Starting a restaurant? How to make smart purchases

Starting a new restaurant can be challenging and overwhelming, there's a lot to take care of. - But there's one thing you have to have in place: Product orders.

What ingredients do you need for the dishes on the menu? Photo: Pexels

One of the keys here lies in how you plan and execute your purchases, and not least maintaining a close dialogue with your wholesaler or supplier. Here are some useful tips:

1. Choose one supplier for everything

Consolidating all your purchases with one full-range wholesaler offers many advantages. You can order fresh produce, dry goods, fruit and vegetables, alcohol and non-food in one combined delivery, which provides better overview, less administration and lower transport costs. A full-range wholesaler delivers everything in one truck, which both saves time and reduces the risk of delivery chaos.

2. Plan your purchases well in advance

Good planning is the key to smart shopping. Use regular shopping lists to ensure you have everything you need, and plan deliveries based on your restaurant's weekly schedule. Dry goods and non-food items can often be ordered in larger quantities to get better prices, while fresh and specialty items require a little more planning to ensure they are available when you need them.

3. Ensure the freshest possible ingredients

Freshness is essential when you run a restaurant. By knowing the wholesaler's assortment and procedures, you can make good choices to ensure good quality. For example, specialty items and fresh products may require a slightly longer delivery time, while dry goods and basic items are usually in stock. With some wholesalers, you can also split larger packages and only buy exactly what you need. A good supplier is a partner who can help you find solutions that give you the best ingredients at the right time.

4. Leverage the wholesaler's expertise

Wholesalers know the industry well and can be a valuable resource for you. They can offer tips on products, discounts, seasonal items and local specialties. Many wholesalers also offer inspiration and tools such as shopping list systems that give both you and the supplier predictability. Ask the wholesaler about everything from affordable basics to high-end ingredients – and take advantage of their network and experience.

Trolleys packed for commercial kitchens in the Oslo area. (Photo: Servicegrossistene )

How to make large deliveries efficient:

• Be ready to receive the goods: When a large delivery arrives, make sure to have staff ready. Chilled goods must be refrigerated and frozen goods must be placed in the freezer immediately to preserve quality.

• Set up regular shopping lists: Many wholesalers allow you to create shopping lists that can be used at set times. This saves time and gives you better control over your purchases.

• Think local: Many wholesalers can source local items that both elevate your menu and support local producers. Check what the wholesaler you choose has in their selection.

Our closest partner, Servicegrossistene , has created an e-book with a handy checklist of what you should think about. – So you don't forget anything! - Click here: