Miami, Florida, USA, September 23rd, 2024 – Rgand, the innovative online B2B marketplace that is revolutionizing the food service supply chain, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Direct Trade Foundation (DTF). This groundbreaking initiative aims to assist global food producers in breaking into the U.S. market. Over the next three years, the foundation will provide $100 million in financial and operational support, with a focus on fostering innovation, brand growth, and market success for small and medium-sized suppliers.
Rovshan Rasulov, the CEO and founder of Rgand, who boasts over 25 years of experience in the food supply chain, established the foundation to address the key barriers faced by smaller food producers when entering the U.S. restaurant and hotel industry. The Direct Trade Foundation is designed to empower producers with the necessary tools, expertise, and resources to thrive in the highly competitive U.S. market.
According to Rovshan Rasulov, “As the food service supply chain becomes more complex, smaller producers often struggle to gain visibility and compete on price. With the Direct Trade Foundation, we aim to level the playing field and give these businesses an opportunity to access one of the world’s largest food service markets.”
In a recent interview with Forbes, Rasulov elaborated on his vision for DTF, acknowledging that the U.S. restaurant and food service industry comprises over one million establishments, yet remains challenging to navigate due to high costs and stiff competition. “These barriers make it difficult for smaller players to establish themselves. DTF aims to change that,” stated Rasulov.
The Direct Trade Foundation is more than just a financial accelerator. It offers a comprehensive support package to selected producers, providing them with access to logistical support, sampling programs, mentorship and training, and innovation and market impact initiatives. The foundation plans to select 50 producers annually, focusing on businesses with strong potential for market impact and innovation. Companies from regions such as North America, Europe, Latin America, Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, and Ukraine are encouraged to apply.
The U.S. restaurant industry faces ongoing challenges with profitability, despite projected sales exceeding $1.1 trillion in 2024. Rising food and labor costs have significantly impacted profit margins, according to the National Restaurant Association. In this climate, both restaurants and food producers are seeking innovative ways to optimize their operations and supply chains.
By eliminating intermediaries from the supply chain and connecting producers directly with restaurant buyers, the Rgand platform, along with the new foundation, offers a more efficient and cost-effective solution. “The Direct Trade Foundation will not only help these producers enter the market but also enable them to grow sustainably,” added Rasulov. “We are creating opportunities for them to sell directly to restaurant and hotel buyers, ensuring better prices for both sides.”
Early success stories have already emerged from this transformative initiative. For example, a small Turkish confectionery producer joined the Rgand Marketplace and utilized the Sample Box Marathon to reach over 1,000 restaurants and hotels in the U.S. “The results were remarkable,” said Rasulov. “Nearly 100 restaurants and hotels became repeat customers, demonstrating that with the right tools, small producers can thrive in this market.”
The Direct Trade Foundation aspires to create lasting change in the global food industry by democratizing access to one of the world’s most dynamic markets. “We believe DTF will have a substantial and lasting impact on the U.S. restaurant industry and beyond,” expressed Rasulov. “This is just the beginning of a transformative journey.”
About Rgand:
Rgand.com is the pioneering online wholesale marketplace that facilitates direct trade between producers and restaurants, eliminating all intermediaries. Food and restaurant supplies manufacturers gain direct access to thousands of buyers, bypassing costly tradeshows, distributors, and stores. Restaurants and other commercial food establishments can purchase high-quality foods and supplies at direct-from-manufacturer prices, take advantage of special offers, receive free samples, and enjoy free shipping. Rgand’s mission is to revolutionize the foodservice industry supply chain by restructuring and streamlining its end-to-end process.
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Contact:
Rovshan Rasulov
CEO and Founder
Rgand LLC
[email protected]
