Choosing a Wholesale Coffee Supplier: 7 Key Questions to Ask

Looking for a reliable wholesale coffee supplier? Here are 7 essential questions importers and distributors should ask before making a decision.

Finding the right wholesale coffee supplier can shape the future of your business — whether you're a retailer, importer, or distributor. Coffee is more than a commodity; it's a story, a taste experience, and, increasingly, a lifestyle product. As demand for high-quality, branded coffee grows globally, so does the need to partner with a supplier that delivers not only excellent coffee but also retail-ready support.
Here are seven key questions to ask when evaluating potential wholesale coffee partners:

1. Are the products retail-ready?

For businesses selling packaged coffee, it’s important that the supplier offers consumer-ready products — with professional packaging, labeling, and all necessary certifications.
Check for:

Shelf-stable packaging
Multilingual labels
Barcode and nutritional info
Compliance with local import laws

A well-prepared supplier will make market entry smoother and faster.

2. Where are the beans sourced, and are they traceable?

Today's coffee consumers value transparency. Ask your supplier about the origin of their beans, whether they can be traced to specific farms or regions, and how they are processed.
Traceability builds trust, especially when tied to ethical sourcing or environmental practices.
At Mr. Viet, all coffee is sourced directly from family-owned farms in Vietnam’s Central Highlands.

3. What formats and SKUs are available?

Variety matters. Your customers may prefer different formats — whole bean, ground, drip bags, capsules or instant.
Ask:

What product types are available?
What pack sizes are offered?
Is private label or co-branding an option?

Having multiple formats allows you to test different markets and respond to evolving trends.

4. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ)?

MOQ impacts flexibility, especially for new markets or small-scale testing.
Check if your supplier offers:

Low MOQs for trial orders
Tiered pricing based on volume
Flexibility during the first few shipments

A good partner will help you grow without forcing large upfront commitments.

5. Does the brand have international appeal?

If you're importing branded coffee, consider whether the brand resonates beyond its home country.
Look for:

Clear brand identity
High-quality visuals and storytelling
Proof of success in other international markets

For example, Mr. Viet has built a bold and colorful brand with strong retail presence in over 20 countries — helping partners stand out on shelves.

6. Can they meet your logistics and lead time requirements?

Reliable shipping is crucial. Ask about:

Average lead time per order
Experience with international freight (FOB, CIF, DDP)
Customs and documentation support

Late shipments or customs issues can disrupt your retail timelines and hurt buyer relationships.

7. Is the supplier prepared for long-term partnership?

You’re not just looking for a vendor — you’re looking for a partner. Ask:

Can they scale production as demand grows?
Do they offer marketing support?
Will you have a dedicated account manager or point of contact?

Long-term growth requires collaboration and trust on both sides.

In Summary

The wholesale coffee supplier you choose should help elevate your business, not just fill a container. By asking the right questions, you’ll ensure that your brand — and your customers — are getting the best possible coffee, experience, and support.

If you’re looking for a retail-ready Vietnamese coffee brand with bold packaging, a wide range of flavors and formats, and a growing global presence, explore partnership options with Mr. Viet. We’d love to hear from you.