How to Choose an Asian Beverage Importer: A Scorecard for Producers
For a producer entering the United States, the choice of import partner shapes everything that follows. Score each candidate from 1 to 5 on the three criteria below, then compare totals. If you want the full picture of what an importer does first, our guide to how an Asian beverage importer works with a producer sets out the split of responsibilities.
Criterion 1: wholesale reach
A strong importer has active relationships with wholesale partners in the states where you want to sell. Ask which partners carry its brands in those states, and how long each relationship has run.
Criterion 2: category experience
Asian beverage experience shows up in specifics: the formats, price tiers, and account types the importer has handled. Ask which Asian beverage brands it has placed, and in which channels.
Criterion 3: licensing infrastructure
State licensing is one of the first practical hurdles for a producer. RTM Imports reaches all 50 states through its wholesale partner network and holds the compliance and licensing layer. Ask every importer to describe, in plain terms, which licensing responsibilities it holds and which stay with you. The compliance and licensing page shows how RTM Imports handles this.
Scoring anchors
| Criterion | 1 | 3 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wholesale reach | Cannot name wholesale partners, or names partners in only one or two states | Names partners in some of your target states, with relationships under a year or unclear | Names partners in most of your target states, with relationships it can describe in detail |
| Category experience | No Asian beverage brands placed | A few brands placed, mostly in one channel | Several brands placed across the formats, price tiers and account types you need |
| Licensing infrastructure | Cannot say who holds which responsibility | Describes its role but leaves gaps on what stays with you | States clearly what it holds and what you hold, and puts it in writing |
How to use the scores
Score each candidate separately and write down the evidence behind every number. A candidate that scores 5 on reach but 1 on licensing is a risk, however good the sales pitch. Where two candidates tie, ask each for a reference from a producer it represents.
To discuss how RTM Imports would score against this card, contact our team through the RTM Imports contact page.