These purveyors make it their business to satisfy the needs of chain and individual restaurants. Small growers will find it advantageous to contact these wholesalers since their production can be catered to specific needs of well paying clients and the volume of products required is often less demanding. Many wholesalers possess years of marketing experience and numerous marketing contacts. If a grower is not willing to spend the time and energy to make direct and continuous contacts with retailers and consumers then the use of wholesalers can only help to enhance his or her marketing efforts. Depending on the number and quantity of crops grown, a grower may wish to work with one or more wholesaler.
Some houses specialize in commodities, while others carry a full line of products.
Selecting more than one buyer will increase the grower's resources in a competitive market. However, having a good working relationship with one dependable buyer is better than securing the service of many unreliable buyers. One way in which to select a wholesaler is by word of mouth. Since many wholesalers have been in business for many years their reputation will have preceded them. Check with other growers in the area and see whom they recommend.