Turnkey vs Custom Manufacturing: Which Is Right for Your Brand?

If you are launching a personal care product, one of your first big decisions is choosing between turnkey manufacturing and custom formulation. Both offer strong paths to market, but the best choice depends on your brand goals. At ACRL, we offer both options. Here is how to decide what fits your needs.

What Is Turnkey Manufacturing
Turnkey means ACRL handles everything from formula to finished product. You start with one of our proven base formulas, and we take care of sourcing, testing, filling, and packaging. It is a great option for brands that want a streamlined and reliable process.

Turnkey is a good fit if you
• Want to move quickly to market
• Prefer using a tried and tested formula
• Need support with sourcing and packaging
• Have limited internal resources
• Are launching a new line or category with lower risk

What Is Custom Manufacturing
Custom manufacturing means your formula is built from the ground up. Our R and D team works closely with you to develop a unique product that reflects your brand’s identity and performance goals.

Custom manufacturing is ideal if you
• Want full control over ingredients, texture, and scent
• Are developing a signature product
• Require specific claims like vegan, fragrance-free, or OTC
• Need a tech transfer for an existing formula
• Want to create something truly differentiated

Not Sure Which One to Choose
Many brands start with turnkey to test the market and move into custom once they scale. Others use a mix of both across their product portfolio. At ACRL, we help you make the right decision based on your timeline, budget, and long-term vision.

Turnkey offers speed and simplicity. Custom gives you flexibility and full creative control. With ACRL, you can move forward with confidence knowing that our team supports both approaches with the same level of quality and care.

Talk to our team today and explore the best path for your next product.

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