Bimbo Bakeries USA is the American division of Grupo Bimbo, the largest baking company in the world. Grupo Bimbo was founded in 1996 in Mexico City. Bimbo Bakeries USA was officially launched in 2014 after the acquisition of several regional bakeries.

The company is headquartered in Horsham, Pennsylvania, and has grown to operate more than 60 bakeries with around 20,000 employees across the United States.

The Bimbo franchise model offers independent distribution opportunities rather than traditional storefronts. Franchisees manage their own routes and deliver fresh products such as bread, bagels, English muffins, buns, and sweet baked goods to retail stores.

Bimbo Bakeries USA owns many of the nation’s most recognized bakery brands, including Sara Lee, Thomas’, Entenmann’s, Arnold, Oroweat, and Brownberry. This extensive brand portfolio gives franchisees a major advantage through strong consumer recognition and consistent demand.

Training

Bimbo Foods Bakeries Distribution, LLC provides a structured training program for its franchisees to ensure they understand the distribution model and operational procedures. Here are the main training components:

1. Initial Training: Franchisees must attend and complete an initial training program that includes both classroom and on-the-job instruction. This covers aspects of sales, merchandising, delivery operations, and use of the handheld ordering system.
2. Ongoing Training and Support: Franchisees may be required to attend additional training sessions or meetings that cover updated business practices, technology, or changes in operations. These sessions help reinforce compliance with brand standards and operational efficiency.
3. Technology and System Training: Training on using the handheld computer ordering system is provided, including how to maintain compatibility with the franchisor’s systems. Franchisees are expected to upgrade equipment when system requirements change.
4. Operational and Safety Training: As part of their responsibilities, franchisees receive guidance on safety protocols, product handling, and delivery vehicle use to ensure smooth daily operations and compliance with corporate policies.

Territory Protection

Bimbo Foods Bakeries Distribution (BFBD) provides franchisees with a form of territory protection by granting them specific distribution rights through a defined Distribution Agreement. These rights are linked to exclusive sales territories that are clearly demarcated and generally respected by the franchisor.

The franchisee is permitted to service customers within that specific route, and no other distributor under BFBD can operate within that designated area without violating the agreement.

However, these territorial rights come with performance conditions and are subject to compliance with the terms of the Distribution Agreement. If a franchisee underperforms or fails to meet operational standards—such as maintaining acceptable product return levels—the franchisor reserves the right to terminate the agreement or reassign the territory. Thus, while Bimbo offers a degree of territorial exclusivity, it is contingent on the franchisee fulfilling their contractual obligations.