Single supplier for foodbank

[Jim Walker <w.james.walker@sympatico.ca>]

The foodbank we are establishing northwest of Toronto will have Deming 
principles throughout. One of the Deming principles is to have a single 
supplier with whom the organization establishes a long-term 
relationship. In good Deming fashion we have defined a supplier as any 
individual or organization which provides food products on a regular, 
scheduled basis.

The food providers for foodbanks in this part  of North America  
traditionally have been distribution centres into which are shunted 
food and personal hygiene products which no longer have any commercial 
value.

Out of these distribution centres destined for the local foodbanks come 
products with huge variations in quality and quantity. I think Deming 
would think it not wise to use such suppliers given our difficulties 
'downstream' in dealing with this kind of variation. However, most 
local foodbanks do deal with it in a number of ways and those who need 
support seem to get fed after a fashion.

We are seeking recommendations around the characteristics for a single 
supplier for a foodbank. Assume that the supplier will donate food 
products at no cost. Assume that we can go to the supplier's loading 
dock and can take a standard pallet of the product.

Jim Walker