Supplier comparison

20 questions to ask a perfume manufacturer.

Use these questions to compare project scope before a deposit is paid. They do not replace product, legal or market review; they make the supplier's quotation and responsibilities easier to understand.

Use this checklist to turn vague claims into comparable answers: product scope, inclusions, exclusions, approvals and market responsibilities.

Project fit

  1. Which product format and first-order quantity does this quotation cover?
  2. Which sales market is the supplier responding to?
  3. Which work is based on an existing route and which work is new for this project?
  4. What information is missing before the supplier can give a final quotation?

Product and packaging

  1. What fragrance route is proposed: existing base, adjustment or development discussion?
  2. Which bottle, cap, pump, label and carton are included?
  3. Which components are stock, decorated or custom?
  4. What separate minimums apply to liquid, components, decoration, carton and assembly?

Samples and approvals

  1. What does the current sample represent?
  2. Which sample must be approved before components or production begin?
  3. How should feedback be recorded and who approves the final version?
  4. What changes require another sample or artwork approval?

Documents and intended market

  1. Which product information or documents can the supplier discuss for the intended market?
  2. Which claims need support before they are used on packaging or marketing?
  3. Which submissions, notifications or approvals remain with the brand owner?
  4. What must be confirmed when the final formula or packaging changes?

Quote, timing and next steps

  1. What does the quoted unit price include and exclude?
  2. Which decisions can change the price, minimum or lead time?
  3. What begins only after a deposit, artwork approval or sample approval?
  4. Who is the project contact for questions during sampling and production?
Best practice: save supplier replies beside the same checklist. It gives you a clear comparison record without requiring a complex sourcing system.