When you hear the term “CPG consultant,” what comes to mind? A team of experts providing all the answers to a brand’s challenges? If you’re like many, you may have some misunderstandings about what a CPG consultant actually does. This uncertainty often stems from common misconceptions that can cloud the decision-making process. But here’s the good news: understanding the true role of a CPG consultant can help you tap into their full potential.
In this blog, we’ll clear up the five biggest misconceptions about CPG consultants, offering a clearer picture of how they can truly benefit your brand. Let’s start by setting the record straight.
1. CPG Consultants Are the Same as Brokers
One of the most prevalent myths is that CPG consultants and brokers play the same role. While brokers are responsible for connecting CPG brands with retailers, consultants are more focused on strategic advice, market positioning, and optimizing business operations. A CPG brand consultant helps with identifying new growth opportunities, while a broker handles the transactional side. The confusion often arises because both are involved in moving a product from one place to another—but in very different ways.
2. Consultants Can Solve Every Problem for Your Brand
Another misconception is that a consultant for the CPG industry will provide an all-in-one solution to your brand’s struggles. While CPG consultants bring valuable expertise to the table, they are not miracle workers. Their role is to offer advice, insights, and strategies based on data and industry trends, but the execution of these ideas falls to your team. A consultant can only guide you to the best path forward; they won’t do the heavy lifting for you.
3. CPG Consulting Solutions Are Only for Big Brands
Many smaller or emerging brands mistakenly believe that CPG consulting solutions are reserved for the big players in the market. This couldn’t be further from the truth. While large brands may have larger budgets, CPG consultants provide strategies and insights that can be invaluable for companies of all sizes. Whether you’re a startup or an established name, a CPG brand consultant can help you optimize your product, refine your market approach, and gain a competitive edge.
4. Hiring a CPG Consulting Agency Is Too Expensive
There’s a common belief that hiring a CPG consulting agency will drain your budget with little return on investment. While consulting services can be costly, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits. A consultant can help you avoid costly mistakes, streamline your processes, and ultimately increase your brand’s profitability. When weighed against the potential for improved efficiency and growth, the investment often pays off.
5. All CPG Consultants Offer the Same Expertise
Not all CPG consultants are created equal. This misconception leads companies to assume that hiring any consultant will give them the same results. In reality, different consultants bring varying levels of expertise depending on their niche. Some specialize in market research, while others focus on branding, sales strategies, or operational improvements. It’s important to choose a consultant whose expertise aligns with your specific needs to achieve the best outcomes.
Are You Ready to Work with the Right Consultant?
Now that we’ve debunked these common misconceptions, it’s clear that a CPG consultant can offer invaluable guidance, but only if you know what to expect. If you’re looking for the right fit for your brand’s needs, a well-matched expert can make all the difference.
At Emerge Natural Sales Solutions, we can connect you with the ideal CPG consultant who fits your brand’s goals and challenges. Reach out to us today and find the right professional to guide you toward success.
