Q & A - How do I choose a production partner?

“I have researched production options and identified several factories that could make my product. How do I evaluate and choose the right one?”

Finding the right production partner is critical to your business. You should start with recommendations from other designers, pattern makers, and your fabric sources. Meet with the owner or manager of each factory to ask several questions on the topics of their Expertise, Delivery, Customer Service, and Credibility.

Some of the questions you should ask include: 

• What is their specialty in terms of equipment and experience with the fabrics and processes you require? Do they subcontract any work out to others or do it all in-house?

• Look at samples of their finished work to see if it meets your quality standard. Ask how they monitor quality at each stage of production.

• Ask them about the lead time for your job. Do they regularly meet deadlines and what is the recourse if delivery is late?

• Who will be your main contact and what is the best way to reach them. When you email or call how quickly do they respond?

• Ask them about your product and how you could reduce costs or improve the production process.

• Find out how long they have been in business and what others brands work with them. Call those brands for a reference.

• Ask for a tour and assess the cleanliness and the working conditions. What are their standards for ethical working and sustainability practices?

The answers to the questions should help you better understand their strengths, and give you the confidence to move forward.