CONTRACT & TOLL MANUFACTURING
more choice. This has inspired a new generation of entrepreneurs to build their brand and sell via Amazon, TikTok and other platforms.”
to garden care products like path and patio cleaners.”
The company’ s knowledge helped with a large retail contract from North America this year. The client needed support with formulation expertise and product development. Spanjer achieved this despite a tight turnaround.
Closer to home, the‘ Made in Britain’ drive is gaining traction with brands keen to avoid cheap imports from abroad and support local businesses. As a result, McKLords has seen support for UK-based manufacturers soar. In addition, e-commerce is shaping the market.
Briar Chemicals’ Sweet Briar Road facility in Norwich
The company offers a complete turnkey service, providing expertise in chemical formulation, branding, packaging and distribution.
“ To have your own brand on a product really does give you the edge in the retail market,” says Vijayan.“ We have been helping our customers create their visions and bring them to life for years now but demand for this type of service has really jumped in the last few years since the pandemic.
“ New marketplaces are being established all the time and wellknown retailers are moving to online platforms to give their customers
Sustainable demand
Using UK specialists also help customers to meet their sustainability goals. Reducing carbon footprint is high on the agenda for businesses, and for Briar Chemicals, sustainability has become a key differentiator in the CMO arena. It has positioned itself as a trusted partner for both established manufacturers and new entrants commercialising greener technologies. EcoVadisrated systems add to the company’ s combination of experienced chemical scale-up capability, solvent recovery and effluent treatment.
“ In recent months, we’ ve seen a clear increase in enquiries linked to green and environmentally friendly products,” adds Woods.“ Many of these requests come from start-ups and SMEs developing innovative materials who now want to scale up safely and compliantly without investing in their own facilities.”
Similarly, Spanjer Chemicals has been keeping pace with environmental developments, notching up ISO14001 certification along with its commitment to recycling materials such as plastic and board. Investment has also bolstered its sustainable message, as well benefitting the bottom line.
“ We’ re currently adding a largescale solar roof to our factory to help reduce our energy costs,” explains Warriner.“ We’ re also developing products that require less transportation. Sustainability features in tender applications when large retailers are looking to award new business.”
For McKLords, sustainability is part of its wider strategy and brand identity. It is a PETA-certified manufacturer, with animal welfare sitting alongside its broader environmental responsibilities.
JAN / FEB 2026 SPECCHEMONLINE. COM
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