Start with your café's format. Which drinks and dishes are already on the menu? Are you looking for individual desserts, pastries to pair with coffee, takeaway items or products for events? A brief description makes the conversation with a supplier more useful.
Gather the basics
Include your city, approximate quantities, preferred first-delivery date and display facilities. If you do not yet have sales data, describe quantities as provisional and discuss how to approach the first batch.
Confirm product information
Ask for confirmed ingredients, allergens, weight, shelf life and storage conditions for each item. Where relevant, ask about possible allergen cross-contact. Do not infer ingredients or suitability for an individual guest from a photograph or product name.
Check packaging and receipt
Discuss packaging, labeling, transport requirements and receiving procedures. Ask what information accompanies the batch and who can answer questions after receipt.
Record the agreement
Request confirmation of the selection, quantities, prices, minimum batch, date and delivery terms. A preliminary inquiry starts the conversation, but does not replace order confirmation.