The nutraceutical industry is projected to reach almost $200 billion dollars in the US by 2025 according to a new report by Grand View Search. Loyal supplement users have a deeply held belief these products can be used in lieu of prescription medications or to fill a dietary gap.
With over 25 years of experience fulfilling supplement and nutraceuticals, OWD has built its infrastructure to support this fast-growing industry. Distinguishing ourselves from the competition by offering smart integrations, continuity management, customer support, and by adding locations and infrastructure designed just for this niche.
Here’s what to look for when choosing a 3PL for your supplement and nutraceutical fulfillment needs:
Smart Integrations
Find a 3PL who is able to integrate with any Shopping Cart or ERP, enabling you to streamline inventory and order management. Consider how your technology needs may change as you grow. Confirm that your chosen 3PL can grow with those changing tech needs.
As commerce companies are continually diversifying and adding sales channels, check that the 3PL supports both D2C (direct-to-consumer) shipments as well as bulk/retail shipments. Retail shipments often require EDI and vendor compliance.
Keeping the Integrity Of the Product
Keep fresh products in front of your customers with a warehouse management system that can ensure FIFO and lot tracking.
Getting the product to your customer fast (especially if temperature is a concern), so looking for a 3PL provider that has multiple locations or someone that has relationships with shipping carriers to get your product in your customers hands in the least amount of time.
Also make sure to ask about climate control and FDA certification.
Continuity Management and Customer Experience
Continuity customers are your most valuable customers, returning monthly to ensure recurring revenue and provide income stability for your business. Find a team that can cover all of your needs from pre-sales to post-order support for a stellar customer experience. Strengthen your brand recognition through custom branded boxes, marketing material, and packaging.
While many fulfillment companies purport to be able to seamlessly support your specific needs, it’s not always true. Insist on system demonstrations, ask for referrals from companies in your same vertical, and while cost is important there is a risk in cost being your determining factor. Fulfillment companies do a lot more than just ship your stuff!
If you still have questions on how to choose a 3PL partner based on their nutraceutical and supplement fulfillment capabilities, we’re happy to help. You can call us at 1-866-289-9010 or email us at sales (at) owd (dot) com.
