Thumann's routes: The Business model

Provision is a big business; in fact, it's over a whopping $50 billion industry. But the competition is no joke, with deli meat distributors doing everything they can to satisfy their customers and not lose them to other distributors. That's where the benefit of owning a branded provision route business comes in. 

Let's imagine you are starting this business from the ground up. Getting into a new business requires a lot more than a friendly face and competitive prices. Customers know what's up; they will demand, "What will you offer me?"

You may have to offer a few orders for free, which will cost you thousands. I remember when I owned a deli, my provision distributor gave me three free orders and installed three digital menu boards, to be exact!

This brings me to this guide on buying an established route for sale, but not just any— a Thumann’s route for sale! Also known as “The Deli Best.” Let's talk about the company a little first before we jump into the business side of it.

Thumann’s is a family-owned company that was founded by Henry Thumann back in 1949. That's a long time ago! Henry Thumann and his family have been committed to serving their customers with only the best deli products, and today, that commitment still lives on with their unique family recipes—no artificial flavors or colors, no by-products, fillers, or gluten. The best part? Their products are trans-fat-free and contain absolutely no MSG.

Now, when buying a business for sale, you want to know what you will sell, right? Whether it's service, products, or whatever the business for sale offers—what am I selling first should be the primary question.

Well, Thumann’s products include a variety of deli meats like Italian cured specialties, hot dogs, bacon, all types of cheeses, and of course, deli meats like turkey, ham, salami, and all that other good stuff that you see when you walk into a deli or supermarket.

Hello? Wait, don't tell me you left me to go buy a sandwich? Okay, good. I am getting to the good stuff.

The business side of it is pretty simple. The process includes building a customer base with the guidance of Thumann’s company. Your customers are our bread and butter, so in this case, happy customers mean a happy life.

Some provision routes for sale will usually take orders over the phone a day prior and deliver them the following day. 

The business model

Thumann’s is kind of different. They roll up, see what you've got behind your deli case, what sold more, what sold less, what got damaged, and work with the business owner in making the order. You will also ensure that meats, cheese, and other products are well-presented and organized for customers. 

You will also consult with the business owner or manager on any new products Thumann’s has and place some signs on the deli case to let customers know about the new product offered.

Thumann’s routes for sale come with a truck unless told it is not in the asking price or maybe an assumable lease or a separate transaction. This is usually in the listing page of the route. The trucks are refrigerated box trucks. Some may require a CDL B; some may not, depending on the size of the route. It's important to ask the listing broker about this!

Now, in regards to how much you can make, each route for sale is different. We researched some and we've seen that some made $1,300 to upwards of $5,000 and more. But remember, higher profits mean a higher asking price, while some of Thumann’s routes for sale show that you can be working three days a week or more.

Thumann’s has built a reputable brand and is expanding to more states. If you become a Thumann’s route distributor, customer satisfaction is of the essence. Your customers are of all kinds, from supermarkets to delis to even institutions.

Your job is to provide customers with Thumann’s products and collect payment. When selling a brand, you don't need to worry about the marketing aspect. Your territory-protected route enables you to focus on one thing only, and that's giving customers the best service ever.

Pros and cons of buying a Thumann's route for sale

  Thumann's is a beloved brand with an outstanding reputation in the provision and meat industry. Associating with such a renowned brand can instantly lend credibility to your business, unlike traditional independent deli meat routes for sale that require more effort to acquire new customers.

  Speaking of acquiring new customers, when owning a Thumann's route, you instantly gain access to exclusive rights within a specific territory. This exclusivity can shield you from other Thumann's distributors.

 New to the deli meat industry? No sweat! Sellers of Thumann's routes usually offer training, which is a must when selling a highly recognized brand like Thumann's. Customer satisfaction is key, and this will set you on the right path to success.

 The demand for Thumann's ensures a reliable, steady revenue stream even in fluctuating market conditions. Thumann's success is your success. Deli meats and provisions are staple food items for many businesses and households. How many sandwiches do you eat a month?

Cons:

 So, money talks with Thumann Routes starting high. But the provision industry is a big business, and you are not selling a basic brand; it's what Thumann's customers look for. If you are considering buying a route, it may require a significant upfront investment. This investment will include a vehicle(s), a set of customers, training, and most importantly, distribution rights.

​​​​​​​  Now, work is work, right? Operating a distribution route comes with its own set of challenges. During winter, bundle up as you are going in and out of a refrigerated truck. Additionally, you may be handling heavy boxes of meats and cheeses alongside ensuring deli managers display them well inside the deli case. It's not a drop-and-go type of business. Thumann's routes will require you to put in extra effort and time per stop.

In conclusion, Thumann’s does an excellent job in marketing, and they will give you the tools needed like signs and decals to give to your customers. Buying a Thumann’s route for sale can be a great investment, but you will also need to do your due diligence, such as is there a deposit required. How long will I get trained for? Will the employees remain? And how does the hiring part work? That's all for this guide—share if you found this guide helpful.

  Qassem yafai 

Disclaimer: This article is not endorsed or sponsored by Thumann's. It is provided for informational purposes only, and the research conducted was done independently. It is important for readers to conduct their own research before purchasing a Thumann's route for sale or any other business. This article does not constitute legal advice or an attempt to solicit readers into buying a business. We do not earn any commissions from listings, and we do not verify the availability or accuracy of listings for sale.