Ready to cash in on the private label boom?

Greetings Vendorville 👋,

Retailers aren’t just selling big-name brands—they’re building their own brands. And they need suppliers like you to make it happen. 🫵

Private label is no longer a secret weapon; it’s a multi-billion-dollar strategy that keeps growing. In 2024, private labels hit record-high sales, bringing in $271 billion.

Some well-loved private labels include Walmart's Bettergoods, Target's Good & Gather, and Costco's Kirkland Signature—just to name a few!

Retailers are constantly looking for high-quality suppliers to manufacture everything from snacks to skincare, and the right partnership could mean steady sales, guaranteed shelf space, and long-term growth for your business.

➡️ Related Reading: How to Become a Private Label Supplier

How to Get in on the Private Label Boom

✅ Know How Retailers Source Suppliers

RFPs: Some retailers, like Walmart, issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to source private label suppliers. If invited, expect a costing exercise—price competitively to secure a spot in their next line review.

Direct Outreach: Retailers may approach trusted suppliers with a strong track record.

Trade Shows & Events: Buyers scout industry expos for suppliers. Be ready with samples, pricing, and production details.

✅ Be Ready When Retailers Show Interest

Showcase your experience—whether in private label or national brand manufacturing.

Provide documentation on your manufacturing processes and quality controls.

Stay flexible—retailers may need customization or require more product testing.

✅ Proactively Pitch Your Product

Network at trade shows and industry events.

Research private label programs and find gaps where your product fits.

Craft a strong pitch—highlighting pricing, production capabilities, and what sets you apart.

⚠️ Before you start seeking out private label opportunities, it’s important to make sure your supply chain is up to snuff:

⚙️ Manufacturing & Scalability: Ensure you can meet retailer demand with consistent production, scalable operations, and a strong supply chain. Flexibility is key—having both direct import (DI) and domestic (DOM) options helps retailers manage costs and supply chain shifts.

⚙️ Quality & Compliance: Retailers have strict standards—FDA, USDA, CPSC, and more. Stay compliant with quality assurance processes, testing, and necessary certifications (e.g., GMP) to prove reliability.

⚙️ Financial Readiness: Can you offer competitive pricing while staying profitable? Factor in upfront costs, retailer payment terms (net-30, net-60+), and the financial demands of scaling production.

The Bottom Line: Private Label = Growth

Private label manufacturing is a way to build long-term, high-volume relationships with major retailers. And if you play your cards right, you could secure steady demand and a prime spot on retail shelves.

➡️ Related Reading: The Benefits of Private Label Brands

Retailer News 🗞️

Retail Dive
Rite Aid blames latest bankruptcy on retail operations
“The drugstore retailer cites reluctant customers and recalcitrant vendors, but its crippling debt overshadows all.”

Supply Chain Dive
FedEx names CEO for Freight post-spinoff
“John A. Smith, who led the LTL carrier from 2018 to 2021, will take the helm once the move is complete by next year.”

SPS Commerce
Staying agile in the face of tariffs

“All signs point to the fact that retailers, suppliers and 3PLs need to adjust their existing processes toward stronger tariff mitigation strategies and better supply chain resilience practices.”

⭐ Rick’s Tips ⭐

“Decentralizing your inventory and utilizing micro-fulfillment centers can significantly reduce lead times and enhance service levels. This strategy places products closer to customers, ensuring faster deliveries and improved satisfaction. For more insights on effective inventory management strategies, check out this article!”

👋 Let's Circle Back

We asked the SupplyPike team about their favorite private label products, and they did not disappoint! Here are some top picks from around the office:

🍕 Bettergoods Italian Wood-Fired Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza

🍫 Favorite Day Dark Chocolate Pretzel Bark Crisps

🍗 Bettergoods Chicken Wings with Garlic Butter Dry Rub

🍯 Bettergoods Cinnamon Honey Butter

🍓 Good & Gather Freeze Dried Strawberry Slices

Got a private label product you supply? Tell us about it—we’re always looking for our next obsession! 😍

With ♥️,
SupplierWiki