For distributors looking to scale with confidence, choosing the right partner matters. This step-by-step guide breaks down what becoming an AFFLINK affiliate really looks like and how this partnership supports smarter growth, stronger relationships, and long-term success.
The Power of Partnership in Today’s Distribution Landscape
Today’s distributors are navigating a rapidly evolving marketplace. Customer expectations are rising. Technology is advancing quickly. Sustainability, supply continuity, and cost control are no longer optional. In this environment, growth is not just about scale. It is about strategy, insight, and connection.
This is where AFFLINK stands apart. More than a traditional buying group or affiliation, AFFLINK is a partnership ecosystem built to help distributors grow, compete, and innovate. By combining advanced procurement technology, exclusive data, and a collaborative national partnership, AFFLINK helps distributors thrive regardless of market challenges.
Step 1 – Discover What AFFLINK Is All About
Before joining with AFFLINK, it is important to understand what AFFLINK represents and how our partnership is structured to support distributor success.
A Nexus Built on Collaboration and Growth
AFFLINK is a national supply chain and procurement nexus that connects distributors, manufacturers, and end customers through shared strategy, technology, and data. It serves as a centralized access point for opportunity and innovation across the supply chain.
Our reach supports a wide range of industries, including healthcare, hospitality, industrial, commercial, government, and packaging. AFFLINK’s model preserves distributor independence while strengthening each member through shared resources, collective insight, and national reach.
What Makes AFFLINK Unique
AFFLINK delivers value through a combination of scale and intelligence. Members benefit from collective purchasing power that supports stronger margins and competitive pricing. Our affiliation opens doors to new markets and large, complex accounts that may be difficult to access independently.
Distributors also gain access to shared data and analytics that support better decision-making, from inventory planning to customer strategy. Marketing, sustainability, and business development programs further support growth. At the core of it all is a community of growth-minded distributors working together, sharing best practices and insights.
Step 2 – Explore the Benefits of Partnering with AFFLINK
Joining with AFFLINK offers both tangible business advantages and the confidence that comes from being part of a trusted, forward-thinking community.
Growth Through Connection
AFFLINK expands a distributor’s reach through national contracts and shared partnerships. Membership increases exposure to corporate and multi-location accounts while enhancing credibility with customers who value scale, reliability, and innovation.
By operating within a vast distribution network, members can compete more effectively while maintaining strong local relationships.
Technology and Data That Drive Smarter Decisions
AFFLINK’s procurement technology and data platforms empower distributors to make informed, strategic decisions. Members gain visibility into purchasing trends, cost-saving opportunities, inventory performance, and supplier insights.
These tools help distributors move beyond transactional selling and toward consultative, value-driven relationships with their customers.
Support Beyond the Sale
AFFLINK’s commitment to distributor success extends well beyond procurement. Members benefit from training and development programs, sales enablement resources, and marketing support designed to strengthen their brand and sales strategy.
Sustainability initiatives and innovation-focused programs help distributors align with evolving customer expectations while positioning themselves for long-term growth.
Step 3 – The Process of Becoming an AFFLINK Affiliate
AFFLINK’s application and onboarding process is designed to be transparent, collaborative, and supportive.
Application and Evaluation
The process begins with an inquiry from an interested distributor. This is followed by conversations with the AFFLINK team to understand business goals, market focus, and alignment of values and objectives.
This step ensures that the partnership is mutually beneficial and positioned for long-term success.
Partnership and Onboarding
Once approved, new distributors are introduced to the AFFLINK community through a structured onboarding process. This includes technology setup, orientation sessions, and collaboration with key AFFLINK teams to ensure a smooth transition.
New members are supported as they integrate tools, explore opportunities, and begin engaging with the broader network.
Ongoing Collaboration and Growth
Joining AFFLINK is not a one-time transaction. Members participate in ongoing collaboration through training programs, networking events, and strategic initiatives. As the market evolves, the network evolves with it, ensuring members stay informed, competitive, and connected.
What It Really Means to Be Part of AFFLINK
Being part of AFFLINK means joining a community built on shared success. Members exchange ideas, learn from one another, and collaborate to solve challenges and seize opportunities. The relationship goes beyond contracts and technology. It is a partnership focused on continuous improvement, innovation, and growth.
Ready to Join the AFFLINK Community?
For distributors seeking smarter growth, stronger partnerships, and access to advanced procurement technology, partnering with AFFLINK is a strategic step forward. AFFLINK provides the resources distributors need to compete at a higher level while staying true to their independent roots.
Explore what it means to become part of AFFLINK and take the next step toward a more connected, future-ready distribution business.
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.
