An excellent restaurant can become a lucrative business when you work with the right contractors, such as manufacturers. Did you know that manufacturers contribute $2.17 trillion to the American economy? These professionals are the ones you rely on for your business’s supplies! Here are tips for choosing the right manufacturer for your new restaurant.

Quality

Any manufacturer you work with should be known for quality products and services. For example, quality ingredients are essential for your life ahead in the food industry. The right ingredients impact your menu success. The freshness can prevent food-borne illnesses that affect the public and your reputation. How your manufacturers handle your ingredients, whether it’s dried or fresh, can affect their lifecycle and freshness. For example, how does their food processing routine work? Design pressure is crucial for food manufacturers, as it’s supposed to range from 10% to 25%. Ask about their machinery and how they ensure the products you receive are quality.

There is also strict shipping and handling compliance for various food items like seafood, eggs, dairy, and meat. They should follow strict FDA regulations and stay updated with any changes that go into effect. Only work with a manufacturer who has met quality standards and can supply certifications as proof of such.

Variety or Niche

Depending on the type of food business you run, you may need a restaurant manufacturer with a broad range of products or focus on a particular niche. Niche players focus on unique and high-quality ingredients that can not only set a restaurant or café apart but elevate it to five-star Michelin status. For example, if you want to produce high-end food items like caviar, top sushi, or items using truffles, focus on only using the best manufacturer supplying authentic ingredients consumers don’t mind paying the money for.

Price

Pricing always matters when choosing any contractor to work with, especially your manufacturer. Compare prices from different restaurant manufacturers, so you feel comfortable that you’re getting fair market rates. Compare at least three or more of them before deciding who to work with. Regardless of what supplies you want or need, you should consider your budget realistically. As you’re trying to get your restaurant or café off the ground, you may have to begin focusing on lower-priced items of quality as opposed to higher quality but more expensive ingredients. As your business begins to gain traction, you can eventually add more high-quality and expensive ingredients. Then, you can eventually flip the menu if you like.

Reviews and Referrals

You should take the opinions of your fellow food industry colleagues seriously. Reach out to other restaurant owners, cafeteria runners, or other industry experts who deal with the suppliers you’re interested in. Some of them may give you a direct referral for the ones they work with. When you have a supplier in mind, you can also ask them for references to contact. If they know they have a good reputation and their clients will vouch for them, they shouldn’t hesitate to pass their contacts off to you. You may be able to find some reviews on Google Reviews or Trustpilot. You may also find information about them by checking out the Better Business Bureau online. The BBB usually rates businesses with a letter grade from A through F and lists any outstanding complaints you should be aware of.

You’ll Need a Commercial Manufacturer, Too

Aside from food products, your restaurant space will require a myriad of appliances, machinery, and more. In fact, heating, cooling, and ventilation take up 44% of energy used within commercial buildings, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Partner with manufacturers that can provide and install quality HVAC and ventilation so your team and customers are comfortable year-round. On top of that, be sure to find a restaurant supplier that offers equipment and appliances you’ll need at a discounted price; if you’re a first-time business owner, there are partnerships that can be born to your advantage!

Opening a restaurant business can be a lot of work but can also be rewarding. Good food, quality service, and the right manufacturers can help a thriving restaurant business grow in popularity, be part of a chain, and even appear on the Food Network. Just make sure you focus on finding the right supplies and ingredients so you can create the best recipes and keep anyone who eats them free from illness. Good luck in claiming your spot in a tough industry.