Industry: Food Manufacturing
Customer Type: End User
Country: Germany
Main Products: Pickle Jars
Business Scope: The customer’s product range covers pickled vegetables, jams, seasonings, and other preserved foods. In addition to glass jars, their packaging portfolio includes plastic pouches, paper boxes, and other formats. They focus on high-quality food preservation and seek packaging solutions that ensure product freshness and safety.
Contact Channel: LinkedIn
Initial Contact Date & Method: On July 8, 2024, we identified the customer’s information through a Google search and located the key decision-maker. We reached out via LinkedIn to establish communication. Initially, the customer did not respond, but we maintained regular and professional follow-ups to keep the connection warm and build trust over time.
On October 22, we successfully reconnected with the customer and made further progress by sharing our glass jar product catalogue. The customer expressed strong interest and shared a technical drawing for a custom 375ml pickle jar. To provide an accurate and competitive quotation, we explained that in addition to basic dimensions such as height and diameter, we also required the jar’s weight, which is a crucial factor for pricing and quality control.
After several rounds of detailed follow-up and clarification, we obtained all the necessary specifications and promptly submitted a quotation based on the drawing. The customer showed increasing interest in product development and went on to share their annual procurement plan, indicating potential for a long-term partnership. Through thorough price negotiations, we eventually finalized the first order—an impressive volume of eight 40ft containers, marking a significant breakthrough in cooperation.
Key Consideration: The customer requested a discount on mold fees. Normally, our mold pricing follows the company’s standard rates. However, considering the customer’s sincerity, commitment, and large order volume, we successfully applied for and secured a special mold fee discount, reflecting our willingness to support strategic partners.
Challenges: The development cycle for a custom mold product is inherently lengthy. From payment confirmation to shipment of the first batch, the lead time was close to six months. Additionally, the year-end and Chinese New Year holiday periods created further scheduling constraints. Although the customer’s initial requested delivery date could not be fully met, we assured them that once the mold was completed, future bulk orders could be delivered within approximately one month, providing more predictable lead times.
Customer Complaint Handling: Upon receiving the first shipment, the customer reported a small number of jars with defects such as inclusions, body creases, broken threads, cracked necks, and surface oil stains. With the support of our quality department, we promptly issued a detailed quality feedback report to the customer, thoroughly analyzing root causes and outlining corrective actions. Our commitment to continuous improvement and transparency helped reassure the customer and build confidence. The proposed improvements will be implemented in all future production runs to prevent recurrence.
Result: The customer has since placed repeat orders, which we regard as the strongest endorsement of our product quality, service, and dedication to long-term cooperation. This case clearly demonstrates how persistent follow-up, transparent communication, technical expertise, and flexibility in meeting customer needs can transform an initial cold lead into a valuable, high-volume, repeat business relationship that benefits both parties.
Application
Jam, Mayo, Ghee, Honey, Pickles, Nuts, Pickled Cucumber
Item Description
- Model: 375ml Glass Pickle Jar With Lid
- Weight: 190±9g
- Capacity: 375ML
- Order Quantity: 175,500PCs 2×40HQ