Distribution and Retail

Learn more about our Distribution Network and Retail Partnerships

Evolving to Support Regional Farms

Our Distribution Network

In Red Tomato's early days, we ran a small warehouse and distribution operation. However, we quickly realized that a conventional wholesale model at our small scale couldn't compete with large-scale distributors.

Our Strategies

We’ve developed two key distribution strategies:

Plan A

Whole Truckload Distribution

By coordinating with multiple growers to deliver full truckloads of produce to centralized warehouses, we can:

  • Remain price competitive
  • Pay growers fairly
  • Efficiently move large volumes of produce

We work with partners like Whole Foods and other regional retailers using this model.

Plan B

Direct Store Delivery

Launched in 2014, our Direct Store Delivery (DSD) program allows us to:

  • Deliver a wider variety of produce
  • Interact more directly with store purchasing teams
  • Provide more personalized marketing and customer service
  • Deliver to grocery stores, colleges, institutions, and other distributors

We manage these logistics without owning warehouses or trucks, instead relying on strategic partnerships with growers and distribution companies.

Current Distribution and Trucking Partners Include:

Happy Dirt
Crown O’Maine
Performance Foodservice – Springfield
Black River Produce Logo
Black River Produce
UNFI Fresh
Total Quality Logistics
Squash Trucking
Shapiro Produce
Myers Produce
Holden Fruit and Produce
Hemingways Fresh
Falcon Transportation
F&B Produce
DiSilva Fruit Co
Andrews Trucking
Where Does Our Volume Go?

Our Retailer Partnerships

As a food hub, our primary goal is to create meaningful market opportunities for our farmers. Understanding where and how your produce reaches consumers is crucial.

Market Volumes

Our retail partnerships span a diverse range of outlets to help maximize market access for our farmers:

  • Regional Grocery Chains: Major Northeast grocers who prioritize local produce
  • Specialty Food Stores: Markets committed to supporting local and sustainable agriculture
  • Cooperative Grocers: Stores with a mission-driven approach to local food sytems

Beyond Traditional Retail

While grocery stores form a significant part of our distribution, we’re constantly exploring innovative market channels:

  • Direct Store Delivery: Bringing fresh, local produce directly to store shelves
  • Bulk Wholesale: Efficient distribution of larger produce volumes
  • Seasonal Programming: Highlighting regional produce during peak seasons

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