What to ask when looking for a co-packer

What do you currently manufacture? What equipment do you have that is available to a prospective client?

Are you interested in my ideas/product? Can you make my product with your current machinery? If not, what machinery would you need?

How do you price? What requirements need to be met to be considered?

Can you provide references of someone you produce for now?

Do you purchase and hold RM (raw material) and PM (packaging material) inventory?

Do you disclose your margin, operating costs, RM & PM costs, etc., or is the pricing an all-in number with no disclosures?

Do you store FGs (finished goods) and ship to distributors?

What is your QA (quality assurance) program like?

Does the plant undergo third-party audits annually? Who do you use? (There are about four that are accepted by all retailers.) What was your last score?

Do you have HACCP (hazard analysis critical control points) plans in place for all products? What is your process for food safety?

How do you plan and perform for excellence?

Will you be flexible regarding packing variations for different retailers (big box vs. smaller retailers), changes in weights and sizes (for sampling, for alternative pack-out options), palletization, etc.?

Are you willing to grow with us? Undergo changes with little issue? Offer re-pricing opportunities as our business grows?

Can we visit to see the operation (to see the pest control program, signage, separation of allergens, storage, and cleanliness of facility)?

Are current good manufacturing practices (cGMPs) in place?