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.
Should we source glass from China or use UK manufacturers, and what are the alternative suppliers beyond the major established brands?
The community recommends UK glass manufacturers over China for most producers, despite China's cheaper mould costs and quick turnaround. Freight costs from China have risen significantly and may eliminate unit-cost savings; UK suppliers offer better credit terms, stock holding, and consistency. **UK manufacturers:** - **Stoelzle** — recommended particularly for blue glass; can amortise mould costs and offer credit/stock holding - **Allied** — established UK manufacturer with similar benefits to Stoelzle - **Saverglass** — praised for reliability; can handle painting and screenprinting for orders over 5,000 bottles, useful for scaling - **Encirc** — alternative UK supplier - **Vetroelite** — alternative UK supplier **China sourcing trade-offs (if considering):** - Pros: cheaper mould costs, quick production turnaround, slightly lower unit costs - Cons: container freight from China now "completely mad" cost-wise, shipping time, upfront payment required, must take full delivery at once, quality inconsistency **Caveat:** Freight costs from China have risen to a point where they may fully offset any unit-cost advantage. Members advised wariness about this route at present. For "off the shelf" stock, contact the UK suppliers directly (e.g. Louis at Stoelzle).
Which logistics providers offer competitive pricing for moving spirits under bond in the UK?
Members recommend two main bonded logistics providers for moving spirits pallets in the UK: - **Supply21** — noted as offering competitive pricing for bonded spirits transport; several members use them. - **Law Distribution** — highlighted as offering "by far the best value" for bonded logistics. If considering international routes (e.g. from China), **Albatrans** was specifically praised as "the most reliable" option, though moving product from China was noted as "a very challenging market". Members suggest shopping around, as pricing from current suppliers can increase over time—these alternatives may help drive better rates.
Where can I find a UK canning facility that handles small-scale production (under 1000 litres) with full capabilities including mixing, carbonation, canning, pasteurisation and labelling?
Members recommend **Point Cocktails** (contact: Hayden) as a viable option for small-scale canning in the UK. The facility has been described positively by community members who have used them and can handle the full range of services needed—mixing, carbonation, canning, pasteurisation and labelling—for batches under 1000 litres.