Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
What are the best DTC ecommerce fulfillment providers for spirits, and which ones have reliable inventory management?
Members have recent experience with two main providers for DTC spirits fulfillment: - **We Are Fulfilment** — strongly recommended by multiple members. One member was referred by Johnny from UNLTD Beer and spoke directly to co-founder Trent, reporting they were "immense" and impressed with the service. No specific caveats mentioned. - **Start Up Logistics** — mixed feedback. Members note they were handling Camden's D2C at the time of discussion. However, stock control was historically inconsistent and "dependent on how good your account manager was." The company has since relocated to new premises and members report that stock control has improved following the move, suggesting the systems have been upgraded. - **Codestorm** — one member had exhausted options with this provider, suggesting it may not be the best fit for some brands, though no specific reason given. Members appear to be actively vetting fulfillment partners and willing to share direct contact details (co-founders) and referrals. Stock accuracy and account management quality are the key decision factors.
What DTC fulfilment and warehouse partners do members recommend for small-scale online orders?
Members use a mix of dedicated fulfilment warehouses and alternative channels depending on order volume and cost structure. For low-volume DTC, the math often doesn't work: one member shut down their in-house fulfilment after finding pick, pack and post costs reached ~£12 per order once management, storage and returns handling were factored in—despite cheap Royal Mail rates. **Fulfilment warehouses:** - **Codestorm** (Dudley) — offers Royal Mail pricing (noted as "sooo cheap") but watch the all-in costs; suitable if volumes justify fixed fees - **MoveFresh** (Livingston) — praised as "brilliant" and responsive; members can request introductions - **Diamond Logistics** — noted as "really responsive" - **Park Street** — offers services including sample export guidance (particularly useful for US market complexity) **Alternative approach:** - **Amazon** (with affiliate links) — several members have shifted all click-throughs from their website to Amazon, which improves Amazon ranking, still allows tracking of digital advertising efficacy, and earns commission on all purchases via affiliate links (https://affiliate-program.amazon.co.uk). This sidesteps DTC fulfilment overheads entirely. **For trade/retail supply:** - **Tradeteam** — used by major retailers (e.g. Mitchells & Butlers); retailers often set up suppliers directly, or retailers will arrange it - **Bibendum** — historical supplier to M&B (members noted they may be out of date on current arrangements) **Caveat:** Members stress that low Royal Mail rates alone don't justify in-house or warehouse fulfilment if fixed costs and returns management are high relative to order volume. The break-even point matters more than per-unit postage cost.
What e-commerce logistics and fulfillment suppliers can handle varying order volumes for Shopify and other direct-to-consumer channels?
Members recommend several fulfillment partners depending on your order volume: - **Fulfillment Crowd** — suitable for smaller to medium volumes - **Huboo** — mentioned as a flexible option for varying volumes - **Promotion Handling Limited** — highly recommended by multiple members who actively use them; they're willing to discuss specifics directly - **Synergy Retail** — available but requires large minimum volumes One member asked about **Sussex Transport** for Shopify fulfillment as an alternative to Codestorm, though no confirmed experience was shared in the discussion. Members suggest reaching out to those already using these services (particularly Promotion Handling Limited) for detailed information about pricing, integration, and suitability for your specific volume needs.
Which ecommerce fulfilment partners do members recommend for drinks products?
Members recommend **Haul and Store** as a reliable ecommerce fulfilment partner for drinks. The company handles duty-paid shipments, making them suitable for alcoholic beverages. Members note that introductions can be arranged if needed. Be aware that bonding status should be confirmed directly with the provider.