If you’re a distributor looking to grow, differentiate, and deepen your value in today’s rapidly changing supply chain landscape, partnering with AFFLINK may be one of the smartest moves you can make. As one of the nation’s most proactive and diversified supply chain networks, AFFLINK gives distributors access to something truly powerful: the combination of scale, data, technology, and strategic opportunity, all in one place.
With a network spanning industries such as healthcare, hospitality, industrial, commercial, government, and packaging, AFFLINK helps distributors expand their reach, improve margins, and deliver the kind of customer experience today’s buyers expect.
Here’s everything you need to know about becoming an AFFLINK distributor — and how it can transform your business.
What Is the AFFLINK Distributor Network?
At its core, the AFFLINK Distributor Network connects manufacturers, distributors, and end-users through a blend of advanced procurement technology, industry expertise, and collaborative partnerships. It’s designed to help distributors compete more effectively through insight, innovation, and shared success.
A major part of this ecosystem is Shopfront, AFFLINK’s fully managed B2B e-commerce platform, which provides distributors with a modern, personalized digital storefront. Unlike traditional tools, Shopfront empowers distributors with real-time inventory visibility, rich product content, advanced customer account controls, and powerful analytics—all designed to streamline online ordering and deepen customer relationships.
Shopfront replaces the need for manual phone orders and email chains by giving end users instant access to accurate pricing, availability, and order history, improving efficiency for both distributors and customers.
Our network is vast and intentionally built to help distributors grow in competitive markets.
We work with distributors in the following industries:
Why Become an AFFLINK Distributor
If you’re wondering what sets AFFLINK apart, the real advantages start to come into focus once you see how much distributors gain from joining this powerful network.
Access to a Nationwide Network of Opportunities
Becoming an AFFLINK distributor instantly connects you to a nationwide network of suppliers, manufacturers, and fellow distributors. That means:
- Collective purchasing power that improves competitiveness
- Shared brand recognition that sets you apart in crowded markets
- Access to national accounts and cross-industry partnerships
- Opportunities to serve larger, more complex customers
Instead of navigating the supply chain alone, you join a network designed to help every member gain traction and win more business.
Enhanced Growth Through Technology Data
Today’s procurement landscape runs on information, and AFFLINK distributors get access to some of the most powerful data tools in the industry.
With Shopfront, distributors benefit from:
- Real-time product data and rich, standardized content across 500,000+ items
- Customer-specific catalogs, pricing, and approval workflows
- Visibility into customer buying behavior through integrated analytics
- Streamlined online ordering that improves efficiency for internal teams and customers alike
Whether you want to identify growth opportunities, improve customer retention, or simplify ordering at scale, Shopfront provides the clarity and digital infrastructure you need to compete.
Marketing, Training, and Business Development Support
When you join AFFLINK, you’re connected with a growth ecosystem. Distributors gain access to:
- Marketing resources to strengthen your brand
- Business strategy support to help you scale
- Sustainability programs that meet modern buyer expectations
- AFFLINK events, training sessions, and development opportunities
You get the tools, coaching, and community support to stay ahead of the curve — no matter what the market throws your way.
Requirements for Becoming an AFFLINK Distributor
AFFLINK seeks distributors who share its commitment to innovation, customer service, and long-term growth. While the exact requirements may vary, distributors typically should have:
- An established business in one or more of AFFLINK’s core industries
- A proven track record of service excellence
- Commitment to operational, ethical, and performance standards
- A willingness to collaborate within the broader AFFLINK community
AFFLINK welcomes distributors of all sizes, especially those ready to grow strategically and contribute to the network's strength.
How to Apply to Become an AFFLINK Distributor
Ready to take the next step? Here’s a quick look at exactly how to join the AFFLINK network and start unlocking its full value.
Step 1 – Submit an Inquiry
Start by reaching out through the AFFLINK website or distributor inquiry form. This initial contact helps AFFLINK learn more about your business, your goals, and the markets you serve.
Step 2 – Consultation & Evaluation
Next, the AFFLINK team reviews your alignment with the network’s values, capabilities, and market opportunities. They’ll discuss:
- Your service model
- Your industry presence
- Your growth potential
- How you may fit into the existing network
This is a collaborative conversation, designed to ensure the partnership is strong on both sides.
Step 3 – Partnership & Onboarding
Once approved, you begin onboarding — and this is where the value accelerates. New distributors receive:
- Access to Shopfront and AFFLINK’s digital tools
- Marketing and brand resources
- Business development support
- Training and integration assistance
- Introductions to the broader AFFLINK community
From day one, distributors benefit from the network’s shared knowledge, technology, and growth-driven tools.
Join a Network That Grows With You
Becoming an AFFLINK distributor is more than a business decision — it’s an opportunity to join a collaborative, technology-driven network built for long-term success. From nationwide partnerships to powerful analytics to ongoing support, distributors gain the resources they need to compete, differentiate, and grow.
If you’re ready to take the next step in expanding your business, AFFLINK offers the tools, connections, and expertise to help you thrive.
About AFFLINK, LLC.
As “The Home of the Independent,” AFFLINK connects more than 250 manufacturers of Industrial Packaging, Facility Maintenance, Food Service, Safety, and Office Supply solutions with more than 300 independent distributors. AFFLINK (www.afflink.com) is the critical link, offering clients innovative products - and for distributors - market expertise and improved profitability, all of which is fuelled by leading-edge information technology.
