What separates a winning product launch from a flop in the competitive food industry? It’s not always the recipe, packaging, or marketing — often, it’s who’s making your product. But how do we ensure we’re choosing the best co-manufacturer to work beside us in a product development? This is what we’re discussing today.

A hidden ingredient in a successful food brand

In 2018, Beyond Meat shook the food industry by launching its plant-based burger, closely mimicking beef in taste and texture. What many consumers don’t know is that the production process behind this innovative product involved strategic partnerships with contract manufacturers, or co-manufacturers. These manufacturers helped scale production to meet surging demand without compromising on quality. Without them, the launch could have faced supply shortages, product inconsistencies, or skyrocketing costs.

For food brands, especially those in the growing plant-based, organic, or specialty food sectors, finding the right co-manufacturer can be a key turn for scaling the production as they not only extend the production capacity but also extends its quality and overall success.

So, how do you ensure you’re selecting the best co-manufacturer for your project?

First, let’s define the role. A co-manufacturer helps brands produce food products at scale, often taking over a portion or the whole manufacturing process. This allows brands to focus on innovation, marketing, and distribution without the immense overhead of running their own production facilities.

However, the stakes are high when choosing a co-manufacturer. In a report by Rabobank, 65% of food and beverage companies stated that poor partnerships have led to delays in production, supply chain inefficiencies, and lost revenue. This means that the success of your product doesn’t just depend on its formulation or packaging but on how efficiently it can be produced at scale.

How to find the best co-manufacturer

Let’s review some key factors you need to evaluate to select the best co-manufacturer for your project:

1. Expertise in your market category

Not all co-manufacturers are created equal. Some specialize in frozen foods, others in beverages, snacks, or bakery items. It’s vital to work with a manufacturer who understands your product’s specific needs. For example, if you’re producing an organic line of frozen meals, partnering with a co-manufacturer experienced in organic certification and frozen food processes will ensure smoother operations and compliance.

Consider how co-manufacturers can influence both your product formulation and production method. An experienced co-manufacturer will know the nuances of your product’s category, ensuring you meet the expectations of both regulatory bodies and customers. They’ll also help you avoid common traps that could result in costly recalls or dissatisfied customers.

2. Compliance and certifications

Food safety and regulatory compliance are non-negotiables in the food industry. Make sure your co-manufacturer holds relevant certifications such as SQF (Safe Quality Food), GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative), IFS (International Featured Standards), FSSC22000 (Food Safety System Certification), BRCGS (British Retail Consortium Global Standard), depending on your product category. These certifications not only ensure product safety but also open doors to key retail partnerships.

Moreover, certifications can directly impact your product’s marketability. Major retailers and food service providers often require specific certifications from their suppliers. Working with a certified co-manufacturer ensures your product is compliant with these standards, reducing the risk of being shut out of valuable retail channels.

Additionally, global regulations vary, so if your aim is to eventually expand internationally, ensure your co-manufacturer understands and meets the certification requirements in your target markets.

3. Capacity and scalability

Your co-manufacturer should have the capacity to meet your current needs and grow with you. The last thing you want is to experience a successful product launch only to find that your partner can’t scale up production quickly enough. Ask about their facility’s production volume, lead times, and expansion capabilities.

Here are some critical questions to ask potential partners:

• What is their current production capacity?
  
• Do they have plans to expand their facility or add new lines?
  
• How quickly can they scale if demand spikes?
  

Beyond capacity, consider logistics. Does the co-manufacturer have multiple facilities that could mitigate potential risks such as localized shutdowns or supply chain disruptions? Having a co-manufacturer with more than one production site provides flexibility and disaster recovery options, ensuring consistent supply.

4. Innovation capabilities

At this point, you know that to success at the food industry staying ahead of the curve is essential, and for that, innovation is a clear path. You’ll want a co-manufacturer who is not only a production partner but also an innovation collaborator.

For instance, does the co-manufacturer invest in new processing technologies that could improve product quality or extend shelf life? Are they open to testing new ingredients or methods that align with your brand’s goals? Many successful co-manufacturers provide R&D support, helping food brands test new formulations and optimize processes.

Beyond production, innovation can also mean enhanced packaging solutions. With the growing trend toward sustainability, consider a partner who can work with you on eco-friendly or sustainable packaging alternatives, ensuring your brand meets consumer expectations and environmental regulations.

5. Cost transparency and flexibility

Of course, cost is a critical factor, but it’s essential to avoid focusing solely on the lowest bidder. You want transparency in cost structure and a full understanding of how their pricing aligns with your needs. Consider factors such as:

• Raw material costs
  
• Production volume discounts
  
• Packaging
  
• Freight and logistics
  

A good co-manufacturer should offer flexibility in pricing as your business grows. Ensure their pricing structure will allow you to maintain healthy margins while scaling.

7. Communication and transparency

Last but certainly not least, effective communication can make or break your relationship with a co-manufacturer. Clear communication ensures that production schedules, inventory levels, and quality control measures are all managed efficiently.

Transparency about potential challenges or disruptions is crucial. You don’t want to find out too late that a supplier shortage or machinery breakdown will cause delays.

Frequent updates and real-time data tracking can keep your product development timeline on track, ensuring you can plan your marketing and distribution efforts with confidence. And count on GrowinCo. to ensure your co-manufacturer communication will be crystal clear through our platform.

Find the best co-manufacturer for your products with GrowinCo.

Choosing the right co-manufacturer is a crucial decision for any food brand looking to scale. With so many factors to consider — from expertise and certifications to capacity and communication — finding a partner who aligns with your brand’s values and growth plans is essential.

GrowinCo. understands these challenges firsthand. As experts in the CPG industry, we specialize in helping brands navigate the complexities of co-manufacturing. Whether you’re launching a new plant-based product or scaling an existing food line, we work with the best co-manufacturers who meet rigorous standards of quality, safety, and innovation.

Let us help you bring your vision to life — from formulation to the store shelf.

Ready to explore your options? Reach out to GrowinCo. today and discover how we can support your journey to product success.