“The biggest difference was the structure of the first discussion. Instead of sending us a generic catalogue, the team asked about our target market, pouch size, strength range, flavour direction and packaging plan. That gave our internal team a much clearer brief and made the first sampling round far more useful.”

“We needed several flavour directions without losing control of the project. The sample feedback was translated into specific adjustments rather than vague promises, and every new version had a reason behind it. That made it easier for our commercial and product teams to agree on a final reference before production.”

“Packaging was where we expected the most delays, but the team worked through artwork dimensions, can finishes and print checks in a logical order. We always knew which file or approval was needed next. The process helped us catch issues before mass production instead of discovering them after the packaging had already been made.”

“Our factory visit was valuable because the conversation moved from sales language to actual production checkpoints. We reviewed material handling, line flow, packaging controls and the records connected to a batch. Seeing how questions were handled on the floor gave us more confidence in planning a repeat-order programme.”

“We first discussed the project around the TPE show in Las Vegas, where it was possible to compare format ideas and explain our channel requirements face to face. The follow-up was organized around clear technical questions and next actions, so the conversation continued as a practical development plan rather than disappearing after the exhibition.”

“For us, communication mattered as much as formulation. The team separated decisions that required our approval from the work that could continue in parallel, and they explained when a timeline depended on packaging, payment or logistics. That transparency made it easier for us to coordinate our launch partners and inventory plan.”

“After the first order, the most useful part was having an agreed reference for formula, flavour, pouch and packaging. Repeat-order discussions did not restart from zero, and changes could be isolated and reviewed against the approved version. That level of continuity is important when a range begins to expand across several SKUs.”