OEM and ODM: what changes
In an OEM program the buyer defines the product - size, absorbency, materials, packaging - and the manufacturer produces it to that specification, usually under the buyer's brand. In an ODM program the manufacturer's existing design is adapted, which can shorten development but gives the buyer less control over structure. Many projects mix both: a standard base structure with buyer-specific packaging.
The technical brief
A complete brief covers: target market and channel; use case (day, overnight, heavy flow, postpartum); size range and fit references; absorbency expectation described by scenario rather than a number; topsheet and backsheet preferences; leak guard expectations; pack count and packaging format; artwork status; and estimated order quantity. The clearer the brief, the fewer sampling rounds.
Sampling and approval
Development normally runs through sample rounds: a first prototype to confirm structure, then a packaging sample to confirm artwork and format. Each round should be approved in writing. The approved sample is the reference against which bulk production is judged.
Artwork and claims
On-pack wording, logos, barcodes and claims must match the destination market's labelling rules. Agree who approves artwork and how many revision rounds are included. Claims about performance should be supportable by the supplier's test records.
Change control
After approval, any change - material substitution, size adjustment, packaging update - should be re-approved before production. Uncontrolled change is the most common cause of quality drift between first order and repeat orders.
Production, QC and lead time
Agree inspection checkpoints, sampling plan and documentation before production starts. Lead time depends on material availability, artwork approval and order size; confirm a realistic schedule including samples, production and shipping.
From RFQ to bulk order
Send the brief through the portal's RFQ route, compare responses on specification rather than piece price alone, approve samples in writing, then release the bulk order against the approved sample.