How to Find a Co-Packer for Your Product: A Step-by-Step Guide

Co-packers, also known as contract packagers, are a hidden gem for many successful food businesses. They have the ability to manufacture and package your products, saving you time, money, and hassle. This guide will walk you through the process of how to find a co-packer that’s right for your small business.

Step 1: Understand What a Co-Packer Is

Before you find a co-packer, it’s important to understand what they are and what services they include. Co-packers for small businesses are companies that can produce your products and package them for you. These packing companies often work with a variety of food products, including specialty food items and even gluten-free options. They are a full-service solution, taking your recipes and turning them into market-ready products.

Step 2: Determine Your Needs

As you search for the right co-packer, keep in mind what you need for your food business. Some considerations may include:

• Production capabilities: Does the co-packer have the ability to produce the volume of product you need? Can they handle specialty food items or gluten-free products?
• Private label: Are you interested in a private label? Some co-packers offer this service.
• Full-service options: Many co-packing food companies can help with everything from production to packaging to distribution. Is that what you’re looking for, or do you need a more specialized service? T.H.E.M. provides a turn-key co packing service, from procurement of materials to shipping of the final product. 

Step 3: Research Potential Co-Packers

To start your search, consider looking into a co-packer directory. This tool is designed to help you find co-packer companies that are best suited for your specific needs. Food co-packers directories can be found online and will provide information about a variety of different packing services.

Step 4: Evaluate Co-Packers

Once you have a list of potential co-packers, take the time to evaluate each one. Some factors to consider include:

• Their specialty: Do they have experience in your specific food and beverage sector?
• Production facility: Take a look at their facilities. Are they clean, well-maintained, and up to your standards?
• Working with a co-packer: What is their reputation like? How easy is it to work with them?

Step 5: Request Proposals

After you have narrowed down your list, reach out to these co-packing food companies for proposals. This will give you a detailed view of their production capabilities, pricing, and what it would be like to work with them.

Step 6: Make a Decision

Once you have all the information, it’s time to make a decision. Remember, the best co-packer for your food business is one that meets your specific needs and is easy to work with. Take your time to find a co-packer that you can build a long-term relationship with.

Takeaways

Finding the right co-packer is an essential step in scaling your food business. Whether you’re looking for co-packers for small businesses, or you need someone who can handle a larger volume, using a copacker directory and following these steps can help you find the perfect fit.

Trust T.H.E.M. to handle your copacking needs!