If you are looking to help your small business grow, boost sales, and expand your brand, partnering with a co-packer is a wise decision. Being aware of your business’s needs, your product’s specifications, and what you are looking for out of a co-packer will ensure that you find the right partner who will only benefit you in the long run. Here are some simple steps to prepare your small business for bringing on a co-packer. 

1. Do Your Research

Before you begin contacting co-packers, it’s important to do a little research. Some helpful factors to become familiar with include:

• What you’re hoping to gain from partnering with a co-packer.
• How your competitors are marketing similar products.
• Any necessary certifications and documentation a co-packer may need to produce your product.
• Projected costs and a timeline of your production needs.

2. Know Your Product

It is imperative that you know all of the specific ingredients and steps it requires to produce your product prior to approaching co-packing companies. This includes:

• Your product’s name and description.
• A complete ingredient list.
• Detailed recipe instructions.
• The nutritional value you are striving for.

The more familiar you are now with your product, ingredients, and process, the smoother your transition to larger scale manufacturing.

3. Consider Packaging

Co-packers help you develop a package that will be both attractive and functional, but come prepared with some ideas of what you’re looking for ahead of time. While price is an essential factor to consider, cheapest is not always best. Providing examples of what you like or similar products that sell well at retailers can help your co-packer find a packaging solution that will attract customers, while not breaking the bank or safety standards.

4. Choose the Right Co-Packer

Not all co-packers will be a good fit for your business, and that’s okay. Finding the right one can make all the difference in taking your business to the next level. When it comes to hiring a co-packer that is as invested in your company’s success as you are, Palace Foods can’t be beat. With over 30 years of experience, our family-owned business takes pride in producing quality food products at prices that businesses can afford.

We are happy to handle major manufacturing concerns for your business. These include nutritional profiling, UPC bar codes, and safety standards so that you can focus on what’s important: growing your business. Contact us today to see how we can help you share your product on a larger scale!