155: Identifying a Sourcing Partner for Overseas Manufacturing

Product Startup · 21 Dec 2022 · 17m

What this episode covers

Forde Aley, Co-Founder of Shining Way Sourcing, explains how startups can identify and work with overseas manufacturing partners, emphasizing the importance of factory management, quality control, and retail-ready scalability. He details the necessity of verifying factory operations through physical visits and reviewing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) rather than relying on online brochures. Aley also highlights the logistical complexities of retail distribution, including packaging, UPCs, and palletization, and advises maintaining backup factories to mitigate supply chain risks during rapid scaling.

Mentioned

Companies
Shining Way Sourcing, Mako Design + Invent, Target, Walmart, Sam's Club, Costco, Walgreens
Also
Alibaba, Ningbo

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