When looking to expand your merchandise with quality cutting tools, finding a reliable manufacturer is crucial. In terms of private label services, the options they offer and the diversity of it is important. Some only offer a simple wholesale + packaging. While others may help you design packaging, engraving logos, etc. Those that cater to your brand needs, allowing you to establish a strong presence in the market.
Choosing a manufacturer that can provide you with a plethora of options is important too. With a large catalog. From basic utility knives to high-end, custom-designed pieces.
In the following list, we’ll introduce you to some of the most reputable private label pocket knife manufacturers. These companies have been selected based on their manufacturing capabilities, design expertise, and customer service quality. With this information, you can confidently choose a partner that aligns with your business goals and ethos, paving the way for a robust product line that resonates with your target audience.
What does private label mean?
When a product is branded with the name of a retailer or an independent seller, rather than the original manufacturer, it is a private labeled product. And most brands will not disclose that information. In the case of pocket knives, this means that a manufacturer produces the knives, which are then branded and marketed under a different company’s brand name.
Private label products are prevalent across various industries because they allow retailers to offer exclusive merchandise without the extensive costs associated with designing and manufacturing the items themselves. Additionally, private label products often provide higher profit margins than traditional resale items.
Private labeling options
Your involvement with private label manufacturers can range from selecting pre-existing designs and adding your branding to them, to providing custom specifications for a unique product exclusively for your brand. Some options include:
- Packaging
- Logo prints, engrave
The benefits of going to the private label route include brand control, providing you with the autonomy to mold the image and reputation of your products according to your vision.
Additionally, this approach ensures exclusivity, as the products become distinctively tied to your brand, effectively setting you apart from competitors. This exclusivity not only enhances your market presence but also fosters customer loyalty. By offering unique products that cannot be found elsewhere, your brand has the potential to build a robust and dedicated customer base, further solidifying its position in the market.
A list of private label knife manufacturers
1. Kegani
Kegani stands as a world-leading knife manufacturer, boasting years of industry expertise. We take pride in crafting top-notch products that cater to the diverse needs of knife businesses and brands. Our commitment to precision, functionality, and innovation sets us apart, making Kegani the trusted partner for those aspiring for excellence in the knife industry.
Specializing in pocket knives, both fixed blade and folding blades, we’ve collaborated with numerous brands worldwide. Our offerings include private label services, bulk purchasing, and OEM options that lets you customize a knife from scratch. At Kegani, we’re always excited to collaborate with talented knife designers from across the globe!
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2. LeeKnives
Situated in Yangjiang, LeeKnives has established itself as a notable name among private label knife manufacturers. They provide an array of services, including private label, OEM, and even dropshipping. Coupled with a diverse catalog, from kitchen supplies to pocket knives, their focus revolves around the blade, with offerings made from various steel types, catering to both higher-end and lower-end preferences.
Having collaborated with numerous brands from the US and Europe, evidence on their front page and user reviews on Trustpilot speaks to their reputable partnerships and satisfied clientele.
3. Blue ridge knives and Ontario knife company
Ontario Knife Company (OKC) and Blue Ridge Knives (BRK) stand out as significant names in the US pocket knife market, each boasting an extensive history and a dedicated following. Notably, these two brands are now intertwined since Blue Ridge Knives acquired OKC in August 2023, leading to the indefinite closure of OKC’s headquarters.
While it’s uncertain whether OKC continues to offer private labeling services as they once did, it is confirmed that their B2C line will continue to operate. The majority of their knives are outsourced to China and Taiwan, and these contracts persist even after Blue Ridge’s takeover.
For inquiries related to wholesale and private labeling, you can still reach out to Blue Ridge Knives. They stand as one of the largest knife distributors in the US, boasting a comprehensive catalog of over 2000 knives.
4. ESEE knives
Much like OKC, ESEE knives operate their own storefront, allowing direct sales to end customers. While they continue to provide wholesale purchases and private label services, the knives are manufactured by Rowen in Idaho.
Specialized in EDC knives. ESEE stands out by offering a lifetime warranty, making them an attractive choice for those in America seeking a convenient albeit slightly more expensive avenue into the knife business.
5. Ernst klever gmbh
Ernst Klever GmbH, a family-run cutlery manufacturer, has been dedicated to producing quality cutlery for over 80 years, proudly stamped with the “Made in Solingen” seal. Now in its third generation of management, this family business is situated in Solingen, Germany, a city renowned for its cutlery tradition. Operating both domestically and internationally, the company supplies traditional kitchen knives to a wide range of businesses. The excellence of Klever’s cutlery is distributed worldwide through esteemed companies to various retail outlets.
This family-run enterprise seamlessly blends the rich cutlery heritage of Solingen with contemporary and vibrant designs. The product line includes elegantly shaped knives and peelers available in a diverse array of colorful handles. From trending hues to unique custom colors
6. R. Murphy Knives
Established in 1850 by Robert and John Murphy in Boston, J & R Murphy has been a prominent cutlery manufacturer for over 160 years. Originally crafting dental and surgical instruments, the family business expanded to Mansfield, Mass., and later to Ayer, where it still operates.
Specializing in oyster knives, kitchen knives, roofing, and rubbing knives, the company’s rich history and commitment to quality have endured through various owners. Acquired by Dexter-Russell, Inc. in 2018, R. Murphy Knives continues its legacy of producing high-quality, ‘Made in the USA’ cutlery.
7. Felix Solingen
FELIX SOLINGEN GMBH, established in 1790, stands as one of the world’s oldest knife manufacturers. Renowned for unique and high-quality knives.
With around 45 meticulous procedures, predominantly by hand, FELIX knives showcase traditional craftsmanship. The brand’s tradition and commitment to quality continue, making FELIX Solingen a timeless choice for handmade knives. Opting to wholesale from them ensures quality, but their products are experiencing a decline, appearing outdated and relatively expensive.
8. Everwealth Kitchen Knife
EVERWEALTH, a professional kitchen knife manufacturer and exporter, was established in Yangjiang city in 2009. Operating from 10,000 square meters workshops with advanced equipment and a team of 150 staff, they boast a strong cadre of engineers and designers with over a decade of experience in the field, consistently developing a variety of new products annually.
As a Chinese private label manufacturer, EVERWEALTH has a more focused catalog, primarily centered around kitchen knives. Notably, their expertise shines in working with stainless steel knives, and their participation in several US fairs and collaborations with various brands underscores their experience. It’s worth noting that their product range appears to lean towards the lower-end spectrum.
How to evaluate and select private label manufacturer
When choosing a private label knife manufacturer, it’s crucial to assess various aspects to ensure they meet your specific needs.
Quality and craftsmanship
Request samples from various suppliers to assess the quality of materials and craftsmanship. Scrutinize the precision of the blade, the sturdiness of the handle, and the overall finish of each product. Evaluate the quality of each sample meticulously before making a decision.
Manufacturing capabilities
Consider the manufacturing capabilities by assessing the manufacturer’s capacity to meet your required quantity. Inquire about their production volumes and turnaround times to ensure they align with your needs.
Delivery and logistics
Ensure their capability to consistently handle delivery schedules. Confirm whether they offer timely delivery, secure packaging, and efficient logistics to meet your requirements.
Reputation and reliability
Gather insights from businesses that have collaborated with them. Explore their reputation for reliability and customer service by checking online reviews and testimonials. Request references directly from the supplier to gain a comprehensive understanding.
Partnership potential
Evaluate if the manufacturer’s vision aligns with your brand, emphasizing a successful partnership based on mutual understanding, shared goals, and effective communication.
Cost considerations
Examine the financial implications of collaboration with the manufacturer, considering unit costs, minimum order quantities, and payment terms.
When you have gathered all the necessary information, weigh the pros and cons of each potential manufacturer before making your decision. Your ultimate choice should balance quality, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to meet your business needs.
Private label vs OEM
Original Equipment Manufacturer, or OEM for short, represents services allowing you to customize a product on a micro-scale level, altering its inherent designs and providing different uses. For knives, options include changing base materials, ergonomics, adding components, and adjusting locks and opening mechanisms.
All the options seem good, and they are indeed appealing. However, when you compare it to private label, which only lets you add branding options, OEM turns out to be more costly, time-consuming, and complicated. Building a successful blade through OEM demands extensive knowledge about knives.
But there’s no need to fret. At Kegani, we are a dedicated private label and OEM knife manufacturer, ready to guide you in the right direction. We can help you explore all the options available. With us, there’s no need to confine yourself to just one choice. You can leverage both OEM manufacturing and opt for private label services. Reach out to us, ask for a quote, and let’s kickstart a business together!
