We hear stories all the time about the struggles brands face during their co-manufacturing search. Here are a few examples:
Ouch.
To help you avoid these missteps, we’ve gathered some of the richest insights on how to run an effective and smart manufacturing search. These are the tried-and-true tricks of the pros—brands that follow them consistently see better outcomes.
Quick plug: You can find all these tips, presented exactly when you need them—along with tools, templates, and a co-manufacturing database of over 9,000 options—on tryrescale.com.
Here’s the first counterintuitive step: cast a wide net. Yes, you’re looking for one perfect manufacturer, and yes, proximity seems like a plus. But limiting your search too early is a recipe for disappointment, as it limits your leverage.
Here are a couple of example scenarios:
Scenario 1: You stop at “The One”
You find a local manufacturer who checks all the boxes—on paper. They’ve got the equipment, and they seem interested. But as weeks go by, you’re constantly chasing them for updates. When can we do a trial? Did you get a chance to quote pricing? With no other options, you’re at their mercy. They know they hold the power, and your project takes a backseat.
Scenario 2: You keep your options open
You start with 15 manufacturers, even though some are further away or might not work out. Ten confirm they have the equipment for your product, and you set clear timelines:
"We’re conducting trials with three other vendors and plan to make a decision by [date]."
This approach creates urgency and competition. Manufacturers feel the heat, stay on schedule, and sharpen their bids—sometimes lowering prices by as much as 30%! In the end, that manufacturer five states away may be your best partner after all, or they'll help keep your local options on their toes.
Let's be real— managing 20+ bids in your inbox is a nightmare. That’s where Rescale shines. Our platform organizes and streamlines your search with tools built specifically for food and beverage brands. Book a demo here.
Manufacturers have told us that they receive about 100 inquiries every month — only take on 1-2 new projects. If you show up unprepared, you’ll likely end up in their “not worth my time” pile.
Don't end up in that pile! Here's what you need:
Show up with this level of detail, and you’ll stand out as a serious contender.
The co-manufacturing world is more fluid than you think. Manufacturers shift focus, expand capacity, or pivot their offerings all the time. Here’s the secret: a “no” doesn’t have to be the end of the conversation.
When a manufacturer isn’t the right fit, ask: "Do you know anyone who might be?" This simple question can unlock new leads you wouldn’t find otherwise.
Fun fact: manufacturers often know who else has capacity in their niche. They talk. Use this to your advantage!
This ever-changing landscape is one reason we built Rescale. Our database tracks over 9,000 manufacturers and lets you add your own independently sourced options for free. We’ll even vet them for you.
Once you’ve narrowed your list to 8–10 manufacturers, it’s time to get into the weeds. At this stage, you need to share the intimate details of your product, packaging, sales projections, and more. You also need to protect that information.
Sloppy RFPs create extra work and confusion, which can kill momentum. Rescale’s templates make it easy to get it right the first time.
You’ve made it to the final stretch: samples, trials, and contracts. This phase is where manufacturers adapt your formulation and packaging to their equipment. Things don’t always go smoothly—and that’s normal!
Here are some common hiccups:
Some manufacturers will nail it on the first try. Others might need three or four rounds. Both outcomes are completely normal.
This is also where having an expert on your side makes all the difference. Rescale is the only platform that pairs co-manufacturing search tools with real experts who’ve been through this process dozens of times. See what we can do.