Food ingredient and packaging broker

Small food manufacturers such as bakeries, sauce and snack makers, craft food brands and co-packers.

A markup on goods you resell, or a commission paid by the supplier on orders you bring in. Repeat monthly orders from the same producers are what build steady income.

• Sales and relationship building
• Negotiating prices with suppliers
• Organised with orders and paperwork
• Understanding of food product needs

• Check whether you need a Safe Food for Canadians licence from the CFIA if you import or trade food across provincial or international borders
• Food-contact packaging must meet Health Canada requirements, so ask suppliers for documentation
• Commercial general liability and product liability insurance, check the cover with a broker
• Late payment from customers and supplier minimum orders can squeeze cash flow
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check provincial rules

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your tools, insurance, and whether you resell products or work on commission. Because you hold little stock, costs can stay low.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many food makers you supply, your margins or commission, and order sizes. Plan on at least about 10 hours a week.

Check whether you need a Safe Food for Canadians licence from the CFIA if you import or trade food across borders. Ask suppliers for documentation showing food-contact packaging meets Health Canada requirements, and confirm insurance and GST/HST registration.