A broker is an independent sales agent who owns their own business and negotiates sales for producers and manufacturers of food, beverage and other products. We provide a service to both producers and buyers by selling to chain wholesalers, independent wholesalers, and retail stores. Producers and manufacturers often find it less expensive to sell through brokers rather than directly because it sa
ves the cost of paying a sales staff to market their products. Since brokers represent a large number of producers, the wholesalers and retailers also save time, energy, and money by dealing with one broker rather than with many manufacturers' representatives. Another service that food brokers provide is keeping producers and manufacturers up-to-date on local market conditions. Brokers try to increase their sales volume and achieve the greatest possible distribution of their products, which involves strong sales of established products and vigorous marketing of new products. Food brokers may help wholesalers or store managers develop sufficient inventories of various products and offer suggestions on store displays and other means of promotion. Additional responsibilities typically include moving merchandise, rearranging product displays, replacing spoiled merchandise, keeping accurate records of their sales, and preparing reports on market conditions for producers and manufacturers.
