One of the easiest business ideas anyone can start is the distribution business. As the name implies, a distribution business is a business that simply distributes the products of a company.
Anyone who wants to start a distribution business can comfortably engage in the distribution of goods for different companies even if they are competitors. For example, an entrepreneur can distribute both Coca-Cola and Pepsi products.
This goes to show that any distributor that has a robust network can easily make good money from the business. In this article, we will discuss the best distribution business ideas you can choose from.
Best Distribution Business ideas
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Bubble Tea Distribution Business
Bubble tea is a Taiwanese tea-based drink with a variety of toppings, such as chewy tapioca balls. Bubble teas are described as “sweet teas in a thick Styrofoam cup, mixed with non-dairy creamer, ice, and a spoonful of black tapioca pearls.
The available report shows that the market size of the bubble tea shops industry in the US has grown 2.8 percent per year on average between 2017 and 2022.
Fortune Business Insights says that the global bubble tea market size was valued at USD 2.02 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 3.39 billion by 2027. There are about 3,392 bubble tea shops all across the United States.
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Alcohol Distribution Business
An alcohol distribution business is a business that involves buying different types of alcoholic drinks wholesale from different wine, beer, liquor, and spirit production companies and then distributing them to retailers, bars, and nightclubs. pubs and hotels.
With this type of business, you can choose to own a store/warehouse if you have the financial capacity or you can choose to operate without a store.
The bottom line is that you must own a distribution truck/van, and you should know how to source different brands and types of alcoholic drinks and how to get them delivered to your customers.
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Liquefied Natural Gas Distribution Business
A liquefied natural gas distribution company is not one of those businesses that can be started without proper research. You must conduct detailed research to find out all it will take for you to set up a liquefied natural gas distribution company how to leverage the existing market to sell your products and also how to create new market channels.
Liquefy natural gas distribution company can be considered to be capital intensive, but it is indeed money–spinning business if it is well located and if you can create a robust distribution network.
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Music Distribution Business
A music distribution business serves as an intermediary between artists and consumers, facilitating the dissemination of music across various platforms.
It involves acquiring music rights from artists or labels, formatting and encoding tracks, and distributing them to digital and physical outlets like streaming services, online stores, and radio stations.
Music distribution companies also handle licensing agreements, royalties, and marketing strategies to maximize the reach and profitability of the music.
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Wine Distribution Business
The fact that wine is generally consumed by people of all cultures and classes makes it a viable and profitable distribution business to go into – there is indeed a large market for wines.
The process of establishing this kind of business is easy, but you require good marketing and managerial skills if you truly want to make it big in this type of business.
Just ensure that you have multiple wine production companies that you help to distribute their products and you will no doubt make great returns on your investment.
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Sea Moss Distribution Business
Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, is a type of seaweed that is commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea.
It has become popular in recent years due to its numerous health benefits, including its ability to boost the immune system, improve digestion, and support skin health.
A sea moss distribution business may distribute a variety of products, including dried or raw sea moss, sea moss supplements, sea moss gels or pastes, and sea moss-infused skincare products. Some sea moss distribution businesses may also offer sea moss-based drinks, such as smoothies or juices.
This type of business acts as an intermediary between coffee producers (often coffee farmers or coffee estates) and end consumers, ensuring a smooth supply chain for coffee products.
The coffee distribution industry can be competitive, with many players offering a wide range of coffee varieties, blends, and specialty products.
Success in this business often depends on factors such as product quality, reliable sourcing, efficient operations, strong relationships with customers, and effective marketing strategies.
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Cannabidiol (CBD) Oil Distribution Business
CBD stands for cannabidiol and it is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant, then diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut or hemp seed oil. It is the second most prevalent of the active ingredients of cannabis (marijuana).
A cannabidiol (CBD) oil distribution company is not one of those businesses that can be started without proper research.
You must conduct detailed research to find out all it will take for you to set up a cannabidiol (CBD) oil distribution company, how to leverage the existing market to distribute your products and also how to create new market channels.
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Cosmetic, Beauty, and Fragrance Distribution Business
Starting a cosmetic, beauty, and fragrance distribution business is a straightforward business to start and it is not so capital intensive especially if you choose to start on a small scale in a small community.
Getting the right brands that people want to buy and good stock-keeping records are the secrets of running this business.
If you get things right before launching your cosmetics distribution business, it will not take you long before you break even and start smiling at the bank.
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Food Delivery Business
It is important to state that starting a food delivery business comes with its fair share of challenges, but that does not rule out the fact that it is indeed a profitable business venture.
An aspiring entrepreneur can either choose to start a food delivery business on a small scale dealing with a handful of eateries and covering a small locality or on a large scale working for several restaurants and covering several cities depending on their financial status.
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Food Seasoning Distribution Company
Several food seasoning production companies are looking for distributors all across the globe to distribute their products (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, thyme, and Italian seasoning).
Food seasoning distribution companies such as Kraft Heinz, McCormick & Company Inc., H. J. Heinz Company, Unilever Group, Crosse & Blackwell Food Production Company, and Gold Pure Food Products Co. et al have products that are generally accepted hence if you choose to become their distributor, you will leverage their goods to make yourself successful.
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Children’s Toys Distribution Business
Children all over the world can easily relate to toys no matter the language they speak or the color of their skin. This shows that there is a very large market for children’s toys.
So, if you are considering starting a distribution business, you can consider going into the distribution of children’s toys.
Just like any other distribution business, if you can break into the market and become a distributor for leading children’s toy production companies such as;
LEGO Group, Mattel, Inc., Hasbro, Inc., Fisher-Price, Melissa & Doug, Vtech, Playmobil, LeapFrog Enterprises, Bandai Co., Ltd., and Spin Master, you will sure make huge profits from this business.
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Pharmaceutical Products Distribution Business
A pharmaceutical product distribution business is responsible for distributing drugs and related from manufacturers to pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. The pharmaceutical product distribution business ensures that essential drugs reach the right places at the right time.
Operating in a complex supply chain, pharmaceutical product distribution businesses purchase medicines from manufacturers, store them safely, and then distribute them efficiently.
They manage logistics, including transportation and storage, while adhering to strict regulations to maintain product quality and safety.
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Shoe Polish Distribution Business
A shoe polish distribution business is a business that distributes a range of shoe care products, including different types of polish such as wax-based or liquid polishes, as well as related accessories like brushes, applicators, and buffing cloths.
Interestingly, several shoe polish production companies are looking for interested entrepreneurs who can become their distributors in and around their cities.
Shoe polish production companies such as Kiwi, Tana, Saphir, Angelus, Lincoln, Collonil, Cherry Blossom, Famaco, Woly, and Griffin et al are open to accommodate more distributors.
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Rolling Paper Distribution Business
Rolling paper distribution businesses distribute a variety of rolling papers to suit different consumer preferences, and in most cases, they also engage in the distribution of related products such as:
Filters, tobacco, and other smoking accessories for companies like RAW Rolling Papers, Zig-Zag, Juicy Jay’s, OCB, Elements Rolling Papers, Smoking Brand, Rizla, Cyclones, Randy’s Wired Rolling Papers, and Hornet Rolling Papers.
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Protein Bar Distribution Company
These bars are typically marketed to individuals who are looking to increase their protein intake, such as athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and people who are trying to lose weight.
Protein bar distribution companies usually distribute different flavors and types of bars, including those that are gluten-free, vegan, or made with organic ingredients.
Trust me, this is a thriving distribution business to start. Available statistics show that the global protein bar market size was valued at USD 4.54 billion in 2021.
The market is projected to grow from USD 4.68 billion in 2022 to USD 7.07 billion in 2027. The Protein Bar Market is poised to grow at a CAGR of 5.34 percent by 2028.
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Seltzer Distribution Company
Seltzer distribution companies distribute their products to retailers or consumers through various channels, such as grocery stores, convenience stores, online stores, and direct-to-consumer delivery.
Some seltzer distribution companies also engage in the distribution of other types of carbonated beverages, such as soda or energy drinks, but their primary focus is on seltzer water.
If you are considering starting a seltzer distribution company, you may want to consider reaching out to companies such as LaCroix, Polar, Spindrift, Topo Chico, Perrier, Schweppes, San Pellegrino, Canada Dry, Vintage, AHA, Waterloo, Hal’s New York, Zephyrhills, Arrowhead, and Cascade Ice et al.
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Gym Equipment Distribution Business
A gym equipment distribution business distributes various types of fitness equipment, ranging from cardio machines like treadmills and ellipticals to strength training equipment such as weight benches, dumbbells, and resistance machines.
Gym equipment distribution businesses supply these products to commercial gyms, fitness centers, home gyms, rehabilitation facilities, and other fitness-related businesses.
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Kangen Water Distribution Business
The Kangen Water business typically refers to the distribution and sale of Kangen Water machines, which are devices designed to ionize water through a process called electrolysis. The machines are marketed as producing alkaline water with antioxidant properties.
Enagic operates on a direct sales or multi-level marketing (MLM) business model. Independent distributors, often referred to as Kangen Water distributors or Enagic distributors, sell the Kangen Water machines and recruit others to become distributors as well.
Distributors earn commissions not only from their direct sales but also from the sales made by those they recruit into the business.
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Electronics Distribution Company
If you are interested in becoming an electronic distributor, there are several leading electronics manufacturing companies that you may want to distribute their products.
If you are lucky to be accepted as a distributor for these electronic companies, you will not have to struggle to distribute their products. Electronic manufacturing companies like:
Samsung Electronics, Apple Inc., Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Sony Corporation, LG Electronics Inc., Xiaomi Corporation, Lenovo Group Limited, Dell Technologies Inc., HP Inc., Panasonic Corporation, Toshiba Corporation, and Philips Electronics NV et al already have strong global presence hence becoming their distributor will be a profitable venture to start.
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Loaded Tea Distribution Business
Loaded teas are beverages that are often based on a combination of tea, herbs, and various nutritional supplements. These teas are often marketed as healthy and energy-boosting drinks, and they may contain ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other supplements.
The term “loaded” implies that these teas are packed with a variety of beneficial additives, making them more than just a traditional cup of tea.
If you are interested in starting a loaded tea distribution business, you may want to consider reaching out to companies like:
Loaded Tea Co., The Tea Spot, Teavana, Argo Tea, DavidsTea, The Republic of Tea, Upton Tea Imports, Harney & Sons Fine Teas, Big Train Tea Company, Tea Olive, and Metropolitan Tea.
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Bamboo Pajama Distribution Company
Bamboo fabric is known for its softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, making it a popular choice for comfortable and eco-friendly sleepwear.
Bamboo pajama distribution companies usually engage in the distribution of a range of pajama styles, all made from bamboo-based textiles. Bamboo pajamas are often marketed as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional sleepwear materials.
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Olive Oil Distribution Business
Olive oil is a type of edible oil that is extracted from olives, the fruit of the olive tree. It is a key component of Mediterranean cuisine and is known for its health benefits and culinary versatility.
Available statistics show that the global olive oil market was valued at USD 14.6 billion in 2022 and grew at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2023 to 2032. The market is expected to reach USD 20.5 billion by 2032.
Olive oil is increasingly in demand throughout the food service and retail sectors, which is essentially driving the market’s rapid growth.
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Organic Food Distribution Business
In recent times, loads of people are beginning to embrace anything organic, and organic food comes top when it comes to the demand for organic products.
It might interest you to note that people are willing to pay more for organic food for several reasons; organic food is perceived as healthier because it is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers, and is often free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Consumers believe that organic produce contains higher levels of nutrients and fewer harmful chemicals.
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Aloe Vera Distribution Business
If you are considering starting a commercial Aloe Vera distribution business, the good news is that you can’t get it wrong.
This is so because Aloe Vera has several benefits and it is used as raw materials in quite several industries such as food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, et al.
Aloe Vera is reliable and effective for the treatment of ailments such as teeth and gum problems, constipation, diabetes-induced foot ulcers, antimicrobial properties, protection from UV radiation, and skin problems amongst others.
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Bakery Supplies Distribution Business
The fact that players in the bakery and confectionary industry require steady supplies of baking supplies means that there are business opportunities for suppliers of baking ingredients.
So, if you are thinking of starting a business with huge returns on investment, then one of your best bets is to venture into the baking supply distribution business.
Of course, there are several baking ingredients and supplies you can supply to various bakeries and cake and confectionary shops in and around you.
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Beverage Distribution Business
A beverage distribution business involves buying beverages wholesale from beverage production companies and then distributing them to retailers, offices, and households.
With this type of business, you can choose to own a store or warehouse if you have the financial capacity to or you can choose to operate without a store.
The bottom line is that you must own your distribution truck or van, you should know how to source for beverages and how to get them delivered to your customers.
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Body Care Products Distribution
Body care products such as body scrubs are products that are used in all parts of the world and of course, those that are in the business of manufacturing body care products, are known to generate sales year in and year out if the business is well-managed.
It is a known fact that the distribution of body care products has continued to soar high. If you are however considering starting your own body care products distribution business, then you must be ready to learn the ropes and scale through all the necessary hurdles.
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Castor Oil Distribution Business
Over the years the use of castor oil which is also considered as an essential oil has continued to gain more popularity. This popularity can be said to be associated with the health benefits that come with using castor oil.
It is no wonder that the market for castor oil has continued to be on the increase. Castor oil can be used as an irritant/stimulative laxative.
Castor oil is a natural emollient and a few drops may also be used to remedy dry skin, as a massage oil, and may benefit hair as a treatment. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that comprises about 90% of the oil.
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Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) Distribution Business
Starting a compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulb distribution company can come in handy if you have business exposure and financial requirements.
Interestingly, you have options when it comes to compact fluorescent light (CFL) manufacturing companies whose products you can distribute. You can work with companies such as:
Philips Lighting, GE Lighting, Osram Sylvania, Feit Electric, TCP, Sylvania Lighting, Westinghouse Lighting, Eiko Global, LLC, Halco Lighting Technologies, MaxLite, Satco Products, Inc., and Greenlite Lighting Corporation.
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Cleaning Chemicals Distribution Business
A cleaning chemicals distribution business is a company that distributes various chemical products specifically designed for cleaning purposes.
These chemicals can range from household cleaning agents like surface cleaners, dishwashing detergents, and laundry detergents to industrial-strength cleaners used in commercial settings such as hospitals, restaurants, and manufacturing facilities.
If you are interested in starting a cleaning chemical distribution business in the United States, then you may want to consider reaching out to companies such as:
BASF SE, Dow Chemical Company, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., ExxonMobil Chemical, LyondellBasell Industries, SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation),
Eastman Chemical Company, Akzo Nobel N.V., Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Air Liquide, Huntsman Corporation, and Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
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Book Distribution Business
A book distribution business operates by acquiring books from publishers or authors and distributing them to various sales channels. These channels include bookstores, online retailers, libraries, and wholesalers.
Distribution involves managing inventory, logistics, and sales agreements. The distributor ensures books are available where customers seek them, coordinating shipping and handling returns.
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Pet Supplies Distribution Business
It is important to note that the pet supplies distribution business is a business that will thrive in a city where the ownership of pets is high, and also where there are several pet stores, veterinarians, and online retailers.
If you are looking to start a pet supplies distribution business, there are quite several pet supplies production companies you can work with. Companies such as:
Mars Petcare, Nestlé Purina Petcare, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Spectrum Brands (Tetra), Central Garden & Pet Company, Blue Buffalo, Champion Petfoods (Acana, Orijen), Diamond Pet Foods,
Wellness Pet Food, Big Heart Pet Brands (Milk-Bone, Meow Mix), Natural Balance Pet Foods, and Nutro Products will be more than willing to welcome you to distribute their products.
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Green Energy Products Distribution Business
The market for green energy products is still very much green and open. In essence, if you are looking for a profitable distribution business idea to start, a business idea that will grow as the years roll by is the green energy products distribution business.
Green energy products distribution companies engage in the distribution of solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and other eco-friendly products to consumers and businesses.
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Restaurant Supplies Distribution Business
The fact that restaurants require steady supplies of food service equipment, utensils, ingredients, and other supplies makes this business a thriving business to start.
Apart from supplying these items to restaurants in and around your location, you can also supply these items to cafes, and catering companies within your target market location.
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Outdoor and Camping Gear Distribution Business
Suppose you intend to start a distribution business, and you live around camping sites, or outdoor facilities, you may want to consider starting an outdoor and camping gear distribution business.
An outdoor and camping gear distribution business specializes in sourcing, warehousing, and distributing equipment and supplies such as:
Tents, sleeping bags, camping stoves, backpacks, portable water filters, hiking boots, lanterns, camp chairs, cooking utensils, campfire cooking grills, first aid kits, and portable solar panels or any related equipment that are essential for outdoor activities and camping.
Outdoor and camping gear distribution businesses procure these outdoor and camping gear products from manufacturers and supply them to retailers, online stores, and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Sports Equipment Distribution Business
As a sports equipment distribution business, your responsibility is to engage in the distribution of sports gear, equipment, and apparel to sports stores, fitness centers, and schools.
Interestingly, there are several sports equipment manufacturing companies where you can distribute their products. Companies such as:
Nike, Inc., Adidas AG, Under Armour, Inc., Puma SE, New Balance Athletics, Inc., ASICS Corporation, Wilson Sporting Goods Co., Rawlings Sporting Goods Company, Inc.,
Mizuno Corporation, Reebok International Ltd., Spalding, and Easton Sports are still accepting new distributors, especially in cities where they don’t have their distributors.
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Kitchenware Distribution Business
A kitchenware distribution business is a business that engages in the distribution of kitchen gadgets, cookware, and appliances such as:
Blenders, food processors, stand mixers, coffee makers, toasters, microwave ovens, slow cookers, air fryers, instant pots, chef’s knife, non-stick frying pan, and silicone spatula to retailers, culinary schools, and home chefs.
If you are planning to start a kitchenware distribution business, then you must establish relationships with kitchenware manufacturing companies, and also retailers, culinary schools, caterers, and home chefs.
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Office Supplies Distribution Business
An office supplies distribution business is a company that specializes in the procurement, storage, and distribution of various supplies and equipment commonly used in office settings.
These supplies can include stationery, writing instruments, paper products, computer accessories, printers, and office furniture.
The office supplies distribution business typically sources products from manufacturers or wholesalers and supplies them to retail stores, online retailers, corporate clients, government agencies, and educational institutions.