As a successful entrepreneur, there are many factors involved when finding a reputable co packing partner that you trust and WANT to work with. The production process can be long and drawn out, with seemingly no end in sight. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and sanity and help your business thrive!
It’s essential that your potential co packer has the right equipment, reasonable prices, and a positive attitude; if your co packing company has all of these qualities, it will make your life and running your business so much easier.
But the real question is – how do you find a contract packager? Google? Word of mouth? It may feel like a guessing game with high stakes, but don’t worry. Read on to learn how to find the perfect contract packer in Canada for you and your business.
How to find a co packer that's right for you
Word of mouth
By far the easiest method to find a co packer, word of mouth can also be the most successful. Ask your (friendly) competition and other producers in your area what co packers they use and don’t use; these insights are invaluable to the local contract manufacturing industry.
After asking around, you’ll find that many local producers speak highly of their co packers and are more than happy to refer you to them. After asking around more, you might find that this is because of a referral bonus (this is why it’s okay to ask your competition for recommendations.)
Information to get from your co packer referral:
- Company/ co packer information: verbal or business card
- Standard operation procedures and how they can help your business
- Pricing and referrals
- Certifications, qualifications, and production capability
Related industry websites
Industry websites may not be in your specific location, but most of them have a lot of valuable information and forums where you can post and ask questions to help you find the best co packing services in your area.
Industry websites provide an excellent way to meet other food producers and ask any questions you may have. If all else fails and you are not finding what you are looking for, you can search Google for a variation of phrases such as ‘co packer near me’ or ‘[town name] contract manufacturing.” The search results will give you all of the co packers in your area. It’s then up to you to determine whether they are a good fit for you and your business.
Use a reputable co packer’s directory
Depending on your industry, directories can help you find the perfect co packer. Industries like food, beverages, and cosmetics all have their own vetted directories.
- Cosmetics – GCI Magazine, Cosmetic Index
- Food & Beverage – Food and Beverage Ontario, Pick Your Own
There are even sites like PartnerSlate which help match you to the perfect co packer. The agriculture department in your province or state can help link you to the best food co packer for your industry.
You can also use sites and associations like the trusted Contract Packaging Association to help match you with a co packer.
Final questions to ask yourself before deciding on a co packer
- Location- Are they near your business location? Is it easy to commute there when needed?
- Size- Is their facility big enough to handle your products and production size. Or is the facility too big to where they forget about you, and you get lost in the cracks?
- Scalability- Can your small batch co packer grow with your business? If you get a sudden influx of orders, can they handle the increased demand? Eventually, you may need to switch co packers when your business outgrows your co packer’s capacity.
- Cost– Is the cost economical for ingredients and food production? Does it change as you scale up? Are there hidden fees or charges that you don’t know about?
- Compatability– From a business and manufacturing perspective, do they have the right equipment and certifications to produce your finished product? What is their production schedule like? On a personal level, are they good people? Do you get along? Do they get along with their other clients?
Now that you know the steps to find your perfect co packer in Canada, it is time to start searching. Utilize the steps above to ensure that your business, brand, and most importantly, you get the most from this new relationship.