Question 1

What types of beverages can Craftsmith manufacture?

Accepted Answer

We can produce a wide variety of beverages, including Beer/Fermented Beverages, Flavored seltzers, Teas, Juice-based beverages, and THC-infused beverages. If your formula falls within these categories and meets regulatory requirements, we can support it.

Question 2

What packaging formats do you support?

Accepted Answer

We offer 12 oz standard cans, 12 oz sleek cans, 16 oz cans, 19.2 oz cans, Sixtel Kegs, and Half Barrel Kegs. We have automated carton capabilities for 4, 6, 12 and 24-pack formats as well as variety packs. Other packaging formats may be possible through custom inquiry.

Question 3

Are there packaging formats you do not support?

Accepted Answer

We do not package product in plastic bottles, glass bottles, or Tetra Pak.

Question 4

Can you produce carbonated and non-carbonated beverages?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we have the capabilities to carbonate with CO₂ or produce non-carbonated (still) products utilizing our nitro-doser.

Question 5

Do you offer end of line support for products not manufactured in your facility?

Accepted Answer

Our facility can take on projects at nearly any step in the production process. We can provide à la carte end of line services including tunnel pasteurization, handle application, cartoning, shrink wrapping, and freight/logistics management.

Question 6

What geographic markets do you manufacture for?

Accepted Answer

Craftsmith manufactures from our FDA-registered Midwest facility and ships throughout the U.S. We support both domestic distribution and logistics planning.

Question 7

What is your typical onboarding timeline?

Accepted Answer

Onboarding depends on the product complexity and packaging specifications and your needs. Most brands complete technical alignment and scheduling within 2–4 weeks of agreement. Pilot and first production runs can follow shortly after based on line availability and procurement timeline.

Question 8

Do you require minimum order quantities (MOQs)?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we set volume minimums to ensure efficiency and quality. However, our MOQs are brand-friendly and designed to support emerging and scaling beverage companies. Contact us for specific minimums based on your product and packaging.

Question 9

Can Craftsmith handle pilot or test batches?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer pilot runs (as small as ~500 gallons) to validate formulation, flavor, processability, and packaging before scale production.

Question 10

How do you schedule production runs?

Accepted Answer

We work with your forecast and timeline, aligning production to your launch plan. Once approved, we build a detailed production and material schedule to ensure on-time execution.

Question 11

Is Craftsmith FDA-registered and compliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our facility is FDA registered and adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). We maintain controlled quality systems throughout production.

Question 12

How do you ensure product quality and consistency?

Accepted Answer

We implement rigorous QA protocols including COAs based on product specifications, seam and integrity testing, microbiological testing as required, DO and CO₂ monitoring, and a full retention sample program. Your product won't ship until it meets all criteria.

Question 13

Can Craftsmith produce THC or hemp-derived beverages?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We support cannabinoid-infused beverages that meet regulatory and compliance requirements. Safety, labeling, and legal compliance are handled in project planning along with potency testing before and after packaging to ensure final COAs are aligned to your requirements.

Question 14

Does Craftsmith offer lab testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have an onsite lab and quality team that supports in-house testing and we leverage a 3rd party lab partner, Smithers, for COA, potency and other full panel testing.

Question 15

Who is responsible for material and ingredient procurement?

Accepted Answer

We offer turnkey procurement services with our supplier network, often able to provide more competitive pricing based on our volume purchases — but can also take a backseat for customers who prefer a more hands-on approach to procurement.

Question 16

How does ingredient storage work?

Accepted Answer

We provide material storage and handling with FIFO tracking and ERP lot traceability. Ambient and refrigerated storage are available with defined free-storage periods.

Question 17

Do you store finished goods?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide 7 days of free ambient storage for finished goods, then ongoing pallet storage as needed either onsite at Craftsmith or with our trusted offsite partner.

Question 18

Who handles shipping and logistics?

Accepted Answer

Shipping is managed FOB from our dock. We can work with your routing guide and preferred carriers and offer support coordinating freight and logistics.

Question 19

How is pricing structured?

Accepted Answer

Pricing depends on beverage type, packaging format, pasteurization requirements, run frequency and volumes, and materials and adjuncts. We provide transparent quotes with clear line items.

Question 20

Are there hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No. All costs — from packaging to production fees and storage charges beyond free periods — are disclosed in your quote and service agreement.

Question 21

Will I have a dedicated contact at Craftsmith?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You'll have a single point of contact with a dedicated team behind them handling project onboarding, forecast planning, production scheduling, post-run recaps, and material and logistics coordination. No ticket systems — just real, consistent communication.

Question 22

How does Craftsmith protect intellectual property and formulations?

Accepted Answer

We treat your formula and specifications with confidentiality. Prior to any production a mutual NDA is signed to protect all parties. All documentation is handled securely, and access is limited to authorized personnel only.

Question 23

Can I change my formula after initial production?

Accepted Answer

Yes — formula changes are supported. Every facility is different; after an initial run, sensory notes are provided and if clients wish to update their formula it will be documented for future runs. Material changes may require technical verification and possible pilot validation before being scheduled in production.

Question 24

What happens if my initial batch needs rework?

Accepted Answer

We provide on-site benchtop testing and sensory services to ensure your initial batch is where it needs to be before it goes to packaging. Rework and repack services are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, if needed.

Question 25

Do you handle cold chain logistics?

Accepted Answer

While our facility offers refrigerated storage for raw materials, finished goods cold chain management (beyond ambient storage) can be coordinated through our logistics partners.

Question 26

Can I bring my own packaging materials?

Accepted Answer

Yes — packaging can be provided by you or procured through Craftsmith. We coordinate receipt, storage, and procurement as needed. Samples will be requested ahead of production to ensure our equipment is dialed in before packaging.

Question 27

What's your approach to sustainability?

Accepted Answer

We work with brands on material choices, waste reduction, and efficient production planning. Talk to us about sustainable packaging and process options.

Question 28

Do you offer consultation or support for the brands you manufacture?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Consultation and brand building is a specialty of ours. Whether you're an emerging brand preparing for your first production run or you're looking to rebrand or shake up your go-to-market strategy, we are here to provide insight on how you can position your brand to scale once it's in market.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Production & Timeline

Quality & Compliance

Materials, Storage & Logistics

Cost & Commercial Terms

Partnership & Support

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