Wholesale Deli Meats: All You Need to Know about Cold Cuts

Originating in Germany, delis (short for delicatessen) have become a vital part of US cuisine and culture. They were popularized in the late 19th century by immigrants from Germany, Italy, and other parts of Europe. Cold cuts are primarily associated with charcuterie boxes and boards, sandwiches, and fast food. From Subway to Jason's Deli, there are multiple businesses that purchase wholesale deli meats as they are the cornerstone of their menus. In the next paragraphs, you can read more about the role of cold cuts in the global meat market. We’ll also share some details about the popular meats in restaurants and households. If you’re interested in the meat industry, make sure to check out our posts on meat subscriptions or the advantages and disadvantages of cultured meat.

Facts About Wholesale Deli Meats

Versatile Ingredient

Deli products can be used in a variety of ways. Although they are commonly associated with sandwiches, businesses can purchase wholesale deli meats for charcuterie boards, lasagna recipes, pastries, and other dishes. Since there are various different styles and types of deli products, they can be used to add flavor or complexity to the meal.

Various Types of Cold Cuts

From ham and smoked turkey to prosciutto and pepperoni – there are hundreds of different varieties of cold cuts. That’s why businesses that wish to include such goods in their menu need to carefully choose the types of meat products they want to stock. Wholesale deli meat distributors can advise on the characteristics and applications of different lunch meat types. An important thing to keep in mind is that different types of cold cuts have different storage conditions. Some require specialized meat inventory while others have a longer shelf life and can simply be kept in a refrigerator.

Various Pairing Options

Food service businesses that want to increase their beer or wine sales can benefit greatly from stocking wholesale deli meats. They are an excellent pairing for both red and white wines as well as different types of beer. Sliced meats can be used as an appetizer, a main ingredient in the main course, or as a pairing to the cheese course (see: cheese pairing).

Key takeaway: Cold cuts are commonly associated with sandwiches, pizza, and other fast food. However, a variety of businesses might purchase wholesale deli meats as there are various options in this niche market.

What Businesses Buy Wholesale Deli Meats

Delicatessen are versatile ingredients that can be used in various recipes or combined with different beverages. As such, they are a suitable option for many businesses. Here are the most common ones.

1. Fast food restaurants. Delis and sandwich shops are among the common businesses that purchase wholesale deli meats. Sliced meats are the main ingredients used by these establishments. In addition to fast food chains, other businesses in the restaurant industry might also purchase cold cuts and use them as appetizers.
2. Cafes and cafeterias. Small eateries in institutions or coffee shops prepare delicious sandwiches and other pre-packaged meals with sliced meats. That’s why they also use the services of wholesale deli meat distribution companies. 
3. Grocery stores. Most grocery store chains have a designated deli section. Convenience stores might also offer sliced meats and other pre-packaged food options like salads or sandwiches. 
4. Specialty food stores. Specialty foods are the main product category offered by specialty stores. Gourmet shops might sell a selection of high-end deli products. Ethnic stores also sell delis that are traditional for their cuisine.
5. Catering businesses. Catering companies purchase a wide range of wholesale deli meats as they use them for corporate events, cocktail parties, and other special events. Deli meats can be used as ingredients in baked goods or organized on a charcuterie board – a classical appetizer for such gatherings.

Popular Types of Deli Meats

There are hundreds of different deli meats and new ones are introduced on the market constantly. Some of them like prosciutto and pepperoni are most popular with their authentic salami recipe. However, there are variations like mortadella with pistachio nuts or turkey pepperoni. Let’s examine some of the popular sliced meats in the US.

1. Turkey. Oven-roasted and smoked turkey are among the common variations. Businesses might also purchase other wholesale deli meats from turkey meat like turkey ham or honey-glazed turkey cold cuts.
2. Ham. There are multiple varieties of ham on the market. SPAM is a popular brand of ham and is among the most common varieties. Cured-and-smoked or fresh ham are also popular varieties.
3. Roast beef. There are dozens of roast beef varieties. Other popular beef deli meats include pastrami and corned beef.
4. Chorizo. This pork sausage is seasoned with paprika and has a distinct flavor.
5. Bologna. Bologna sausage is similar to the Italian mortadella. It's made from finely ground pork meat. 
6. Prosciutto. This dry-cured ham is one of the iconic Italian delicacies. 
7. Pepperoni. This spicy Italian salami is commonly associated with pizza in the US. It's brightly red but can become darker when used as a pizza topping. 

Other Products Offered by Wholesale Deli Meats Suppliers

Some suppliers specialize in cold cuts and delis. Wholesale meat distributors might also offer such products in their eCommerce catalogs along with beef cuts, poultry, pork, and other popular meat products. Broadline suppliers usually offer the highest number of product categories. That’s why many businesses prefer to work with distributors who sell a variety of meat products (check our article on how to sell meat products). Here are other product categories that might be offered by suppliers of deli meats.

1. Domestic and imported cheeses;
2. Sauces;
3. Vinegar, oil, and olives;
4. Spices and condiments;
5. Caviar, roe, and specialty seafood;
6. Other specialty meats like cultured meat.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wholesale Deli Meats

Throughout the years, BlueCart has helped many wholesalers find a reliable tool for their B2B sales. Our platform also allows businesses to find suppliers of various products. Whether you wish to know how to start a meat business or what are meat subscription boxes, you’ll find valuable tips on our blog. Below we have answered questions regarding wholesale deli meats.

Are Deli Meats Healthy?

Generally speaking, deli meats are not considered to be particularly healthy. That’s because they are high in calories and are often low in protein. Furthermore, cold cuts often contain nitrates and have high sodium content which helps extend their shelf life. However, businesses that wish to serve healthy options should ask their wholesale deli meats distributor about the healthy alternatives they offer. Examples of such products include deli made of the leanest cuts such as turkey, lean ham, chicken breast, or roast beef. Also, there are low-sodium cold cuts and vegan meat alternatives like tofu.

Are Deli Businesses Profitable?

Yes. Whether you serve food products or simply sell cold cuts, salads, and cheeses, a deli business can be profitable. The gross profit margin of deli sandwich shops is between 25 and 50 percent. That equals around 3-10 percent net profit margin when all costs are accounted for. This means that a deli business should generate at least $80,000 monthly revenue in order to get a net profit of around $5,000. That’s why choosing the right location is probably the most important step before opening a sandwich deli shop. Marketing and having a well-thought-out menu are other important factors that will determine the success of the business.

How to Start a Deli Business?

The first step is to decide what type of deli business to open. Some of the most popular options are deli sandwich shops. However, you can also work with manufacturers and start a wholesale deli meats distribution business. Here are the important steps when starting a deli business.

1. Do proper marketing research in the niche;
2. Craft a thorough business plan;
3. Choose what products to offer and calculate your potential gross and net profit margin;
4. Invest heavily in advertising and marketing in order to promote your new business;
5. Follow the latest meat trends and adapt your products and menu accordingly.