Interesting article if you are considering overseas manufacturing.
image by Logan Alexander Source: Entrepreneur.com
There have been multiple stories the last few years of when things go wrong with overseas manufacturing. In this article, Lori Greiner of Shark Tank suggests using audit services such as Bureau Veritas, Intertek and SGS Group.
The company that you choose to manufacture your products represents your brand. Consider the following:
- Are they using safe materials?
- Are their working conditions safe?
- Are their employees being treated ethically and paid fair wages?
A few years ago, I was working for a kitchen and bath design company. One of the cabinet companies attempted to persuade me to use cabinets manufactured overseas. At the time, they could not address my concerns on the products used in the manufacture of the particle board. This was during the time when there were massive lawsuits going on in Florida over unsafe drywall. Environmental regulations are not as stringent in some countries which contributes to them being able to manufacture products at a lower cost. Think of the product recalls you have seen for lead based paint in products for children, recalled dog food products that originated overseas. For more information: Chinese Drywall Lawsuits
In 2013, Western clothing retailers faced questions over the link between cheap fashion and worker safety in the aftermath of the Rana Plaza disaster, which killed 1,129 people in Bangladesh. The Guardian., Huffington Post
There are considerations beyond cost. Reach out to the resources who can help you.
Be safe, be profitable, and act in integrity…
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