Top 5 Considerations When Choosing a Beverage Copacker for Functional Products: What No One Really Tells You
Whether you have developed a fantastic beverage formulation and are ready to scale up production, you're just starting out and need help crafting the formula, or you want to start with white or private label, choosing the right manufacturing partner is crucial for ensuring quality, efficiency, and speed to market.
Here's the hard truth about speed-to-market: The sooner you start your process, the sooner you can get to market with quality products. So, if you're considering tapping into this booming market, start your conversation with copackers today!
From our experience producing a wide range of products out of an NSF, cGMP, certified facility, here are the top 5 things you should consider:
- Communication: A successful partnership thrives on communication, and strong communication is necessary to make it work. Choose a copacker that sets clear expectations upfront about their processes and timing. You may want regular updates or weekly calls, but the manufacturer you're thinking of may not offer them. Find out who your primary point of contact will be and track how well they service you in the pre-sale phase. If it’s hard to get proper attention to your project when he or she is hoping to bring you in as a new client, then expecting service to improve after you commit is unlikely.
- What kind of help and relationship do you need with your manufacturing partner?: Having a company produce your product is a pretty intimate business relationship. You have a lot riding on their ability to perform. Some manufacturers have a large client base and offer strict “this is what you get service”. Others, are more inclined to be invested in your success and offer a wide variety of services such as 3PL, Formulation, and a road map of other products you might want to make later. It is best to understand what fits your needs and find the right partner.
- Expertise with the specific functional actives, adaptogens, or botanicals you would like to use: Some active ingredients have total water solubility, and others don’t. Some need special handling or they can’t be found in testing later. Depending on the nature of your formulation and whether you have a locked and loaded SOP, it may make sense to find a manufacturing partner with proven experience handling the specific ingredients in your new formulation
- Certifications that matter: If you want your products sold at Walmart, CVS, Costco, and other big retailers, having your product manufactured at an NSF-certified facility is mandatory. That will prevent you from having the unfortunate experience of getting a “yes” from a major big retail player only to lose the opportunity due to not having the right certifications. Big retail depends on NSF certification to ensure that the products they are selling have been made with rigorous quality control procedures in place. Secondly, if you want to target consumers that care about “certified organic” or “Non-GMO” you’ll want to be in “Sprouts” or “Whole Foods”. Check upfront which of these certifications they have to avoid a limiting factor down the line.
- Scalability to Meet Your Growth: Imagine your beverage taking off! What does volume look like at plan? Your ideal copacker should have capacity or at least a strong plan to scale up production to meet growing demand.
- Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) That Fit Your Needs: MOQs can be a significant hurdle for new entrepreneurs. A manufacturing partner with high MOQs can lock up your capital and limit your ability to test the market.
- Successful market-ready formulations: If speed to market is something you're looking for, and you don't have the formulas ready, the copacker you choose should have white or private label proven formulas to get you to market faster than waiting to finish up your own this way you can launch sooner while you continue to refine (with help of your copacker) your own.
Beyond these top considerations, here are a couple of additional things you could want from your copacker:
- Custom Formulation Support: A team willing to help refine your formulation or develop a new one to optimize its effectiveness and taste.
- Regulatory Compliance: A beverage manufacturer with a dedicated compliance department ready to guide and navigate the complexities of food and beverage regulations, ensuring your functional mushroom beverage meets all labeling and safety requirements.
Choosing the right functional beverage copacker is a critical decision.
We hope this article helps.
If you have questions or would like to expand details, feel free to contact us at contact@ltbbeverage.com. We offer beverage manufacturing services and much more.
From Concept to Creation: Top 10 Tips for Functional Beverage Development
The functional beverage market is brimming with innovation, offering a plethora of options to quench your thirst and support your well-being.
But have you ever wondered what goes into creating these delicious and functional drinks? Look no further! Inspired by the expertise of Liquid Brand Management (https://www.liquidbrandsmanagement.com/), this blog post unveils the top 10 tips to navigate the exciting world of functional beverage development.
Charting Your Course: Setting the Stage for Success
- Be the CEO, Not the Formulator: While it's tempting to try everything yourself, focus on your leadership skills. Partner with a reputable functional beverage manufacturing company (like us) to handle formulation and production.
- Know Your Market: Conduct thorough market research to identify consumer needs and emerging trends. What functional benefits are people seeking? How can your beverage stand out?
- Plan for Success: Develop a clear roadmap for your beverage development process, outlining timelines, budgets, and milestones.
From Idea to Ingestion: The Nuts and Bolts of Beverage Development
- Invest in Quality Ingredients: Source high-quality functional ingredients to ensure the effectiveness and safety of your beverage.
- Craft Compelling Flavors: Great taste is essential! Partner with experienced beverage developers to create delicious and functional formulations.
- Perfect Your Packaging: Eye-catching and informative packaging is crucial for grabbing attention on crowded shelves. It should clearly communicate your brand story and functional benefits.
Ensuring Quality and Scalability
- Establish Robust Quality Control: Implement rigorous quality control measures throughout the development and production process to guarantee product consistency and safety.
- Embrace Sustainable Practices: Consumers are increasingly environmentally conscious. Explore sustainable packaging options and responsible sourcing practices.
Beyond the Bottle: Launching Your Functional Beverage
- Develop a Winning Marketing Strategy: Craft a targeted marketing campaign that resonates with your ideal customer and highlights the unique functional benefits of your beverage.
- Build Strong Relationships: Foster strong relationships with distributors, retailers, and consumers. Collaboration is key to long-term success.
Your Vision, Our Expertise: Partnering for Functional Beverage Success
By following these tips and partnering with a reliable functional beverage manufacturing company like Lucky To Be Beverage, you can transform your innovative beverage concept into a thriving reality. Our expertise in formulation, production, and market access can help you navigate the complexities of beverage development and propel your brand to success.
Conquering the Beverage Market: How to Land 100,000 Accounts and Thrive
Breaking into the beverage industry can be daunting. Selling your product to just one store can feel like a victory, let alone reaching 100,000 accounts.
This blog post, inspired by the insights from Liquid Brand Management (https://www.liquidbrandsmanagement.com/), equips you with a winning strategy to achieve large-scale distribution and success.
Building a Foundation for Growth:
Before diving into distribution tactics, Liquid Brand Management emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation. Here are key elements to solidify your brand:
- Product Excellence: Ensure your beverage is delicious, functional, and meets consumer needs.
- Compelling Brand Story: Craft a unique narrative that resonates with your target audience.
- Packaging that Pops: Eye-catching and informative packaging is crucial for grabbing attention on crowded shelves.
- Scalable Production: Be prepared to meet the demands of large-scale distribution. Partner with a reliable manufacturing company if needed.
The Art of the Sale: Effective Distribution Strategies
With a strong foundation in place, it's time to tackle distribution. Here are strategies highlighted by Liquid Brand Management:
- Distributor Partnerships: Partner with established beverage distributors with strong relationships across retail chains. They possess the expertise and network to get your product on shelves nationwide.
- Direct Store Delivery (DSD): For a more hands-on approach, consider building your own DSD team to deliver directly to stores. This allows for greater control over brand presentation and in-store promotions.
- E-Commerce Presence: Don't underestimate the power of online sales. Establish a user-friendly e-commerce platform and explore partnerships with online retailers.
Beyond Distribution: Strategies for Continued Success
Reaching 100,000 accounts is a remarkable feat, but maintaining success requires ongoing efforts. Liquid Brand Management suggests:
- Building Relationships: Foster strong relationships with distributors, retailers, and consumers.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Leverage sales data and consumer insights to optimize your marketing and distribution strategies.
- Innovation is Key: Stay ahead of the curve by constantly innovating your product line and marketing tactics.
From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition
The journey to 100,000 accounts is a marathon, not a sprint. By focusing on product excellence, brand building, strategic distribution partnerships, and continuous improvement, you can propel your beverage brand to national recognition.
Brewing News: A Deep Dive into the Functional Mushroom Beverage Craze
The functional beverage market is bubbling with innovation, and one of the hottest trends is mushroom-infused beverages.
These drinks go beyond basic hydration, offering a unique blend of taste and potential health benefits derived from adaptogenic mushrooms.
Let's delve into some recent news articles to understand the current state of the mushroom beverage industry:
Market Growth on Tap:
- Food Dive highlights a report from Research and Markets, expecting the global mushroom market to reach a staggering $4.12 billion by 2030 (https://www.fooddive.com/spons/the-rise-of-fungi-in-food-innovation-unveiling-the-future-of-sustainable/704284/).
- Grand View Research adds to the optimism, projecting the global functional mushroom market to surpass $25 billion by 2025 (https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/functional-mushroom-market-report). This growth is driven by consumer demand for natural wellness solutions.
Funding Frenzy Fuels Innovation:
- Athletech News reports on Odyssey's successful $6 million funding round to scale their adaptogenic energy drinks containing Lion's Mane and Cordyceps mushrooms (https://athletechnews.com/odyssey-raises-6m-for-mushroom-infused-energy-drinks/). This investment signals investor confidence in the mushroom beverage space.
Retail Recognition:
- Specialty Food Association reports on High Country Fungus LLC unveiling innovative functional mushroom beverage mixes at the Winter Fancy Food Show (https://www.specialtyfood.com/). This mainstream recognition underscores the growing interest in these beverages.
Beyond the Headlines: Why Beverage Brands Should Consider Mushrooms
The news is clear: functional mushroom beverages are a force to be reckoned with. Here's why your beverage brand should consider incorporating them:
- Untapped Potential: The market is still young, offering a chance to establish your brand as a leader in this innovative space.
- Align with Wellness Trends: Consumers are increasingly seeking natural products that support their health and well-being.
- Product Differentiation: Stand out from the crowd with unique and functional mushroom-infused options.
Next Steps: Brewing Your Success Story
Intrigued by the potential of mushroom beverages? Here are some steps to take your brand to the next level:
- Market Research: Gain a deeper understanding of consumer preferences, popular mushroom varieties, and emerging trends.
- Source High-Quality Ingredients: Partner with reputable mushroom suppliers to ensure the potency and safety of your product.
- Develop Delicious and Functional Blends: Create a winning combination of taste and potential health benefits.
- Educate Consumers: Highlight the unique properties of functional mushrooms through clear and engaging marketing.
At Lucky To Be Beverage, we have ready to go white and private label copacking solutions for your brand.
Mushrooms are no longer just for pizza. By embracing this innovative trend, your beverage brand can tap into a booming market and cater to the evolving needs of health-conscious consumers.
Unexpected Powerhouse: Leverage Your Distribution with Functional Beverages
Imagine this: you're a non-beverage brand with a well-oiled distribution network and a strong retail presence. You've built a loyal customer base and carved a niche in your industry. But what if there was a way to leverage your existing infrastructure for a whole new revenue stream? Enter the booming world of functional beverages.
Why Functional Beverages? Numbers Don't Lie:
Functional beverages are strategically formulated drinks offering specific health benefits beyond hydration. Think energy boosts without the jitters, gut-health supporting probiotics, or stress-reducing adaptogenic herbs. It's a market experiencing explosive growth, fueled by:
- Consumer Demand for Wellness: People are increasingly seeking natural ways to improve their health and well-being.
- Market Size and Growth:
- The global functional beverage market is projected to reach over $224.99 billion in 2027 (The Business Research Company).
- Specific categories like energy drinks and sports drinks are witnessing double-digit growth (Grand View Research).
- Innovation and Personalization: New flavor profiles, functional ingredients, and even personalized subscription boxes are constantly emerging.
Distribution Advantage: Your Untapped Potential
Let's face it, building a robust distribution network takes time, resources, and strategic partnerships. But if you already have a strong presence in retail stores, you possess a goldmine for success in the functional beverage industry. Here's how to leverage your distribution muscle:
- Brand Extension: Develop a functional beverage line that complements your existing brand identity. Think about your target audience and their needs. Do they need an energy boost after using your fitness equipment? Or perhaps a stress-reducing drink after using your electronics? We have white and private label solutions ready to help you launch and scale quickly.
- Co-Packing Opportunities: Partner with established functional beverage companies (like us) to co-pack your own branded drinks. This allows you to capitalize on our expertise while utilizing your distribution channels.
- Shelf Space Optimization: Optimize your existing shelf space to include high-demand functional beverages. Analyze consumer trends and stock relevant products that complement your brand. Leverage your existing relationships with retailers to negotiate prime placement.
Beyond Distribution: Reasons to Embrace Functional Beverages
The distribution advantage is just the tip of the iceberg. Here are other compelling reasons to consider functional beverages:
- Brand Differentiation: Stand out in a crowded market by offering unique functional beverage options that complement your brand.
- Increased Customer Engagement: Provide your existing customers with new and exciting products that cater to their health and wellness needs.
- Recurring Revenue Stream: Functional beverages encourage repeat purchases, creating a reliable income source.
Taking Action: Steps to Success
- Market Research: Dive deep into consumer trends and identify specific functional beverage categories with high demand.
- Partner Selection: Choose a reputable beverage manufacturing partner with expertise in formulation, production, and co-packing. Check our services and launch your drinks fast!
- Marketing Strategy: Develop a targeted marketing campaign that leverages your existing brand identity and emphasizes the functional benefits of your beverages.
The Takeaway
Your well-established distribution network is a powerful asset waiting to be harnessed. By tapping into the thriving functional beverage market, you can create a win-win situation.
You leverage your existing infrastructure, cater to evolving consumer needs, and establish yourself as a leader in the functional beverage revolution.
Brewing Up Wellness: The Rise of Functional Mushroom Beverages
The beverage landscape is brimming with innovation, and one exciting trend is the rise of functional mushroom beverages. These drinks go beyond basic hydration, offering a unique blend of taste and potential health benefits derived from adaptogenic mushrooms.
What are Functional Mushroom Beverages?
Imagine a beverage that quenches your thirst while potentially boosting your immunity, reducing stress, or enhancing cognitive function. This is the essence of functional mushroom beverages. They typically contain:
- Ground or powdered mushrooms: Packed with bioactive compounds like polysaccharides and beta-glucans, these mushrooms offer a range of potential health benefits.
- Natural flavors and sweeteners: Masking any earthy mushroom taste while keeping the drink enjoyable.
- Other functional ingredients: Depending on the desired benefit, these may include vitamins, minerals, probiotics, or botanical extracts.
Functional Mushroom Powerhouses:
Some of the most popular medicinal mushrooms used in these beverages include:
- Lion's Mane: May support cognitive function and memory.
- Reishi: Known for its adaptogenic properties, potentially aiding stress management and relaxation.
- Chaga: Rich in antioxidants, it may offer immune system support.
- Cordyceps: Popular among athletes, it may enhance energy levels and stamina.
- Turkey Tail: Possessing prebiotic properties, it may contribute to gut health.
Why Beverage Brands Should Ride the Functional Mushroom Wave:
The functional mushroom beverage market is experiencing explosive growth, driven by several factors:
- Consumer Demand for Wellness: People are increasingly seeking natural ways to improve their health and well-being.
- Functional Benefits: These beverages offer a convenient way to incorporate adaptogenic mushrooms into daily routines.
- Growing Awareness: Research on the potential health benefits of functional mushrooms is gaining traction and consumer awareness is rising.
- Variety and Innovation: Brands are creating exciting flavor profiles and formats, like ready-to-drink beverages, powders for mixing, and even functional mushroom coffee.
Numbers Highlighting Market Growth:
While pinpointing an exact market size can be challenging, market research firms offer promising insights:
- Grand View Research: Estimates the global functional mushroom market to reach over $25 billion by 2025.
- Zion Market Research: Projects the global functional mushroom beverage market to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 14% from 2022 to 2028.
Tapping into the Functional Mushroom Trend:
Here's how your beverage brand can leverage this exciting market opportunity:
- Develop unique and functional formulas: Identify specific consumer needs and craft targeted mushroom blends.
- Source high-quality ingredients: Partner with reputable suppliers to ensure the potency and safety of your mushrooms.
- Focus on taste and convenience: Develop delicious and easy-to-consume beverage formats.
- Educate consumers: Highlight the potential benefits of functional mushrooms through clear and engaging marketing.
Embrace the Future of Functional Beverages:
Functional mushroom beverages represent a unique opportunity to differentiate your brand and cater to the growing demand for wellness-oriented products. By focusing on innovation, quality ingredients, and consumer education, you can position your beverage brand for success in this thriving market.
The Functional Beverage Boom: Opportunities for Beverage Brands to Take the Lead
The beverage aisle is no longer just about sugary sodas and basic juices. Consumers today are demanding drinks that deliver more than just hydration. This is where functional beverages come in, a rapidly growing market with exciting possibilities for beverage brands like yours.
What are Functional Beverages?
Functional beverages are drinks formulated with specific ingredients that offer targeted health benefits in addition to quenching thirst. These benefits can range from enhanced energy and focus to improved digestion, immunity, and even beauty. Some common functional ingredients include:
- Vitamins & Minerals: Essential nutrients for overall health and well-being.
- Probiotics: Live bacteria that promote gut health and digestion.
- Electrolytes: Replenish minerals lost through sweat, ideal for athletes.
- Adaptogens: Herbal extracts that help the body adapt to stress.
- Nootropics: Support cognitive function and focus.
Need white or private label to get you going quickly? Lucky To Be Beverage can help you launch your functional beverage in multiple formats. We have an FDA, NSF, cGMP certified facility.
Functional Beverages: A Market Ripe with Opportunity
The functional beverage market is exploding, with consumers eager to embrace healthier and more convenient ways to improve their well-being. Here are some hot industries ripe for your brand to explore:
- Natural & Organic Ingredients: Consumers crave clean labels and natural ingredients. Explore botanical extracts, adaptogens, and sustainably sourced functional components to create beverages that resonate with this health-conscious audience.
- Functional Shots & Mix-Ins: Busy lifestyles demand on-the-go solutions. Develop single-serving functional shots or mix-ins that consumers can easily add to water or their favorite beverage for a quick and convenient health boost.
- Functional Sleep & Relaxation Drinks: With stress on the rise, beverages promoting better sleep and relaxation are in high demand. Explore calming herbs like chamomile or L-theanine to create a soothing pre-bedtime option.
- Functional Coffee & Tea: Elevate your existing coffee and tea offerings by incorporating functional ingredients like functional mushrooms. This allows consumers to enjoy their favorite beverages with an added health benefit.
- Subscription Boxes & Personalized Nutrition: Cater to the growing desire for personalized experiences. Develop subscription boxes with functional beverages tailored to specific needs, like immunity support or cognitive enhancement.
Standing Out in the Functional Beverage Crowd:
The functional beverage market is competitive, but with the right approach, your brand can stand out:
- Focus on Innovation: Constantly develop new and exciting flavor profiles and functional benefits to keep consumers engaged.
- Transparency is Key: Clearly communicate the ingredients and benefits of your beverages. Build trust by using high-quality ingredients and adhering to ethical sourcing practices.
- Sustainability Matters: Partner with suppliers who prioritize eco-friendly practices and invest in sustainable packaging solutions.
- Targeted Marketing: Identify your ideal customer and tailor your marketing messages to their specific needs and desires.
The Future of Beverages is Functional
By tapping into the functional beverage market, your brand can cater to the evolving needs of health-conscious consumers. Focus on natural ingredients, innovation, and personalization, while embracing sustainability to secure a leading position in this exciting and dynamic beverage landscape. This is your chance to quench consumers' thirst for health and wellness, all while propelling your brand to the forefront of the beverage revolution.
Ready to launch your next beverage SKUs? Lucky To Be Beverage has an FDA, NSF, cGMP certified facility and can help you launch your functional beverage in shots, bottles, and cans on multi