The Request for Proposal (RFP) process in national restaurant chains is a systematic method for these chains to source and procure various goods and services from suppliers, vendors, and partners. Here's how the process generally works:

1. Identification of Needs: The process typically starts with the identification of specific needs within the restaurant chain. This could include everything from food and beverage supplies to equipment, technology solutions, marketing services, and more.

2. RFP Creation: Once the needs are identified, the restaurant chain's procurement team creates an RFP document. The RFP outlines the requirements, specifications, expectations, and evaluation criteria for the products or services they are seeking.

3. Vendor Selection: The restaurant chain identifies potential vendors or suppliers who can meet their needs. This can include existing partners, as well as new companies that might be able to provide the required goods or services.

Image: IMI Agency’s clients.

Evan Traub, Senior Account Manager,  will go over the details on Cracking the National Hotel Chain Beverage Programs at the 2024 IBWSS Show. Get your conference tickets with early bird pricing. Get IBWSS Tickets here. Register for the webinar here.

4. Distribution of RFP: The RFP document is then sent to the selected vendors. This is typically done electronically, through an RFP platform, or via email, and includes a response deadline.

5. Vendor Responses: Vendors who receive the RFP carefully review the document and prepare their responses. Responses include detailed information about how they will meet the restaurant chain's needs, pricing, timelines, quality assurance, and any other relevant details.

6. RFP Evaluation: The restaurant chain's procurement team evaluates all the responses based on the predetermined criteria. This evaluation can involve multiple stakeholders within the chain, such as operations, finance, and quality control.

7. Vendor Selection: After a thorough evaluation, the restaurant chain selects the vendor(s) that best align with their needs and criteria. This may involve negotiations on pricing, terms, and conditions.

8. Contracting: Once a vendor is selected, the restaurant chain and the chosen vendor enter into contract negotiations. This contract specifies the terms, conditions, and expectations for the partnership. Legal and financial teams are often involved in this phase.

9. Implementation: With the contract in place, the vendor starts providing the goods or services to the restaurant chain. This could involve training, onboarding, and any necessary preparations for the partnership.

10. Ongoing Management:  The restaurant chain continues to manage the relationship with the vendor, ensuring that the vendor delivers as per the contract's terms. Regular communication, performance assessments, and adjustments are made as needed.

11. Review and Renewal: Periodically, the restaurant chain reviews the partnership and vendor performance to assess whether it continues to meet their needs. If necessary, the RFP process may be initiated again to explore new options or reaffirm the existing partnership.

Throughout this process, transparency, communication, and compliance with relevant laws and regulations are crucial. It's a complex process that requires close collaboration between various departments and stakeholders within the restaurant chain to ensure the best vendors are selected to meet their needs effectively.

If you are looking to learn more about how to get your products into national chains, attend Evan Traub's, Senior Account Manager, IMI Agency session at the upcoming IBWSS Conference. Visitor tickets are on super early bird pricing till December 24, 2023. Get 2 days of learning at a super early price. Book now seat and save. Prices go up from December 25, 2023.

Evan Traub will also be speaking at the 2024 International Bulk Wine and Spirits Show along with other top-class speakers. Attendees of this webinar will also get a special discount code for the 2024 IBWSS conference tickets.

More About The IBWSS 2024: 'Crop to Shelf' - Elevating the Wine and Spirits Industry

The 6th edition of the International Bulk Wine and Spirits Show was hailed as a great success, offering attendees access to valuable insights and fostering valuable connections. Topics that garnered significant attention included the surging popularity of Ready-to-Drink (RTD) beverages, the expanding market for non-alcoholic wines, promising opportunities in Southern Hemisphere bulk wines, the continuous growth of private label brands, and the practical application of artificial intelligence in the industry. These takeaways reinforced the show's significance in the world of bulk wine and spirits.

As the 7th edition approaches, the event's theme, 'Crop to Shelf,' is set to guide industry players through the entire supply chain. Bringing together growers and retailers under one roof, this theme will provide a comprehensive view of the wine and spirits industry's journey, offering a deeper understanding of its intricacies and the opportunities it presents. 'Crop to Shelf' underscores IBWSS's commitment to educating and empowering attendees by offering a holistic perspective, ensuring the show's continued relevance and success. It encapsulates the entire journey of wine and spirits, from its inception in the vineyards to its placement on the store shelves. Understanding and optimizing every step in this intricate process is paramount for industry professionals looking to thrive in a competitive and ever-evolving market. 

In doing so, it solidifies the show's position as a pivotal platform for education, collaboration, and growth in the world of bulk wine and spirits. The 7th annual International Bulk Wine and Spirits Show (IBWSS) is returning to San Francisco on July 23-24, 2024, and it's set to be an event like no other. Get ready to mark your calendars!

Don't miss out on IBWSS 2024, where the entire crop-to-shelf supply chain comes together. Get ready for a transformative experience, enlightening discussions, and unparalleled networking opportunities. Join us for a revolution in the world of bulk wine and spirits. We can't wait to see you there!

Visitor tickets are on super early bird pricing till December 24, 2023. Get 2 days of learning at a super early price. Book now seat and save. Prices go up from December 25, 2023.