Navigating Food Product Distribution Agreements in Rapid City

Food product distribution agreement complexities demand expert navigation, especially when targeting the vibrant market of Rapid City, South Dakota. As businesses grow, securing reliable channels to move goods from producer to consumer becomes paramount. This is where a well-crafted food product distribution agreement serves as the bedrock of operational success and market penetration. In 2026, understanding the nuances of these contracts is more critical than ever for ensuring smooth operations and mutually beneficial partnerships within the food industry landscape of the United States. This article will guide you through the essential elements of creating and managing effective distribution agreements, specifically considering the unique opportunities and challenges present in Rapid City.

Establishing a robust distribution network requires more than just finding partners; it necessitates legally sound agreements that protect all parties involved. We will delve into what makes a distribution agreement effective, explore different types of agreements, discuss key considerations when choosing partners, highlight the benefits of clear contracts, and provide insights into pricing and common pitfalls to avoid. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge needed to secure successful distribution channels for your food products in Rapid City and beyond, ensuring your business thrives in the competitive food sector of the United States throughout 2026.

What is a Food Product Distribution Agreement?

A food product distribution agreement is a legally binding contract between a supplier (manufacturer or producer of food products) and a distributor. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions under which the distributor will purchase and resell the supplier’s products within a specified territory. It clarifies responsibilities, defines the scope of the distribution rights, and establishes pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, and marketing support. In essence, it formalizes the relationship, ensuring clarity and preventing disputes. For businesses operating in or looking to enter the Rapid City market, a clear agreement is vital for understanding roles and expectations, thereby fostering a productive business relationship. These agreements are fundamental for scaling operations and ensuring consistent product availability for consumers in the United States.

The primary goal of such an agreement is to create a mutually beneficial framework that allows the supplier to expand its market reach and the distributor to profit from selling established or new food products. The agreement typically specifies whether the distributor has exclusive rights to sell the products in a given region, or if the supplier can also sell directly or appoint other distributors. For the food industry, where product freshness, timely delivery, and compliance with food safety regulations are crucial, the contract must address these specific aspects. Understanding these core components is the first step towards building a strong distribution strategy for your food products in the United States.

Key Components of a Food Product Distribution Agreement

A comprehensive food product distribution agreement will typically include several critical sections to ensure all potential issues are covered. These sections define the operational and legal boundaries of the partnership. Failing to address these points can lead to misunderstandings and costly disputes down the line, especially in a dynamic market like Rapid City.

1. Product Specifications: Clearly defining the exact food products covered by the agreement, including any variations, packaging, or labeling requirements. This prevents confusion about what is being distributed.

2. Territory: Precisely outlining the geographic area where the distributor is authorized to sell the products. This can range from a specific city, like Rapid City, to an entire state or even multiple states within the United States.

3. Exclusivity: Stating whether the distributor’s rights are exclusive or non-exclusive. Exclusive rights grant the distributor sole selling privileges within the territory, while non-exclusive rights allow the supplier to appoint multiple distributors or sell directly.

4. Term and Termination: Defining the duration of the agreement and the conditions under which it can be terminated by either party, including notice periods and grounds for immediate termination (e.g., breach of contract, bankruptcy).

5. Pricing and Payment Terms: Specifying the wholesale prices at which the distributor will purchase products, any volume discounts, and the payment schedule (e.g., net 30 days, payment upon delivery). For food products, payment terms are particularly important due to fluctuating market prices and seasonal availability.

6. Ordering and Delivery: Detailing the procedures for placing orders, minimum order quantities, lead times for delivery, and responsibility for shipping costs and insurance. Compliance with food safety during transit is a critical consideration here.

7. Marketing and Promotion: Outlining the marketing and promotional responsibilities of both parties. This can include requirements for advertising, promotional materials, in-store displays, and who bears the cost of these activities.

8. Performance Standards: Setting measurable performance metrics that the distributor must meet, such as sales targets, market penetration goals, and inventory management standards. These are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of the distribution partnership.

9. Intellectual Property: Addressing the use of trademarks, logos, and other intellectual property of the supplier. This ensures brand consistency and protects the supplier’s brand identity.

10. Compliance and Liability: Specifying compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including food safety standards (FDA regulations in the United States), labeling laws, and waste disposal. It also defines liability in case of product recalls or defects.

11. Confidentiality: Including clauses to protect sensitive business information shared between the parties.

12. Dispute Resolution: Stipulating the method for resolving disputes, such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation, and specifying the governing law (e.g., South Dakota law for Rapid City agreements).

A thorough understanding and careful drafting of each of these components are essential for a successful food product distribution agreement, safeguarding business interests and fostering growth in the competitive food market.

Types of Food Product Distribution Agreements

Navigating the landscape of food product distribution involves understanding that not all agreements are created equal. Different business models and strategic goals necessitate various types of distribution contracts. Choosing the right structure is crucial for optimizing market reach and operational efficiency, especially when considering a specific locale like Rapid City, South Dakota. The United States market offers a variety of established models, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages for both suppliers and distributors in 2026.

Here are the most common types of food product distribution agreements:

1. Direct Distribution

In this model, the manufacturer or producer sells its products directly to the end consumer or retailer without using an intermediary distributor. While not technically a ‘distribution agreement’ in the traditional sense, it represents a direct channel that some food businesses opt for, especially those with a strong direct-to-consumer strategy or a limited product line. This often involves managing their own logistics, warehousing, and sales force. For businesses in Rapid City, this could mean establishing a local presence or utilizing e-commerce platforms to reach customers directly. However, it requires significant investment in infrastructure and personnel.

2. Exclusive Distribution Agreement

This is one of the most common and sought-after types of agreements. Under an exclusive distribution agreement, the supplier grants a single distributor the sole right to sell its products within a defined territory. This means the supplier cannot appoint any other distributors in that territory, nor can they sell directly to customers within that area. For the distributor, this offers a strong incentive to invest in marketing and sales efforts, as they are guaranteed a return on their investment without competition from other distributors of the same product. For Rapid City businesses, an exclusive agreement can provide a focused market approach. However, it places a high degree of responsibility on the exclusive distributor to meet sales targets, as failure to do so could hinder the supplier’s overall growth.

3. Non-Exclusive Distribution Agreement

In contrast to exclusive agreements, non-exclusive distribution allows the supplier to appoint multiple distributors in the same territory. The supplier also retains the right to sell its products directly to customers within that territory. This model offers greater flexibility and broader market coverage for the supplier, as they can leverage multiple distribution partners to reach a wider customer base. For distributors, the lack of exclusivity means they face competition from other distributors and potentially the supplier itself, which might reduce their motivation to make significant marketing investments. This model is suitable for suppliers looking to maximize reach quickly across various segments of the market in the United States.

4. Selective Distribution Agreement

This type of agreement involves the supplier appointing a limited number of distributors who meet specific criteria. These criteria often relate to the distributor’s financial stability, market reputation, sales capabilities, and commitment to providing excellent customer service and after-sales support. The supplier aims to maintain quality control over the brand image and customer experience. This approach is often used for premium food products or those requiring specialized handling or knowledge. For example, a high-end gourmet food producer might use selective distribution to ensure their products are sold in reputable stores with knowledgeable staff, maintaining brand prestige in markets like Rapid City.

5. Intensive Distribution Agreement

Intensive distribution aims to place the products in as many outlets as possible. This strategy is typically employed for convenience goods or mass-market food products where widespread availability is key to sales volume. The supplier works with numerous distributors and retailers to ensure the product is accessible to a broad consumer base across the entire territory, such as the United States. This maximizes exposure but can lead to less control over brand representation and potentially lower margins per unit due to the high volume of partners and competition.

Each of these agreement types offers distinct advantages depending on the nature of the food product, the supplier’s business objectives, and the specific market conditions in regions like Rapid City, South Dakota. A careful evaluation of these factors is necessary to select the most effective distribution strategy for 2026.

How to Choose the Right Food Product Distribution Agreement

Selecting the appropriate food product distribution agreement is a strategic decision that can significantly impact a business’s success in the market. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach; the best choice depends heavily on the specific product, the company’s growth objectives, and the dynamics of the target market, such as Rapid City, South Dakota. Making an informed decision requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure the agreement aligns with your business strategy for the United States market in 2026.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Product Characteristics: Consider the nature of your food product. Is it a perishable item requiring rapid, specialized logistics? Is it a niche product that would benefit from exclusive, targeted marketing? Or is it a mass-market item that thrives on widespread availability? Perishable goods might necessitate direct or exclusive distribution to maintain freshness and control, while shelf-stable pantry staples might be suited for non-exclusive or intensive distribution.
2. Market Reach and Penetration Goals: Define your desired market presence. Do you aim for deep penetration in a specific area like Rapid City, or broad coverage across the United States? Exclusive agreements encourage deep penetration by incentivizing the distributor, while non-exclusive or intensive models facilitate wider reach.
3. Level of Control Desired: How much control do you want over branding, pricing, and customer experience? Exclusive and selective distribution agreements typically offer more control, allowing you to maintain brand integrity and ensure high-quality customer service. Non-exclusive and intensive models offer less control but greater volume.
4. Distributor Capabilities and Resources: Evaluate the potential distributor’s financial stability, logistical capabilities, sales force size, market knowledge, and existing relationships. Do they have the infrastructure to handle your product, especially if it requires refrigeration or specific handling? A strong partner is crucial, especially in diverse geographic areas like South Dakota.
5. Investment and Risk Tolerance: Assess your company’s willingness to invest in distribution infrastructure versus relying on a partner. Direct distribution requires significant upfront investment. Exclusive agreements require strong commitment to the distributor’s success, while non-exclusive models spread risk but may yield lower returns per distributor.
6. Competitive Landscape: Analyze the competitive environment in your target market. Are there many similar products already established? Understanding the competitive dynamics can help you decide whether exclusivity or broad availability is more effective for gaining market share in Rapid City.
7. Legal and Regulatory Environment: Familiarize yourself with the specific laws and regulations governing distribution agreements in the United States and South Dakota. Ensure the chosen agreement structure complies with all relevant legal requirements, particularly concerning food safety and fair trade practices.
8. Long-Term Vision: Consider your company’s long-term growth strategy. Will the chosen distribution model support future product line expansions or entry into new markets? Flexibility is key for sustained growth in the dynamic food industry.

By carefully weighing these factors, businesses can make an informed decision about the type of food product distribution agreement that best suits their needs. For instance, a startup looking to establish a strong foothold in Rapid City might begin with an exclusive agreement with a well-resourced local distributor. Conversely, an established brand aiming for rapid national expansion might opt for a non-exclusive strategy across multiple distributors throughout the United States.

Seeking legal counsel is highly recommended during this process. A qualified attorney specializing in contract law and distribution agreements can help draft, review, and negotiate the terms, ensuring that the agreement is legally sound, protects your interests, and sets the stage for a prosperous partnership. This professional guidance is invaluable in navigating the complexities of distribution contracts for the 2026 market.

Benefits of a Well-Defined Food Product Distribution Agreement

A meticulously crafted food product distribution agreement is more than just a legal document; it’s a strategic tool that fosters growth, ensures operational efficiency, and builds lasting business relationships. For food manufacturers and suppliers aiming to succeed in markets like Rapid City, South Dakota, and across the United States, the clarity and structure provided by a robust agreement are invaluable. The benefits extend across various facets of the business, contributing to overall stability and profitability in 2026.

Here are some of the key advantages of having a well-defined agreement:

• Expanded Market Reach: Distributors provide access to established networks and customer bases, allowing suppliers to reach new markets and customer segments they might not be able to access on their own. This is particularly crucial for businesses looking to scale beyond their immediate geographic vicinity, whether within Rapid City or across the nation.
• Reduced Operational Costs and Risks: By partnering with distributors, suppliers can offload the complexities and costs associated with logistics, warehousing, sales, and marketing. This allows the supplier to focus on product development and manufacturing while mitigating risks associated with market entry and distribution management.
• Enhanced Sales and Revenue: Professional distributors often have experienced sales teams and strong market knowledge, leading to increased sales volumes and faster revenue generation. Their expertise in navigating local markets, like Rapid City, can significantly boost product adoption.
• Improved Customer Service and Support: Established distributors often provide localized customer support, timely delivery, and efficient handling of customer inquiries or issues. This can enhance the overall customer experience and build brand loyalty, which is critical in the competitive food industry.
• Market Intelligence and Feedback: Distributors are on the front lines of the market and can provide valuable insights into consumer trends, competitor activities, and product performance. This feedback is crucial for product improvement, marketing strategy adjustments, and future business planning within the United States.
• Brand Consistency and Compliance: A well-drafted agreement ensures that the distributor adheres to brand guidelines, marketing standards, and regulatory requirements, such as food safety regulations in the United States. This helps maintain a consistent brand image and ensures legal compliance across all sales channels.
• Clear Roles and Responsibilities: The agreement clearly defines the duties and expectations of both the supplier and the distributor, minimizing misunderstandings and potential conflicts. This clarity fosters a more professional and productive working relationship.
• Legal Protection: A legally sound contract protects both parties by outlining terms, conditions, liabilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms. This provides a framework for recourse should any issues arise, offering peace of mind and a basis for resolving disagreements fairly.
• Predictable Business Operations: By standardizing terms related to ordering, payment, delivery, and performance, the agreement introduces predictability into the supply chain. This predictability is vital for inventory management, financial planning, and overall business stability, especially in volatile markets.

For businesses in Rapid City, or any other location within the United States, investing the time and resources to develop a comprehensive food product distribution agreement is a critical step toward sustainable growth and market success. It lays the foundation for a strong, reliable, and mutually beneficial partnership in 2026.

Top Food Product Distribution Agreement Considerations for Rapid City (2026)

When establishing or reviewing a food product distribution agreement, especially within a specific geographic context like Rapid City, South Dakota, several key considerations come into play. These factors help ensure the agreement is not only legally sound but also practically effective for navigating the local market dynamics and achieving business objectives in 2026. The unique characteristics of the Rapid City area, within the broader United States market, necessitate a tailored approach.

1. Local Market Knowledge and Access

A primary consideration is the distributor’s understanding of the Rapid City and wider South Dakota food market. Do they have established relationships with local retailers, restaurants, and institutions? Understanding local consumer preferences, seasonal demands, and regulatory nuances specific to the area is vital. A distributor with deep local roots can offer invaluable insights and open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

2. Logistics and Cold Chain Management

For food products, particularly perishables, efficient logistics and robust cold chain management are non-negotiable. The agreement must clearly outline responsibilities for transportation, warehousing, temperature control, and delivery timelines. Given the climate in South Dakota, ensuring consistent temperature integrity during transit and storage is critical to prevent spoilage and maintain product quality. The infrastructure available in and around Rapid City for such specialized logistics should be thoroughly assessed.

3. Regulatory Compliance in South Dakota and the US

Food businesses must adhere to a complex web of regulations at federal, state, and local levels. The distribution agreement should specify how compliance with FDA regulations, state health department rules, and any local ordinances in Rapid City will be managed. This includes labeling requirements, food safety standards, and recall procedures. The distributor should be knowledgeable about and committed to upholding these standards throughout the distribution process within the United States.

4. Marketing and Promotional Support

The agreement should detail the marketing and promotional efforts expected from the distributor. This could include in-store placements, local advertising, participation in community events, or digital marketing initiatives tailored to the Rapid City audience. The level of support and cost-sharing for these activities needs to be clearly defined.

5. Performance Metrics and Reporting

Establishing clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is essential for monitoring the success of the distribution partnership. These might include sales volume, market share growth, order fill rates, on-time delivery percentages, and customer satisfaction levels within the Rapid City territory. The agreement should specify reporting frequency and format, allowing both parties to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

6. Inventory Management and Stock Levels

Maintaining adequate inventory levels is crucial to meet demand without incurring excessive carrying costs or product spoilage. The agreement should outline expectations regarding minimum stock levels, inventory turnover rates, and procedures for managing slow-moving or expiring products. This ensures product availability for consumers in Rapid City while minimizing waste.

7. Dispute Resolution Mechanisms

Given the potential for disagreements, the agreement must include a clear and fair process for resolving disputes. This could involve negotiation, mediation, or arbitration, specifying the governing law (likely South Dakota law) and jurisdiction. A well-defined process can save time, money, and preserve the business relationship.

8. Exclusivity vs. Non-Exclusivity

Deciding whether to grant exclusive or non-exclusive distribution rights is a major strategic choice. For a new product or brand in Rapid City, exclusivity might incentivize a distributor to invest heavily. However, non-exclusivity allows for broader reach and potentially faster market penetration across the United States if multiple partners are appointed. This decision should align with the supplier’s growth strategy and risk appetite.

By carefully considering these elements, businesses can create a food product distribution agreement that is not only legally robust but also strategically aligned with the opportunities and challenges present in the Rapid City market and the broader food industry landscape of the United States in 2026.

Pricing and Cost Considerations for Food Product Distribution

Understanding the financial aspects of a food product distribution agreement is crucial for both suppliers and distributors to ensure profitability and sustainability. Pricing structures and cost allocations can vary significantly, impacting the overall economic viability of the partnership. For businesses operating in or targeting markets like Rapid City, South Dakota, and across the United States, a clear understanding of these financial dynamics is essential for making informed decisions in 2026.

Pricing Factors

Several factors influence the pricing of food products within a distribution agreement:

• Wholesale Price: This is the base price at which the distributor purchases products from the supplier. It is typically determined by the supplier’s manufacturing costs, desired profit margin, and market positioning.
• Volume Discounts: Suppliers often offer tiered pricing, where distributors receive lower per-unit costs for purchasing larger quantities. This incentivizes distributors to commit to higher sales volumes.
• Geographic Market: Distribution costs, including transportation and warehousing, can vary significantly by region. The price may reflect these regional differences, especially when covering extensive areas like the United States.
• Product Shelf Life and Perishability: Products with shorter shelf lives may require higher wholesale prices or specific agreements to account for potential spoilage and the need for rapid turnover.
• Promotional Costs: If the supplier agrees to contribute to marketing and promotional activities, these costs may be factored into the wholesale price or handled through separate co-op advertising funds.
• Payment Terms: Extended payment terms (e.g., Net 60 or Net 90) may sometimes come with a slightly higher wholesale price to compensate the supplier for the extended credit period.

Cost Allocations in Distribution Agreements

Beyond the wholesale price, the agreement should clarify how various costs associated with distribution are allocated:

• Shipping and Freight Costs: Who is responsible for the cost of transporting products from the supplier’s facility to the distributor’s warehouse, and from the distributor to the end customer? This can be based on Incoterms or specified directly in the agreement.
• Warehousing and Storage: If the distributor provides warehousing services, these costs are typically built into the wholesale price. However, specific agreements might detail separate fees for storage, especially for products requiring specialized conditions (e.g., refrigerated or frozen storage).
• Insurance: Responsibility for insuring the products during transit and storage should be clearly defined. Product liability insurance is also a critical consideration, particularly for food products.
• Marketing and Advertising: The agreement should outline the budget and responsibilities for marketing initiatives. This could involve shared costs, a marketing development fund, or specific targets for promotional spending by the distributor.
• Sales Commissions: In some non-exclusive models, distributors may work on a commission basis rather than purchasing outright. The commission rate and payment structure would be detailed in the agreement.
• Returns and Allowances: Policies for product returns, spoilage, damages, and customer allowances must be clearly defined, including who bears the financial responsibility for these issues.

How to Get the Best Value

To ensure the best value from a distribution agreement for your food products in Rapid City or anywhere in the United States:

• Negotiate Based on Volume: Leverage your projected sales volumes to negotiate favorable wholesale prices and payment terms.
• Clearly Define Responsibilities: Ambiguity in cost allocation leads to disputes. Ensure every potential cost is addressed and assigned to a responsible party.
• Seek Fair Payment Terms: Balance the supplier’s need for timely cash flow with the distributor’s operational needs.
• Monitor Performance: Regularly review the distributor’s performance against agreed-upon metrics to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Factor in Total Cost: Look beyond the wholesale price to consider all associated costs of distribution. A slightly higher wholesale price might be justified if the distributor offers superior logistics or marketing support.

By meticulously planning and clearly defining pricing and cost-sharing mechanisms within the food product distribution agreement, businesses can foster a financially sound and productive partnership, ensuring success in the competitive food market of 2026.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Food Product Distribution Agreements

Entering into a food product distribution agreement without a thorough understanding of potential pitfalls can lead to significant challenges and setbacks. For businesses aiming to establish or expand their presence in markets like Rapid City, South Dakota, or across the United States, avoiding common mistakes is crucial for building a sustainable and profitable distribution network in 2026. These errors often stem from unclear terms, unrealistic expectations, or insufficient due diligence.

1. Vague or Incomplete Contract Terms: One of the most frequent mistakes is failing to be specific in the agreement. Ambiguity regarding territory, product scope, pricing, performance metrics, termination clauses, or intellectual property rights can lead to disputes and legal battles. Ensure every detail is clearly defined and legally sound.
2. Insufficient Due Diligence on Distributors: Partnering with the wrong distributor can be disastrous. Failing to thoroughly vet a potential distributor’s financial stability, logistical capabilities, market reputation, compliance record, and ethical practices is a critical error. Always check references and verify claims.
3. Unrealistic Sales Targets or Expectations: Setting sales targets that are unattainable can demotivate distributors and strain the relationship. Similarly, expecting distributors to take on excessive marketing responsibilities without adequate compensation or support can be detrimental. Goals should be challenging yet achievable, based on market realities.
4. Lack of Clear Performance Metrics: Without well-defined Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and a system for tracking them, it’s difficult to assess the distributor’s effectiveness. This can lead to ongoing partnerships that underperform or the termination of potentially good relationships due to unclear reasons.
5. Ignoring Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Food products are heavily regulated. Failure to ensure the distribution agreement addresses all relevant federal (FDA), state (South Dakota), and local laws regarding food safety, labeling, handling, and transportation is a major oversight with severe consequences.
6. Poorly Defined Territory or Exclusivity: Overly broad territories can lead to distributors being unable to effectively cover the area, while excessively narrow ones might limit growth. Similarly, the decision between exclusive and non-exclusive rights needs careful strategic consideration, as does the definition of those rights.
7. Inadequate Termination Clauses: Not clearly outlining the conditions under which the agreement can be terminated, or the process for termination (including notice periods and handling of remaining inventory), can lead to protracted and costly disputes if the partnership sours.
8. Overlooking Intellectual Property Protection: Failing to specify how trademarks, logos, and other intellectual property will be used and protected can lead to brand dilution or misuse. The agreement must safeguard the supplier’s brand identity.
9. Ignoring Dispute Resolution Mechanisms: Not including a clear process for resolving disagreements (e.g., mediation, arbitration) can escalate minor issues into major legal conflicts, damaging the relationship and incurring significant costs.
10. Assuming Understanding of Market Nuances: Especially when dealing with international or geographically diverse markets like the United States, assuming a distributor fully understands your product’s unique selling points or the specific demands of a market like Rapid City can be a mistake. Open communication and alignment are key.

By proactively addressing these potential pitfalls and seeking professional legal advice, businesses can draft a robust food product distribution agreement that minimizes risks and maximizes the chances of a successful and enduring partnership, paving the way for growth in 2026 and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions About Food Product Distribution Agreements

Conclusion: Optimizing Your Food Product Distribution Agreement in Rapid City for 2026

Successfully navigating the complexities of food product distribution requires more than just a great product; it demands a robust and legally sound food product distribution agreement. For businesses operating in or targeting the Rapid City, South Dakota market, establishing clear terms, fostering strong partnerships, and ensuring compliance are paramount for sustainable growth in 2026. The agreement serves as the cornerstone of this effort, defining the relationship, outlining responsibilities, and mitigating potential conflicts. By carefully considering factors such as product characteristics, market goals, distributor capabilities, and the specific regulatory landscape of the United States, you can select and draft an agreement that maximizes market reach, minimizes operational costs, and drives profitability. Remember, a well-structured agreement protects your brand, ensures product quality, and lays the groundwork for a mutually beneficial, long-term relationship. Proactive legal counsel and thorough due diligence are investments that pay significant dividends in preventing costly disputes and fostering operational efficiency.

Key Takeaways:

• A well-defined food product distribution agreement is critical for market success.
• Thorough due diligence on potential distributors is essential for any partnership.
• Clearly specify territory, product scope, pricing, and performance metrics.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and regulatory standards in the United States.
• Seek legal counsel to draft and review all distribution contracts.