Whether it’s a new design, an own-brand version of an existing product or custom packaging, we help UK businesses turn an idea into a finished product. We work with you from the first brief or reference photo to an approved sample, then manage bulk production and delivery to your door.
What we can help you develop
- New products from a sketch, idea or reference photo
- Own-brand and private-label versions of existing products
- Custom colours, materials, sizes and logos
- Branded packaging, labels and inserts
- Improved versions of a product you already sell
How product development works
- Share your brief. Send your idea, photos, target quantity, budget and timeline.
- Turn it into a clear specification. We agree materials, sizes, finishes and branding in detail before approaching factories.
- Find the right manufacturer. Our team in China shortlists suitable factories and compares quotes.
- Sample and refine. You review samples and request changes until you’re happy.
- Produce, check and ship. We track bulk production, check goods before dispatch and deliver to your UK address.
Is product development right for you?
- It works best if you have a budget for samples and development, which we agree upfront
- Typical timeline: samples in 1–2 weeks once a factory is chosen, then a few weeks of production plus shipping
- It isn’t suited to launches needed within days
- Starting small? We’ll look for trial quantities where factories allow – see smaller first orders
A product we developed
We developed men’s bamboo underwear for The Bridge Sourcing founder’s own subscription brand, The Boxer Co: comparing manufacturers, checking samples, visiting factories in China and managing every order since. See the case study on our homepage.
Already buying, not developing?
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Product development FAQs
How much does product development cost?
It depends on how much design and sampling the product needs. We agree any development and sample costs with you upfront, before work starts.
Do you sign NDAs?
Yes. We can sign an NDA with you, and with manufacturers where needed, to protect your design.
How long does it take to develop a product?
Simple own-brand products can be sampled in one to two weeks. More complex products need more rounds of sampling. We’ll give you a realistic timeline once we’ve seen your brief.
Can you help with packaging as well?
Yes. We can develop branded packaging, labels and inserts alongside the product. See custom packaging from China.