Tips for Start-ups

Getting your project off the ground: how the BCMPA can help

The BCMPA plays a pivotal role in supporting start-ups as they launch their products. With extensive experience in contract manufacturing, packing, fulfilment, logistics, and supply chain management, our accredited members offer practical advice and expert guidance to help bring products to market successfully.

Of course, any partnership must work for both sides. To ensure a smooth start, here are some key considerations when preparing to engage an outsourcing partner.

Focus on What You Do Best

Outsourcing to experienced professionals allows you to concentrate on what matters most – selling your product and growing your business. We’re here to help, and we wish you every success!

1. Background Planning

  • Have you created a solid business plan?
  • Do you clearly understand your target market and unique selling point (USP)?
  • What volume of sales would make your business viable?
  • Do you have the financial backing needed for growth?

2. Building Credibility

  • Use a professional business email (e.g. avoid addresses like yourname@gmail.com)
  • Launch a simple but professional website – even a holding page adds legitimacy

3. Understanding Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs)

MOQs affect your costs – not only for production, but also for packaging materials, ingredients, and components.

  • Manufacturing projects often include setup and clean-down charges, regardless of the number of units produced
  • Additional costs may include lab testing or stability trials
  • For food products, knowing the shelf life is essential
    – avoid ordering large volumes that could expire before being sold
    – especially if using organic or preservative-free recipes
  • The volumes must be commercially viable for the contractor too

Remember: trial runs and new product development can be costly, but they’re a necessary part of your investment and growth strategy. 

4. Prioritising Quality

Outsourcing partners bring valuable experience, particularly around product quality and compliance.

  • For consumer appeal, packaging and labelling play a key role
  • For regulated industries (e.g. food or personal care), ensure compliance with performance, labelling, and manufacturing standards
  • Use contractors who hold the necessary industry certifications. These can be found on our Search Members page.

5. Taking the Next Step

Once you’ve shortlisted potential partners, we highly recommend arranging a site visit. Meeting the team in person gives you a better sense of their capabilities and helps establish trust from the outset.

6. Product Development Readiness

  • Have a prototype or concept sample: Most contractors need something tangible to understand your vision—this could be a formulation, mock-up, or even a sample from a competitor.
  • Define product specifications clearly: This includes dimensions, materials, ingredients, allergens, expected shelf life, and performance expectations.
  • Intellectual property protection: If your product or formula is proprietary, consider NDAs and consult with an IP lawyer early in the process.

7. Branding & Regulatory Compliance

  • Ensure branding is consistent: Logos, colour schemes, messaging, and labelling need to be professionally designed and suitable for your market.
  • Understand legal requirements: Labelling, claims (e.g. "natural," "organic," "gluten-free"), and certifications (e.g. BRC, GMP, Soil Association) must meet local and international standards.
  • Barcodes and batch coding: These will be needed for retail and traceability. Make sure you apply for a GS1 barcode if you don’t have one yet.

8. Packaging & Sustainability

  • Plan your packaging early: Decide whether you’ll source it or expect your contractor to do so. Many components have long lead times or MOQs.
  • Sustainability matters: Increasingly, customers and retailers prefer recyclable or compostable materials. Consider how your packaging aligns with current trends and regulations.
  • Storage and shipping: Will your product require temperature control? Is the packaging robust enough to withstand transport?

9. Budgeting Realistically

  • Expect upfront costs: Tooling, testing, design, certifications, and initial inventory can be capital-intensive. Build contingencies into your budget.
  • Cash flow matters: Be aware of payment terms. Many contractors require deposits or payment on delivery. Ensure you have working capital in place.
  • Don’t chase the lowest cost: A cheaper price may mean lower quality or less support. Prioritise partners who add value and reliability.

10. Communication & Project Management

  • Be responsive and clear: Timely communication speeds up development and builds trust.
  • Assign a project lead: If it’s just you, be ready to handle coordination across design, production, quality, and logistics.
  • Document everything: Keep detailed records of specifications, quotes, timelines, and decisions.