How to start a private label supplement brand

Most first-time brand owners start with the label. The label is actually one of the last things to lock. A program that runs smoothly is built in a specific order, because each decision constrains the next.

1. Plan the formula and format

Gummies, capsules, powders and stick packs each have different packaging considerations. Settle the format, count or fill weight before choosing components. If you don't have a formula yet, we can include formulation in your program so the product and packaging are planned together.

2. Set a target cost per unit

Know what the finished unit needs to cost to hit your retail price and margin. That number decides whether you're in a stock packer bottle with a pressure-sensitive label or a custom carton.

3. Hold a physical sample

Renders hide problems. A sample shows you how the cap feels, how the label wraps and how the bottle sits on a shelf next to competitors.

4. Approve the label panels

Supplement Facts, directions, warnings and your brand panel all have to fit the die line. Work through layout before anything goes to print.

5. Plan the reorder

Your second run should match your first. Specifications on file make that automatic instead of a fresh project.