Will Nitze - The Do-It-Yourself Ops guy shares a contrarian take on 3PLs & Sustainability [The Source Refresh Podcast, Ep 12]

EPISODE DESCRIPTION 

My guest in this episode is Will Nitze, founder and CEO of IQBar. IQBar has three product lines - plant protein bars, hydration mixes, and instant coffee, all formulated with functional ingredients designed to promote cognitive performance.    

Will shares his experiences using 3PLs, co-manufacturers, along with a refreshing perspective on whether it is acceptable to task small businesses with environmental sustainability goals. 

SHOW NOTES 

I wanted to see first-hand how IQ Bar delivers on its supply chain, and in preparation for this interview, I purchased a sampler pack. Not only did it arrive within 2 days and is now my go-to healthy snack, I was impressed with the kitting and the USPS postal delivery which hinted at efficiency. 

So, of course, we dive right into 3PL (Third Party Logistics) and IQ Bar's experiences using a third-party service provider. A 3 PL provider typically provides distribution, storage, kitting, transportation, and order fulfillment services to customers. You'd think that's how IQ Bar delivers excellence, but Will shares the full story behind-the-scenes. 

We also talk about  co-manufacturing and Will details the different options brands have when working with co-manufacturers. Best practices, negotiations, demand planning - there's a bit of everything in this conversation. 

We wrap up with Will's contrarian take on sustainability, and I urge you to listen and think - and it may just make you feel a bit better too about your own role in this massive undertaking. 

Check out Will Nitze on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-nitze/

And absolutely try some of his bars - https://www.eatiqbar.com/

CALL TO ACTION 

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