Whichever way you do it, the distribution process will add to the final price because someone needs to pay for transport to the city, distribution to the retail

Whichever way you do it, the distribution process will add to the final price because someone needs to pay for transport to the city, distribution to the retail stores etc. A non-profit may only charge enough to cover their cost but it is nonetheless an additional step in the supply chain. However, it would still be cheaper than attempting to send products directly from manufacturers to retail customers in a completely different city.