Founders often ask how fast a first run can happen. The honest answer is that the line time is the shortest part. Everything before it is where the calendar goes.
Stage 1: Qualification and scoping
You describe the product, packaging format, batch size, and timeline. We confirm fit, then hold an exploratory call. Output: a written quote.
Stage 2: Formulation and specification
If the formula is finished, we scale it and confirm it behaves on the line. If not, formulation work happens here: flavor iterations, stabilization, shelf-life planning, and process-authority review for low-acid or acidified products. This is the most variable stage because it depends on how many iterations your palate needs.
Stage 3: Materials
Cans, ends, sleeves or printed cans, trays, and ingredients are ordered. Printed cans and specialty ingredients set the critical path. Nothing here is fast, and it is where a week of indecision becomes a month of delay.
Stage 4: Pilot run
A small batch on the actual equipment. We check fill, carbonation, dosing uniformity if applicable, and seam integrity, and you check taste against the approved sample.
Stage 5: Production run and release
The commercial batch is scheduled, produced, coded, and held for release checks. Then it ships or moves to storage.
Where weeks are lost
Artwork approvals, material lead times, and formulation iterations. Decide your packaging format early, lock artwork before ordering decorated cans, and treat the pilot as a gate rather than a formality.
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