Ask the Collective

How do you find and vet reliable distributors or agents in new international markets like Canada/Ontario?

Finding trustworthy distributors in new markets requires checking accreditation bodies and leveraging community networks. Members suggest: - **Loyal Imports** — mentioned as a potential Canadian distributor option; worth investigating directly - **DBT (Drinks Business Trust) accredited buyer list** — use this as a vetting tool; distributors on the accredited list provide some assurance of legitimacy - **Community introductions** — ask members directly for referrals; one member with an LCBO listing was actively seeking Ontario agent recommendations through the group when their previous agent left **Caveat:** Members referenced a "Brittains Bev debacle" as a cautionary tale of distributor problems, though details weren't fully discussed. Vet carefully and check credentials before committing.