Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
Which delivery couriers offer reliable overnight and early-morning pallet delivery slots for major retailers?
For overnight and early-morning pallet delivery to major retailers, members recommend checking with the retailer's approved or preferred hauliers first, as they typically offer 24-hour delivery slots tailored to that customer. Specific carriers mentioned: - **Palletways** — confirmed to offer 6am delivery slots - **Pallet Online** — operates 24/7 delivery, though members noted it's worth asking via their online chat whether specific midnight-3am booking slots can be requested - **Palletline** — noted as the biggest network; local depots often handle 24-hour deliveries into major retailers like Bookers due to high volume Members also highlighted that if you're delivering to a major retailer (e.g. Bookers), their approved hauliers will typically have midnight-3am slot availability built into their standard service. The key is checking directly with the retailer for their preferred carrier list rather than assuming standard carriers will offer these times.
What payment term delays should drinks founders expect from major distributors and retailers?
Major UK distributors and retailers frequently pay significantly beyond stated terms, creating serious cash flow strain for producers. **Key challenges members reported:** - **Enotria** — invoices 100+ days overdue; stopped responding to chasers - **Luxury retailers** — taking 3+ months to pay; chasing required throughout - **Ocado** — consistently slow payment - **E&C (Edrington & Co)** — historically took well over 90 days; recently received cash injection to clear debts, so payment may improve but members advised to "trade cautiously" during their recovery period **What members noted:** This is a recurring issue that "crops up every 3 months" and appears cyclical. Large distributors seem unconcerned about reputation damage from late payment. Members should budget for extended payment cycles (120+ days) even when terms state 30 or 60 days, and be prepared for extended chasing. Recent capital injections to some distributors may ease terms, but the pattern suggests ongoing caution is warranted.
Which B2B marketplace platforms should drinks producers consider for reaching distributors and retailers?
Members are exploring B2B marketplace platforms as a distribution channel, with **Ankorstore** and **Faire** emerging as the main options under consideration. **Ankorstore** — A Dutch platform that has been operating for years as a physical stock mover. They claim to promote products to approximately 130,000 retailers across Europe and the UK. However, members note this may be less suitable for producers selling on EXW (Ex Works) terms or through importers, as margin erosion becomes a concern when products are already imported. The platform appears product-led and skews towards French and German producers. **Faire** — Noted as "getting traction in the UK" and worth exploring as an alternative. Members recommend treating these as one option among several B2B marketplaces currently in circulation, and to weigh them against each other based on your specific supply model (direct sales vs. EXW/importer arrangements) and margin requirements.