How to Find the Right GPO for your Campground or Club
/The buzz around Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) has been growing as many industries — from amusement parks to restaurants and everything in between. Now, many campgrounds and private clubs are starting to explore how GPOs can help reduce operating costs on food, supplies, and everyday essentials.
Still, some campground owners and private clubs hesitate to change established purchasing routines, which is an understandable concern. Any time you adjust long-standing business processes, trying something new can feel like a liability.
For some operators, sticking with “business as usual” feels like the safest choice. But when you consider the possibility of saving thousands of dollars each year on food, cleaning supplies, and equipment, maintaining the status quo may actually be the riskier move.
So how can your campground or private club benefit and grow your bottom line? The answer is simple: a reputable GPO.
Strong and reliable customer support
When you join a GPO, you’re not just accessing discounts; you’re gaining a purchasing partner. The organization helps negotiate pricing, connect you with distributors, and streamline ordering. That’s why customer support matters.
The right GPO should feel like an extension of your team. Because they work with hundreds or thousands of hospitality businesses, they should also be able to share insights on purchasing trends, product availability, and operations that benefit your business.
Flexible terms and membership
A reputable GPO exists to expand your purchasing options, not restrict them. As a campground or club operator, you should have full control over how and when you purchase supplies and/or ingredients. Some months you may need large orders for busy seasons; other times, smaller restocks may be enough.
Before signing up, carefully review the terms. Watch for requirements such as minimum order amounts, long-term contracts, or mandated purchasing percentages. If the agreement limits your flexibility, it may not be the right fit.
Reliable, well-known distributors
Many campgrounds and private clubs already have relationships with trusted local vendors for food, beverages, cleaning supplies, or maintenance. A good GPO should enhance those options, not replace them with unreliable sources.
Ask potential GPO partners which distributors they work with in your market. Ideally, they partner with well-established regional or national suppliers known for consistent quality and dependable service. Check online reviews, keep an eye on product quality, and ask about delivery reliability. The goal is to ensure that any new suppliers meet (or exceed) the standards you already expect.
At the end of the day, a trustworthy GPO puts its members first, focusing on both quality suppliers and member satisfaction. The best part? Many legitimate GPOs are free to join. That means you can test the program, explore the pricing advantages, and see how it works for your operation without committing to unnecessary risk. Choosing the right partner is key for long-term success, and from there, you’ll be able to unlock savings that can transform your campground or club!
Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.
