How do I show a buyer my co-packing line’s changeover routine?

A changeover is where a co-packer protects quality, so a buyer will want to see it done, not just described. Choose a real changeover during normal production and invite the buyer to watch. Have the written procedure ready and follow it so the buyer can compare the paper to the practice.

Explain the checks. Show how the line is cleaned, how allergens are kept apart, how the first units are inspected and who signs off before running resumes. Show the records for recent changeovers, including any corrections. A buyer will value honesty about problems more than a perfect-looking file. Describe the practical side, such as how long it takes, which staff do it, what supplies and stock are involved and how it affects the schedule. Be ready to say where the routine depends on one person’s know-how. Since food licensing is part of the picture, have your licence information at hand. Ask your lawyer what to disclose and when. Show also how staff are trained for the changeover, since a routine that only one person can do is a risk the buyer should see.

Key takeaways

• Run a real changeover for the buyer with the written procedure beside it.
• Show cleaning, allergen and sign-off records.
• Be honest about where the routine depends on one person.
• Show how staff are trained to do the changeover so the buyer sees the routine as it really runs.