How can small producers source glass bottles when major suppliers have 6+ month backlogs?

During periods of glass supply chain disruption (factory closures, production backlogs, Brexit-related delays), members have faced lead times of 6–12+ months or indefinite delays from standard suppliers. Key insights from the community:

**Supply challenges:** - Major suppliers like **Saverglass** have experienced massive backlogs, with screen-printed custom orders quoted for delivery 12+ months out (e.g., April the following year for orders placed in current year). - Delays have been attributed to factory closures during COVID, production stoppages, and order backlogs catching up on older commitments. - Standard lead times from primary suppliers became unavailable or indefinite (e.g., "might be available in Jan", "March", "no fixed date").

**Practical workarounds mentioned:** - Members recommend exploring alternative suppliers when primary sources fail. The specific tactics discussed include reaching out to other glass houses and networking within the community for introductions. - Plan ahead: lock in supply commitments early if considering custom orders, as even alternative routes require advance commitment.

**Secondary challenges:** - Logistics for moving bottles/casks became a "frigging disaster zone" due to HGV driver shortages; transport costs more than doubled as drivers moved to higher-paying fuel transport work.

**Caveat:** The excerpts do not name specific alternative glass suppliers that successfully fulfilled orders during this period, only confirm that members "had to go elsewhere." Members should network directly for current supplier contacts.