As part of our 2,500+ GPO (group purchasing organization) supplier partners, Entegra has built a network of small and minority-owned businesses that offer a range of products and services for every business category, from restaurants and hotels to senior living, education and other industries.  

Empowering AAPI-owned businesses 

As a part of May's AAPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) Heritage Month, Entegra is highlighting Asian-owned businesses that partner with our clients. 

Entegra’s Local and Direct Savings Program (L&D) gives thousands of business operators — Entegra clients — more high-quality, niche suppliers to choose from, including the AAPI-owned businesses cited below. L&D enables Asian-owned companies to thrive in competitive markets by accessing a broader reach of customers. It's truly a win-win. 

Here are just a few Asian-owned companies and valued supplier partners that Entegra and our clients count on. 

Kikka Sushi 

As a premier provider of sushi and Asian-inspired ready-made dishes serving various markets, schools and companies in the US and Canada, Kikka also supplies ready-made dishes including Chinese, Indonesian and Vietnamese and most recently, plant-based sushi. With Kikka as a supplier, culinary teams at a range of hospitality-driven businesses readily offer high-demand, high-quality Asian food. 

Read more: 4 ways to add Asian-inspired trends to your menu 

Monsoon Kitchens 

Hospitality-driven businesses eager to fulfill the growing demand for Indian food depend on Monsoon Kitchens for their ready-to-cook meals and frozen entrees. With a rich mix of spices and ingredients that appeal to ethnic-curious consumers — especially colleges and universities — Monsoon was founded by a registered dietitian, so health-conscious ingredients are also in the mix. Allergen and gluten-free options also available. 

Read more: Meatless goes mainstream 

down etc 

Lodging operators need to protect their investment, which is why they turn to down etc for comforters, sheet sets, blankets, throws, decorative pillows, robes, slippers and more. From storage and delivery systems to housekeeping training and support, down etc’s quality commitment extends to sustainable practices that align with businesses’ CSR goals. 

Read more: How does hotel procurement adopt to the policies of change? 

What is a GPO? 

Group purchasing organizations harness collective buying power to negotiate advantageous pricing and terms for their clients, sometimes called “members.” This “group purchasing” drives operational efficiencies and ultimately, boosts business performance. 

For operators, a GPO is often an extension of an operation's procurement arm. And a GPO like Entegra goes beyond procurement and purchasing, offering advisory services, culinary expertise and much more. 

Learn more about Entegra’s diverse supplier program or contact us to learn more.