Buying and Approval Process for Bread Routes
Buying a bread route is one of the most approachable paths to business ownership in the logistics space. These routes are typically low-overhead, high-stability operations with protected territories and consistent weekly sales. But what does the actual buying and approval process look like?
In this blog, we outline each step involved in purchasing a bread route, from choosing a supplier to closing the deal, so you can move forward with confidence and clarity.
Step 1: Understand the Business Model
Before diving into the acquisition process, it's important to understand how bread routes operate. Most bread routes are tied to major suppliers such as Flowers Foods, Pepperidge Farm, or Bimbo Bakeries. As the route owner, you are an independent distributor, not a direct employee of the supplier.
Your responsibilities include:
Picking up fresh product from a warehouse or depot
Delivering to grocery stores, convenience stores, and big-box retailers
Restocking shelves and managing inventory
Removing stale or unsold product
Suppliers provide protected territories, commission on product sales, and support for onboarding and route management.
Step 2: Evaluate Routes for Sale
Bread routes are typically sold by current owners through brokers like Route Consultant. When evaluating a route, consider:
Weekly gross sales volume
Commission percentage
Delivery schedule and time commitment
Territory size and account quality
Whether a delivery vehicle is included in the sale
Most bread routes sell for 18–24x average weekly sales, depending on profitability, efficiency, and demand in the region.
Browse Available Bread Routes for Sale
Step 3: Submit an Offer and Begin Due Diligence
Once you find a route that fits your goals, you’ll submit a formal offer. If accepted, the process moves into due diligence, where you review:
Verified sales reports (typically through the supplier)
Historical sales trends
Vehicle ownership and maintenance records (if applicable)
Account history and route density
This phase ensures the route’s financials align with the seller’s claims and that the business is truly a good fit.
Step 4: Apply for Supplier Approval
All bread route transfers must be approved by the supplier. Each brand has its own vetting process, but most require the following:
Background check
Credit check
In-person or phone interview
Proof of business entity (LLC or S-corp)
Vehicle ownership or lease documentation
Some suppliers also require buyers to attend a training session or shadow the route prior to approval. This process can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the brand and responsiveness of all parties involved.
Step 5: Secure Financing (If Needed)
While many bread routes are purchased in cash, financing options are available. These may include:
SBA loans (for qualifying buyers and routes)
Equipment financing for the delivery vehicle
Seller financing on a portion of the purchase
Buyers should ensure they have funds for not only the route but also working capital to cover operating costs during the first few weeks of ownership.
Step 6: Closing and Transition
Once supplier approval is granted and financing is secured, the sale can move to closing. This includes:
Signing the final purchase agreement
Transferring funds and assets
Registering your business with the supplier
Beginning training or shadowing with the seller (if not already completed)
In most cases, the seller will work alongside you for the first 1–2 weeks of ownership to ensure a smooth transition. This includes introducing you to store managers, assisting with inventory procedures, and coaching on delivery routes.
Final Thoughts
The bread route acquisition process is straightforward, but supplier approval is critical. Brands want to ensure their distributors are dependable, financially qualified, and committed to maintaining strong retailer relationships. That’s why understanding the full approval process—and partnering with a knowledgeable advisor—is key to a successful acquisition.
At Route Consultant, we help buyers navigate every step of the journey—from initial discovery through due diligence, supplier approval, and successful transition. Whether you're buying your first route or building a larger delivery portfolio, we’re here to help you make a strong start. Ready to take the next step? Browse Available Routes for Sale.
Want to Learn More?
For a comprehensive understanding of bread routes, consider enrolling in our Bread Routes 101 Course. This course provides foundational knowledge to help you decide if investing in logistics routes aligns with your goals.
