How to Start a Private Label Supplement Manufacturing Business in 2023

Partially due to the pandemic, people have started taking their well-being more seriously, which has led to a rapid growth in the market for dietary supplements. For entrepreneurs interested in the health industry, private label supplement manufacturing has become a popular business model. Even if you have never worked in this field before, you can start your own business selling dietary supplements. It is an excellent opportunity to capture a significant portion of the market’s overall turnover. In 2023, it has become more challenging to stand out due to the large number of competitors. However, if this article exists, it means that it is possible to launch a business in the field of dietary supplements and earn from it. Let us delve into the details.

What is private label supplement manufacturing?

Private label manufacturing is a strategy in which a third-party company is responsible for large-scale production of dietary supplements, usually for wholesale purposes, while another company purchases the products, labels them with their own brand, and sells them to the end audience. Many entrepreneurs opt for this service because they want to focus on retail and branding, avoiding the complexities of manufacturing. For the strategy to succeed, it is important for the manufacturer and the client to share a common goal, establish initial conditions, and adhere to them.

Some advantages of private label manufacturing include:

• Limited risks. Establishing your own production line can be costly and risky. Launching a private label allows you to avoid seeking large sums of money, taking loans, or borrowing funds.
• Increased profitability. If you already have a retail business, this strategy allows you to triple your sales by offering customers your private label dietary supplements.
• Opportunity to stand out among competitors by creating your own image. Private label dietary supplements have a unique feature — they make your brand recognizable and one-of-a-kind.
• Personalised service. You know your audience better than anyone else, so you can tailor a range of biodegradable supplements specifically for them, considering their needs and unique characteristics.
• Brand development. Having private label products allows you to establish yourself in the market as a reliable expert in the field and enhances the professional image of your brand.

There are numerous types of products that can be manufactured using private label manufacturing:

• Probiotics are live microorganisms that have a beneficial effect on the gut microbiota. These include lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. Probiotic dietary supplements help maintain the health of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Prebiotics are dietary fibres necessary for the growth and nourishment of beneficial microorganisms in the intestine. Examples include inulin and fructooligosaccharides.
• Antioxidants help fight free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress. These can include vitamin C, vitamin E, and coenzyme Q10.
• Omega-3 fatty acids have a positive impact on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, brain function, and contribute to the health of the eyes and skin. These include eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
• Vitamins and minerals are designed to provide the body with essential nutrients. Examples include vitamin D, vitamin B12, zinc, calcium, iron, and other similar supplements.
• Plant extracts also have a positive influence on the human body. For example, green tea extract, ginseng extract, and ginkgo biloba extract.

Of course, the listed supplements are not an exhaustive list. They can be supplemented depending on market demand and production capacity. A more specific list of dietary supplements should be coordinated with the manufacturer.

Starting a private label supplement manufacturing business

Starting a business in private label supplement manufacturing begins with brainstorming. It is necessary to analyse the market and understand what consumers expect, why they are not satisfied with the existing products on the market, and what competitors currently offer. Once these aspects are covered, the legal aspects need to be addressed.

Register your company in accordance with local legislative requirements. Simply contact the local business registration authorities to obtain the necessary information. Be sure to choose the legal form of your business, which can be sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or corporation. Afterward, establish an accounting and taxation system to operate your business in compliance with the country’s laws.

Equally important after company registration is obtaining certification and permits for the production and sale of dietary supplements. You need to approach the local regulatory authorities to obtain a list of required certificates and permits. This can vary depending on the country and the requirements set by legislative bodies. To legally sell dietary supplements, quality certificates, certificates of compliance with food safety standards, as well as permits for production and sale are required.

Private label manufacturing should be conducted in production facilities that comply with standards and sanitary norms. Research the market and find suitable contract manufacturing companies. Thoroughly review their prices, services, and other collaboration details. It is important to note that requirements and procedures can vary depending on the country, region, and industry. Make sure to visit the production facility before entering into a contract. This will allow you to familiarise yourself and ensure that the company adheres to the necessary production standards. 

Developing a product line

Choosing a direction for production, determining the product formula, and finding high-quality sources of raw materials are the next steps in running a business under a private label. In 2023, the market is flooded with a huge variety of bio-supplements of different types, qualities, and brands. Creating something truly cool and competitive is not easy, but it is possible. First, it is important to thoroughly research the market and identify popular product categories. Hair growth supplements, multivitamins, targeted bio-supplements — the demand can be anything. The goal of such research is to understand consumer needs and the trend in product development. This will give you a rough understanding of your target audience and their requirements, which will serve as a starting point in finding unique private label dietary supplements.

Once you have determined what you want to bring to the market, consult with experts in the field of food technology to develop the formula for your bio-supplements. They will assist not only in formulation development but also in sourcing suitable ingredients and determining their proportions. The product you release must comply with local and international safety standards, so each ingredient should be carefully checked for quality, purity, and origin, while considering an acceptable price. Before ordering raw materials from a manufacturer or supplier, obtain samples and conduct testing. There are various testing methods, but the ultimate goal is to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.

Marketing strategies for private label supplement manufacturing

The market for dietary supplements is becoming increasingly saturated, so it is necessary to stand out among competitors. In addition to the quality and safety of the products, consumers want to see an appealing brand. For you, this means the need to create a high-quality brand identity. The label can either attract or repel customers. If you want your dietary supplements to capture the interest of consumers, remember one trick: “less is more.” The fewer elements on the packaging, the greater the likelihood that it will attract customers. However, maintain a balance. Moderately vibrant colours, concise text, user-friendly packaging, and compliance with labelling standards are the essence of brand value.

Private label supplement manufacturing does not end with product packaging. It should be intelligently integrated into existing market networks and effectively presented to consumers. Of course, people watch television, but a large portion of customers are actively online, where they also place orders for goods. It is crucial to present the product effectively in the realm of social media. Create Instagram and Facebook pages, publish posts with information about your product so that every customer understands what you are selling and why they need it. Engage with your audience in the comments or through private messages.

Equally important marketing tools are targeting and contextual advertising. Create a website for your dietary supplement brand that provides valuable information to consumers about your product line. Remember that the website should prompt customers to take action, such as placing an order. Your website should be professional, stylish, and concise. Link it to social media platforms so that customers have the latest updated information about the product.

Managing your business

Private label manufacturing requires effective control and management. This includes inventory management, quality control and testing, hiring employees, and financial management. All of these aspects require a systematic approach, monitoring, and continuous improvement. Let us take a closer look at each of them:

1. Inventory management is a crucial aspect of ensuring a smooth production flow and delivering products that meet customer demands. Determine the optimal level of inventory from the outset to avoid shortages or excess. This can be achieved through tools such as demand analysis and forecasting, as well as inventory systems.
2. Controlling product quality and conducting testing is necessary to meet market demands and maintain high standards for dietary supplements. This includes quality checks of incoming materials, production processes, and the final product.
3. Hiring competent employees is an important part of a successful business. Identify the specific roles you need, allocate job positions, and start searching for your future colleagues. Once you hire employees, provide them with training and create an environment for their development, as this greatly impacts business efficiency.
4. Financial management involves budget development, calculating brand development costs, and employee salaries. Manage working capital, analyse financial statements, control expenses and revenues, and develop strategies to increase profitability.

Conclusion

Due to the pandemic, people have become more serious about their health. As a result, there has been an increase in demand for dietary supplements. You can tap into this trend by engaging in private label manufacturing. This strategy allows you to create your own brand and develop it without the need for manufacturing investments. However, keep in mind that you will need to comply with all relevant regulations and ensure the safety of your supplements.