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Launching a new tequila brand is an exciting process! But if this is your first time, and especially if you have never done business in Mexico before, it’s critical to ensure you have the right partner before you invest. There are many variables to consider, and you’ll need to know everything about how the supply chain works to avoid delays, stock-outs, and extra expenses.
Ten Things To Ask Your New Tequila Partner
Like any successful business venture, planning is essential. You’re doing business in a foreign country, and what you don’t know can cost you a lot in time, money, and avoidable stress.
Here are ten things you should know about your tequila partner before you make your final decision:
1. What Are The Legalities?
You will need to register your brand, which can be a complicated process if you’ve never done it before. Find out what legal paperwork and Mexican regulations need to be satisfied before you bottle and export your product. If there are significant timelines involved, you’ll need to factor this in. Ideally, you want a partner that will work with you to ensure success.
2. Is There An Experienced Team To Support Me During The Development Process?
An experienced team will take a lot of stress off your plate, freeing up your time so you can focus on developing your marketing plan. Look for an established partner with an excellent reputation, a team that is as committed to your success as you are.
3. What Supply Chain Support Will My Partner Cover? And What Do I Need To Take Care Of?
Your ideal partner will be an organization with established relationships in the supply chain, both in Mexico and at your destination. Inexperience often results in avoidable expenses due to improper handling of export documents, inaccurate timelines, mismanaged logistics, or poor quality control.
4. Who Takes Care Of The Logistics?
Logistics is critical to QA/QC – especially in beverage alcohol, as you need to ensure your product arrives as expected. Talk to your partner so that you understand their process and workflow. Raise any concerns you might have at the outset so they can be addressed.
5. What Support/Expertise Will They Bring To My Brand?
Your ideal tequila partner will view your success as pivotal to theirs. Don’t take it for granted that a good product equals a stellar experience; what goes on behind the scenes is often just as important! Ask your partner how they intend to support you through every process, from product development to flavor profile, legal documentation, production, and beyond.
6. Will I Share The Same Liquid With Other Brands?
Be sure you know exactly what you’re paying for. Find out if the liquid you are buying is also being sold to other brands. This is less of a concern for white label products, but when your focus is on exclusivity, you need to know that your product is unique.
7. Will I Get The Same Flavor In Future Productions?
Consistency is critical when you’re developing a private label brand. For this reason, it’s absolutely vital that you know your blend, color, and flavor profile is repeatable.
Why Invest In A Tequila Business Right Now?
If you are considering investing in a tequila business in 2021, you could not have chosen a better time. Markets are high, and demand is growing for premium and ultra-premium tequilas, and it’s easier than ever to work with a quality-minded producer who will help you succeed.
8. What Are Their Maximum Production Capabilities?
If your brand experiences rapid growth, will your tequila partner be able to meet the demand? You might not anticipate higher production volumes right away, but you want to make sure they can deliver when the need arises. Think and plan ahead!
9. What Are The Production and Logistics Timelines?
Proper planning requires dependable processes. Your partner should detail the entire process from field to glass and everything in-between, so you can plan accordingly and avoid delays and additional costs.
10. Does My Partner Have My Back?
No matter what kind of business you are in, you want to be sure the partners you choose are trustworthy. They must respect your time, ideas, and investment and provide you with answers to questions you might not even think to ask. An ideal partner will always have your best interests at heart and will focus on developing a strong, mutually beneficial long-term relationship. Talk to the brands they already do business with to learn more about how they work with their customers and address any concerns before you make that commitment.
Tell Us How Are You Doing With Your Tequila Plan!
Aceves Spirits brings three generations of expertise in ultra-premium tequila and other agave spirits. Our team works closely with you to ensure your brand has the best possible chance of success.
Reach out today to tell us about your brand and vision – we’d love to show you how we can help.