In this podcast episode, we explore the hidden factors contributing to rising grocery prices, particularly the impact of food distributors. Small food brands depend on these large distributors to get their products onto store shelves, but they often face a barrage of fees and deductions that eat into their profits. This complicated and often unclear system, combined with the consolidation of the industry, leads to higher prices for consumers and creates significant hurdles for small businesses trying to compete nationally. While distributors claim their fees are necessary due to grocery store charges and high distribution costs, many small brands feel the system is stacked against them, resulting in numerous failures.