Miami-based entrepreneur Rovshan Rasulov is on a mission to revolutionize the foodservice industry. He envisions a future where U.S. restaurants can directly connect with food producers without the need for middlemen. Rasulov believes that the current system is outdated and filled with unnecessary complexities, which is why he founded Rgand.com in 2020. With over 25 years of experience in the food supply chain, Rasulov has developed an automated one-click trading platform that streamlines the process of buying and selling food products.
Rgand Marketplace, the brainchild of Rasulov, aims to eliminate the numerous intermediaries that stand between food producers and end buyers like restaurants and hotels. By cutting out these middlemen, Rgand Marketplace offers a more efficient and cost-effective solution for both suppliers and buyers. With access to over 10,000 registered restaurants and hotels, Rgand Marketplace is poised to make a significant impact on the foodservice industry.
To further support small food producers, Rgand is launching the Direct Trade Foundation (DTF) this fall. DTF will provide mentorship and training to help smaller suppliers break into the U.S. market. By partnering with DTF, these producers will receive guidance on navigating entry barriers, marketing their products, and scaling their businesses. The foundation will select only 50 suppliers annually, committing $100 million over three years to support innovative and impactful producers.
The restaurant industry in the United States faces numerous challenges, including rising food costs and supply chain disruptions. Rgand and DTF aim to address these challenges by providing operational support, logistical assistance, and financial backing to participating producers. By easing the entry process for suppliers, DTF hopes to foster a more competitive and diverse marketplace for restaurants and hotels.
One of the key initiatives of DTF is the Sample Box Marathon program, which allows chefs to try out products from participating producers. This program not only helps producers gain visibility but also allows restaurants to discover new and innovative products. By facilitating these connections, Rgand and DTF are fostering a culture of collaboration and growth within the foodservice industry.
Rgand Marketplace and the Direct Trade Foundation represent a new era of possibilities for the foodservice industry. By cutting out intermediaries, empowering small suppliers, and fostering innovation, Rovshan Rasulov is paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable food supply chain. As the industry evolves and adapts to new challenges, initiatives like Rgand and DTF will play a crucial role in shaping its future.