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Once you figure out the answer to the basic question, “What is retail packaging?” you may be full of creative ideas for how your custom retail packaging can set you apart from the competition. And when you consider that recent studies show that 9 out of 10 consumers have reused a custom branded bag or box, it just makes sense to consider customizing your packaging. But before you let your imagination run wild, there are a few things you might want to take into consideration.

We’ve gathered a helpful checklist of questions to ask yourself before you commit to a huge order of retail shopping bags that don’t actually work for your business. Check them out below!

4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Buying Retail Shopping Bags

#1 – What Is the Most Efficient Bag for Your Business?

Though you may be a little hesitant about the slightly higher price of reusable canvas bags or other cotton and non-woven totes, don’t completely rule them out until you take into consideration how these bags may actually save, and make, you money in the long run.

How?

You could set up a loyalty or rewards program for customers who bring their reusable bags back on their next trip to your store, saving you money on bag costs while also helping the environment. Don’t forget that a cute, branded reusable bag will often be repurposed for many different things, and it’s not uncommon that your bag will be seen by multiple sets of eyes per day. Reusable totes and bags may cost more initially, but they have the potential to save you money as they’re essentially a walking billboard that could bring in new business.

Maybe you like the look of embossed, glossy hot stamping on plastic bags more than the eco-chic vibe of a reusable canvas bag. If you’re just starting your business, paper or plastic bags that are still reusable may be a more financially sound option that can still be as effective as they are useful.

HOT TIP: If you want to dress up your retail shopping bags a bit, why not finish them with custom .

#2 – Would You Like the Same Bag Year-Round, or More Seasonal Options?

You need to decide if you want to keep the same customized design on your bag throughout the year, or if you want to create a different set of customized retail bags for different seasons, holidays, store events, or major sales. Deciding whether or not to change up your bags will not only impact the size of your order, but it’ll also influence what kind of bag you order. If you want to order festive printed Christmas bags during the holiday season, then perhaps paper or plastic bags may make more sense, while you might consider a more eco-friendly or reusable option for your “year-round” shopping bag. That way, you can have the best of both worlds – a sleek bag for the majority of the shopping days throughout the year, and a festive, fun option for special occasions!

HOT TIP: If you switch your packaging, be sure to include similar logos or color schemes for brand consistency.

#3 – Which Type of Bag Is Consistent with Your Brand/Business Model?

Make sure that the bag your customers are toting around complements its contents! You don’t want to muddle the message of your brand. If you’re a higher-end store, make sure your packaging and shopping bags reflect this.

Think about the little things.

What will a handle feel like in your customer’s hand? Will it be soft and satiny? Or a tight piece of plastic that digs into their hands and wrists?

Think about the aesthetics.

A minimalistic bag that allows you to showcase your store’s name and logo front and center can say more than a busy print. And of course, if you’re a specialty store like a wine shop or pet store, use your industry as a guide…look into cute jute wine bags and paw-print plastic bags.

HOT TIP: Have you just opened a new location? Don’t shy away from the advertising opportunity your bags offer. Print your new address on your bag! You may end up reaching someone who otherwise wouldn’t know about you OR your new location!

#4 – How Transparent Do You Want to Be?

With so many options for your actual bag size, shape, and color, it’s easy to forget that you also have the choice of opaqueness! A frosted, semi-transparent look isn’t only elegant, it also allows customers to get excited about guessing what might be inside. If you like the idea of keeping the contents a secret though, or if you need a bit more stability for heavier, bulky purchases, then a non-transparent, solid bag will do the trick nicely.

HOT TIP: Smaller items, foods, and knick-knacks may be better displayed in a completely clear plastic bag tied with a festive ribbon.

Once you think about all these little things, there’s really only one last thing for you to decide…Are you ready to turn your packaging game up a notch?