well that's going back some. That wasn't my 4um, I was just a mod. That place went up in flames, got to be bash city. No, I don't remember him.
Personally, what I would do is try and hook up with a grocery, drug store or convenience store distributor. They may not be interested in selling one line to a small reseller, but it's worth a try. They would also be a source for other toiletries.
If that doesn't work you might find a "wagon jobber" the kind of guys who sell off their trucks to the c-stores, small shops, etc. You might work a deal with one of them to buy for you, giving them a couple of bucks per case, etc.
All large cities have a general area with a number of grocery related distributors, I'd make a tip there and see what you can come up with.