20 Golden Rules to Select the ‘Perfect’ Raw Material Supplier

Abstract

The selection of a reliable supplier of ingredients is a key step in the R&D and market life of any cosmetic product. Selection criteria for a trustworthy cooperation relationship, usually lasting many years, are seldom clearly shared between the participants. Moreover, they are related to many peculiar company elements. Indeed, some sides of the supply relation should be well thought in the selection phase. First of all, the completeness of scientific and commercial information, the fast availability to supply samples and to give answers to questions concerning substances. The detailed quality of ingredients should be clearly identified, without forgetting impurities and by-products. Then, the ready cooperation concerning the supply and storage details, while the relative nearness to the stocks is another important selection factor. Previous positive company relationships have also their weight, as the specific experience of the supplier in the application field of the involved substances. Quality certifications, together with inspective checks of the supplier facilities by means of suitable visits on site, are additional selection elements. Without forgetting the economy sides of commercial contacts, as time and payment conditions.