Simply selling from your storefront is no longer an effective way to run a successful bakery business.  Strategic partnerships can greatly increase brand awareness and help put your products in front of a larger audience.  They can also help you to overcome a poor location as your customers will have access to your products at several places.  Along with partnerships, selling packaged and gift items on an ecommerce site can take your business to another level.  Here we outline six ways to improve your bakery distribution.

Convenience Stores

Most convenience stores now sell coffee and packaged pastries but many of the baked goods could use an upgrade.  That’s where your bakery comes in.  Partnering with local convenience stores is a mutually beneficial relationship.  You get more exposure and shelf space, while they get a portion of the revenue and a new source of foot traffic.

Produce Stands

Produce stands are a great place for larger items such as breads, cakes and pies as well as high end pastries.  The people that frequent produce stands generally have a taste for fresh foods, making this the ideal landing spot for your bakery menu items.

Local Businesses

Developing relationships with local business owners can get your foot in the door for any conferences or events they may hold.  Offering specials on group orders as well as filling daily orders that businesses use for guests and visitors can provide you continuous revenue throughout the year.

Restaurants

Getting your baked goods on the menu at popular local restaurants can be a financial boon for bakery owners.  Not only will you receive revenue from sales at the restaurant, the exposure and advertising you get can drive visitors and sales at your storefront.

Events

Local sporting and fundraising events are a great way to endear yourself to your community and give a boost to your bottom line.  While it may cost you to set up at an event, you get a chance to share your menu and personality with a wide array of potential customers.

Ecommerce

Selling baked goods online has become big business in recent years.  Setting up an ecommerce store to supplement your traditional sales can bring a significant increase in revenue and possibly establish a completely new business model.  Packaging and shipping costs should be taken into account when developing your online pricing structure.

You may have the greatest products in the world, but without a strategic distribution plan, your bakery may be at risk.  Developing relationships online and within your local community can improve brand awareness and the reach of your products, thus increasing revenue at your bakery.

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