U.S. distributor search
U.S. distributor search for manufacturers selling from abroad
U.S. distributor search for manufacturers that goes past a directory list: we vet distributors against your product and price, approach them for you and set up introductions with the ones that fit.
Commercial representation. AFI is not a law firm.
How the U.S. distributor search works
We start with the profile of distributor that suits your product: channel, territory, the lines they carry and the size of account they can handle. That profile removes most of the names a directory would give you.
We build a longlist, check each company against the profile, and contact the strongest candidates directly. You meet the distributors that are interested and qualified, with a summary of each before the call.
A directory gives names. Recruitment gets a conversation.
Buyer directories list thousands of U.S. distributors. Most will not reply to a cold email from an overseas supplier they have never heard of, and the ones that do often want exclusivity before they have sold anything.
Distributor recruitment in the USA works better from a U.S. contact who can call, answer questions in their time zone and explain your terms. That is the part of U.S. channel partner development we take on.
If you would rather sell to buyers directly, see U.S. sales representation for foreign manufacturers.
How it works
From profile to introduction
- Step 01
Distributor profile
We agree the channel, territory and distributor size that suit your product.
- Step 02
Longlist and vetting
We research candidates and check each one against the profile.
- Step 03
Approach
We contact the shortlist, explain your offer and answer first questions.
- Step 04
Introductions
You meet interested distributors, with a written summary of each one.
Questions about u.S. distributor search
Should we offer a U.S. distributor exclusivity?
Sometimes, for a defined territory or channel and with sales targets attached. We explain the trade-offs; your lawyer drafts the agreement.
How many distributors will you approach?
It depends on your category and how many distributors fit the profile. We agree the scope at the start. [TODO] Add AFI’s typical range.
Do you negotiate the distribution agreement?
We help you understand what the distributor is asking for and relay your position. The contract itself is between your company and the distributor.
Can you search in a specific region of the U.S.?
Yes. Many manufacturers start with one region or one channel before going national.
Related services
Each service works on its own or as part of AFI's U.S. market representation services.
- U.S. market entry Market assessment, entry route and launch plan, then the work to carry it out.
- U.S. trademark registration Clearance search and USPTO filing through a licensed U.S. trademark attorney, managed by AFI.
- U.S. sales representation A U.S. representative who finds buyers, attends meetings and follows up for you.
- Trade show representation Meetings booked before the show, your booth staffed, and follow-up after.
- U.S. business representative A U.S. phone line, email and named contact for buyers and partners.
- For Chinese companies U.S. sales, distribution and contact for manufacturers based in China.
- Amazon market entry Brand Registry, U.S. listings and launch planning for brands entering Amazon.com.
- FDA U.S. Agent A U.S. Agent for foreign food, drug, device and cosmetic facilities registering with FDA.
- Texas registered agent Registered agent and registered office in Austin for Texas companies with owners abroad.
Book a consultation
Tell us what you make and what you need from u.S. distributor search. We reply by email within 24 hours to arrange a call.
- Phone
- +1-512-877-1986
- Office
- 9308 Swooping Bat Dr, Austin, TX 78744