a comprehensive website that details your services, network reach, and client testimonials. Use SEO best practices to optimize your site for search terms related to distribution services, logistics solutions, and supply chain management.
  • Social Media Engagement : Utilize platforms like LinkedIn for B2B networking and sharing industry insights. Twitter can also be useful for sharing company news and logistics trends.

Content Marketing and Engagement

  • Logistics Blog : Share informative blog posts about supply chain optimization, industry trends, and case studies highlighting how your services have benefited other businesses.
  • Email Newsletters : Regularly send out newsletters to your clients and prospects with updates about your services, new logistics technologies, and market insights.
  • Webinars and Online Workshops : Host webinars or online workshops addressing common challenges in logistics and distribution and how your business offers solutions.

Experiential and In-Person Engagements

  • Facility Tours : Offer tours of your distribution centers to potential clients to showcase your capabilities and the technologies you use.
  • Participation in Industry Events : Be a visible presence at industry events, either through sponsoring, exhibiting, or speaking, to position your company as a thought leader.

Collaborations and Community

  • Partnerships with Complementary Businesses : Establish partnerships with businesses in complementary sectors, such as manufacturing or retail, for mutual client referrals.
  • Community Involvement : Engage in local community projects or sponsor events to enhance brand visibility and build goodwill.

Customer Relationship and Loyalty Programs

  • Customized Service Packages : Offer tailored service packages to meet the unique needs of individual clients, emphasizing the personalized approach of your business.
  • Client Retention Programs : Implement programs aimed at maintaining strong relationships with existing clients, such as regular business reviews or loyalty discounts.

Promotions and Advertising

  • Targeted B2B Advertising : Use digital advertising on industry-specific platforms and LinkedIn to reach businesses that could benefit from your distribution services.
  • Trade Publications and Online Forums : Regularly contribute to trade publications and online forums to demonstrate your expertise and stay top of mind with potential clients.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your distribution business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your distribution business could be:

  • High-quality goods shipped lightning fast!
  • Taking your retail outlet to the next level with top-notch products
  • World-class distribution at budget prices

unique selling proposition

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a wholesale distribution business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in product distribution for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in distribution. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a distribution business include:

  • Administrative Assistant – Track inventory, ship products to customers
  • Marketing Lead – Manage social media accounts, run advertising campaigns 
  • Accountant – Bookkeeping, tax preparation

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Distribution Business – Start Making Money!

Wholesale distribution is a profitable and fast-growing line of work. If you have a passion for product delivery and services, you could get in on the action, help retail businesses and build your own distribution empire!

You’ve done your homework and gained the insights needed for a successful launch, now it’s time to start achieving your distribution dreams.  

  • Distribution Business FAQs

Yes, distribution businesses can be extremely profitable. The key to success is finding the right product niche and using effective pricing strategies to generate the most revenue.

A distributor will likely make more than a wholesaler since they work with higher volume clients. It depends somewhat on the industry.

You have to find your niche, perhaps an underserved niche. Then you need to develop a successful track record that you can market.

You have to be a good sales person and a good negotiator. You also need to develop good relationships to get repeat orders.

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  • Decide if the Business Is Right for You
  • Hone Your Idea
  • Brainstorm a Distribution Business Name
  • Create a Distribution Business Plan
  • Register Your Business
  • Register for Taxes
  • Fund your Business
  • Apply for Distribution Business Licenses and Permits
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get Business Insurance
  • Prepare to Launch
  • Build Your Team
  • Run a Distribution Business - Start Making Money!

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How to Build a Distribution Business in 15 Easy Steps (2023)

How to Build a Distribution Business

In this post, I am going to show you how to build a distribution business in 15 easy steps. Distribution is the vital link between producers and retailers of goods. In many cases, a distributor serves as a buffer between the two, so each party can have more control over their respective operations. But to be honest with you, this is not just for businesses. Distributors also make it easier for companies and individuals to have access to a variety of resources that meet their needs. When you look at the whole chain from distributors to producers, you can use many different distribution models in your business. These range from the traditional three-tier model used in most retail companies today, to the two-tiered approach popularized by many franchise businesses.

A distribution business is an excellent way to start your own business. It is one of the most popular ways to start a business because it is easy to set up and manage. This means you can start doing it as soon as possible so that you can earn some money for your family.

However, if you are new in this field, then you should know that the distribution business is not as simple as it seems to be. For this reason, we have prepared this article for you which will guide you through all the steps that you need to follow while starting a distribution business.

Step 1: Write your Distribution Business Plan

The first step in starting your own distribution business is writing a distribution plan or strategy. You should know what kind of products will sell best in your area and how much money people are willing to spend on these items. In addition, you also need to identify specific customers who will buy these products at fair prices and high-quality standards.

Before you can begin building your distribution business, it’s important to understand what you’re getting yourself into. 

If you haven’t already done so, write a business plan for your distribution company. It doesn’t have to be a formal document, but it should contain the following information:

  • A description of the products or services you intend to distribute.
  • The geographic area you intend to service.
  • An estimate of your sales and costs for your first year in business.
  • A description of how you will use working capital (cash) and long-term financing to fund operations until profits begin flowing.
  • A list of resources you will need in order to open for business — including equipment, supplies, and personnel (employees).

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Step 2: Select your product

The first step in building a distribution business is to select your product. There are many different products that you could sell, but you need to make sure that you have enough capital and that the product offers good margins. When it comes to selecting a product, consider what will be the most profitable for your business. If you’re not sure which products offer good margins, check out our guide on how to find profitable products to sell.

Step 3: Form a legal entity+

In order to start selling products, you need to form a legal entity and register it with the government. This is because selling products requires a lot of paperwork and taxes that need to be paid by an individual can be very complicated. By forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company), you can protect yourself from any liability issues since it protects personal assets from creditors if something goes wrong with the company. The good thing about forming an LLC is that you don’t have any limits on how many members there are in your business or how many shareholders you have; however, there are some restrictions on who can form one (only individuals).

Step 4:  Establish your niche

Once you’ve decided on a product, it’s time to decide what kind of distribution model you want to pursue. There are two basic options: retail, wholesale, and drop shipping.

Retail sales

The most obvious option is to open a physical store that sells your products directly to customers. This is probably how you think about starting a business, since it’s the easiest way to get started and see immediate results. The downside is that running a brick-and-mortar store is expensive and time-consuming — and if you don’t have experience running one, it can be difficult to succeed at first (especially if you don’t have any prior ecommerce experience).

Wholesale distribution

Another way to distribute your products is by working with other retailers who already have established customer bases. This means signing up with distributors and wholesalers who will handle order fulfillment for you (i.e., get your products from the manufacturer and ship them directly to customers). This can be an appealing option because it lets you focus on selling rather than logistics or customer service — but it also means getting paid less per sale because there are multiple layers of markup.

Step 5: Decide if you want to be an independent distributor or a direct sales rep

Independent distributors are independent contractors who sell products and services on behalf of the company. Direct sales reps work for themselves, but they represent a specific company and earn income from selling its products or services. Both types of distributors must register with the state and federal governments as self-employed businesses.

Step 6: Register your business name and get your business license if necessary

If you’re going to be selling products directly to consumers, you’ll need a seller’s permit or retail license in most states. If you’re going to be selling products through retail establishments or other wholesale channels, you may not need this registration at all — check with your state government to find out what’s required where you live.

Step 7: Register for taxes

As an independent contractor, you’ll need to pay self-employment taxes on any income from your new business — including any bonuses or commissions that might come along in later years. You may also have to pay income taxes if your monthly income reaches certain thresholds (typically $400/mo for individuals in most states). It’s always best to consult with a tax expert before launching any new enterprise.

Step 8: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Before you start your distribution business, you’ll need to obtain all the licenses, permits and other documents required by your state. These may include:

Business license. Every state has its own rules for starting a business, but most require a business license issued by your county or city government. You can usually apply online for a business license, although some jurisdictions require you to visit your county clerk’s office in person. Depending on where you live, the cost of a license may range from $25 to $100 for each location in your business.

Sales tax license. Every state requires businesses that make sales within its borders to register with that state’s Department of Revenue and obtain a sales tax identification number (STID). You can register online using an application form available on the website of the department or by calling their customer service center at 800-252-8980. The cost is generally $30-$50 annually per location in your business.

Employee identification number (EIN). Also known as an Employer Identification Number (EIN), this is another type of identification number that’s used when reporting taxes on income generated by self-employment and sole proprietorship

Step 7: Get business insurance

It’s important to have proper insurance coverage in place before opening your doors. This will protect you if someone is injured or there’s damage to property, as well as protect against liability claims if someone gets sick after eating at your restaurant. You’ll also want to make sure that all of your employees are covered by workers’ compensation insurance.

Step 8: Define your brand

The next step is defining what makes your restaurant unique and what sets it apart from other restaurants in the area. A strong brand helps set new restaurants apart from the competition, so take some time to think about how you want to present yourself — and how you want people to perceive you.

Step 9: Set up your online presence

If you’re going to be selling products or services on a website, it’s important that people can find you online. So if you don’t already have a website, now is the time to create one! If you do already have one, make sure it’s up-to-date and easy to navigate.

Step 10: Establish an accounting system/bookkeeping process now – so you’re not scrambling at tax time!

You’re going to need some way of tracking all of your expenses, income, and other financial records so that when tax time comes around each year (and it will!) you can easily file all of those forms and get money back from the government if necessary. The best way to do this is by setting up some sort of accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero so that everything is neatly organized by category and date, with no confusion about where the money went or came from and when it was spent or earned.

Step 11. Develop your business skills

The first step to building a distribution business is to develop your business skills. This means learning about inventory management, customer service, sales, marketing and other areas of the business. Even if you have never worked in the industry before, there are many resources available online that can help you learn what it takes to run a successful distribution company.

Step 12: Contact manufacturers

Once you have learned some basic skills, contact manufacturers directly and ask them if they would like to sell their products through your distribution channel. This may be easier said than done because many manufacturers don’t sell directly to distributors or wholesalers; instead, they prefer to sell directly to retailers or customers who buy direct from their website. However, some manufacturers will be willing to work with a new distributor and might even offer special incentives for new partners. For example, they might give you a discount on their products or allow you access to special promotions that aren’t available elsewhere.

Step 13: Consult with retailers

Consult with local retailers about their needs for new product lines and services. Offer yourself as a consultant by providing them with advice on ways to improve their sales and profits through better merchandising practices or by helping them find new products that will appeal more directly to their customers than what they currently offer in their stores.

Key Takeaway 

Distribution is a field that requires constant growth and renovation for the operating company to compete successfully in the marketplace. From simply adopting new technologies to battling larger companies, entrepreneurs need to stay ahead of their competition. 

The time is nigh for ethical, sustainable, niche-driven business owners from all over the world to assemble, and together we will positively transform our industries. Our businesses will give back in many ways. We are on the precipice of a revolution, a movement that has already begun by some. And you’re cordially invited to join us. Consider this an invitation to start your own distribution business. Here are 15 steps that’ll get you there.

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Introduction

Understanding distribution plans and how to develop them is paramount to the success of any business.

A distribution plan is a strategy that determines how, when and where a company product will be sold to their customers. This plan indicates who, what, where and how products are purchased and delivered. It encompasses product promotion, pricing strategies, delivery methods, stock control and even customer service.

Planning and designing a successful distribution plan can be key to the profitable growth of a business. For example, if a retail company identifies a niche market they can use this knowledge to tailor their product offering and delivery methods.

Assets Needed for a Distribution Plan

Designing an effective product distribution strategy requires research, analysis, and an understanding of the various steps and resources needed to implement it. In order to create a comprehensive distribution plan, businesses need to assess the assets required to successfully execute. To get started, a business needs data that includes information about its product or service and an understanding of the customer demographics and demand. Finally, the business needs to identify the best distribution channels, taking into account factors such as cost, ease of use, and potential for growth.

Data on Your Product Type

When creating your distribution plan, the first step is to assemble relevant data and insights about your product type. This should include information such as customer preferences, the competition’s network and channel strategies, current trends in the industry, and customer feedback. Gathering this data will enable you to determine the best strategies for marketing and distribution.

Analyzing Customer Demographics and Demand

The next step is to research customer demographics. Understanding your customers is critical for any successful product launch, so ask yourself questions such as who is likely to be interested in the product and why. Knowing customer information such as age, gender, location, preferences, purchasing power, and interests can help you develop a more targeted distribution plan. Additionally, analyzing customer demand is important because levels of demand can determine which distribution channels are best for the product.

Identifying Best Potential Distribution Channels

Once you have a better understanding of customer demographics and demand, you can begin identifying the most suitable distribution channels for your product. Consider criteria such as cost, ease of access, time to market, scalability, and customer convenience. Additionally, it is important to research the various distribution centers in order to understand their capabilities and identify any obstacles or limitations. Once you have completed this research and identified the best potential channels, you can begin developing a plan that works for your business.

3. Planning Out Your Supply Chain

Creating a logistical plan for your business’s distribution needs begins with an analysis of what your target market's needs are, and how these needs can be met in the most cost-effective and efficient manner. All of this takes place within the framework of any associated legal restrictions, so the planning and implementation process of your distribution should cover the following points:

a. Consider any legal restrictions related to your business

Depending on where your business operates, there may be local, state, and federal laws that govern your business operations. Additionally, factors such as taxes, permits, currency regulations and tariff regulations must be taken into account. Having a legal advisor during the in-depth planning process of your distribution plan is essential for ensuring that you are complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

b. Selecting the most cost-effective supplier and routes

Once the legal framework around your business has been established, your next step is to select the appropriate supplier for the type of product(s) you are selling. Researching multiple options and engaging in a competitive bidding process can help you get the best quality product at the lowest price. Additionally, consider whether outsourcing your production requirements is a viable option. If that’s the case, researching outsource providers and cost analysis should be part of this process. Finally, your routes selection should take into consideration the most efficient ways of transporting goods from purchase origin to delivery destination.

c. Prioritizing on-time delivery

Timely delivery of goods is essential to any business, especially those offering minimum lead times for customers. It is important to consider delay possibilities resulting from bad weather, missed delivery targets, labor strikes, and other liabilities. Additionally, having backup plans for emergency scenarios helps minimize any potential disruptions in the supply chain. Make sure to consider all of the steps in the distribution process and plan accordingly with contingencies in place for any eventuality.

Once the distribution plan and the logistical layout has been properly established, the underlying technology and tools must be implemented. Data-driven tools, AI-based applications, and predictive analytics all help with optimizing the supply chain operations, helping to improve the efficiency of the distribution process.

Devising a Plan for Reaching Customers

A distribution plan is a vital operation for any business. It not only decides what customer your business will be targeting but also establishes the price and discounts that your business offers. A comprehensive and well-devised distribution plan is essential to increase the reach of your business and generate sales.

Decide between direct-to-consumer or distributor

The first step in devising a distribution plan for your business is to decide whether you want to sell your product directly to consumers or through distributors. If you choose to use distributors, you can expand your customer network and give yourself more flexibility to create numerous pricing models and discounts. Additionally, you can benefit from the existing customer networks that distributors already have.

Establish pricing and discounts for channels

Once you have decided whether to implement a direct-to-consumer or distributor model, you need to decide on pricing and discounts for each channel. This will enable you to maximize profits while also gaining customer loyalty. You must also decide whether or not you offer the same discounts to each channel or tailor the discounts to different types of customers. Furthermore, it is essential to keep track of pricing in different channels and stay competitive in the market.

Researching and selecting suitable channels for your business

Finding the right channel for your business is critically important. Research different channels available to identify which one suits your target market and budget. You should also consider factors such as the return policy of the channel, their shipping services, the speed of delivery, the needed technology and the customer service offered. Once you have done the research, you can narrow down the available channels to pick the one that best meets your goals.

To conclude, designing a distribution plan for your business requires research and understanding of the customer networks. Deciding between a direct-to-consumer or distributor model, establishing pricing and discounts, and researching and selecting suitable channels for your business are all important aspects of devising a successful distribution plan.

Creating a Comprehensive Distribution Plan

When creating a distribution plan for your business, the focus should be on constructing a plan that will ensure the successful growth of your business while also ensuring the smooth functioning of all the associated activities. Having a detailed plan that takes into consideration all aspects of your distribution strategy will be crucial in the long run, providing you with clear guidance and expectations to foster growth and enable effective planning.

Assign Roles and Responsibilities for Each Team within the Business

In order to ensure the success of the distribution plan, it is essential to assign roles and responsibilities that clearly defines each team’s roles within the plan. This will assist in understanding who is responsible for which tasks, allowing for clear communication and smoother execution of the plan. It is important to set clear expectations for each team member’s roles and the goals that need to be achieved by each team within the plan.

Set Clear Timelines and Performance Metrics

Establishing clear timelines and performance metrics will be critical in setting expectations for both teams and individual workers. This will help ensure that milestones for the plan are met on time, with benchmarks used to measure progress and assess how expectations are being met. Doing this will help keep the plan on track, helping to stay ahead of any potential delays and having a reliable plan to return to if needed.

Define How to Manage Adjustments and Changes in the Plan

As the business grows, it is likely that the plan will need to be adjusted to reflect recent changes or take into consideration new objectives that have been set. Preparing for how to manage adjustments and changes in the plan will be needed to ensure the plan remains up-to-date. Anticipating how changes may occur and defining a process for making these alterations to the plan will help ensure that the strategy stays relevant and that any issues are efficiently dealt with.

Monitoring and Refining the Distribution Plan

Once the distribution plan is in place, it is important to track its performance on an ongoing basis. On-going monitoring of the plan provides important insights on how effectively it is meeting desired goals. Depending on the scale of the business, this may be tracked by an external firm or kept intenally by a designated team.

Track Performance of Each Stage of the Distribution Chain

Tracking performance of each stage in the distribution chain helps you identify inefficiencies and identify where investments are needed for improvement. It also helps you understand how different strategies and tactics are working in reality, so that you can make adjustments accordingly. Aspects to monitor include delivery time, order accuracy, inventory issues, returns and customer satisfaction.

Assess Whether Your Plan Is Meeting Desired Goals

To ensure that your distribution plan is working well, it is important to assess whether the desired goals and objectives you had initially planned for have been met. This helps measure success and gives you a better understanding of how to adjust the plan, if required.

Update the Plan as Needed To Ensure the Continued Success of Your Business

On the basis of the results from your assessments, it is important to refine the plan and make changes to ensure the continued success of your business. This could involve upgrading existing technologies, adding new partners in the chain or changing tactics to better optimize the plan. It is crucial to remain agile and adaptable for a successful and sustainable distribution strategy, as the market environment is ever changing.

Creating a successful distribution plan for your business is essential for its ongoing growth and profitability. A well-designed plan will ensure your product or service reaches consumer markets effectively, cutting costs and increasing customer satisfaction. By investing in your distribution plan, you can bring a competitive edge to your business and remain successful in the long run.

To keep your distribution plan effective, it is important to review it regularly. This will help you evaluate how well the current plan is performing against your goals and identify areas for improvement. By identifying and optimizing any existing gaps in the system, you can take advantage of new opportunities, use insights to boost your competitive advantage, and make changes to keep up with shifting market demands.

Finally, it is important to partner with reliable, reputable distributors and suppliers to ensure the smooth flow of goods throughout the supply chain. Establishing strong relationships with these partners will help you to further optimize your distribution plan, ensuring that your product or service is reaching the highest potential in delivery and customer satisfaction.

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How to Start a Distribution Business

Last Updated: December 14, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Art Lewin . Art Lewin is an Entrepreneur based in Los Angeles, California. He specializes in business, sales, marketing, and real estate investing. Art is the CEO and Founder of four companies based in Los Angeles: Art Lewin Bespoke, Healthy Choice Labs, SFR Properties, and Professional Business Network (PBN). Art is known globally for his exclusive custom-made and ready-to-wear business wear designs. Some of his notable clients include royal family members, politicians, and Hollywood stars including Hugh Hefner, Sylvester Stallone, Johnny Carson, Steve Allen, and William Shatner. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 94% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 341,136 times.

Getting into product distribution means entering a big industry. For example, there are roughly 300,000 distributors in the United States that produce a combined $3.2 trillion in annual revenue. Despite this large number of participants, the fragmented and competitive nature of the industry allows for plenty of profitable new entrants. [1] X Research source With some planning and entrepreneurial spirit, you too can be on your way to owning a successful distribution business.

Creating a Business Strategy

Step 1 Decide what type of distribution business you will run.

  • While many large companies are served by equally large distributors, these distributors are unwilling or unable to serve smaller, more specialized business. A good idea, especially in a crowded market like beverage distribution, might be to provide niche products to these specialized retailers. [2] X Research source

Step 3 Put together a business plan that lays out the full vision of your new distribution business.

  • Writing a business plan can be the most complicated part of starting a small business. For more information, see how to write a business plan for a small business .

Step 4 Estimate your startup costs.

  • For an example of how much costs can vary, two successful business in different markets started with $700 and $1.5 million, respectively. The first, a tie company, started with such a small amount because the business was run from home, started with low inventory costs, and didn't require any equipment to manage. The second, a fine wine retailer, had expensive product to buy, had to rent a large warehouse, and had high operating expenses like temperature-controlling the warehouse and investing in equipment to transport the product around the warehouse and to customers. [5] X Research source
  • The advent of online distribution has also created new options for distribution businesses. One of these, drop-shipping, allows for distributors to avoid all inventory control and shipping issues by never taking physical possession of the product. Never taking control of inventory means that your initial investment can be much lower. However, this a crowded market that can be difficult to make money in. See how to start a drop shipping business for more information.

Step 5 Figure out how to sell your products.

  • As part of selling, put together a marketing plan so that you can promote your services. This may include the costs of printing brochures, creating catalogues detailing your offerings, and placing ads in trade journals or magazines. As a small business, you can expect to do a lot of marketing for the first few years until you have a good-sized customer base and have established a reputation. See how to create a marketing plan for more information.

Step 6 Determine how you will be funding your business.

Getting Your Business Started

Step 1 Form your company legally.

  • The primary advantage of forming a company is that your finances will be legally separated from those of your company. This minimizes risk to you in the event that your business is sued or goes into bankruptcy.

Step 2 Make your business official by getting it licensed and registered.

  • It is conceivable that a successful distribution business could be built and run from your home. This depends on the physical size of your inventory, however.

Step 4 Contact manufacturers or wholesalers of your products.

  • Don't buy too much inventory, especially at first.
  • Try to estimate your customer's needs before you invest in inventory.
  • If you can get away with low overhead (storing items at home or at a cheap location) at first, go for it.
  • Purchase inventory to a point where you can sell that inventory before you have to pay the manufacturer or distributor for it. [9] X Research source

Step 6 Create a website for your business.

  • You can also invest in search engine optimization (SEO) that directs potential customers directly to your website by placing it higher in search engine results. See how to improve search engine optimization for more information.

Step 7 Design a catalog that lays out your products.

Community Q&A

Wale Adams

  • Distribution is all about covering the spread, or making sure that you charge enough for your products to cover your cost in buying them and your operating expenses with a bit left over for you to keep as profit. A good model in determining your prices is to copy the markup used by the manufacturer. For example, if they produce as a product for $5 and sell it to you for $10 (a 100% markup), you should sell the product for $20 (a 100% markup from $10). This, of course, is only a general guideline. [10] X Research source What you end up charging for your product will also depend on your market and your competitor's prices. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

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Start a Small Business

  • ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/190460
  • ↑ Art Lewin. Entrepreneur. Expert Interview. 11 June 2021.

About This Article

Art Lewin

To start a distribution business, contact your local Small Business Administration to help your company get licensed and registered. Then, you'll need to find a location where you can run your business. To keep your costs low, rent the smallest location you can, or work from home if your inventory is limited. To start getting inventory, contact the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors. Once you are ready to make sales, develop a website and catalog so that you can market and sell your products. For information about developing a business plan, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Start a Wholesale Distribution Business Buy low, sell high: A background in sales and a keen eye for popular merchandise are the keys to success as a wholesale distributor.

Editor's note: This article was excerpted from our Wholesale Business Distribution start-up guide , available from Entrepreneur Bookstore.

So you want to start a wholesale distributorship. Whether you're currently a white-collar professional, a manager worried about being downsized, or bored with your current job, this may be the right business for you. Much like the merchant traders of the 18th century, you'll be trading goods for profit. And while the romantic notion of standing on a dock in the dead of night haggling over a tea shipment may be a bit far-fetched, the modern-day wholesale distributor evolved from those hardy traders who bought and sold goods hundreds of years ago.

The Distributor's Role

According to U.S. Industry and Trade Outlook, published by The McGraw-Hill Companies and the U.S. Department of Commerce/International Trade Administration, wholesale trade includes establishments that sell products to retailers, merchants, contractors and/or industrial, institutional and commercial users. Wholesale distribution firms, which sell both durable goods (furniture, office equipment, industrial supplies and other goods that can be used repeatedly) and nondurable goods (printing and writing paper, groceries, chemicals and periodicals), don't sell to ultimate household consumers.

Three types of operations can perform the functions of wholesale trade: wholesale distributors; manufacturers' sales branches and offices; and agents, brokers and commission agents. As a wholesale distributor, you will probably run an independently owned and operated firm that buys and sells products of which you have taken ownership. Generally, such operations are run from one or more warehouses where inventory goods are received and later shipped to customers.

Put simply, as the owner of a wholesale distributorship, you will be buying goods to sell at a profit, much like a retailer would. The only difference is that you'll be working in a business-to-business realm by selling to retail companies and other wholesale firms like your own, and not to the buying public. This is, however, somewhat of a traditional definition. For example, companies like Sam's Club and BJ's Warehouse have been using warehouse membership clubs, where consumers are able to buy at what appear to be wholesale prices, for some time now, thus blurring the lines. However, the traditional wholesale distributor is still the one who buys "from the source" and sells to a reseller.

Getting Into the Game

The field of wholesale distribution is a true buying and selling game-one that requires good negotiation skills, a nose for sniffing out the next "hot" item in your particular category, and keen salesmanship. The idea is to buy the product at a low price, then make a profit by tacking on a dollar amount that still makes the deal attractive to your customer.

Experts agree that to succeed in the wholesale distribution business, an individual should possess a varied job background. Most experts feel a sales background is necessary, as are the "people skills" that go with being an outside salesperson who hits the streets and/or picks up the phone and goes on a cold-calling spree to search for new customers.

In addition to sales skills, the owner of a new wholesale distribution company will need the operational skills necessary for running such a company. For example, finance and business management skills and experience are necessary, as is the ability to handle the "back end" (those activities that go on behind the scenes, like warehouse setup and organization, shipping and receiving, customer service, etc.). Of course, these back-end functions can also be handled by employees with experience in these areas if your budget allows.

"Operating very efficiently and turning your inventory over quickly are the keys to making money," says Adam Fein, president of Pembroke Consulting Inc., a Philadelphia strategic consulting firm. "It's a service business that deals with business customers, as opposed to general consumers. The startup entrepreneur must be able to understand customer needs and learn how to serve them well."

According to Fein, hundreds of new wholesale distribution businesses are started every year, typically by ex-salespeople from larger distributors who break out on their own with a few clients in tow. "Whether they can grow the firm and really become a long-term entity is the much more difficult guess," says Fein. "Success in wholesale distribution involves moving from a customer service/sales orientation to the operational process of managing a very complex business."

Setting Up Shop

According to Fein, wholesale distribution companies are frequently started in areas where land is not too expensive and where buying or renting warehouse space is affordable. "Generally, wholesale distributors are not located in downtown shopping areas, but off the beaten path," says Fein. "If, for example, you're serving building or electrical contractors, you'll need to choose a location in close proximity to them in order to be accessible as they go about their jobs."

State of the Industry

And that's not all: Every year, U.S. retail cash registers and online merchants ring up about $3.6 trillion in sales, and of that, about a quarter comes from general merchandise, apparel and furniture sales (GAF). This is a positive for wholesale distributors, who rely heavily on retailers as customers. To measure the scope of GAF, try to imagine every consumer item sold, then remove the cars, building materials and food. The rest, including computers, clothing, sports equipment and other items, fall into the GAF total. Such goods come directly from manufacturers or through wholesalers and brokers. Then they are sold in department, high-volume and specialty stores-all of which will make up your client base once you open the doors of your wholesale distribution firm.

All this is good news for the startup entrepreneur looking to launch a wholesale distribution company. However, there are a few dangers that you should be aware of. For starters, consolidation is rampant in this industry. Some sectors are contracting more quickly than others. For example, pharmaceutical wholesaling has consolidated more than just about any other sector, according to Fein. Since 1975, mergers and acquisitions have reduced the number of U.S. companies in that sector from 200 to about 50. And the largest four companies control more than 80 percent of the distribution market.

To combat the consolidation trend, many independent distributors are turning to the specialty market. "Many entrepreneurs are finding success by picking up the golden crumbs that are left on the table by the national companies," Fein says. "As distribution has evolved from a local to a regional to a national business, the national companies [can't or don't want to] cost-effectively service certain types of customers. Often, small customers get left behind or are just not [profitable] for the large distributors to serve."

Starting Out

For entrepreneurs looking to start their own wholesale distributorship, there are basically three avenues to choose from: buy an existing business, start from scratch or buy into a business opportunity. Buying an existing business can be costly and may even be risky, depending on the level of success and reputation of the distributorship you want to buy. The positive side of buying a business is that you can probably tap into the seller's knowledge bank, and you may even inherit his or her existing client base, which could prove extremely valuable.

The second option, starting from scratch, can also be costly, but it allows for a true "make or break it yourself" scenario that is guaranteed not to be preceded by an existing owner's reputation. On the downside, you will be building a reputation from scratch, which means lots of sales and marketing for at least the first two years or until your client base is large enough to reach critical mass.

The last option is perhaps the most risky, as all business opportunities must be thoroughly explored before any money or precious time is invested. However, the right opportunity can mean support, training and quick success if the originating company has already proven itself to be profitable, reputable and durable.

During the startup process, you'll also need to assess your own financial situation and decide if you're going to start your business on a full- or part-time basis. A full-time commitment probably means quicker success, mainly because you will be devoting all your time to the new company's success.

Because the amount of startup capital necessary will be highly dependent on what you choose to sell, the numbers vary. For instance, an Ohio-based wholesale distributor of men's ties and belts started his company with $700 worth of closeout ties bought from the manufacturer and a few basic pieces of office equipment. At the higher end of the spectrum, a Virginia-based distributor of fine wines started with $1.5 million used mainly for inventory, a large warehouse, internal necessities (pallet racking, pallets, forklift), and a few Chevrolet Astro vans for delivery.

Like most startups, the average wholesale distributor will need to be in business two to five years to be profitable. There are exceptions, of course. Take, for example, the ambitious entrepreneur who sets up his garage as a warehouse to stock full of small hand tools. Using his own vehicle and relying on the low overhead that his home provides, he could conceivably start making money within six to 12 months.

"Wholesale distribution is a very large segment of the economy and constitutes about 7 percent of the nation's GDP," says Pembroke Consulting Inc.'s Fein. "That said, there are many different subsegments and industries within the realm of wholesale distribution, and some offer much greater opportunities than others."

Among those subsegments are wholesale distributors that specialize in a unique niche (e.g., the distributor that sells specialty foods to grocery stores), larger distributors that sell everything from soup to nuts (e.g., the distributor with warehouses nationwide and a large stock of various, unrelated closeout items), and midsized distributors who choose an industry (hand tools, for example) and offer a variety of products to myriad customers.

The cornerstone of every distribution cycle, however, is the basic flow of product from manufacturer to distributor to customer. As a wholesale distributor, your position on that supply chain (a supply chain is a set of resources and processes that begins with the sourcing of raw material and extends through the delivery of items to the final consumer) will involve matching up the manufacturer and customer by obtaining quality products at a reasonable price and then selling them to the companies that need them.

In its simplest form, distribution means purchasing a product from a source-usually a manufacturer, but sometimes another distributor-and selling it to your customer. As a wholesale distributor, you will specialize in selling to customers-and even other distributors-who are in the business of selling to end users (usually the general public). It's one of the purest examples of the business-to-business function, as opposed to a business-to-consumer function, in which companies sell to the general public.

Weighing It Out: Operating Costs

Regardless of where a distributor sets up shop, some basic operating costs apply across the board. For starters, necessities like office space, a telephone, fax machine and personal computer will make up the core of your business. This means an office rental fee if you're working from anywhere but home, a telephone bill and ISP fees for getting on the internet.

No matter what type of products you plan to carry, you'll need some type of warehouse or storage space in which to store them; this means a leasing fee. Remember that if you lease a warehouse that has room for office space, you can combine both on one bill. If you're delivering locally, you'll also need an adequate vehicle to get around in. If your customer base is located further than 40 miles from your home base, then you'll also need to set up a working relationship with one or more shipping companies like UPS, FedEx or the U.S. Postal Service. Most distributors serve a mixed client base; some of the merchandise you move can be delivered via truck, while some will require shipping services

While they may sound a bit overwhelming, the above necessities don't always have to be expensive-especially not during the startup phase. For example, Keith Schwartz, owner of On Target Promotions, started his wholesale tie and belt distributorship from the corner of his living room. With no equipment other than a phone, fax machine and computer, he grew his company from the living room to the basement to the garage and then into a shared warehouse space (the entire process took five years). Today, the firm operates from a 50,000-square-foot distribution center in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. According to Schwartz, the firm has grown into a designer and importer of men's ties, belts, socks, wallets, photo frames and more.

To avoid liability early on in his entrepreneurial venture, Schwartz rented pallet space in someone else's warehouse, where he stored his closeout ties and belts. This meant lower overhead for the entrepreneur, along with no utility bills, leases or costly insurance policies in his name. In fact, it wasn't until he penned a deal with a Michigan distributor for a large project that he had to store product and relabel the closeout ties with his firm's own insignia. As a result, he finally rented a 1,000-square-foot warehouse space. But even that was shared, this time with another Ohio distributor. "I don't believe in having any liability if I don't have to have it," he says. "A warehouse is a liability."

The Day-to-Day Routine

"One reason that wholesale distributors have increased their share of total wholesale sales is that they can perform these functions more effectively and efficiently than manufacturers or customers," comments Fein.

To handle all these tasks and whatever else may come their way during the course of the day, most distributors rely on specialized software packages that tackle such functions as inventory control, shipping and receiving, accounting, client management, and bar-coding (the application of computerized UPC codes to track inventory).

And while not every distributor has adopted the high-tech way of doing business, those who have are reaping the rewards of their investments. Redondo Beach, California-based yoga and fitness distributor YogaFit Inc., for example, has been slowly tweaking its automation strategy over the past few years, according to Beth Shaw, founder and president. Shaw says the 25-employee company sells through a website that tracks orders and manages inventory, and the company also makes use of networking among its various computers and a database management program to maintain and update client information. In business since 1994, Shaw says technology has helped increase productivity while cutting down on the amount of time spent on repetitive activities, such as entering addresses used to create mailing labels for catalogs and individual orders. Adds Shaw, "It's imperative that any new distributor realize from day one that technology will make their lives much, much easier."

Who Are Your Customers?

Because every company relies on a pool of customers to sell its products and/or services to, the next logical step in the startup process involves defining exactly who will be included in that pool. Defining this group early on will allow you to develop business strategies, define your mission or answer the question "why am I in business?" and tailor your operations to meet the needs of your customer base.

As a wholesale distributor, your choice of customers includes:

Retail businesses: This includes establishments like grocery stores, independent retail stores, large department stores and power retailers like Wal-Mart and Target.

Retail distributors: This includes the distributors who sell to those retailers that you may find impenetrable on your own. For example, if you can't "get in" at a power retailer like Wal-Mart, you may be able to sell to one of its distributors.

Exporters: These are companies that collect United States-manufactured goods and ship them overseas.

Other wholesale distributors: It's always best to buy from the source, but that isn't always possible, due to exclusive contracts and issues like one-time needs (e.g., a distributor who needs 10 hard hats for a customer who is particular about buying one brand). For this reason, wholesale distributors often find themselves selling to other distributors.

The federal government: Uncle Sam is always looking for items that wholesale distributors sell. In fact, for wholesale distributors, selling to the government presents a great opportunity. For the most part, it's a matter of filling out the appropriate forms and getting on a "bid list." After you become an official government supplier, the various buying agencies will either fax or e-mail you requests for bids for materials needed by schools, various agencies, shipyards and other facilities.

For a small wholesale distributor, there are some great advantages to selling to the government, but the process can also be challenging in that such orders often require a lengthy bidding process before any contracts are awarded. Since opening her Redondo Beach, California, distributorship in 1994, Beth Shaw of YogaFit Inc. says she's made several successful sales to the government. Currently, the firm sells its exercise education programs and several styles of yoga mats to Army bases and other entities. Calling government sales "a good avenue" for wholesale distributors, Shaw says it's also one that's often overlooked, "especially by small businesses."

Finding a Profitable Niche

In other words, what matters is not so much what you sell, but how you sell it. There are profitable opportunities in every industry-from beauty supplies to hand tools, beverages to snack foods. No matter what they're selling, wholesale distributors are discovering ways to reaffirm their value to suppliers and customers by revealing the superior service they have to offer, as well as the cost-saving efficiencies created by those services. This mind-set opens up a wealth of opportunities to provide greater attention to the individual needs of customers, a chance to develop margin growth, and greater flexibility in product offerings and diversification of the business.

The whole trick, of course, is to find that niche and make it work for you. In wholesale distribution, a niche is a particular area where your company can most excel and prosper-be it selling tie-dyed T-shirts, roller bearings or sneakers. While some entrepreneurs may find their niche in a diverse area (for example, closeout goods purchased from manufacturers), others may wish to specialize (unique barstools that will be sold to regional bars and pubs).

On the other side of the coin, too much product and geographical specialization can hamper success. Take the barstool example. Let's say you were going to go with this idea but that in six months you'd already sold as many barstools as you could to the customer base within a 50-mile radius of your location. At that point, you would want to diversify your offerings, perhaps adding other bar-related items like dartboards, pool cues and other types of chairs.

The decision is yours: You can go into the wholesale distribution arena with a full menu of goods or a limited selection. Usually, that decision will be based on your finances, the amount of time you'll be able to devote to the business, and the resources available to you. Regardless of the choices you make, remember that market research provides critical information that enables a business to successfully go to market, and wholesale distributors should do as much as they can-on an ongoing basis. It is better to do simple research routinely than to shell out a lot of money once on a big research information project that may quickly become outdated.

Pinpointing a Startup Number

While entrepreneurs in some industries seem to be able to raise money with a snap of their fingers, most have to take a more detailed approach to the process. Perhaps the best starting point is to figure out just how much you need.

In the wholesale distribution sector, startup numbers vary widely, depending on what type of company you're starting, how much inventory will be necessary and what type of delivery systems you'll be using. For example, Keith Schwartz, who got his start selling belts and ties from his basement in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, started On Target Promotions with $700, while Don Mikovch, president of the wine distributor Borvin Beverage in Alexandria, Virginia, required $1.5 million. While Schwartz worked from a desk and only needed a small area in which to store his goods, Mikovch required a large amount of specialized storage space for his wines-and a safe method of transporting the bottles to his retailers.

The basic equipment needed for your wholesale distributorship will be highly dependent on what you choose to sell. If you plan to stock heavy items, then you should invest in a forklift (some run on fuel or propane, others are man-powered) to save yourself some strain. Pallets are useful for stocking and pallet racking is used to store the pallets and keep them in order for inventory purposes.

For distributors who are sourcing, storing and selling bulky goods (such as floor tile, for example), a warehouse of sufficient size (based on the size of products you're selling and the amount of inventory you'll be stocking) is a necessity. To ensure that the distribution process operates smoothly, select a location that allows you to move around efficiently and that includes the necessary storage equipment (such as pallet racking, on which you can store pallets). Don't forget to leave room for a forklift to be able to maneuver between racks of pallets and shelves stored in the warehouse.

As a startup distributor, your initial inventory investment will depend on what you're selling. Expect to carry some inventory, no matter what the product is, but also understand that your choice of goods will have some effect on how much you'll need to shell out upfront. Schwartz was buying surplus apparel, so $700 gave him plenty to work with for the first few months. When Garth Gordon and Vivienne Bramwell-Gordon, president and vice president, respectively, of Tampa, Florida-based Phones Etc., founded their company, they invested about $2,400 to purchase a shipment of high-end telephones. They quickly turned them around for a 300-percent profit and have been in the business of distributing refurbished Avaya telecom equipment to small companies and nonprofit groups ever since. Today, Phones Etc. carries about $600,000 in inventory at any given time.

Bill Green, managing partner at WSG Partners LLC in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, says the best way to determine inventory needs is to look at your customers' needs. If they're the type who "need everything yesterday" (contractors working on job sites would fall into this category), then your inventory will need to be ample enough to meet those last-minute requests. However, if there's usually a three-to-four-day span between order-taking and delivery, then you may be able to skimp a bit on inventory and instead focus on forming solid, reliable relationships with vendors who can help you meet those timelines.

"The most successful distributorships are the ones [whose owners] are working as close to their customers as possible and who can predict their needs and be there to provide value-along with the products," says Green. "That doesn't necessarily mean you need a huge warehouse and inventory, but you will need to find vendors who will 'hold' that inventory for you until your own customers ask for it."

Inventory Matters

There are caveats to both strategies. For starters, when a company chooses not to stock up, it runs the risk of being out of an item when the customer comes calling. At the same time, the distributors who overstock can find themselves in a real pickle if they can't get rid of merchandise they thought they could unload easily.

Being a distributor is all about "turning" inventory (selling everything you have in stock and then replenishing it)-the more times you can turn your inventory in a year, the more money you will make. Get the most turns by avoiding stocking items that may end up sitting in your warehouse for more than 90 days.

Stocking Up.Or Not?

On the other hand, if you are servicing a varied customer base located in different geographic areas, you may need to stock a little more than the entrepreneur in the previous example. Because you probably won't be visiting those customers at their locations, it may take a few months before you can determine just how much product they will be buying from you on a regular basis. Of course, you must also leave some breathing room for the "occasional" customer-the one who buys from you once a year and who will probably always catch you off guard. The good news is that having relationships with vendors can help fill those occasional needs quickly, even overnight or on the same day, if necessary.

"The biggest mistake companies make is developing an inventory load that is larger than what they really need," says Rich Sloan, co-founder of small-business consultancy StartupNation.com in Birmingham, Michigan. "The investment winds up sitting out in the warehouse when it could be put to much better use." Sloan says companies also jump into inventory purchases too quickly, without factoring in their customers' wants and needs-yet another way to wrap up too much investment in items that will be slow to move. "The trick is to keep it as lean as possible. That's a very smart, lower-risk way to go."

At Keith Schwartz's wholesale belt and tie distributorship in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, all it took was a $700 investment in closeout ties to get started. He resold them to a drugstore, pocketed the profits and reinvested the money in more inventory. It's a simple formula and one that works well for the small startup entrepreneur who is operating with low overhead.

The distributor who has already invested in a location, vehicles and other necessities should also factor product life cycle into the inventory equation. Those with longer life cycles (hand tools, for example) are usually less risky to stock, while those with shorter life cycles (food, for example, usually has a short life cycle) can become a liability if there are too many of them on the shelf. The shorter the life cycle, the less product you'll want to have on hand. Ultimately, your goal will be to sell the product before having to pay for it. In other words, if you are buying computers, and if the manufacturer offers you 30-day payment terms, then you'll want to have less than 30 days' worth of inventory on the shelf. That way, you never end up "owning" the inventory and instead serve as a middleman between the company that's manufacturing and/or selling the product and the one that's buying it.

To sum up the tricks to stocking a wholesale distributorship:

  • Don't overdo it when it comes to buying inventory.
  • Try to get a grasp on your customers' needs before you invest in inventory.
  • If you can get away with doing it cheaply at first (especially those with low overhead), then go for it.
  • Be wary of investing too much in short- life-cycle products, which you may get stuck with if they don't sell right away.
  • Stock up to a level where you can sell the product before you have to pay for it.

For distributors, the biggest challenge is running your business on low operating profit margins. Adam Fein of Philadelphia-based Pembroke Consulting Inc. suggests making your operations as efficient as possible and turning inventory around as quickly as possible. "These are the keys to making money as a wholesale distributor," he says.

And while the operating profit margins may be low for distributors, Fein says the projected growth of the industry is quite optimistic. In 2004, total sales of wholesaler-distributors reached $3.2 trillion, and for 2005 Fein expects revenue growth to continue to outpace the growth of the economy overall, growing an estimated 7.7 percent (vs. projected gross domestic product growth of 3.5 percent).

Playing the Markup Game

Distributors can use the following formula when it comes to markup: If it costs the manufacturer $5 to produce the product and they have a 100 percent markup, then you (the distributor) buy it for $10. Following the same formula, the wholesaler would double the cost and sell it for $20. Thus, there is a 400 percent markup from manufactured price to the wholesaler's customer.

Wholesale Distribution Business Resources Associations and Professional Organizations

  • Alabama Wholesale Distributors Association, (205) 823-8544
  • American Wholesale Marketers Association
  • California Distributors Association, (916) 446-7841
  • Colorado Association of Distributors, (303) 690-8505
  • General Merchandise Distributors Council, (719) 576-4260
  • Idaho Wholesale Marketers Association, (208) 342-8900
  • Industrial Supply Association
  • Mississippi Wholesale Distributors Association, (601) 605-1482
  • National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors
  • North Carolina Wholesalers Association, (919) 271-2140
  • Southern Association of Wholesale Distributors
  • Texas Association of Wholesale Distributors, (512) 346-6912
  • Virginia Wholesalers & Distributor Association, (804) 254-9170
  • West Virginia Wholesalers Association, (304) 342-1081
  • Integrated Distribution Management: Competing on Customer Service, Time and Cost by Christopher Gopal and Harold Cypress (Business One Irwin)
  • Facing the Forces of Change: The Road to Opportunity by Pembroke Consulting ( www.pembroke_consulting.com )
  • Managing Channels of Distribution by Kenneth Rolnicki (Amacom Books)
  • The Complete Distribution Handbook by Timothy Van Mieghem (Prentice Hall)
  • Wholesale Distribution Channels: New Insights and Perspectives by Bert Rosenbloom (Haworth Press)

Publications

  • Electronic Distribution Today
  • Industrial Distribution
  • Modern Distribution Management

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Wholesale & Distributor Business Plans

Did you know each of these plans was created in LivePlan? Learn More

Coffee Distribution Business Plan

The Coffee Warehouse is a new business providing full service distribution of coffee and supplies to coffee houses and espresso stands throughout the Spokane and Northern Idaho market.

Farm Machinery Manufacturer Business Plan

Kouros Brothers Ltd. is an established manufacturer and retailer of agricultural planting and harvesting machinery on the island of Cyprus.

Fire Rescue E-commerce Business Plan

FireRescue Depot is a start-up showroom and Internet e-commerce business supplying fire and emergency rescue departments with specialized, heavy-duty, hydraulic rescue tools.

Wholesale Bicycle Distributor Business Plan

Wheelie Deals is a wholesale distributor of bicycles and bicycle parts, focusing on closeouts, discontinued models, seconds, etc.

Before you write a business plan, do your homework. These sample business plans for wholesale and distribution businesses will give you the head start you need to get your own business plan done.

If you’re looking to develop a more modern business plan, we recommend you try LivePlan . It contains the same templates and information you see here, but with additional guidance to help you develop the perfect plan.

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Distribution Plan

Book a call with a mentor and optimize your operations.

Elisavet Maniou

Do you ever wonder how your favorite products get from the factory to your doorstep? Or how do businesses decide which stores to sell their products in? 

Well, that’s where a distribution plan comes in! 

A distribution plan is like a roadmap that helps businesses get their products to the right customers, at the right time, and in the right place. Without a solid distribution plan, businesses can struggle to get their products in front of potential customers and can lose out on valuable sales. 

In this post, we’ll dive into the world of distribution planning and explore the key components and best practices for creating a successful plan.

Shall we start?

What is a distribution plan?

A distribution plan is a detailed strategy that outlines the steps required to move a product or service from production to the final customer. It includes logistics, channels of distribution, market research, budget, metrics, and review and adjustment. 

The distribution plan’s benefit is that it aids companies in effectively targeting their target market while maximizing resource allocation. The timely and affordable delivery of goods or services to customers boosts customer satisfaction and boosts corporate revenues thanks to a well-planned distribution plan.

Without a distribution plan, businesses can find it difficult to provide goods or services to clients, which could harm their reputation and reduce their profitability. Each business that wants to be successful and continue to be competitive and meet customer demand must have a distribution plan.

Creating a distribution plan

Now that you have a solid idea of what a distribution plan is, let’s go into the procedures and pointers for developing a distribution strategy that benefits your company.

  • Understand your target audience needs: Identify and comprehend the target group’s particular requirements and preferences .
  • Determine logistics: Find the most efficient and affordable way to transport the good or service from the point of production to the consumer or end-user.
  • Choose distribution channels: Choose the finest distribution channels for reaching clients, including direct sales, online sales, retail stores, wholesalers, and distributors.
  • Conduct market research: Identify the most efficient ways to reach potential customers by conducting market research to better understand consumer preferences and purchasing patterns.
  • Develop a budget: Prepare a budget that accounts for all expenses related to the distribution plan, such as marketing, publicity, logistics, and transportation.
  • Set performance metrics: Specify performance indicators, such as customer satisfaction, sales volume, and market share, to gauge how well the distribution plan is working.
  • Evaluate and modify your plan: Assess the distribution plan on a regular basis and make revisions in response to shifting market conditions, client demands, and other elements that could affect the plan’s success.

Best practices for creating a successful distribution plan

Creating a successful distribution plan requires a combination of strategic thinking, market knowledge, and operational efficiency. Here are some best practices for creating a successful distribution plan:

  • Focus on the customer: Make sure your distribution plan is centered around meeting the needs and preferences of your target customers.
  • Be flexible and adaptable: Be prepared to adjust your plan based on changing market conditions, customer needs, and other factors that may impact your distribution strategy.
  • Collaborate with partners: Work closely with suppliers, distributors, and other partners to ensure that all aspects of the distribution plan are aligned and optimized.
  • Use technology to optimize logistics: Leverage technology solutions to streamline logistics, improve inventory management, and reduce costs.
  • Continuously monitor and evaluate performance: Regularly review performance metrics and use data insights to optimize your distribution plan.
  • Stay up to date on market trends and competition: Keep a close eye on industry trends and your competitors to stay ahead of the curve and remain competitive.

Final Thoughts

In order to get your goods or services into the hands of your clients, you need a distribution plan. By making the most of your resources to the fullest extent possible and routinely modifying your plans, you can boost your business sales and remain competitive.

It’s essential to spend the required time developing a solid distribution plan that meets the objectives of your business and delivers your products to your target market. Start today and see the results for yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

A distribution plan outlines the steps required to move a product or service from production to the final customer, ensuring that the right product is delivered to the right place, at the right time, and in the right condition.

To design a distribution strategy, you must first identify your target audience and their demands, as well as the most effective logistics, distribution channels, and market research. You should also develop a budget, establish performance criteria, and periodically evaluate and tweak the plan.

Understanding consumer preferences and purchasing patterns can help firms make decisions regarding the distribution channels to use and the best ways to manage logistics.

The success of a distribution plan can be evaluated using performance indicators including customer satisfaction, sales volume, and market share.

It’s critical to periodically assess and modify your distribution plan in light of evolving market conditions, client demands, and other elements that could affect the plan’s effectiveness.

Businesses may optimize logistics, enhance inventory management, and cut expenses with the aid of technological solutions including inventory management systems, transportation management systems, and analytics tools.

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The 5 Components of a Distributor’s Strategic Plan

Ian_Heller

  • February 19, 2018
  • Type Articles

I had a lunch with a distribution executive once and he explained that they didn’t conduct strategic planning because, “Who really knows what a strategic plan is, anyway?”

I’ve also heard – many times – “What’s the point of doing a strategic plan? It just turns into a three-ring binder that gathers dust on a shelf.”

Those are dumb reasons not to have a strategic plan for your business. I don’t understand how companies like this formulate effective budgets. It’s like hoping you will have a fantastic summer vacation and then laying out a detailed route even though you have no idea where you’re going. 

Some companies succeed despite the lack of a strategic plan thanks to an inspired, visionary (and usually quirky) owner. Even these companies would be better with everyone aligned around a widely understood strategy.

If your company has no plan or yours is gathering dust, then here’s a strategic planning outline you can use that has worked for some distributors I’ve worked with over the years:

A valid business strategy has five components:

  • Your company's current or desired core competencies
  • The industry or industries in which you intend to compete
  • A description of how you will differentiate versus competitors
  • The annual initiatives you plan to implement in the areas of sales & marketing, operations, information technology, finance and organizational development (HR) and M&A if applicable
  • Dashboards to track your progress and a financial forecast that shows how your plans will meet stakeholder requirements over the next three to five years

Let's look at each of these components.

1. The first component of a valid business strategy is a clear definition of your company's current or desired core competencies.

Wikipedia defines core competencies this way: "A core competency is something that a firm can do well and that meets the following three conditions:

  • It provides consumer [“customers” and “accounts in B2B] benefits
  • It is not easy for competitors to imitate
  • It can be leveraged widely to many products and markets.”

Distributors often have core competencies related to assortment, product availability and technical expertise. You need to determine (preferably through quality research) what benefits your customers crave and then build the competencies you need to provide them. The market is changing rapidly, however. If you don’t have great core competencies in digital capabilities, you’re falling behind. Is this a key part of your strategy?

2. The second component of a valid business strategy is a description of the industry or industries in which you intend to compete.

You need to be able to define just what kind of distributor you are: for example, do you define yourself by products (i.e., power transmission) or a customer segment (i.e., the education market)? These are related, of course but not the same.

This step sounds easy, but I find that distributors are often so concerned about getting too narrow in their focus that they fail to become really clear about what they want to do. Here’s a tip: start with a focused market. Once people understand you, you can broaden your target over time. But if customers do not “get” what you’re trying to be, you never gain traction.

3. The third component of a valid business strategy is a description of how you differentiate versus competitors.

Differentiation is about being the best at something. How are you going to beat the competition? No matter what core competencies you decide to build, other distributors in your market will have similar capabilities. In the strategic planning process, you need to decide how you will be different.

It takes a lot of hard work to come up with a great answer to this question and even more work to make that differentiation real. It's easy for us to say that we will have superior technical expertise (for example), but it's extraordinarily difficult to build it and maintain it.

4. The fourth component of a business strategy is the set of initiatives you plan to implement in the areas of sales & marketing, operations, information technology, finance, organizational development and M&A.

This is where your strategy connects to your tactical plans. When I hear a distribution executive complain that their strategy “gathers dust on a shelf,” it’s typically because their planning process ended at a very high level – they didn’t continue the process with specific individuals and teams assigned to develop tactics in each of these areas.

The most common reason the strategy stops at a high level is because this is when various leaders on the planning team start competing for resources. It’s just easier to let the old company politics and power struggles decide who gets what budget and headcount than it is to surface the disagreements and fight over resource allocation in public. Unfortunately, this often results in the company pursuing too many initiatives that haven’t really been vetted and prioritized. It’s better to clarify the alternatives and make hard choices.

5. The fifth component of a business strategy is a set of dashboards and a financial plan that forecasts the results you expect to get from your strategy and illustrates how they will meet stakeholder requirements over the next three to five years.

Your strategic planning process cannot be separated from your annual budget process. In the vast majority of companies, if it's not in the budget, it doesn't exist. That's why you must have your CFO on your strategic planning team. During the planning process, your team must compile a financial plan that estimates the results of implementing your strategy.

Developing a detailed strategic plan is very difficult work. It’s frustrating to gain alignment between a group of strong-willed leaders. But that hard work and pain during planning will generate much better results for the rest of the year.

As always, I’d love to hear your comments. You can email me at [email protected] .

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  • Filed In: Strategy , Research & Analytics , MDM Blog , Management , Featured Blog

Ian Heller

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Distribution Channel Strategy: Your Go-To Guide (Infographic)

Say you have a great product or service that meets a pressing need.

That’s all well and good — but a million-dollar idea has no path to becoming a million-dollar revenue-generator if you can’t get your products or services in front of consumers and your target market. This is where distribution channel strategies come into play to offer solutions.

A well-planned distribution channel strategy, whether you’re using a direct distribution channel or an indirect distribution channel, is specifically designed to increase the sales of your products or services as they enter the market. At the end of the day, the fundamental problem most businesses face is not how to develop the product or service, but how to market and sell it to the public.

It may seem easy in the age of e-commerce and social media, but without a defined direct distribution strategy or an indirect distribution strategy, you stand less of a chance of reaching consumers or making an impact with your target audiences.

Let’s explore the finer points of crafting a distribution channel strategy, the benefits of various channels and what you can do to fine-tune your approach.

distribution du business plan

What Is a Distribution Channel Strategy?

Fundamentally, distribution is the process of getting a product or service in front of the end consumer. The buying and selling of goods and services may appear fairly simple and linear, but it never is. Distribution is a multifaceted affair that requires strategy and partners, including channel members who play a crucial role in the process.

There are different levels of distribution, including direct and indirect channels. The more intermediaries, the more levels. A zero-level channel would entail a producer selling directly to end customers, which is known as a direct sale, whereas a three-level channel includes selling to a distributor and then a retailer before reaching end users.

Consider all the hands a smartphone passes through before reaching the end consumer. Not only is the manufacturer involved, but also potentially a wholesaler, retailer, broker agent or another entity through multiple distribution channels.

There are two basic types of distribution channels:

  • Direct Distribution: Consumers buy the product or service directly from your business, whether through a physical storefront or an e-commerce website. This method is often part of a comprehensive direct distribution strategy, which aims to reach the potential customer without the need for intermediaries.
  • Indirect Distribution: Consumers buy the product or service through an intermediary, like a big-box retailer you have distribution agreements with or a broker agent you partner with. This method may be part of a broader indirect distribution strategy that leverages relationships with channel members to reach the target customer.

Channels can also be defined as short or long. A short channel involves the fewest steps possible between producer and customer, like with direct marketing . A long channel includes other intermediaries like wholesalers and retailers.

Distribution Channel Strategy vs. Supply Chain Management

An important distinction to make is that channel distribution strategy does not equal supply chain management. Supply chain management involves the sourcing and routing of materials and products through the manufacturing and distribution processes . Channel distribution is often the final stage of the chain —– delivering final products to end users.

Channel distribution is solely about getting your product to the market, whereas supply chain management relates to sourcing the parts or materials that make your product as well as delivering final products to where they need to be.

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How to Develop a Distribution Channel Strategy

Before designing a channel distribution strategy, ask yourself the following three questions to understand your needs, capacity, limitations and goals:

1. How Do Our Potential Customers Find Us and Our Products and/or Services?

The channels your potential customers use to find you will naturally point toward the channels to target in your distribution strategy. You need to  plan your demand  better, so analyze how social media, search engines, direct marketing, partner sales, industry recommendations and other channels perform in generating customers.

Customers of a millennial beauty products company will have a much different purchasing path than a B2B buyer of network infrastructure. Identifying your main channels is a bit like looking at the channels with your highest level of brand awareness, and then fitting your strategy to maximize performance in those channels.

2. What Is Our Scale and Size?

One reason why long channels exist is that not every business has the relationships or expertise to handle logistics. An energy drink company might develop a new formula that tests great with consumers but lacks the means to ship the product to nutrition stores nationally. That’s where relationships with distributors, wholesalers and retailers become a competitive advantage, and sometimes a necessity.

Distributors can fulfill orders for whole pallets of energy drinks, while wholesalers can find retail buyers to get the product in stores. Established businesses that benefit from enterprise-scale are often able to condense channels or acquire or integrate horizontal business units to take care of logistics and other distribution needs.

3. What Future Business Goals Do We Have?

Always be prepared for new channels.

If your aim is to expand into a new market or territory, determining your channel strategy is an integral part of defining your over go-to-market strategy. If you have no relationships with a regional retailer, your product launch may suffer when trying to grow in that locality. Channel partners, however, can be leveraged to efficiently scale up and expand.

On the other hand, opening up more direct channels may be your best option for increasing brand awareness or profit per sale. Long channels mean higher costs and more cooks in the kitchen; a direct channel can lead to a better customer experience or brand impression.

Distribution Channel Types

While direct channels of distribution may seem like the obvious choice, they are not always the right option or even a possibility. Companies in several industries have to comply with various regulations that govern how products and services reach consumers, such as those in finance, food and beverage or medical devices.

Let’s explore some of the most common channels and how to judge whether they are right for your marketing mix:

7 Distribution Channel Types

Retail Distribution

Need a way to reach more consumers? Placement in a retail store is your best bet for broadening your customer base. But you can’t just walk up to the nearest Walmart or Target and ask for them to feature your product on their shelves. Retailers buy from distributors and wholesalers, meaning you’ll need to pursue longer channels.

Direct Marketing

Want to cut out the middlemen and reach out to consumers yourself? A direct marketing campaign can help connect you with potential customers, as well as provide them the means to make a purchase directly. Such channel strategies often manifest as product catalogs, marketing calls, emails or face-to-face sales. While direct channels mean greater engagement and profit, they also require more resources and effort from the brand to manage direct marketing.

Dealer Network

Don’t have an especially large or skilled sales force? You can essentially outsource those functions to a network of dealers, brokers and agents who do the selling for you. This arrangement is particularly advantageous if you have a specialized product or lack deep industry connections.

Website Store

The advent of the internet age has opened up a whole new channel for B2C and B2B brands alike, as well as large and small companies. Startups without channel relationships can sell directly to consumers through inbound marketing, cultivating brand loyalty and lowering their go-to-market costs.

Wholesale Distribution

Long channels of distribution are not innately bad. In fact, they can deliver tangible competitive advantages when working with the right wholesale or distribution partners. What’s the difference? Distributors are basically wholesalers that offer a greater scope of services.

E-Commerce Site

Online markets like Amazon, Zappos and Etsy have become go-to channels for sellers of physical goods. Merchants can leverage the established base of online customers as well as marketplace tools, allowing them to reach end users with high intent. E-commerce sites operate in a different way than direct online stores, so you’ll want to ensure your ads and product pages are branded in a way that fosters a consistent customer experience.

Value-Add Resellers

VARs, as they’re called, buy inventory from companies, and then make upgrades or package it with their own services. The symbiotic relationship can help you meet goals like expanding your footprint or securing recurring revenue from a VAR buyer. This exclusive channel of distribution works particularly well for companies that have a specialized product, as it’s not about casting the widest net.

What Is the Right Mix of Channels?

In reality, most businesses will employ a multi-channel marketing mix that makes use of both direct and indirect channels, when available to them. The same craft brewery that has to work with distributors, wholesalers and retailers can also sell to customers directly at an on-site taproom. Even agricultural producers can sell at farmer’s markets in addition to working with distributors that get fresh produce to the groceries across the nation.

When sitting down to hammer out a distribution strategy, always be open to the different combinations that can be made with direct and indirect channels, such as hybrid distribution channels. However, just be sure that conflicts will not arise. Retailers may have certain stipulations for working with them, as other intermediaries would. Also be sure to not spread yourself too thin, especially if you’re just starting out. If you introduce new channels into your mix, devise a plan that gradually integrates them, and sets standards and expectations for performance and costs.

Keep all this in mind when developing your strategy. But always be aware that unique factors like the industry in which you operate will be influential to your decision-making. Choosing the right distribution channel, whether it’s a direct or different distribution channel, can make a significant difference in reaching your target customer and achieving your business objectives. A product manager must consider these factors when defining the product strategy to ensure the success of the product distribution. 

Remember, the goal is to identify the right distribution channel, be it direct or indirect, that aligns with your marketing strategy and ultimately places your product in the hands of your target customer. Whether you’re looking at channel sales or direct consumer sales, the effectiveness of your distribution network is crucial to your overall success.

Editor’s Note: Updated Dec. 2023.

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By Kimberly Mehrtens

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La politique de distribution

La distribution fait partie du mix marketing. Il est nécessaire d'instaurer une politique de distribution bien pensée pour que la commercialisation de votre produit ou service se déroule sans encombre. Pensez à choisir à bon escient votre stratégie de distribution, le canal de distribution ainsi que les circuits de distribution.

Vous êtes ici :

Comment choisir le bon canal de distribution ?

Choisir les circuits de distribution, définir une stratégie de distribution, politique de distribution.

Comment votre produit arrivera-t-il au client ? Il vous faut en effet réfléchir à plusieurs étapes telles que le transport, le stockage, la promotion, etc. Inhérente au plan marketing , la politique de distribution va permettre de déterminer la manière dont votre produit arrive jusqu’au client. Attention : la manière dont votre produit sera distribué devra être cohérente avec le prix et la communication sur votre produit. Explications.

Un canal de distribution est tout le chemin parcouru par votre produit jusqu’au client final. Soit votre produit y arrive directement, soit un détaillant s’occupe de vendre le produit, soit un grossiste s’occupe de vous acheter le produit avant de le revendre à des détaillants. Le canal est dit « direct » lorsqu’il n’y a aucun intermédiaire. Vous vendez directement à vos clients. On l’associe généralement à la vente de produits frais tels que des légumes. La vente à la ferme, la vente des producteurs sur les marchés sont deux exemples de distribution via un canal direct.

Quant au canal « court » , il indique la présence d’un détaillant qui vendra votre produit directement aux consommateurs. Pour reprendre notre exemple, le producteur qui négocie sa récolte avec une chaîne de supermarchés est un exemple de distribution via un canal court. Enfin, le canal « long » passe par un grossiste avant les détaillants. Le négoce du vin en est un exemple : mis en bouteille au chai, il est vendu à des négociants de gros puis acheminé vers des détaillants (caves, restaurants, supermarchés …). Ces derniers vendent les bouteilles aux clients finaux dans leurs points de vente.

Rien n’empêche votre produit d’être présent sur un, deux voire trois canaux de distribution. Ensemble, ceux-ci forment votre «  circuit de distribution « . Votre circuit peut être celui de la grande distribution . Le supermarché est en effet à la fois grossiste et détaillant pour de nombreux produits de consommation courante. Grossiste parce qu’il commande en grandes quantités. Détaillant parce qu’il vend en petites quantités individuelles. Votre circuit peut être celui du commerce de gros .

Par exemple, votre future entreprise achètera des produits d’épicerie fine en Amérique du Sud et en Afrique, pour les revendre à une clientèle de détaillants ou d’autres intermédiaires. À l’inverse, votre circuit peut être celui du commerce de détail. Vous faites partie des détaillants qui achètent les produits d’épicerie auprès du grossiste-importateur et les revendent aux consommateurs finaux. On retrouve généralement le e-commerce dans le commerce de détail.

Identifier les circuits est déjà une étape significative de la politique de distribution. Mais d’autres questions sont aussi présentes : à combien d’intermédiaires vendre ? Avec quelles conditions commerciales ? Quelles quantités ? La distribution est « intensive » lorsque vous multipliez les points de vente pour votre produit. Vous ambitionnez une vente en masse : hypermarchés, grands magasins …

Pour cela vous n’hésitez pas à rogner sur vos propres marges afin de convaincre les détaillants de placer vos produits auprès des clients finaux. C’est une stratégie fréquente pour les produits alimentaires. La distribution est « sélective » lorsque vous limitez le nombre de vos détaillants. C’est généralement le cas pour un produit de luxe. La distribution « exclusive » fait référence aux points de vente qui ne vendent que votre produit. Il s’agit couramment d’entreprises importantes qui possèdent leurs propres magasins (Apple et ses Apple Stores). Il peut s’agir d’un distributeur qui a reçu l’exclusivité de la distribution d’une marque de téléphone, en s’engageant à ne s’approvisionner qu’auprès d’un fournisseur (seul Orange distribuait les iPhone en France jusqu’en 2010).

Vous pouvez enfin faire le choix d’une distribution « associée » en vous associant avec les distributeurs. C’est le cas d’une chaîne de restaurant internationale qui signe un contrat de franchise avec un restaurateur en Ile-de-France. Comme indiqué plus haut, la manière dont votre produit sera distribué devra être cohérente avec le prix et la communication sur votre produit.

La politique de distribution est la façon dont votre produit ou service sera mis à la disposition de votre clientèle : sera-t-il en distribution directe ou y aura-t-il des intermédiaires ?

  • Concrètement, il faut indiquer votre (vos) point(s) de vente. Mentionnez où ils seront localisés et pourquoi vous avez fait ce choix.
  • Si vous faîtes intervenir des intermédiaires, indiquez votre réseau de distribution. Où sont-ils localisés et quels sont les délais de livraison ?

Business Plan

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Nous proposons une large gamme de modèles de business plan. Une fois téléchargé, il ne vous restera plus qu'à l'adapter à votre projet. Idéal pour les débutants, nos modèles ne nécessitent aucune compétence particulière et tout est modifiable (texte, couleur, images).

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Starting a Warehouse Distribution Business: 7 Tips

Starting a warehouse distribution business is profitable, especially with the rise of online D2C eCommerce vendors and retailers and direct to consumer trends . For businesses that sell online high demand products , having a place to store products before shipping to consumers is crucial to the success of their operations.

Additionally, businesses that sell physical products or receive goods from a wholesale marketplace will need a warehouse to temporarily store their products. Warehousing is a critical process in supply chain management .

Key Takeaway - An eCommerce marketplace online needs physical storage space for all the stock-keeping units ( SKU number ) in their online inventory. You can capitalize on this need to store eCommerce products and start your own warehousing business. Consider white label vs. private label products.

There are various distribution warehouse business ideas to venture into. However, you need to begin with one, a warehouse, and two, a distribution business plan.

The warehousing industry is huge, and starting a warehouse distribution business can get confusing if you don’t have the right guidelines. Let’s discuss the distribution warehouse business to get you started.

BlueCart warehouse management CTA

What Is a Distribution Warehouse?

A distribution warehouse is an integral part of the supply chain. It describes the place a product is stored after it is received from manufacturers until it gets delivered to the retailer or customer.

There are different types of warehousing options designed for different purposes and for a range of business sizes. A distribution warehouse is a warehousing model designed to store goods close to the end of the supply chain.

To put it clearly, a distribution warehouse stores products that are ready to be delivered to retailers and customers. Distribution warehouses are designed for quick inbound and outbound product flows.

Besides streamlining its warehouse management process flow , a distribution warehouse makes use of its warehouse organization and storage system, which facilitates tracking, inventory tracking , and locating products within the warehouse.

Key Takeaway - A good distribution warehouse will incorporate a robust warehouse management system (WMS) to track warehouse inventory . The WMS must also be able to manage eCommerce packaging of goods, creating packing slip templates, customize warehouse labels , and product shipping and handling .

Consider using a business process flow chart template to map out your processes. Now that you know what a distribution warehouse is, let’s discuss the intricacies of starting a warehouse distribution business.

How to Start a Warehouse Distribution Business: 7 Tips

Every new business begins with a business plan as part of its efficient business systems . Before you start a warehouse distribution business, it is important to have a solid plan that includes market research, SWOT analysis, an eCommerce marketing plan , and financial projections.

Besides having a business plan, it is important to position your business in a way that wholesale distributors and retailers can trust you. Starting a warehouse distribution business implies that you’ll be entrusted with safely storing and securing a lot of products.

You must be able to offer the right warehousing solutions for your customers. Additionally, you’ll also need to decide on the best warehouse management tools to use for your warehousing operations.

Looking to optimize your warehouse operations for the best efficiency and profitability? Download our free Warehouse Management eBook to get on the right track.

Let’s look into some of the key steps to take when starting a warehouse distribution business.

1. Write Your Business Plan and Conduct Market Research

The need for writing an eCommerce business plan and conducting market research before starting your business cannot be overstated. Starting a warehouse distribution business costs a lot of money, hence it is important to have a plan before you get started.

Researching your niche market will also help you prepare your unique selling point (USP). In addition, it will make it easier to decide if you want to offer additional supply chain solutions based on your target audience's needs.

Here’s a list of what to include in your warehouse and distribution business plan:

  • Executive summary
  • Company overview
  • Industry analysis
  • Market analysis
  • Competitive analysis
  • Marketing plan
  • Operations plan
  • Financial analysis

BlueCart business process flow chart template

2. Specify Your Market

There are millions of products that are stored in warehouses daily. Specifying the type of products or industry you want to venture into will help you prepare your facility to meet up with the storage requirements of such products.

For instance, if your market is clients in the restaurant industry , you will be dealing with a lot of food products. It is crucial to keep your warehouse facility at a certain storage temperature to keep the products fresh. 

Your customers may need help shipping frozen food or shipping frozen meat . Specifying your market will position your business to fulfill these needs.

Additionally, specifying your market will help you decide on many components of your business. These components include the size of the warehouse, storage equipment, utility costs, and the inventory management techniques to adopt.

3. Get Your Licenses

Like every other business, it is essential that you take care of your legal paperwork. Covering all your legal bases will save you a lot of stress in the long run. Do it early!

You need to complete the paperwork and forms required by your city or state to guarantee that the legal aspects of starting a warehouse distribution business are taken care of. Here are some typical wholesale license s you should get for your warehouse and distribution business:

  • Employee identification number (EIN)
  • Doing business as (DBA) registration
  • Tax identification number (TIN)
  • Tax permits based on your city or state

4. Purchase Necessary Equipment

Investing in high-performance warehousing equipment is key to the success of your distribution warehouse business. The right storage equipment will be the reason your customers keep using your facilities.

You should have the following equipment in your warehouse:

  • Various storage options, such as carousels, racks, cabinets and shelving , and liquor storage
  • Lifting equipment such as pallet jacks, forklifts, and service carts
  • Conveyors such as belt conveyors and gravity roller conveyors
  • Labeling options such as shipping label printer

5. Employ the Right People

The success of your warehouse business depends on the people who comprise your team. With the right eCommerce team structure , you can boost warehouse business efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.

Additionally, some warehouse equipment will require manual operation. So, it is important to employ skilled labor. Choosing the finest team is vital because employees will play a crucial role in your warehouse operations.

Here are some vital positions to hire as you start your warehouse operation:

  • Inventory control manager
  • Order management specialist
  • Material handler
  • Warehousemen
  • Warehouse manager
  • Shipping specialist
  • Demand planning manager
  • Distribution center manager
  • Machine operator

6. Integrate Warehouse Management Systems

A warehouse management system is perfect for 3PL companies and businesses that offer warehousing services. Many of the problems that every warehousing and distribution company has on a daily basis can be solved with the help of a WMS and top ERP systems . 

Warehouse management solutions quickly and effectively evaluate warehouse data, pinpoint inventory shortfalls, and highlight urgent inventory needs. With the aim of enhancing your warehouse organization and productivity, this enables you to view crucial figures at a moment's notice. These systems should also help you calculate inventory turnover .

7. Market Your Warehouse

Marketing is a foundational part of starting a business. The warehousing industry uses the B2B business model and your target audience is mostly eCommerce businesses across various niche markets.

Implementing eCommerce marketing strategies that will reach your unique clientele is important. You can integrate eCommerce marketing automation tools into your business operations.

It may be a bit challenging at first, but implementing a clearly structured marketing strategy will help you get results. Besides digital and online marketing, you can also list your warehouse on a wholesale directory . This will help you get the attention of wholesalers that may require a warehouse to store their products.

BlueCart eCommerce marketing CTA

Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Warehouse Distribution Business

From writing your warehouse and distribution business plan to getting your facility ready for potential customers, a lot goes into running a distribution warehouse business. Let’s answer some common questions about starting a warehouse business.

How Do I Get Clients For My Warehouse?

Getting B2B clients for your warehouse business can be difficult if you do not have the right marketing plan in place. As with other eCommerce B2B businesses, you need to offer a value proposition and a USP before your target clients will see you as the market leader.

Here are some marketing ideas to get clients for your warehousing business:

  • Make a c ompany website
  • Use eCommerce search engine optimization
  • Leverage eCommerce email marketing
  • Social media marketing
  • Create content friendly to eCommerce search engines
  • Incentivize customer referrals
  • Newspaper ads
  • Print media
  • Networking events
  • Street signage

Which Product Is Best for Distribution?

There are numerous distribution warehouse business ideas and products to distribute. Here are some of the best products for distribution:

  • Wholesale produce
  • Wine and alcohol
  • Bakery products
  • Wholesale dairy products

How Much Does It Cost to Set Up a Warehouse?

Setting up a warehouse can be quite expensive. A 30x40’ - warehouse structure will cost about $25,000, while a 50,000- to 60,000-square-foot distribution center may cost between $750,000 and $1,000,000, depending on the amenities and building materials.

Storing Up for Later

Starting a warehouse distribution business is quite lucrative. Besides the amount of money that goes into setting it up, there is a lot to gain from the business.

However, it is crucial to use a warehouse management system to automate your business processes. Investing in the right equipment and skilled labor is also key to running a successful business .

3+ SAMPLE Distribution Business Plan in PDF

Distribution business plan, 3+ sample distribution business plan, what is a distribution business plan, 4 types of distribution strategies, how to make an effective distribution business plan, how significant is the role of distribution to a business, how different is a wholesaler from a distributor, how different is a wholesaler from a retailer.

Methods of Distribution Business Plan

Methods of Distribution Business Plan

Sales And Distribution Business Plan

Sales And Distribution Business Plan

Water Distribution Service Distribution Business Plan

Water Distribution Service Distribution Business Plan

Wholesale Distribution Business Plan

Wholesale Distribution Business Plan

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Successful distributor plans

  • March 1, 2007

distribution du business plan

In an ideal world, your key distributors would develop annual business plans for your product line and work closely with your distributor account managers to get the plans implemented. In reality, many manufacturers skip this planning effort altogether. Those that require distributor plans often struggle — either to convince distributors to create high-quality plans or to assure that the plans are followed.

To understand a typical distributor planning process, Smart Business spoke with Bob Segal, a principal at Frank Lynn & Associates.

Why should a manufacturer require its distributors to create written plans?

The success of many manufacturers hinges on the actions of tens or even hundreds of independent, mostly small, distributors. However, each distributor has different customer targets, different product mixes, and different sales and technical skills. Many lack strategic planning skills and marketing departments. As independent businesses, they’re free to do what they want.

A manufacturer can hope for the best or use distributor plans to gain greater control over its distribution destiny.

Is it realistic to expect or require plans from each distributor?

No. Most manufacturers don’t have the capacity to handle hundreds of individual plans. Furthermore, most manufacturers experience the 80:20 rule, where 80 percent of their revenue comes from 20 percent of their channel partners. At a minimum, suppliers should require plans from key partners.

Not all manufacturers have the clout to demand distributors create a plan. A small company selling through Wal-Mart might face an uphill battle to get a detailed, written plan. Still, vendors should ‘think big’ and not retreat unless facing a true negotiating mismatch. Even in those cases, scale back the scope of the planning request instead of giving up altogether.

What should be included in a distributor’s plan?

Obviously, these plans should have highly customized content. However, the typical items a manufacturer should expect, or even require, in a distributor plan might include:

Business background – a short strategy statement, review of market conditions, a competitive summary and a list of the distributor’s key financial, sales and technical objectives

Product/services summary – a list of (existing/future) services the distributor provides and complementary product lines carried

Customer mix – sales by market segment; a list of key/major accounts

Marketing plan – a listing of specific marketing activities including start and end dates, people assigned and resources required (of the distributor and of your company), covering trade shows, seminars, mailings, Web site, publications, advertising, etc.

Training/personnel plan – a schedule of which distributor personnel will attend what training sessions (yours or third-party) over the next year; hiring plans that will affect your product line

Sales plan – major/key account activities, joint sales expectations, telemarketing plans

Logistics plan – warehouse/technology investments

Financial plan – agreement on sales targets, forecasting frequency, etc.

How big do these plans get?

First, it’s often helpful for the manufacturer to create a template. It’s a lot easier for a distributor to fill in a formatted form than to create a plan from scratch. Furthermore, this assures the manufacturer it will get the type of information it seeks (in a consistent format).

For a major supplier, distributors often want to dedicate significant time to create a comprehensive plan. Sometimes, the document becomes the overall strategic plan for the distributor. Regardless, most plans consist of two to three pages of text with five or six pages of tables or forms. Distributors often attach appendices with sales spreadsheets, forecasts, trade show listings, etc.

What is the role of the manufacturer’s channel sales team in the planning process?

The channel managers should establish an annual planning calendar with annual account plans completed in December; formal, two-way reviews each quarter and informal updates monthly.

Provided with a template, distributors — not the account managers — should write the business plans. The account managers can add commitments from their company to the plan during the annual planning meeting.

The annual meeting should take place between the account manager and the owner or senior executive from the distributor. The actual meeting, to review last year’s results and revise the plan for next year, will likely require two to four hours. In preparation, the account manager should review, in detail, the distributor’s sales history, local market trends/conditions, the manufacturers’ fulfillment of past commitments, new product plans, etc.

BOB SEGAL is a principal at Frank Lynn & Associates Inc. and leader of the firm’s Brand Strategy Practice. Reach him at (312) 558-4808 or [email protected] .

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Home » Business Model

Distribution Business Model – Everything You Need to Know

Do you want to start a distribution business? If YES, here is everything you must know about the distribution Business model plus examples of successful companies. Being in business is tough, hence the need to choose a business model that you can run your business on. The truth is that you can hardly make success out of your business if you don’t build and operate your business on an existing model that suits your business.

A quick tip is to look around you and find out the type of business model the company you are patterning your business after is operating. With that, you would have eliminated the time and resources wasted in trial and error approach. You will just settle down to your business with little or no stress.

But on the average, one of the business models that an investor who is looking towards starting a business in the united states of America should consider adopting is the distribution business model. One good thing about the distribution model is that you don’t necessarily need to manufacture products of your own, you can comfortably engage in the distribution of the products of a company or several companies at the same time.

If you are making plans to start a distribution business or you are already running a distribution business but your need to know more about the business model and some of the leading companies that are already operating this business model, then you will find this article highly useful.

What is a Distribution Business Model?

Distribution business model is a business model that facilitates that distribution of goods and services from the producers / manufacturers to the end users / consumers; it is a business model that ensures that products and services reach target customers in the most direct and cost-efficient manner. If it is services, distribution is predominantly concerned with access.

In the actual sense, the distribution model is a concept that is relatively simple and straightforward. In practice, distribution business model may involve a diverse range of activities and disciplines including: detailed logistics, transportation, warehousing, storage, inventory management as well as channel management including selection of channel members and rewarding distributors.

3 Strategies Adopted by Operators of Distribution Business Model

The strategy adopted by a company operating on the distribution business model to a large extent depends on a number of factors such as the type of products to be distributed, especially perishability; the market served; the geographic scope of operations and the organizations’ overall mission and vision. With that, you will be able to pattern your business to suit the distribution business model.

In the case of intensive distribution approach, the marketer relies on chain stores to reach broad markets in a cost – efficient manner. Basically, we have three strategies that operators of distribution model adopt and they are;

Mass Distribution

Mass distribution which is also known as intensive distribution is a distribution strategy that is used basically for products that are produced or manufactured for a mass market, the marketer will seek out intermediaries that appeal to a broad market base.

It is common to find industrial giants who are into mass production of products adopt this distribution strategy to get their goods or services to every nooks and crannies of their target market location.

For example, it is only but natural for a company like Coca Cola that adopts mass distribution strategy to distribute cum retail their products. Little wonder there is hardly any location in the United States of America or in major cities all across the world that you won’t find Coca Cola products.

2. Selective Distribution

Selective distribution strategy is a distribution strategy that enables the manufacturer of a product or services to restrict the number of outlets retailing their products. Despite the fact that there are some drawbacks to this distribution strategy, but you can’t rule out the fact that it has loads of benefits.

Some of the benefits includes the ability to control your distribution chains, train your distributors to be able to better market your products and buy into the organization’s overall business goal or the big picture why the products is on sale. For example, the manufacturers of some luxury cars might restrict the distribution and sale of their products to only selected and accredited distributors who are trained and have been able to prove their worth in the business.

3. Exclusive distribution

Exclusive distribution strategy is a distribution strategy where the manufacturer of a product or services chooses to deal with one intermediary or one type of intermediary. Just like selective distribution strategy, exclusive distribution strategy has a handful of drawbacks, but it has its own advantages especially if you are into the production of goods that are not meant for the general public.

One major advantage of an exclusive distribution strategy is that the manufacturer retains greater control over the distribution process.

In exclusive distribution strategy, the distributor is expected to work closely with the manufacturer and add value to the product through service level, after sales care or client support services. The most common type of exclusive arrangement is an agreement between a supplier and a retailer granting the retailer exclusive rights within a specific geographic area to carry the supplier’s product.

Distribution Channels and Intermediaries

In practice, distribution of goods and services are carried out via a marketing channel which can be referred to as a distribution channel. A marketing channel is made up of the people, organizations, and activities that are necessary to transfer the ownership of goods from the point of production to the point of consumption or the end user.

It is the process by which products or services get to the end-user, the consumer. This is usually accomplished through merchant retailers or wholesalers or, in the international context, by importers. Please note that in certain specialist markets, agents or brokers may become involved in the marketing channel.

Distinctive Intermediaries Involved in the Distribution Business Model

A wholesaler is a merchant intermediary who sells primarily to retailers, other merchants, or industrial, institutional, and commercial users mainly for resale or business use. Wholesalers essentially sell in large quantities and it is rare to find them selling directly to end users or consumers.

An agent is a distinctive intermediary who is authorized to legally act for a principal in order to transact business on their behalf or facilitate exchange of good and services as instructed by the principal. Unlike merchant wholesalers and retailers, agents do not take title to goods, but simply put buyers and sellers together. Agents are typically paid via commissions by the principal. For example, real estate agents are paid a commission of around 5 – 15 percent for accommodation leased, rented out or sold.

A jobber is a unique type of wholesaler who is known to operate on a small scale and sells only to retailers or institutions. Jobber, in merchandising, can be synonymous with “wholesaler” or “distributor” or “broker” or “middleman.” A business which buys goods and bulk products from importers, other wholesalers, or manufacturers, and then sells to retailers, was historically called a jobbing house.

For example, rack jobbers are small independent wholesalers who operate from a truck, supplying convenience stores with snack foods and drinks on a regular basis. If you operate a distribution model, then you should learn how to Manage your distribution channels.

Operating a distribution business model requires that the organization’s marketing department and logistic team to design the most suitable channels for the products and services produced by the organization, then select appropriate channel members or intermediaries. An organization may need to train staff of intermediaries and motivate the intermediary to sell the firm’s products.

The organization is expected to monitor the channel’s performance over time and from time to time improvise on how to continuously improve the channel to boost performance in the market place. This is highly necessary because competition is expected to grow in your line of business. In the bid to continue to improve your performance in the market place, you are expected to continue to motivate players in your distribution channels to deliver.

There are several ways a company that is operating the distribution business model can motivate intermediaries working in their distribution value chain to deliver. You can leverage on making use of positive actions, such as offering higher margins to the intermediary, special deals, premiums and allowances for advertising or display of products, free trainings and competitive credit facility in terms of releasing goods and getting back your money later.

On the other hand, negative actions may be necessary, such as threatening to cut back on margin, or hold back delivery of products or services. Please note that caution must be applied when considering negative actions because these may fall foul of regulations and can contribute to a public backlash and a public relations disaster.

It is expected that conflict of interest may arise amongst players in your distribution channels hence you need to know how to handle it; The truth is that conflict of interest may likely arise amongst your distribution channel and this can happen when one intermediary’s actions prevent another intermediary from achieving their objectives.

Vertical channel conflict occurs between the levels within a channel, and horizontal channel conflict occurs between intermediaries at the same level within a channel. Channel conflict is a perennial problem. There is a possibility that an influential channel member may monopolize and coordinate the interests of the channel for personal gain.

Lastly, in order to continue to push your products to end users and consumers, you must place premiums on your customer – customer value;

If you are in business, aside from the quality of your products and services, the value you place on your customer is one major factor that will help you to continue to sell your product or services to them. The truth is that if you have a good product and bad customer services; not placing value on your customer, it won’t be too long before you to lose your customer and experience depletion in your income.

This is one of the chief reasons why most organizations spend more to establish customer service; a medium through which they can receive complaints and feedback from their clients. The essence of distributing a product is for it to get to end users and consumers and if they feel that they are not treated well; they are likely going to look for alternative product or service providers.

50 Successful Companies Operating the Distribution Business Model

  • Anchor Distributors
  • Barnes & Noble
  • Diamond Comic Distributors (comics)
  • Capital City Distribution (comics, acquired by Diamond)
  • Greenleaf Book Group, distributor and hybrid publisher
  • Heroes World Distribution, now owned by Marvel Comics
  • Two Rivers (formerly Perseus Distribution)
  • Small Press Distribution
  • Baker & Taylor, united kingdom
  • W. Grainger
  • Motion Industries
  • The Fastenal Company
  • McMaster-Carr
  • MRC Global Corp.
  • MSC Industrial Supply
  • Applied Industrial Technologies
  • NOW Inc. (DistributionNOW)
  • Wurth – Americas
  • Vallen Distribution
  • Interline Brands
  • Edgen Murray
  • Wolseley Industrial Group
  • Kaman Distribution Group
  • DXP Enterprises
  • ERIKS North America 21. Global Industrial
  • The United Distribution Group
  • Bearing Distributors Inc. (BDI)
  • Turtle & Hughes
  • BlackHawk Industrial
  • Gas And Supply Co.
  • FCX Performance
  • SBP Holdings Inc.
  • R S Hughes Co.
  • OTP Industrial Solutions
  • Lawson Products
  • Dillon Supply Company / Descours et Cabaud
  • Ryan Herco Flow Solutions
  • Kimball Midwest
  • Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
  • Warner Bros.

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Food Distribution Business Plan

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Any retail food business is incomplete without a food distribution business, so the growth in this field is wild. But to achieve all the growth you will need an actionable business plan as a roadmap to your business.

Need help writing a business plan for your food distribution business? You’re at the right place. Our food distribution business plan template will help you get started.

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Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

  • Fill in the blanks – Outline
  • Financial Tables

How to Write A Food Distribution Business Plan?

Writing a food distribution business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your Business:

Start your executive summary by briefly introducing your business to your readers.

Market Opportunity:

Food distribution product range:.

Highlight the food distribution products you offer your clients. The USPs and differentiators you offer are always a plus.

Marketing & Sales Strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business Description:

Describe your business in this section by providing all the basic information:

Describe what kind of food distribution company you run and the name of it. You may specialize in one of the following food distribution businesses:

  • Wholesale food distributors
  • Specialty food distributors
  • Frozen food distributors
  • Beverage distributors
  • Snack food distributors
  • Describe the legal structure of your food distribution company, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.
  • Explain where your business is located and why you selected the place.

Mission Statement:

Business history:.

If you’re an established food distribution service provider, briefly describe your business history, like—when it was founded, how it evolved over time, etc.

Future Goals

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

Start this section by describing your target market. Define your ideal customer and explain what types of services they prefer. Creating a buyer persona will help you easily define your target market to your readers.

Market size and growth potential:

Describe your market size and growth potential and whether you will target a niche or a much broader market.

Competitive Analysis:

Market trends:.

Analyze emerging trends in the industry, such as technology disruptions, changes in customer behavior or preferences, etc. Explain how your business will cope with all the trends.

Regulatory Environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your food distribution business plan:

  • Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
  • Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
  • Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
  • Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Food distribution product range:

Mention the food distribution product range your business will offer. This list may include

  • Bakery items
  • Packaged goods

Quality measures:

  • This may include supplier evaluation & selection, product inspection & testing, temperature control, quality control measures, etc.

Additional Services

In short, this section of your food distribution plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the unique services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.

Pricing Strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your food distributor business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your food distribution business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & Training:

Operational process:, equipment & machinery:.

Include the list of equipment and machinery required for food distribution, such as refrigerators, vehicles, material handling equipment, packaging equipment, etc.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your food distribution business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founders/CEO:

Key managers:.

  • It should include, key executives(e.g. COO, CMO.), senior management, and other department managers (e.g. operations manager, customer services manager.) involved in the food distribution business operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

  • So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your food distribution services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

  • This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing Needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

  • Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
  • In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
  • Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
  • Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
  • Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your food distribution business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

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This sample food distribution business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful food distribution plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our food distribution business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a food distribution business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful food distribution business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your food distribution company.

How to get funding for your food distribution business?

There are several ways to get funding for your food distribution business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

  • Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
  • Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
  • Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
  • Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought startup options.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your food distribution business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your food distribution business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your food distribution business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any food distribution business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

What's the importance of a marketing strategy in a food distribution business plan?

Marketing strategy is a key component of your food distribution business plan. Whether it is about achieving certain business goals or helping your investors understand your plan to maximize their return on investment—an impactful marketing strategy is the way to do it!

Here are a few pointers to help you understand the importance of having an impactful marketing strategy:

  • It provides your business an edge over your competitors.
  • It helps investors better understand your business and growth potential.
  • It helps you develop products with the best profit potential.
  • It helps you set accurate pricing for your products or services.

About the Author

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Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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  • Incoming and outgoing cover both incoming (roaming-call-forward charges) and outgoing calls. Inter operator termination charges [IOT] are not covered.
  • After consuming your plan’s roaming minutes, if any, incoming calls, outgoing calls and data are all charged as per standard rates or Easy Roaming rates, if your Easy Roaming service is active.
  • Roaming minutes’ packages are not built on real-time billing; hence consumption of the benefits cannot be tracked and there will be no usage notification, including on full consumption.
  • Roaming usage does not include Lebanon and in-flight operators.
  • There are some LTE handsets designed to send and receive minor data sessions, even though the mobile data feature is turned off. To avoid these excess data charges, either buy a roaming data bundle or change your device’s network from LTE to 3G
  • Non-preferred networks will have standard tariff set out on our website at du.ae/businessroaming . Please select the country from the dropdown list to check the applicable rates.
  • We may, at a discretion and without notice, remove or modify any preferred roaming countries and operators. We recommend that, prior to travel, you check the current list on du.ae/businessroaming so you are fully aware on which countries we have roaming partners in and who those operators are.
  • What is the charging method? All in-bundle and out-of-bundle charges will be per minute.

All charges are exclusive of VAT. * Business Calling Circle

  • Can I subscribe to device offers with the Business Mobile Plans? Yes, our device instalment offers are available on top of the Business Mobile Plans. Please contact our sales channels for the latest offers on devices.
  • Can I upgrade or downgrade my plan within the Business Mobile Plans? You can upgrade to a higher rate plan without any foreclosure fees. However, you have to pay the foreclosure fee for the downgrade.
  • Will I still be charged the full monthly fee if my line got suspended within my contract? Yes. Since the plans are associated with a Minimum Term, you will be charged the monthly recurring fee during the suspension.
  • What happens after the Minimum Term is complete? You will continue to enjoy your Business Mobile Plan benefits. If you choose to cancel your line after the end of your Minimum Term, no termination fee will apply on your plan. However, if you still have other active contracts such as a device that has not completed its Minimum Term, then a fee will apply.
  • Can I still get one of the Business Mobile Plans, if I am an existing Business mobile customer? Yes.
  • What is the activation fee? A fee of AED 55 is applicable for the activation of your SIM card.
  • Terms & conditions For terms and conditions, please click here
  • An application form signed by Authorised Signatory.
  • A copy of current Trade License.
  • A copy of your company sponsor’s or Authorised Signatory’s passport with visa page.
  • A copy of your Establishment Card.
  • A power of attorney document or letter of authorization will be required if applicant is not the owner defined on the Trade Licence.

The international minutes for BMP 100, BMP 200 and BMP 325 are applicable to 190 destinations. For BMP 600 and BMP 900, the international minutes are applicable to 165 destinations. Visit du.ae/idd for the complete list of destinations.

Disclaimer: All information on this product is subject to change.

IMAGES

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  2. Comment rédiger un business plan

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  3. Six étapes pour rédiger un business plan

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  4. 7 étapes pour créer un business plan simple • Economie et Gestion

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  5. Faire son Business Plan : le guide ultime + exemples [2020]

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COMMENTS

  1. Distribution Company Business Plan Template (2024)

    Written by Dave Lavinsky Distribution Company Business Plan You've come to the right place to create your Distribution Company business plan. We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Distribution Companies.

  2. Distribution Business Plan Template

    Your distribution company business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes. Sources of Funding for Distribution Businesses With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a distribution business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors.

  3. How to write a business plan for a distribution company?

    Why write a business plan for a distribution company? What information is needed to create a business plan for a distribution company? How do I build a financial forecast for a distribution company? The written part of a distribution business plan What tool should I use to write my distribution business plan?

  4. Distribution Strategy by a McKinsey Alum

    Distribution is how a business makes its value proposition available to customers. There are three main distribution strategies: 1. Direct - company-owned channels. 2. Indirect - 3rd party channels. 3. Hybrid - both company-owned & 3rd party. Direct distribution is about company-owned channels, which could include a company's website, contact ...

  5. How to Launch a Successful Distribution Business in 2024

    Step 2: Hone Your Idea. Now that you know what's involved in starting a distribution business, it's a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you're already positive that you have a perfect product or service.

  6. How to Build a Distribution Business in 15 Easy Steps (2023)

    Step 1: Write your Distribution Business Plan The first step in starting your own distribution business is writing a distribution plan or strategy.

  7. How to Create a Comprehensive Distribution Plan for Your Business

    An effective distribution plan is crucial for successful businesses. This guide outlines the key steps for devising an effective distribution plan for your business, including analyzing customer demographics, selecting the most cost-effective supplier, and setting performance metrics.

  8. How to Start a Distribution Business: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

    1. Form your company legally. If you're planning to operate as a corporation, LLC, or any other type of company, you'll have to legally create the company before you can do business. Check with your state regulations and see if you need to create an operating agreement or another type of founding document.

  9. How To Start a Distribution Business in 9 Steps

    Follow the steps below to learn how to set up a distribution business: Choose your product. Identify your niche. Decide how you'll sell products. Select how you'll manage inventory. Determine adequate storage space. Get a business license. Improve your business skills. Find manufacturers.

  10. How to Start a Wholesale Distribution Business

    In its most basic form, wholesale distribution is all about the "spread," or profit margin, between what you bought the product for and what you sold it for. The bigger the spread, the bigger the ...

  11. AXA présente son plan stratégique 2024-2026, et fixe de nouveaux

    « AXA aborde son nouveau plan stratégique en excellente position » a déclaré Thomas Buberl, directeur général d'AXA. « Nous avons transformé le Groupe et exécuté avec succès notre plan « Driving Progress 2023 », affichant des résultats opérationnels et une distribution aux actionnaires en hausse année après année, tout en maintenant un bilan solide ».

  12. Wholesale & Distributor Business Plan Examples

    These sample business plans for wholesale and distribution businesses will give you the head start you need to get your own business plan done. If you're looking to develop a more modern business plan, we recommend you try LivePlan.

  13. What is a Distribution Plan? Definition & Strategies

    A distribution plan is a detailed strategy that outlines the steps required to move a product or service from production to the final customer. It includes logistics, channels of distribution, market research, budget, metrics, and review and adjustment.

  14. The 5 Components of a Distributor's Strategic Plan

    1. The first component of a valid business strategy is a clear definition of your company's current or desired core competencies. Wikipedia defines core competencies this way: "A core competency is something that a firm can do well and that meets the following three conditions: It provides consumer ["customers" and "accounts in B2B] benefits

  15. Distribution Channel Strategy: Your Go-To Guide (Infographic)

    Distribution is a multifaceted affair that requires strategy and partners, including channel members who play a crucial role in the process. There are different levels of distribution, including direct and indirect channels. The more intermediaries, the more levels. A zero-level channel would entail a producer selling directly to end customers ...

  16. Rédiger son business plan : La politique de distribution

    La distribution fait partie du mix marketing. Il est nécessaire d'instaurer une politique de distribution bien pensée pour que la commercialisation de votre produit ou service se déroule sans encombre. Pensez à choisir à bon escient votre stratégie de distribution, le canal de distribution ainsi que les circuits de distribution.

  17. Starting a Warehouse Distribution Business: 7 Tips

    1. Write Your Business Plan and Conduct Market Research. The need for writing an eCommerce business plan and conducting market research before starting your business cannot be overstated. Starting a warehouse distribution business costs a lot of money, hence it is important to have a plan before you get started.

  18. Distribution Business Plan

    The business model of a distribution business plan in its most basic form is relatively universal for distribution companies; they specialize in importing large quantities of goods and selling them to wholesale buyers.

  19. Distributorship Business Plan

    The distribution business operations plan involves selling products at a discount to retailers, who then mark up their purchase costs in an effort to profit when selling to final consumers. A distributor's initial steps include defining a customer base and locating reliable sources of goods (suppliers).

  20. How to Start a Distribution Business

    Once you start to figure out how to start a distribution business from a practical standpoint, you'll need to get your paperwork in order. This means getting your -. business licenses. tax identification number. other permits you'll need to operate based on local and state laws.

  21. Business Marketing Plan: Distribution, Pricing, and Promotion ...

    In the marketing section of your business plan, summarize your promotion strategy, taking care to describe how it supports the product, pricing, and distribution strategies your business will follow over the business plan period. When appropriate, include samples of marketing materials (letterhead, business cards, website screens, brochures ...

  22. 3+ SAMPLE Distribution Business Plan in PDF

    Joining the distribution trade bandwagon can be a bit challenging. But with the right tool in place, you'll be running your business like a pro! The very tool that you need is a well-crafted distribution business plan template. Download our distribution business plan templates now. Our templates are ready-drafted, easy to fill out and to follow, and very convenient to use.

  23. Successful distributor plans

    new product plans, etc. BOB SEGAL is a principal at Frank Lynn & Associates Inc. and. leader of the firm's Brand Strategy Practice. Reach him at (312) 558-4808 or [email protected]. How to motivate sales channel partners with a formal planning process.

  24. Distribution Business Model

    In the actual sense, the distribution model is a concept that is relatively simple and straightforward. In practice, distribution business model may involve a diverse range of activities and disciplines including: detailed logistics, transportation, warehousing, storage, inventory management as well as channel management including selection of channel members and rewarding distributors.

  25. Food Distribution Business Plan [Free Template

    Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your food distribution business plan: Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data. Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible. Illustrate your points with charts and graphs. Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

  26. Exelon Outlines Distribution Capex Cuts Due to ComEd Rate Case Decision

    The leaders of Exelon Corp. are trimming the distribution capital spending plans at their Commonwealth Edison Co. unit—which is by far the company's largest—by $1.25 billion over the next three years in response to a December decision by Illinois regulators to deny a multi-year grid plan. that they'd need to re-evaluate their investment ...

  27. Business Mobile Plan

    Simplify your Business with Unlimited national minutes within the UAE only and Unlimited international minutes from the UAE for the covered destinations.