Frequently Asked Questions
#1 What is North Star Foodservice?
We are the multi-unit specialty division of U.S. Foodservice. Systems distribution requires a different approach including the care and sourcing of proprietary products, advanced procurement, detailed reporting and unparalleled, get it right the first time service. North Star is focused on your special needs.
back to top
#2 Why should I use North Star Foodservice instead of U.S. Foodservice?
Our sister company is positively the best broadline distributor in the nation. Systems distribution is a different service. North Star Foodservice exists to feed the need of multi-unit restaurant operation, where the number of proprietary items, the number of weekly deliveries, advanced procurement and reporting are the key elements of a successful program.
back to top
#3 How many deliveries per week will I get?
This is negotiable; the answer is, as many as you need. We are in the service business and so we will provide you with all the service you want. Most of our customers prefer a value price and a single delivery.
back to top
#4 How will you manage Limited Time Offers and special orders?
There are several parts to this question. First, if one of your units has a huge weekend and needs supplies earlier in the week, we will meet the need; we are your supply partner. Secondly, when you plan LTO's with special menu items and ingredients, our advance procurement department will work with your designated vendor to forecast demand and have product in stock. North Star understands your special needs.
back to top
#5 What service level can I expect?
While no distribution company is perfect, we are very proud of our 98.7% fill rate. Add approved substitutions and we consistently hit 99.3%. Our long list of very satisfied customers is our best answer to this question.
(See the results of our "Customer Satisfaction Survey in our "News" section. Click here.
back to top
#6 Who are your target customers?
We specialize in multi-unit QSR, family, fast casual and casual dining. Our customers are regional and national and typically are 50+ units.
back to top
#7 Where are your distribution centers located?
We are nationwide in conjunction with our sister company, U.S. Foodservice. View the Locations area of the website to learn more about each North Star Foodservice and US Foodservice distribution center.
back to top
#8 What products do you carry?
Our products are your products. Typically, our customers contract for the top 80% of the volume of their purchases. The remainder of the purchases we negotiate based on delivering the correct products at the best landed cost. Many of our customers buy our exclusive brands as the quality and pricing works so well. For a complete listing, click here.
back to top
#9 How do you accomplish delivery?
We utilize a transportation management and routing system to meet your requirements for the number of deliveries per week and the time of day. We run a very modern fleet of three-compartment trailers designed to ensure quality and temperature control.
back to top
#10 What is your coverage area?
We serve entire lower 48 states; see our map of dedicated systems distribution centers and supporting broadline facilities. Click here.
back to top
