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 recommended UK contract packers and bottlers for different production volumes?
Members have shared experience with several contract packing and bottling operations across different capacity ranges. **Mid-to-large volume operators:** - **Contract Bottlers Glasgow** — confirmed smooth shipping and operation by members - **RSM Solutions** — recommended as an option - **Brittains** — listed as a recommended provider - **Mallows Distillery** (Cardiff) — described as good operators **Specialist operators for smaller pilot runs and craft scales:** - **Liquid Fusion Group** — recommended for batch, fill, pasteurisation and carbonation in glass bottles for non-alcoholic products. Contact: Ed@liquidfusiongroup.com. Described as "super useful and nice guy with tons of experience." Members report they handle multiple SKUs across a product range, though some have noted "sticking points" with certain formats. **High-volume minimum runs:** - One member's family operation can handle contract manufacture but requires 20,000L+ runs per SKU minimum, so only suitable for significant scale-up. **Key considerations:** Volume requirements vary significantly by provider—clarify your pilot run size (1–2k L initially, scaling to 5k+) before approaching, as some operators have minimum thresholds. Members recommend contacting providers directly to discuss format compatibility, as even experienced packers may have constraints with certain bottle formats or specifications.
What are the realistic alternatives for glass bottle sourcing when major suppliers have stock issues or poor service?
Members report widespread stock shortages across major UK glass suppliers due to supply-chain disruption (including reduced production from Eastern European factories). Going bespoke is not a fast solution despite initial appearances. **UK stock suppliers:** - **Croxsons** — recommended as an off-the-shelf stock bottle source - **Allied** — another off-the-shelf option to approach when stock is tight - **Encirc** — mentioned but noted as primarily a bespoke/custom manufacturer, so may not solve immediate stock problems **China sourcing (not recommended):** Several members have tested Chinese glass imports as a backup but advise against it. Common issues include: heavy oily residue on bottles requiring machine washing before bottling, inconsistent quality control (fill levels, neck diameter variance), delayed shipping, and slow transit to UK. Cost savings are typically wiped out by necessary air freight to meet timelines. Members who tried this approach have since switched back to UK-only production. **Key caveat:** Major suppliers like Bruni and Savaglass are currently experiencing significant shortages and not being transparent about supply constraints. Members report these suppliers are rationing stock while trying to retain business relationships long-term.