US Foods vs. Performance Food Group: Which Is Right for Your Restaurant?
US Foods leads on technology tools and private label quality. Performance Food Group (PFG) is a strong challenger with aggressive pricing in its regional strongholds and a growing national footprint. Both are worth quoting — pricing differences on specific items can be significant.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | US Foods | Performance Food Group |
|---|---|---|
| Company Size | ~$36B annual revenue. 250,000+ customer locations. Second-largest US broadline distributor. | $57B+ annual revenue (including all segments). Third-largest US foodservice distributor. Aggressive acquisition growth. |
| Geographic Coverage | Strong in most major US metro markets. | National coverage via multiple regional distribution brands including Reinhart. |
| Independent Restaurant Focus | Serves both chains and independents. Strong technology tools for independents. | Strong focus on independent restaurants and local operators through regional brands. |
| Private Label | Chef's Line — well-regarded by operators for quality vs. name brands. | Multiple private label lines. Performance Foodservice brand covers most categories. |
| Ordering Technology | US Foods MOXe — includes menu costing, nutrition tools, intuitive order management. | Varies by region/brand. Generally functional but less uniformly advanced than MOXe. |
| Pricing Structure | Negotiated list pricing. Cost-plus arrangements available for large accounts. | Negotiated list pricing. Competitive on broadline staples. Cost-plus available. |
| Specialty & Ethnic | Broad catalog including specialty items in most markets. | Growing specialty catalog. Varies more by regional distribution center. |
| Best For | Operators who want strong tech tools, solid private label, and good urban metro coverage. | Operators in markets where PFG/Reinhart has a strong local presence and competitive pricing. |
Where Each Distributor Wins
Choose US Foods if…
- You want the best operator-facing ordering portal (MOXe)
- Menu costing and nutrition tools matter to your operation
- You value a strong private label (Chef's Line)
- You're in a major metro where US Foods has deep infrastructure
- You want Scoop program access for menu development
Choose PFG if…
- PFG or Reinhart has a strong presence in your market
- You value a local rep with regional market knowledge
- You've gotten competitive quotes and PFG wins on your top items
- You want a distributor with growing specialty and ethnic options
- You prefer a less bureaucratic account relationship
The Pricing Reality
PFG has grown dramatically through acquisitions and now competes on pricing in markets where they have dense delivery infrastructure. In some regions — particularly the Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic — PFG can be highly competitive on broadline staples.
US Foods typically holds its own on pricing while providing a richer technology experience. For operators who place a premium on the ordering platform, menu tools, and private label consistency, US Foods often justifies its position.
The practical answer: get quotes from both on your top 30 items. Let the numbers drive the decision, not brand recognition.
When you receive quotes from both distributors, share the competitive pricing with each rep and ask them to beat it. Distributors have pricing flexibility they don't advertise. A competing quote is the fastest way to unlock it.
See Exactly Where Each Distributor Is Cheaper
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is US Foods or Performance Food Group cheaper?
Pricing varies by region, product category, and contract terms. PFG has grown significantly through acquisitions and is increasingly competitive on pricing in markets where they have strong infrastructure. US Foods tends to have stronger urban metro coverage. The only reliable way to compare is to get quotes on your specific items.
What is Performance Food Group?
Performance Food Group (PFG) is the third-largest US broadline foodservice distributor, with over $57B in annual revenue. They've expanded significantly through acquisitions including Reinhart Foodservice and Core-Mark. They serve restaurants, healthcare, hospitality, and convenience stores.
Does PFG serve independent restaurants?
Yes. PFG and its subsidiaries (including Reinhart) have a strong focus on independent restaurant operators. Their local distribution network often means strong rep relationships and local market knowledge compared to some larger national competitors.
How do I get a quote from Performance Food Group?
Contact PFG directly through their website or find your local distribution center. PFG operates through regional brands in some areas. A sales rep will typically request your order guide or top items list and provide pricing within a few business days.
Sources: US Foods Annual Report 2024; Performance Food Group Annual Report 2024; FrillPick editorial research. FrillPick is not affiliated with or endorsed by US Foods or Performance Food Group.