Farmers Rice Milling Co. Partners with the No. 1 National Foodservice Distributor Sysco®

At Farmers Rice Milling Co., we believe that access to high-quality, American-grown rice shouldn’t be limited by geography. That’s why we’re proud to announce our newest strategic partnership with Sysco, the #1 food distributor in the United States. This collaboration marks a major step forward in expanding our domestic footprint, ensuring that more restaurants, institutions, and food service operations across the country can bring premium Louisiana rice to their plates.

With over a century of history rooted in Southwest Louisiana, Farmers Rice has long been a trusted name in international exports. But today, we’re seeing incredible momentum right here at home. By partnering with industry leaders like Sysco, we’re making our rice more accessible to the food service sector nationwide—and setting the stage for even more growth to come.

A Trusted Distribution Partner

Sysco is more than a food distributor; it’s a pillar of the food service industry, with a strong reputation for reliability, scale, and service. The company works with restaurants, healthcare operations, schools, hotels, and more, helping them access the products they need to succeed.

“We’re excited to expand our product offering through Sysco, a distributor that’s been a trusted partner to the American food industry for decades,” says Marcus Suiter, Director of US Sales for Farmers Rice Milling Co. “Sysco’s national reach and deep commitment to quality and service align perfectly with our own values, making this a natural partnership.”

With Sysco’s massive logistics network and presence in nearly every major U.S. market, this collaboration makes it easier than ever for restaurants and chefs to purchase Farmers premium rice products, now offered in our own branded packaging.

Building on Momentum

This partnership comes on the heels of our successful launch with US Foods, which brought Farmers Rice to food service and retail customers across the Gulf States. That rollout proved there’s strong demand for premium Louisiana rice at a competitive price point, especially from restaurants looking to support American agriculture and serve up local products.

Now, with Sysco onboard, we’re reaching even more markets and meeting the needs of customers nationwide.

“Our focus is on continued growth in domestic markets,” says Suiter. “By working with multiple major distributors, we’re giving chefs and food service operators more ways to access the rice they know and trust—no matter who their primary distributor may be.”

Supporting American Agriculture

As one of the largest rice mills in the U.S., Farmers is also the single largest agriculture-based business in Southwest Louisiana. We purchase a significant share of the rice grown in our state, meaning that every new distributor we work with helps increase demand for U.S.-grown rice and strengthens American agriculture.

“With more demand, we buy more rice. It’s a win-win for local farmers, for the economy, and for our customers,” Suiter says. “This partnership with Sysco furthers our mission of supporting U.S. agriculture and keeping quality American products accessible and affordable.”

Looking Forward

This is more than just a distribution deal—it’s a strategic expansion that opens doors for growth across food service and, soon, retail. Our dedicated sales and business development team is already working closely with Sysco representatives to help launch our products in key markets, and we’re looking ahead to additional announcements later this year.

Suiter adds, “We’re just getting started. Our first distributor partnership launched in 2024, and now with Sysco and others coming onboard, we’re continuing to build something big. It’s exciting to see the momentum, and we’re proud to be a trusted, values-driven partner for the food service industry.”

As we expand our presence in kitchens across the country, one thing remains the same: our commitment to producing high-quality rice, grown and milled right here in Louisiana.

For more information about Farmer’s Rice Milling Co. visit frmco.com.