Whether you’re a small, medium or large food and beverage manufacturer, taking the plunge and opening a new plant in a foreign country is a huge decision, often fraught with risks you may have never envisioned. But there are alternatives, and finding the one that makes sense for your operation can help propel your products into the global marketplace.

Co-manufacturing and co-packing get your foot in the door. Joint ventures (JVs) and partnerships with foreign companies combine manufacturing expertise with knowledge of local markets, customs, regulations and laws. Buying an existing manufacturing plant is an option, as it already comes with equipment and a workforce. Building a greenfield plant works if your brand has worldwide recognition, and you have experienced senior management that already understands the process in implementing new plants abroad.