Cash & carry warehouses, equipment showrooms, and foodservice distribution — the parallel market most CPG brands overlook.
These are the "Costco for chefs" — warehouse-format stores selling bulk food, supplies, and equipment. Some require a business membership; others are open to the public. Entry barriers are significantly lower than club stores.
The largest cash & carry chain in the U.S. Members-only (free for business owners/non-profits). 150+ warehouses. The go-to for independent chefs and foodservice operators.
Formerly Smart Foodservice. Nearly 100 locations, heavy in Pacific NW and California. No membership needed — open to the public.
The gold standard for foodservice retail. 175+ stores across the Midwest, Northeast, and Florida. Open to the public, no membership, selling broken case and bulk.
A "warehouse grocery" hybrid in CA/AZ/NV. The Extra! format serves both households and businesses. No membership required.
Parent company of Restaurant Depot. Food-focused warehouse. Requires a business tax ID. Massive dry goods and fresh sections.
Major player in the West with large showrooms including a key Honolulu location. Equipment and design services.
Experience Centers in Chicago, Dallas, LA, and Miami. Now owned by Sysco but maintains their own store identity.
Dominant in the Southwest (Utah, Arizona, Nevada). Known for some of the largest physical showrooms in the country.
Family-owned Texas chain (Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio). Massive inventory for immediate pickup.
The world's largest online restaurant supply store. Disrupted the traditional dealer model with massive SEO and fast shipping. The Amazon of foodservice.
Tennessee-based e-commerce player competing directly with WebstaurantStore. Higher-touch customer service model differentiates them.
More flexible than club stores
Less red tape to get started
Test with lower minimums
Reach both retail and operators