Launch with a clear plan, not guesswork. This is how MHS helps Australian startups take a concept and turn it into a manufacturing-ready product — with the right formulation pathway, packaging support, and realistic unit economics.
Most startup delays come from two things: unclear inputs (brief/formula/packaging) and last-minute packaging artwork. We fix both. Our process is built for food-type supplements, with a structured pathway that gets you to a first production run you can repeat.
A simple sequence that keeps your project moving and prevents expensive rework.
A strong brief saves weeks. It also stops you paying for the wrong thing.
Tip: if you don't have a formula yet, that's okay — that's exactly what our formulation pathway is for.
Previously, many startups arrived with incomplete formulas and got stuck. Today, we offer a clear, production-focused formulation pathway designed to get you to a product that can be manufactured, repeated, and scaled.
Learn more on the Formulation page and choose the right pathway.
Packaging artwork is one of the most common causes of production delays. We support startups with manufacturing-focused graphics checks so your packaging works in the real world.
Explore the Graphics & Labelling service to prevent delays and rework.
The trade-off is simple: smaller runs reduce upfront risk, but cost more per unit. Larger runs improve unit economics, but require more cash and carry more inventory risk.
Batch size affects unit cost because setup costs are fixed. As quantity increases, setup cost per unit drops.
margin per unit = price – (variable cost + setup cost ÷ quantity)
| Batch size (units) | Margin per unit |
|---|---|
| 250 | $10 |
| 350 | $12 |
| 500 | $16 |
| 1,000 | $19 |
Economy of scale is real — plan your first run for validation, then improve unit economics on reorder.
If you're ready to launch, send us your brief and we'll recommend the fastest path to production. If you're missing the formula or packaging assets, that's normal — the pathway is designed for that.
Not necessarily. You can begin formulation and packaging planning while artwork is being finalised. However, you will need print-ready files by the time packaging begins (filling and labelling). The safest approach is to run artwork in parallel with development — and use graphics support early to avoid delays.
Formulation is required when you don't yet have a production-ready formula and complete documentation. This includes new products, incomplete formulas, or products with taste/sensory challenges (ingestibles). Advanced formulation is required for products targeting vulnerable populations (children, elderly, pregnant/breastfeeding).
The main trade-off is a higher unit cost because fixed setup costs are spread across fewer units. Low MOQs reduce upfront risk, but squeeze margins and can cause fast stockouts if demand is strong. Many startups use MOQ to validate demand, then improve unit economics on reorder.
This is common. Packaging suppliers often have higher minimums than your first run. You can purchase excess packaging and store it for reorders, use digital labels for lower quantities, or align packaging choices early to reduce waste. We can help coordinate packaging to match your batch plan.
Usually yes. Once the formula, packaging system and documentation are established, repeat runs are smoother. Setup and development work is largely done, so reorders often have fewer one-time costs and less back-and-forth. Lead times still depend on ingredient and packaging supply and production scheduling.
Products sold as foods/supplements must comply with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, including labelling and permitted claims. We focus on food-type supplements. If your concept depends on therapeutic claims, it may trigger a TGA pathway. We can flag label red flags early and help you stay within appropriate boundaries.