Wholesale Food Distribution Facilities for Philadelphia, Pa

Excerpts from the report: This study of wholesale food marketing in Philadelphia was made at the request of the Greater Philadelphia Movement, a civic nonprofit organization which has recognized great social and economic advantages in a modern wholesale food distribution center. The purposes of the study were to ascertain the inadequacies of present marketing facilities and handling methods and to determine the kinds of marketing facilities that would be needed for the proper distribution of food at the lowest possible cost and with the least amount of effort, while at the same time maintaining the quality of the products. To determine the adequacy of Philadelphia's wholesale food markets for seven major commodity groups—fresh fruits and vegetables, poultry and eggs, seafoods, meats and meat products, butter and cheese, dry groceries, and frozen foods—information was obtained from wholesalers who handle these foods; buyers who patronize the markets; truckers hauling to and from them; railroad officials; and representatives of local, State, and Federal governments. The data thus obtained were analyzed, the inadequacies of present facilities were determined, and the kinds and amount of facilities needed were ascertained. This report sets forth the principal findings and recommendations.