Review 10 Wholesale Distributors in Canada

Canada’s vast geography and diverse economy demand highly efficient and reliable supply chains to connect manufacturers with businesses across multiple sectors. Wholesale distributors in Canada play a critical role in bridging this gap by ensuring that products reach the right markets promptly. This article highlights the top 10 wholesale suppliers in Canada, recognized for their extensive national reach, diverse product offerings, and significant impact on the Canadian economy.

Statistics of Wholesale Distributors in Canada 

As of 2025, the wholesale trade sector continues to demonstrate resilience and integral contribution to the country’s economy, with sales reaching billions of Canadian dollars despite recent market fluctuations. Here are some key facts about wholesale distributors in Canada, drawn from recent statistics and industry trends:

Overall Industry Size & Contribution:

• Significant Economic Activity: Wholesale trade is a vital component of the Canadian economy. Wholesale sales (excluding petroleum and oilseed/grain) reached $84.2 billion in May 2025, showing a 0.1% monthly increase.
• Annual Operating Revenue: Food merchant wholesalers alone in Canada generated $157.6 billion in total operating revenue in 2022, a substantial increase from previous years.
• GDP Contribution: In 2023, the wholesale trade sector contributed $56.1 billion to Ontario’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), accounting for 6.6% of the province’s total GDP.

Trends and Challenges:

• Digital Transformation & E-commerce: While a significant portion of Canadian wholesale distributors have historically lagged in online ordering capabilities, there’s a growing recognition of the “virtually untapped, expanding digital market.” The few wholesale companies already selling online in Canada generated $85 billion in online sales in 2019.
• B2B E-commerce Growth: The B2B channel is projected to expand at a 12.5% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2030, significantly outpacing the total e-commerce market in Canada (9.86% CAGR). This highlights a major shift towards online purchasing in the B2B space.
• Buyer Expectations: B2B buyers increasingly expect convenience, 24/7 access, and a self-serve experience, mirroring B2C consumer behavior. 91% of buyers are more likely to make a purchase from a supplier that is easy to do business with, and 79% are willing to pay a slight premium for this convenience.
• Market Fragmentation: The Canadian wholesale market can be quite fragmented, with some reports indicating that the top four players in certain segments only capture around 32% of the market share, pointing to a highly competitive environment.

>> You may concern: 15+ Best Wholesale Distributors In USA

Wholesale Distributors in Canada: Comparison Table

Here is a summary table to help you have an overview of the wholesalers in Canada:

Top Wholesale Suppliers in Canada	Location	Platform Type	Product Range	Key Features/Benefits	Target Customers
Sysco Canada	National (Canada)	Traditional Distribution & Online (Sysco Shop)	Fresh produce, custom-cut meats, seafood, dry goods, essential foodservice supplies	Extensive distribution centers; technology solutions like Sysco Shop for ordering; broad product selection.	Restaurants, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, hospitality venues
Gordon Food Service (GFS) Canada	National (North America, strong Canadian presence)	Traditional Distribution & Online (Gordon Restaurant Pro, Gordon Now App)	Comprehensive range of food products, supplies, business tools	Largest family-operated food distributor in North America; dedicated foodservice partner; tools for managing business (e.g., Gordon Restaurant Pro, Gordon Now App).	Restaurants, hospitals, schools, foodservice operations
National Importers	Canada	Traditional Distribution	Confectionery, snacks, wide array of grocery items (international & domestic brands)	Specializes in importing and distributing confectionery and snacks.	Retailers
Colabor Group	Primarily Quebec & Ontario	Traditional Distribution	Broad range of food products, equipment, related supplies (fresh produce, meat, dry goods)	Strong regional presence in Quebec and Ontario; diverse product portfolio.	Foodservice industry
Motion (formerly Motion Industries Canada)	National (Canada)	Traditional Distribution	Maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) replacement parts, industrial equipment, services	Specialized expertise; extensive product availability.	Manufacturing, automotive, forestry, mining, various industrial sectors
Rexel Canada	National (Canada)	Traditional Distribution	Electrical products and services (wiring, lighting, automation solutions, industrial controls)	Part of global Rexel Group; comprehensive range of electrical solutions.	Electrical contractors, industrial facilities, commercial businesses
Medline Canada	National (Canada)	Traditional Distribution	Medical supplies, surgical products, diagnostic equipment	Manufacturer and distributor of healthcare products.	Hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, healthcare providers
Bunzl Canada	National (Canada)	Traditional Distribution	Non-food consumable products (cleaning & hygiene, foodservice packaging, safety supplies, retail store solutions)	Part of a global distribution group; wide range of non-food consumables.	Hospitality, healthcare, retail, various sectors
Swish Maintenance Limited	National (Canada, with 13+ locations)	Online (swish.ca e-commerce portal); Dedicated Account Managers	Janitorial, sanitation, cleaning supplies & equipment; Eco-responsible products; Hand hygiene, disinfectants, paper, cleaning chemicals & tools.	Canadian family-owned, nationwide service, eco-responsible options, equipment service & training.	Education, Municipalities, Healthcare, Hospitality, Retail, Recreation, Office & Administration
Richelieu Hardware	North America (strong Canadian footprint)	Traditional Distribution	Specialty hardware, components, and products for cabinetry, furniture, renovation	Leading North American distributor; vast selection of innovative products.	Kitchen and bath cabinet manufacturers, furniture manufacturers, renovators

Best Wholesale Distributors in Canada: Detailed Review

Sysco Canada

Primary Category: Food Service & Grocery (Broadline)

Sysco Canada is one of the best wholesale suppliers Canada, the world’s largest broadline food distributor and a dominant force in the global foodservice industry. Established through the acquisition of SERCA Foodservices in 2002, Sysco Canada has expanded to serve a vast customer base across the country, including restaurants, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, hospitality venues, and other foodservice operators.

Sysco Canada offers an extensive product portfolio featuring fresh produce, custom-cut meats, high-quality seafood, dry goods, and essential foodservice supplies. Leveraging a network of hundreds of distribution centers worldwide, including specialized cold storage and temperature-controlled facilities, the company ensures the freshest products with consistent quality and safety. 

Their distribution processes emphasize strict food safety standards, working closely with growers, processors, and logistics providers to maintain rigorous controls through every step – from harvesting to delivery.

Key Highlights:

• Comprehensive product line: fresh produce, custom meats, seafood, dry goods, and supplies
• Extensive distribution and cold chain network
• Advanced ordering platform via Sysco Shop
• Strong focus on food safety and quality assurance
• Sustainability initiatives supporting local producers and environmental stewardship
• Services diverse sectors nationwide including hospitals, schools, and hospitality

>> Read more: Top 15 Wholesale Distributors in Florida: A Comprehensive Review

Customer Review:

“Recently had a phone screening scheduled by Ms. Morrison for a position at the Olathe/Kansas City facility. After scheduling and answering the 5 questions she requested answered. Ms. Morrison never performed the phone screening. Unprofessionalism when you ghost a potential new employee and don’t have the common courtesy to follow through with your requested processes. Not even an email. Rude, Unprofessional and disrespectful” – Rocky D (US)

Gordon Food Service (GFS) Canada

Primary Category: Food Service & Grocery (Broadline)

As North America’s largest family-operated food distributor, Gordon Food Service (GFS) Canada holds a significant presence within the country’s foodservice market. This wholesale supplier Canada provides a full suite of food products and related supplies designed to meet the diverse needs of restaurants, healthcare institutions, educational facilities, and hospitality operators.

GFS Canada prides itself on personalized customer service, backed by innovative digital tools such as Gordon Restaurant Pro, an online ordering and management platform that streamlines procurement, improves order accuracy, and offers real-time inventory visibility for operators. Customers benefit not only from a broad product range – including fresh produce, meats, dairy, frozen items, dry groceries, and disposables – but also from value-added business solutions ranging from menu design consultations to operational support.

Their national footprint includes multiple distribution centers strategically located to ensure timely delivery and inventory availability. GFS Canada’s family-owned culture emphasizes long-term partnerships and a commitment to helping clients succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Key Highlights:

• Wide-ranging foodservice product offerings with fresh, frozen, and dry goods
• Family-owned with a commitment to customer success
• Robust digital platform (Gordon Restaurant Pro) for easy ordering and management
• National distribution network ensuring wide coverage across Canada
• Comprehensive service including consulting and operational support

Customer Review:

“As a busy hospital foodservice manager, GFS Canada is our go-to partner. Their Gordon Restaurant Pro app is fantastic for streamlining our orders and managing inventory. What truly sets them apart is their personalized service; they genuinely care about our success and offer valuable insights. Their broad product range and reliable national distribution make our operations much smoother.”

National Importers (National Importers Inc.)

Primary Category: Confectionery, Snacks, Grocery

National Importers Inc. specializes in top wholesalers in Canada of confectionery, snacks, and a broad spectrum of grocery products within Canada. The company serves retailers nation-wide by bringing popular international brands alongside trusted domestic products to Canadian markets, ensuring a wide variety of consumer favorites are readily available.

Their focus on confectionery and snacks allows retailers – ranging from supermarkets to specialty stores – to cater effectively to consumer demand for indulgent and convenient food options. National Importers combines expertise in international sourcing with efficient distribution to maintain product freshness and competitive pricing.

This import-driven approach bridges global suppliers with Canada’s retail sector, enhancing product diversity and enabling swift access to trendy and classic snack and grocery items.

Key Highlights:

• Specializes in confectionery, snacks, and grocery product importation and distribution
  Offers popular international and domestic brands
• Serves a wide range of retailers nationwide
• Focus on product variety, freshness, and competitive pricing

>> Read more: 12 Wholesale Pricing Sheet Templates For Your B2B Store

Customer Review:

“For decades, National Importers has been an indispensable partner for our grocery chain. Their expertise in sourcing a diverse range of quality food products from around the world is unmatched. They handle the complexities of international trade seamlessly, from logistics to customs, allowing us to focus on our retail operations. Their commitment to quality produce and their ability to service everything from small independent grocers to major retail chains truly makes them a cornerstone of the Canadian food supply.”

Colabor Group

Primary Category: Food Service & Distribution (Broadline with Quebec/Ontario Focus)

Colabor Group is one of the wholesale food distributors Ontario and a prominent Canadian foodservice with a primary operating focus in Quebec and Ontario – Canada’s two largest provinces by population and economic activity. Colabor serves a broad customer base including restaurants, institutions, retailers, and foodservice operators.

The company’s extensive product portfolio includes fresh produce, meats, seafood, dairy, dry groceries, and foodservice equipment and supplies. Colabor’s strong regional presence is supported by a network of strategically positioned warehouses and distribution centers, enabling efficient service and quick delivery response times.

Colabor is recognized for its diversified offerings and tailored solutions, catering to the unique preferences and operational requirements of clients in its core markets. The company also emphasizes food quality, safety, and customer service excellence, ensuring dependable supply chains for its partners.

Key Highlights:

• Major foodservice distributor focused on Quebec and Ontario markets
• Broad product assortment including fresh and dry goods, meats, and equipment
• Strong regional warehousing and logistics network
• Commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction
• Supports a diverse range of customers from retailers to large institutional operators

Customer Review:

“For our chain of cafes across Quebec and Ontario, Colabor Group has been an invaluable partner. Their strong regional presence means quick and efficient deliveries, which is crucial for fresh ingredients. They offer a diverse portfolio, and their commitment to food quality and safety standards is top-notch. It’s a pleasure working with a distributor that understands our regional needs so well.”

Motion (formerly Motion Industries Canada)

Primary Category: Industrial Parts & Equipment

Motion Canada is one of the best wholesale suppliers Canada specializing in maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) replacement parts, industrial equipment, and related services across a broad range of industries. As the Canadian arm of Motion Industries – a subsidiary of Genuine Parts Company – Motion serves over 150,000 customers nationwide with access to more than six million parts from trusted global manufacturers.

Motion operates a vast distribution network of more than 530 locations, including 13 strategically located distribution centers throughout North America – ensuring rapid, reliable delivery and inventory availability across Canada. Their commitment to superior customer service and supply chain proficiency helps keep Canadian industrial operations running efficiently and safely.

Key Highlights:

• National coverage with 530+ locations and 13 distribution centers in North America
• Extensive product catalog including bearings, hydraulics, pneumatics, power transmission, and safety supplies
• Comprehensive services: automation solutions, conveyance, fluid power, repairs, engineering support
• Serves diverse sectors: manufacturing, automotive, mining, forestry, chemical processing, and more
• Backed by Genuine Parts Company with decades of industry experience and innovation

Customer Review:

“In the manufacturing sector, reliable MRO parts are non-negotiable. Motion Canada consistently delivers. Their specialized expertise in industrial equipment and parts is unmatched, and their extensive product availability means we rarely face downtime waiting for components. Their efficient supply chain helps keep our production lines running smoothly and safely.”

Rexel Canada

Primary Category: Electrical Supplies & Solutions

Rexel Canada is part of the global Rexel Group, a major distributor of electrical products and services. Serving electrical contractors, industrial facilities, and commercial businesses nationwide, Rexel provides a broad portfolio covering wiring devices, lighting solutions, electrical automation, industrial controls, HVAC components, and energy management products.

With multiple distribution centers and branch locations across Canada, Rexel Canada delivers timely, reliable service and technical expertise. Their solutions are designed to support a variety of sectors including construction, industrial manufacturing, utilities, and infrastructure projects.

Rexel’s focus on innovation and sustainability is reflected in their offerings of smart building technologies, LED lighting, renewable energy products, and energy-efficient solutions, helping customers reduce operational costs and environmental impact. They also provide digital tools and platforms to streamline the procurement process and enhance customer experience.

Key Highlights:

• National presence with extensive branch and distribution network
• Broad product range: wiring, lighting, industrial controls, automation, HVAC
• Supports construction, industrial, utility, and commercial sectors
• Focused on energy-efficient and smart building solutions
• Digital ordering and customer service platforms

Customer Review:

“As an electrical contractor, we rely heavily on our suppliers for quality products and timely delivery. Rexel Canada is consistently excellent. Their comprehensive range of electrical solutions, from wiring to automation, means we can source everything we need for our projects from one place. Their focus on energy-efficient solutions also helps us offer better value to our clients.”

Medline Canada

Primary Category: Medical & Healthcare Supplies

Medline Canada is in the top wholesalers in Canada for the manufacturer and distributor of healthcare products serving hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and healthcare providers throughout the country. Their vast catalog includes medical supplies, surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), wound care products, and patient care essentials.

Medline plays a vital role in Canada’s healthcare supply chain, ensuring healthcare professionals have timely access to high-quality products that support patient safety, clinical outcomes, and operational efficiency. 

Innovation and quality are priorities at Medline Canada, reflected in their development of advanced patient care technologies and adherence to strict regulatory and safety standards. Their proactive supply chain management, responsive customer service, and inventory solutions help healthcare institutions manage costs and maintain critical supplies.

Key Highlights:

• Extensive range of medical supplies, surgical tools, PPE, and diagnostic equipment
• Dedicated to serving Canadian healthcare providers including hospitals and clinics
• Focus on quality, regulatory compliance, and innovation in healthcare products
• Combines manufacturing and distribution for responsive supply chain solutions
• Supports patient safety, care quality, and operational efficiency

Customer Review:

“Medline Canada is an essential partner for our long-term care facility. Their vast catalog of medical supplies and equipment ensures we always have what we need to provide the best patient care. We value their commitment to innovation and quality, and their proactive supply chain management means we can depend on them for critical supplies, even during peak demand.”

Bunzl Canada

Primary Category: Cleaning & Hygiene, Foodservice, Retail Supplies

Bunzl Canada is a leading distributor of essential non-food consumable products, proudly serving over 45,000 businesses nationwide. As part of the global Bunzl Group – one of the largest value-added distributors worldwide – Bunzl Canada brings the advantage of extensive global sourcing combined with a robust national network and local expertise. Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Ontario, the company generates more than $7.4 billion in annual revenue, supported by a dedicated team of over 300 employees.

Bunzl Canada supplies an extensive product portfolio that covers cleaning and hygiene products, foodservice packaging, safety supplies, industrial packaging, and retail store solutions. Their offerings are vital for diverse sectors such as hospitality, healthcare, retail, food processing, education, and facility management. 

Technology integration is a cornerstone of Bunzl’s approach. Their e-commerce platform and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) solutions facilitate streamlined ordering processes, quick access to product information, and enhanced order tracking. Additionally, Bunzl offers customized delivery options and cash-and-carry storefronts, ensuring convenience and responsiveness to local business needs.

Key Highlights:

• Large product range spanning cleaning, hygiene, foodservice packaging, safety, and retail supplies
• Part of the global Bunzl Group with strong purchasing power and innovation capability
• Robust national logistics network complemented by local experts for personalized service
• Advanced digital platforms (e-commerce and EDI) for efficient order placement and management
• Sustainability leadership with eco-friendly product lines and emissions reduction initiatives
• Customized delivery and cash-and-carry options to suit diverse customer requirements
• Serves sectors including hospitality, healthcare, retail, education, and facility management

Customer Review:

“Bunzl Canada is our preferred supplier for all non-food consumables across our hotel properties. Their range of cleaning & hygiene products, foodservice packaging, and safety supplies is incredibly comprehensive. Being part of a global group, they offer competitive sourcing, and their e-commerce platform makes ordering efficient. They truly understand the diverse needs of the hospitality sector.”

Richelieu Hardware

Primary Category: Specialty Hardware, Cabinetry & Furniture Components

Richelieu Hardware is a leading distributor in North America with a strong and growing presence in Canada, specializing in the supply of hardware, components, and specialty products for kitchen and bath cabinetry, furniture manufacturing, and the renovation industry.

They offer an extensive catalog featuring innovative and high-quality products, including drawer slides, hinges, decorative moldings, locks, kitchen accessories, and furniture components. Richelieu’s expertise supports cabinet manufacturers, furniture makers, contractors, and renovators by providing cutting-edge solutions that improve product functionality, aesthetic appeal, and installation efficiency.

With a commitment to excellent customer service, Richelieu maintains warehouses and distribution centers across Canada to ensure prompt order fulfillment and support its diversified client base. Their partnership with international suppliers also enables access to exclusive products and designs, positioning them as a go-to resource in the specialty hardware market.

Key Highlights:

• Extensive range of specialty hardware and furniture components
• Serves cabinet manufacturers, furniture producers, renovators, and contractors
• Focus on innovative, functional, and decorative hardware solutions
• Strong Canadian distribution network ensuring quick delivery
• Partnerships with global suppliers for unique product offerings

Customer Review:

“For our custom cabinetry business, Richelieu Hardware is an indispensable resource. Their selection of specialty hardware and components is vast and constantly updated with innovative products. They provide cutting-edge solutions that truly enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of our designs, and their strong Canadian distribution network ensures we get what we need quickly.”

Swish Maintenance Limited

Primary Category: Janitorial, Sanitation, Cleaning Supplies & Equipment

Swish Maintenance Limited is a Canadian, family-owned leader in janitorial, sanitation, and cleaning supplies and equipment. Established in 1956 in Peterborough, Ontario, the company has grown from a small local supplier into a trusted national distributor with over 13 branches and a wide-reaching e-commerce presence. 

Now led by the Ambler family’s third generation, Swish Maintenance serves more than 10,000 customers nationwide, providing essential cleaning solutions that support education, municipal, healthcare, and commercial facilities. With 13 branches spanning coast-to-coast, Swish ensures broad national coverage for businesses and institutions.

Key Highlights:

• Comprehensive catalog of eco-friendly janitorial chemicals, paper products, and cleaning equipment
• Nationwide presence with 13 branches and strong e-commerce platform
• Professional consultation, staff training, and equipment maintenance services
• Commitment to sustainability with certified green cleaning products
• Customized solutions for multi-location clients and institutional customers

Customer Review:

“Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment in our educational facilities is paramount, and Swish Maintenance Limited makes it easy. Their eco-responsible product options align with our values, and their nationwide service ensures consistent supply. We particularly appreciate their professional consultation and staff training, which helps our team maintain high standards.”

Empowering Your Wholesale Operations in Canada with B2B E-commerce

Canada’s vast geography and diverse economy rely heavily on a robust network of wholesale distributors, acting as the essential bridge between manufacturers and businesses nationwide. 

In this evolving environment, the demand for seamless, digital B2B interactions is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Canadian businesses, whether sourcing products from these major distributors or seeking to expand their own wholesale operations, are increasingly looking for efficiency, personalization, and 24/7 access. The days of relying solely on manual orders, phone calls, and complex email chains are rapidly giving way to automated, self-serve solutions.

This is where B2Bridge offers a distinct advantage for Shopify merchants in Canada. Designed as an all-in-one B2B wholesale app, B2Bridge empowers you to fully transform your Shopify store into a powerful wholesale portal, directly integrated with your existing e-commerce platform.

B2Bridge allows you to:

Implement Tiered & Custom B2B Pricing: Easily create unlimited price lists, offer volume discounts, or set unique prices for specific customer groups – ensuring your wholesale buyers always see their correct price when login. 

Offer Flexible Net Payment Terms: Provide essential Net 15, Net 30, Net 60, or even custom payment terms directly at checkout. B2Bridge 

Streamline B2B Registration & Customer Segmentation: Create custom B2B registration forms to onboard new wholesale clients efficiently. Segment your customers into groups, assign specific pricing, payment options, and tax exemptions automatically.

Facilitate Rapid Bulk Ordering: Equip your buyers with a user-friendly “Quick Order” page, enabling them to quickly add multiple products and variants to their cart, making large purchases effortless and boosting average order values.

Automate Workflows & Reduce Errors: From automated payment reminders to managing order limits and quantity increments, B2Bridge streamlines repetitive tasks, minimizing manual errors and freeing your team to focus on strategic growth rather than administrative details.

Connect Your Systems: With API connectivity, B2Bridge allows you to integrate with your existing ERP, CRM, or PIM systems on your own, ensuring seamless data flow and a unified view of your wholesale operations.

By leveraging a robust B2B e-commerce solution like B2Bridge, Canadian businesses can not only meet the modern demands of their wholesale buyers but also unlock new levels of efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive significant growth in this vital sector.

Explore B2Bridge on the Shopify App Store and start your free trial today!

FAQs

1. Do Canadian wholesale distributors offer nationwide delivery?

Most leading distributors (such as Sysco Canada, GFS Canada, Bunzl, and Medline) provide delivery across Canada, utilizing multiple distribution centers and advanced logistics networks to ensure timely order fulfillment nationwide.

2. Can customers access specialty or international products through Canadian wholesale distributors?

Distributors like National Importers specialize in bringing international brands to Canada, while most broadline distributors source both domestic and global products to meet client demand.

3. How do I choose the right wholesale distributor for my business?

• Consider factors such as product range, delivery network, industry expertise, technology integration, digital platforms, customer service quality, pricing, and specialized support. You can use the B2Bridge Shopify app to set up your B2B store.
• Assess if the distributor can meet your specific product requirements, volume needs, and geographic reach.

4. Why should a business use a wholesale distributor in Canada? 

Businesses use wholesale distributors for several key advantages:

• Access to Variety: Get a wide range of products from multiple manufacturers through a single source.
• Cost Savings: Benefit from bulk purchasing discounts without needing to buy directly from many manufacturers.
• Efficiency: Streamline purchasing, reduce administrative overhead, and simplify logistics.
• Reduced Inventory Risk: Avoid holding excessive inventory, saving on storage costs and reducing obsolescence risk.
• Market Reach: Distributors can provide access to markets or regions that would be difficult for individual businesses to penetrate directly.

To Sum Up

In conclusion, the top wholesale distributors in Canada are indispensable pillars of the country’s diverse and expansive economy. By leveraging vast distribution networks, cutting-edge technology, and broad product portfolios, these leading companies not only support business growth but also contribute significantly to the nation’s economic resilience and competitiveness. For businesses looking to thrive in Canada’s challenging and ever-changing landscape, partnering with these trusted wholesale distributors offers a strategic advantage that drives efficiency, reliability, and long-term success.