It’s a basic business equation: Increasing your profits means selling more and/or spending less. While building up your sales may require an extended effort, business costs in food distribution and manufacturing are often very ripe for strategic trimming. Here are some possibilities to help maintain profitability: Procurement and supplier management. In this industry, the largest outlays typically include raw materials, ingredients, packaging and freight. The first step in cutting expenses… Read More
What Your Financial Statements Reveal About Your Food Business
How financially fit is your food manufacturing or distribution company? We know we’re preaching to the choir, but this industry is defined by its tight margins and complex supply chains. That makes your balance sheet, income statement and statement of cash flows powerful diagnostic tools to help evaluate your overall financial well-being. A little analysis can go a long way to uncovering potential money management problems, inventory management challenges,… Read More
IRS Currently Not Collectible Status: A Lifeline for Struggling Food Businesses
In the food manufacturing and distribution industry, cash flow challenges are all too familiar. Delayed payments from distributors, unexpected equipment breakdowns and seasonal demand shifts can create perfect storms that leave businesses struggling to meet all their obligations — including tax bills. When you owe back taxes but can’t afford to pay them, you may qualify for a special tax status known as currently not collectible (CNC). In a nutshell, if the… Read More
6 Secrets to Building a Food Business That Lasts
We’ve all heard the stats — nearly 50% of new businesses fail within the first five years. But when you have a clear vision and effective strategies to build customer relationships, you can set your food manufacturing or distribution business up for long-term success. Here are six traits of businesses that are built to stand the test of time: 1. Having a pulse on your industry. How well do you… Read More
Why Food Businesses Need Specialized Tax Expertise
Running a food manufacturing or distribution business means juggling production schedules, supply chain logistics, compliance certifications and customer relationships. But should you add tax expert to your already long list of responsibilities? While there’s no shortage of tax software options that promise to simplify the process of preparing your own returns, consider these three compelling reasons to leave your taxes to professionals who understand the food industry: The margin for… Read More
How Forward-thinking Food Businesses Plan their Cash Flow Strategy
Over the years, we’ve watched countless food industry clients struggle with the challenge of managing cash flow through seasonal fluctuations. Whether you’re ramping up production to meet spring demand or planning ahead for the summer season, understanding how to strategically manage your working capital can mean the difference between thriving and surviving. Know your numbers before the seasons shift Your working capital requirements surge during peak seasons as you build… Read More