If you want to buy as a distributor, manufacturers usually evaluate whether you can support their business locally. Even today, most brands will consider direct distribution only if you have:
A dedicated sales team to service retailers
A warehouse/godown to stock inventory
Sufficient working capital to purchase in bulk
Valid GST and other statutory registrations
Small or emerging manufacturers may appoint you directly if there is no existing distributor in your target area. Larger brands, however, prefer structured distribution networks and strict eligibility criteria.
If you are looking to buy as a retailer or end consumer, direct purchasing from manufacturers is rare. Only small-scale or regional manufacturers usually allow this, and even then quantities and availability are limited.
That said, the sourcing ecosystem has evolved. Today, retailers and distributors don’t necessarily need to approach manufacturers individually. Platforms like Rateomatic help buyers track daily FMCG prices and access better buying opportunities across multiple brands and categories through authorized supply channels, without the need to manage manufacturer-level requirements themselves.
In short, direct buying from manufacturers is possible but operationally demanding. Smarter sourcing today is less about direct access and more about visibility, timing, and price intelligence.
Hope this helps.