What are we talking about?
- Private label (ready formula): the manufacturer has a library of formulas that are already developed and proven. You choose one, and it is produced under your brand, with your packaging.
- Custom formula: the formula is developed for you, to your specification (ingredients, dosages, format). It stays attached to your brand.
Ready formula: launch fast, with little stock
- Small quantities: at Escop, from 100 units per product.
- Speed: no development phase — production starts from 5 days after the packaging is approved, depending on the schedule.
- Less risk: you test your market before investing more.
- A wide choice: 48 formulas in our catalogue — vitamins, minerals, plants, men’s and women’s wellness…
The limit: other brands may offer a similar formula. Your difference will come from the brand, the packaging, the price and the marketing.
Custom formula: stand out for the long term
- A unique product: ingredients, dosages and format designed for your target.
- The formula stays attached to your brand: a real asset for your business.
- Confidentiality: a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) can be signed before any detailed discussion.
- Minimum quantity: at Escop, 1,000 units for a custom formula.
Development takes a little more time and discussion: it is an investment that makes sense once your market is proven or when your concept relies on an original formula.
The comparison
| Ready formula | Custom formula | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum quantity | From 100 units | From 1,000 units |
| Time to launch | Shortest | Longer (development phase) |
| Differentiation | Through brand and packaging | Through the formula itself |
| Formula | From the Escop library | Attached to your brand |
| Ideal for | Testing a market, starting a range | A best-seller, a unique concept |
Have a project in mind?
Ready formulas from 100 units, production from 5 days.
Reply within 2 hours· during business hoursThe winning strategy: combine the two
Most successful brands do not choose one or the other; they move forward in stages:
- Launch 2 or 3 products with ready formulas, in small runs.
- Measure what sells best and listen to customers.
- Develop a custom formula for the product that works, to make it unique.
Questions to ask your manufacturer
Whichever option you choose, ask these questions before you commit:
- What is the minimum quantity per product?
- What is the production lead time after approval?
- How is each batch checked? What documentation is supplied (technical sheet, certificate of analysis)?
- Does my project stay confidential? Is an NDA possible?
- Who owns the formula developed for me?
- Can I receive a sample before ordering?
At Escop, you get the answers from the first conversation. See also our advice on choosing a format.
Frequently asked questions
What is a private-label dietary supplement?
It is a product made from one of the manufacturer’s existing formulas, sold under your own brand and with your packaging.
What is the minimum quantity for a custom formula at Escop?
The minimum is 1,000 units for a custom-developed formula, compared with 100 units for a ready formula.
Who owns a custom-developed formula?
Formulas developed specifically for you stay attached to your brand.
