Smart & Sure:

What to Consider When Choosing a Technical Transfer Partner

There are so many reasons to consider changing manufacturers. Something is not working, everything just moves too slowly, the communication and collaboration is not there or things just don’t move at the speed that you and your brand does!

When your business reaches the point where your needs outgrow your current provider, or your manufacturer can’t deliver on scale or capability, a technical transfer can feel both exciting and daunting.

At its best, it’s a seamless evolution. At its worst, it’s an operational headache that can stall innovation and burn trust.

So how do you choose the right partner? A partner who can carry your brand’s DNA forward, without missing a beat?

1.     Look for a Partner, Not a Processor

A true technical transfer isn’t about handing over a formula and hoping for the best. It’s a collaboration built on understanding, commitment and a desire for shared success.
Your partner should take time to understand your product’s story, formulation logic, and brand standards, not just its specifications.

Perhaps ask yourself - Will they walk the line with you during the transition, or are you one of many in a production queue? Do they communicate like a partner — or like a supplier?

The right manufacturer won’t just run your formula. They’ll protect it, optimise it, and help it thrive at scale. And perhaps most importantly, they will collaborate with you every step of the way.

2.     Capability Is So Much More Than Machinery

When it comes to technical transfers, production capability is critical, but it’s just one part of the equation. A capable partner has the infrastructure and the smarts:

• the ability to problem-solve

• an unwavering commitment to quality

• reverse engineer and/or adapt formulations where needed

• recommend packaging optimisations;

• and foresee challenges before they become bottlenecks

Ask yourself - Can my manufacturer accommodate all batch sizes, from smaller trial runs to full scale production? Do they have the right machinery and most importantly, the flexibility to adapt machinery to accommodate your needs? How do they ensure consistency across batches and where does quality control fit in their processes?

A partner with the right technical range can replicate your product faithfully while setting you up for growth, not just continuity.

3.     Transparency Builds Trust

The most successful technical transfer starts with open communication. You should have visibility into each step, from the first pilot batch through to full-scale production.

Look for a manufacturer that:

• Shares timelines and risks honestly.

• Is transparent about their quality control systems.

• Documents changes or recommendations.

• Provides clear validation data at every stage.

Technical transfers can surface the hidden assumptions in your previous production process, the right partner will help you refine those, not conceal them.

4.     Agility Matters More Than Size

Big doesn’t always mean better.
In beauty manufacturing, agility and the ability to pivot, problem-solve, and respond fast, most often trumps scale.

A focused manufacturer with strong systems and deep expertise will deliver a smoother, faster transfer than a large, rigid operation.
Speed, precision, and collaboration are what keep your brand moving when the market doesn’t wait.

5.     Protecting IP Is Non-Negotiable

Your formulas are the lifeblood of your business. Before any transfer, ensure your partner has airtight confidentiality processes, restricted access systems, and a proven track record of IP protection.

Ask yourself - How do they store and control formulation data? What agreements protect your IP once testing begins?

True partners value your intellectual property as much as their own reputation.

6.     Shared Vision is the key to Sustainable Growth

Ultimately, a technical transfer is a relationship decision, not just a technical one.
You’re entrusting another company with your product, your brand promise, and your growth momentum.

The best manufacturing partnerships are grounded in shared vision, built on trust, curiosity, and a commitment to see your brand not just maintained, but elevated.

If your manufacturer sees your technical transfer as a transaction, you’ll feel it.
If they see it as a shared journey toward smarter, faster, more scalable growth, you’ll feel that too.

The difference? One keeps your business standing still. The other helps it fly.