Looking for that hidden jewel of a partner
Author: Admin
This article is taken from Tamara Monosoff's article "How Can I find a Manufacturer?", which first appeared on Entrepreneur.com (Sept. 12, 2007)

Every day, new and experienced entrepreneurs ask me the question: "How do I find a manufacturer?" I wish there was one simple answer to this important question. What I've found is that it's somewhat like a treasure hunt--looking for that hidden jewel of a partner.
 
Another frequently asked question is: "Should I produce my product here in the U.S. or overseas?" Again, there are pros and cons to both and serious considerations that only you'll be able to decide upon. Your answer might even be "both" and like many of the challenges entrepreneurs solve every day, there may be more than one "right" way. That said, there are key resources and information to help you get started. I will share my own story, outline a basic process to follow and provide some resources for finding the right manufacturer.
 
Where to Start
With the understanding that you're building a network, which takes time, and seeking information--not necessarily finding your final partner--now's the time to get started. An abundance of online resources can help you get this process started, including Thomasnet.com, Tdctrade.com and Alibaba.com. For additional resources, visit the gold member area on our website Mominventors.com.
 
Public organizations can also assist you. Most states have programs offering support and manufacturing resources. For example, one resource in California is the Center for International Trade & Development. The U.S. Small Business Administrationalso has small business development centers in most communities.
 
Copyright © 200_ Entrepreneur.com. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission from Entrepreneur.com.
 




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Re: Looking for that hidden jewel of a partner
by Remus Group on 22 Sep 2008 22:03

[em19]Quoting from [Admin]:

Every day, new and experienced entrepreneurs ask me the question: "How do I find a manufacturer?" I wish there was one simple answer to this important question. What I've found is that it's somewhat like a treasure hunt--looking for that hidden jewel of a partner.
 
Another frequently asked question is: "Should I produce my product here in the U.S. or overseas?" Again, there are pros and cons to both and serious considerations that only you'll be able to decide upon. Your answer might even be "both" and like many of the challenges entrepreneurs solve every day, there may be more than one "right" way. That said, there are key resources and information to help you get started. I will share my own story, outline a basic process to follow and provide some resources for finding the right manufacturer.
 
Where to Start
With the understanding that you're building a network, which takes time, and seeking information--not necessarily finding your final partner--now's the time to get started. An abundance of online resources can help you get this process started, including Thomasnet.com, Tdctrade.com and Alibaba.com. For additional resources, visit the gold member area on our website Mominventors.com.
 
Public organizations can also assist you. Most states have programs offering support and manufacturing resources. For example, one resource in California is the Center for International Trade & Development. The U.S. Small Business Administrationalso has small business development centers in most communities.
 
Copyright © 200_ Entrepreneur.com. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission from Entrepreneur.com.
 



[em19] there is no easy way. do your homework. Any business worth doing is worth doing well. Take a trip to visit your supplier. It not only strenghten relationship but will save you lots of pain or even prevent you from being scammed.

Don't be lazy do all your DD (Due Dilligence)

Re: Looking for that hidden jewel of a partner
by SPAcindy on 29 Sep 2008 02:14

Hi,

first of all, a partner is very different than a manufacturer. No one wants to use a middleman if the job can be kept in-house. Trying to complete a project without the help of a mediator in China, however, can result in unnecessary complications. The divides of language, culture, and production standards can naturally lead to the disastrous outcomes that have made headlines in past years. But is it really that difficult? Don’t thousands of foreign companies come to China every year, produce excellent products, and yield high profits? Perhaps, but it’s not as easy as it looks.

1. Research takes time and requires presence.
2. “You get what you inspect not what you expect,”
3. Everything is possible, nothing is easy.

Setting out to do business in China requires a solid plan. A competent agent will look out for your best interests, is able to prevent problems before they occur, minimizes risk and save money for you. Before you start your new venture in China, why not consider hiring an experienced middleman.

www.sourceproductsasia.com

Re: Looking for that hidden jewel of a partner
by itstimetomarket on 20 Oct 2008 10:37
Hidden Jewels are hidden until you find them.

Jewels can be defined as honest and (passed DD) companies.


It is true that it is a full time job to trace down the correct, honest and compliant proof businesses who are able to deliver the promise.


I think that the jewel could be found in our company.

We are based in the Netherlands and India. We have this policy in India and all our companies that we NEVER pay bribes... Off course nobody will tell they do pay..


Let us know your thoughts...


Honesty !!!

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