How to Find the Right GPO for your Campground

The buzz around Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) has been growing as many industries — from amusement parks to restaurants and everything in between. Now, many campgrounds are starting to explore how GPOs can help reduce operating costs on food, supplies, and everyday essentials.

Still, some campground owners hesitate to change established purchasing routines, which is an understandable concern. Any time you adjust long-standing business processes, trying something new can feel like a liability.

For some operators, sticking with “business as usual” feels like the safest choice. But when you consider the possibility of saving thousands of dollars each year on food, cleaning supplies, and equipment, maintaining the status quo may actually be the riskier move.

So how can your campground benefit and grow your bottom line? The answer is simple: a reputable GPO.

Strong and reliable customer support

When you join a GPO, you’re not just accessing discounts; you’re gaining a purchasing partner. The organization helps negotiate pricing, connect you with distributors, and streamline ordering. That’s why customer support matters.

The right GPO should feel like an extension of your team. Because they work with hundreds or thousands of hospitality businesses, they should also be able to share insights on purchasing trends, product availability, and operations that benefit your business.

Flexible terms and membership

A reputable GPO exists to expand your purchasing options, not restrict them. As a campground owner, you should have full control over how and when you purchase supplies and/or ingredients. Some months you may need large orders for busy seasons; other times, smaller restocks may be enough.

Before signing up, carefully review the terms. Watch for requirements such as minimum order amounts, long-term contracts, or mandated purchasing percentages. If the agreement limits your flexibility, it may not be the right fit.

Reliable, well-known distributors

Many campgrounds already have relationships with trusted local vendors for food, beverages, cleaning supplies, or maintenance. A good GPO should enhance those options, not replace them with unreliable sources.

Ask potential GPO partners which distributors they work with in your market. Ideally, they partner with well-established regional or national suppliers known for consistent quality and dependable service. Check online reviews, keep an eye on product quality, and ask about delivery reliability. The goal is to ensure that any new suppliers meet (or exceed) the standards you already expect.

At the end of the day, a trustworthy GPO puts its members first, focusing on both quality suppliers and customer satisfaction. The best part? Many legitimate GPOs are free to join. That means you can test the program, explore the pricing advantages, and see how it works for your operation without committing to unnecessary risk. Choosing the right partner is key for long-term success, and from there, you’ll be able to unlock savings that can transform your campground!

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 16% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.

SB Value Commits $25,000 to IAAPA Foundation, Reinforcing Long-Term Investment in the Future of the Attractions Industry

We’re so excited to share the news - SB Value pledged a donation to the IAAPA Foundation for 2026. The below press release was published by IAAPA, and you can view the announcement in full here.

ORLANDO, FL (Feb. 26, 2026) – IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, today announced that SB Value has committed $25,000 to the IAAPA Foundation in 2026, reinforcing its role as a dedicated national partner and long-term supporter of the broader attractions ecosystem.

The contribution will directly support the IAAPA Foundation’s mission to inspire, develop, and grow the next generation of attractions industry leaders through scholarships, professional development, and workforce initiatives. Through IAAPA’s scholarship match program running through 2026, the impact of SB Value’s gift will be effectively doubled, expanding access to education and career opportunities for emerging professionals worldwide.

SB Value’s investment reflects its commitment not only to its clients, but to the long-term health and sustainability of the global attractions industry.

“The IAAPA Foundation’s work ensures more people in the attraction industry can discover, enter, and grow,” said Trip Wheeler, President of SB Value. “At SB Value, we believe investing in people is one of the most impactful ways to support the future of attractions.”

As an ongoing national partner of IAAPA, SB Value plays an active role in supporting operators and suppliers across the industry by offering US-based IAAPA members access to unmatched savings on food and kitchen supplies. The Foundation contribution further underscores the company’s broader commitment to strengthening the entire attractions value chain.

“SB Value’s commitment demonstrates the kind of leadership that strengthens our entire industry,” said Jim Seay, Board Chair of the IAAPA Foundation. “When companies invest in the IAAPA Foundation, they are investing directly in the people who will shape the future of attractions. With our dollar-for-dollar scholarship match in place, contributions like this don’t just support students — they multiply opportunity, expand access to education, and help ensure our industry continues to grow with talent that is innovative, diverse, and prepared to lead.”

The IAAPA Foundation works to expand access to education, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities, ensuring the attractions industry remains innovative, inclusive, and globally competitive. Contributions like SB Value’s help cultivate the talent pipeline that will shape the future of theme parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, and resorts.

For more information about SB Value, visit https://www.wegrowvalue.com/

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About SB Value

SB Value is a leader in food-buying programs, committed to helping businesses maximize profitability by reducing food costs. As the largest client of US Foods, SB Value combines immense purchasing power with unmatched convenience to deliver significant savings for its members.

About IAAPA and the IAAPA Foundation

IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, represents more than 9,000 members across over 100 countries and serves as the leading international resource for professionals in theme parks, attractions, water parks, museums, zoos, aquariums, and location‑based entertainment. Its mission is to inspire, grow, and protect the global attractions industry through member connections, while advancing excellence, safety, and professional development across the sector. 

The IAAPA Foundation, a separate 501(c)(3) charitable organization, exists to inspire and support life‑changing careers in the global attractions industry by providing academic, experiential, and professional development scholarships. The Foundation raises awareness of career pathways, partners with educational institutions worldwide, and invests in developing tomorrow’s industry workforce with a strong focus on access, equity, and leadership development.

Setting the Stage for 2026: How a GPO Will Increase Your Profits

As we head into the new year, many foodservice professionals are setting their sights on increasing their bottom line and cutting food + kitchen costs. But when faced with an uncertain market, raising prices isn’t necessarily the answer.

Saving money as a whole can entail a variety of things — training your staff to reduce food waste, equipment upkeep and maintenance, and making cost-effective ingredient swaps. However, with the help of a group purchasing organization (GPO), you have the ability to boost your bottom line in a low-effort way that sets you up for long-term success.

Why go with a GPO?

By leveraging the collective buying power of businesses just like you, GPOs negotiate significant discounts and streamline the purchasing process all in one go. Imagine the products you currently purchase, but with lower price tags. That said, finding a GPO for your business can feel overwhelming with all of the options available to you.

The right organization should provide access to high-quality ingredients, reliable suppliers, and flexible terms without a catch. Beyond that, it’s crucial to align your goals, needs, and purchasing habits with a GPO that can deliver — whether that’s with reduced costs, timely deliveries, or seasonal assistance when it comes to menu planning.

Deep dive into your options

Now for the important part: it’s time to do your research! Look for options that serve your market, both in terms of location and niche. For instance, if you exclusively serve plant-based foods, ready-to-serve meals, or concessions, you’ll want to ensure your GPO partner can meet those needs. Don’t lock yourself into an organization that can’t meet your needs.

Similar to a job interview, you’ll want to evaluate potential GPO contenders to determine which one will be the best fit for your company. Reach out to customer service and ask about their process. How do they source responsibly and ensure food safety? What can you expect with delivery timing? What resources do they provide to members outside of food + kitchen supplies? Any GPO worth its salt can also take a look at your recent invoices to highlight areas where you can save based on your current purchasing needs.

Review their contract terms

Once you hone in on the best GPO, they’ll likely approach you with a member agreement to get started. Bear in mind that this contract should give you protection as a business owner in case anything goes awry, as well as ensure quality control of all products that you receive.

Additionally, what it should not include are red flags such as unreasonable terms, hidden fees, required membership durations, or mandatory order restrictions. Joining a GPO should only enhance your business operations, not limit them!

Finding the right GPO for your foodservice business can transform your operations and significantly impact your profitability in 2026. Regardless of where you hang your hat, whether it’s rollerskating, family entertainment, catering, or campgrounds, we would love to help you on the right path to smarter spending.

Clint Elkins is the V.P. of Sales for SB Value, a Group Purchasing Organization that helps culinary professionals save an average of 17% on every food order. Membership is 100% free. No hidden fees. No extra work. Just extra profits. See how much you can save on your next food order when you become an SB Value member. Request a quote today.  

SB Value Featured in the Latest Issue of The FORUM

We’re excited to share that SB Value was recently featured in the newest issue of The FORUM, the digital publication produced by Club Leaders Forum. Published twice a year, The FORUM is widely regarded as a must-read resource for private club leaders around the world, spotlighting relevant, practical, and forward-looking insights for the industry.

In our article, “Smart Moves Every Club Should Consider in Food & Beverage for 2026,” we explored how private clubs can navigate rising costs and ongoing inflation without compromising member experience. The piece focused on practical strategies clubs can implement now, including smarter ingredient sourcing, the importance of flexibility in menu planning, and how collective purchasing power can support long-term financial sustainability.

At its core, the article reinforces a message we care deeply about: profitability and quality don’t have to be at odds. With thoughtful planning, strong supplier relationships, and the right purchasing strategies in place, clubs can position their food and beverage programs for a successful and resilient 2026.

We’re honored to be included in such a respected publication and grateful to The FORUM for continuing to elevate meaningful conversations within the private club industry.

SB Value Heads to IAAPA FEC Summit 2026: Playing the Long Game Together

Big decisions. Tight margins. A future that rewards operators who think ahead.

That’s exactly why SB Value is proud to sponsor IAAPA FEC Summit 2026, taking place February 1–3 in Glendale, Arizona. It’s also why this event matters so much for Family Entertainment Center operators who are focused on sustainable, long-term success.

The FEC Summit isn’t about flashy trends or quick wins. It’s about building businesses that last.

Event Details at a Glance

• Dates: February 1–3, 2026

• Location: Glendale, AZ

• Hotel: The Wigwam Resort (IAAPA Rate: $249)

What FEC Operators Can Expect from IAAPA FEC Summit 2026

This year’s theme says it all: Play the Long Game. Build a Lasting Legacy.

Over three focused days, FEC owners, operators, and industry leaders will come together for:

• Practical, operator-driven education

• Honest conversations about growth, cost control, and leadership
  Meaningful peer connections that extend beyond the event itself

It’s the kind of environment where real insight happens, the kind you can actually take home and put to work.

A Keynote Built for Leaders

One session we’re especially excited about: the keynote from Libby Gill, an internationally recognized leadership expert, executive coach, and bestselling author.

With a background leading communications at Universal, Sony, and Turner Broadcasting, Libby brings a rare blend of big-picture vision and practical leadership guidance. Her focus on clarity, engagement, and navigating change aligns closely with what today’s FEC leaders are facing, especially as labor, food costs, and guest expectations continue to evolve.

You’ll Find Clint (and SB Value) There

SB Value VP of Sales Clint Elkins and Executive VP of Sales Julie Altstadt will be on site throughout the Summit, connecting with operators and continuing the conversations that matter most:

• How to protect margins in an unpredictable cost environment

• How to create financial stability without adding operational complexity

• How smart purchasing decisions support long-term growth—not short-term fixes

If you’ve been thinking about how to strengthen your operation in 2026 and beyond, this is exactly the room to be in.

If you’ve attended IAAPA Expo before, you may have seen us there—if not, you can catch up with our recent experience in our IAAPA Expo recap. 

And if you’re newer to SB Value, our GPO explainer breaks down how group purchasing works—and why it’s designed to support long-term stability for operators:

Want to Get a Head Start?

If the themes of the FEC Summit resonate—and you’re already thinking about ways to simplify decisions, reduce risk, and protect your bottom line—you don’t have to wait until February.

Schedule a quick 15-minute call with Clint to explore whether SB Value makes sense for your operation and where immediate opportunities may exist.

Because the smartest moves are the ones that make tomorrow feel more secure—starting today.