What Should Businesses Look for in a Linerless Label Manufacturer?

I'm researching how companies assess niche manufacturing partners when scaling operations. For example, when comparing a linerless label manufacturer like Formers Paper against other suppliers, what metrics matter most, cost efficiency, production capacity, lead times, or sustainability?

Has anyone worked with a linerless label manufacturer such as Formers Paper or similar companies during procurement or expansion projects? Interested in hearing how businesses approach supplier evaluation and long-term partnerships.