Home Cosmetic Science Talk Formulating Finding suppliers for small quantities

  • Finding suppliers for small quantities

    Posted by kawina on August 8, 2017 at 4:34 pm

    I have a variety of ingredients that I need for R&D, product feedback and test marketing. All of the suppliers that I’ve found require large minimums (ie. 55 gal or 20 L) for most ingredients. They usually will supply samples that are large enough for R&D, but not for product feedback and test marketing. 

    I’d have to spend thousands on ingredients, much of which will be wasted. Is there a list of wholesalers that cater to smaller companies? If you know of any wholesalers, please let me know.

    SheilaInBoston replied 6 years, 7 months ago 5 Members · 8 Replies
  • 8 Replies
  • belassi

    Member
    August 8, 2017 at 5:27 pm

    A good start would be to inform us of where you are!

  • kawina

    Member
    August 10, 2017 at 3:42 pm

    That’s a great question. I’m in North Carolina in the US.

  • belassi

    Member
    August 10, 2017 at 3:49 pm

    Oh, you have lots of options then.

  • kawina

    Member
    August 10, 2017 at 9:07 pm

    Great! Could you share a few?

  • belassi

    Member
    August 10, 2017 at 9:41 pm

    Your colleagues in the USA will be able to.

  • microformulation

    Member
    August 10, 2017 at 9:53 pm

    Try Formulator Sample Shop. They offer smaller quantities at retail prices. If and when you grow, you will get the same product wholesale directly from the distributors. They add inventory often and if there is enough demand they will explore adding additional products. http://www.formulatorsampleshop.com/

  • markbroussard

    Member
    August 11, 2017 at 1:16 am

    @kawina:

    There are a number of “re-packers” who offer a variety of ingredients in small sizes:

    Makingcosmetics
    Lotioncrafter
    Essential Wholesale
    The Herbarie
    Ingredients To Die For
    From Nature With Love
    Formulator Sample Shop

    Often, if you inquire with the manufacturer telling them you need sufficient quantity to run batches for test marketing, they will sell to you by the kilo (or sample a kilo to you).

  • SheilaInBoston

    Member
    August 11, 2017 at 4:07 pm

    I have heard good things about Essential Wholesale.

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