Top 6 Benefits Of Using Biodegradable Plastic Packaging!

Do you know plastic makes up to 13 percent of the waste stream? Yes, it represents about 32 million tons of waste, out of which only 9 percent goes into recycling programs.

What about the rest? It enters into the landfills. Then it pollutes the earth for more than hundreds of years. The biggest problem with plastic is that it takes extremely long period for it to break down. And all this contribute to massive problems with landfill waste; it becomes dreadful for the wildlife.

Thankfully, biodegradable plastics are there. They are the best alternate, which are specialized enzymatic, break down the material in a faster mode. It may break down over the course of several months. This technology has something more to offer, have a look;

It takes less amount of time to break down

As stated earlier, biodegradable packaging and bags acquire less time to break down. This simply means that it easily gets absorbed in the earth.

It needs less energy to produce

Do you know this type of plastics require less than half the energy than their non-biodegradable counterparts generally take? Thus, it is now possible to produce twice the amount of biodegradable packaging and bags in the same amount of energy.
It is easy to recycle

While these are manufactured from materials which are fully biodegradable, it simply means that these break down at a much faster rate. Hence, recycling takes less energy. For this reason, biodegradable plastics can be reused more resourcefully.

It is not toxic

When it is about the traditional plastics, the biggest disadvantage is that they are full of harmful by-products and chemicals. And these pose a danger when released during their breakdown process. But, biodegradable plastics are completely safe. No chemicals or toxins are released. It harmlessly breaks down and is absorbed into the earth without any harm.

It is renewable

Being made of biomass, biodegradable plastic is a completely renewable resource. Also it is an organic compound, making it easier to break down. As far as biomass is concerned, it includes grass, trees, plants, and several other organic materials which decompose.

It is beneficial for the environment

Without any doubt, biodegradable plastics are better for the environment. While they do less harm to the earth, on the other hand when recovering fossil fuels this process releases very few greenhouse gas and harmful carbon emissions. Moreover, biodegradable plastics don’t need oil for their manufacturing, like the other plastic. Hence, it causes less pollution to the environment.

So, these were some of the reasons which make biodegradable plastics significant in the world of packaging today. They are of great importance for the future of the planet.

Recycling Rules: You Must Know Them!

People all across the world are stepping actively towards recycling moment. But often between the multicolored bins, sticky bottles, recycling can, complex facilities, etc. appears to be very daunting.

Not a problem anymore! It will just take fewer efforts to make a good decision in keeping the throwaway items from being lost in a landfill. Here are listed some essential tips for recycling:

Learn about your area:

The first thing you need to know is that recycling procedures vary from state to state. Hence, it is highly important to learn what all is allowed in your area. It will be helpful in determining how to separate various materials, where to leave your recycling bins, what you can recycle, etc.

Keep your recyclable containers clean:

Don’t go by the fact that the recycling centers will toss out containers just because they’re dirty. Yes, in the recyclables market, the cleaner containers are worth more. Reason being, these are easier and cheaper to process.

Strictly avoid these items in the recycling bin:

There are few items like plastic bags, which can jam up the equipment of any recycling facility. Hence, you must be very careful while adding them to recycling bins.

Other stuff can be those take-out food containers, pizza delivery box, bottles carrying hazardous liquids or old batteries. While some of the can be dangerous, others are hard to recycle.

Complicated symbols need you attention:

When it is about plastic containers, these are labeled with a resin identification code (RIC). Basically, this code describes the grade of plastic you’re using, and also how well it can be recycled. In this case, the label 1 and 2 fall in the category which can be recycled at almost every recycling center. Then there are number 3, 6 and 7 which cannot be recycled and need to be added directly in the trash. What about the 4 and 5 labels? These can be recycled at some specific recycling centers; you need to call those centers for confirmation.

Learn to separate your recyclables:

Well, this will depend on your municipality recycling system. For example, in some states, it is must to separate aluminum, glass and plastic. However, in New York you only have to separate paper materials from the rest. You are advised to check in with your waste services program for this.

Thus, follow the above stated rules of recycling, and you’ll be able to adapt a green routine in no time!

Top 5 Shopping Bags: Now these are Available at the Wholesale Prices in US.

Do you want your business to grow rapidly? Are you looking for a way to improve your branding, meanwhile adding convenience for your customers?

Then your solution is there with the right choice of shopping bags, which your provide to your customers. Yes, you can simply get them customized with your company or business logo, address, telephone number, or any other message and attract more consumers. While these bags appear to be highly tempting, on the other hand, the right quality bags make it easier for the users to carry your products. What are you thinking now, the expenses for high quality shopping bags? Well, not to worry!

You can now give a cutthroat competition to your contenders, that too paying the lowest possible prices. You can get different types of shopping bags at wholesale prices anywhere across US. Isn’t that all you have been waiting for!

Have a look at the top five variants, you can pick from:

1. Vinyl Bags:

You can get those custom vinyl bags for your business. If you are really looking to offer a safe and secure option for travel and theft prevention, vinyl bags serves you the best. With superior strength and durability, these bags are a clear choice for the upscale retail packaging. And believe it; the products contained within will do the talking for your business. Hence, if you are dealing with skincare products, perfumes or travel related retail products, this can be a great choice.

You can get them in different shapes, sizes and quantities. Thus, consumers will enjoy a hassle-free storage and carriage. In addition, you can add up a logo on the front to maximize your brand presence.

2. Non Woven Tote Bags:

Customers are nowadays looking for bags which are environment friendly. What about the reusable non woven tote bags? While these are eco friendly, these come in hundreds of styles. So, you can choose these ultra compact non woven tote shopping bags for, which are perfect for shopping, transporting items, storage and much more. In case, you want it for food products, you can pick insulated non woven bags which ensures sustainable material and smart design, altogether. Being multi functional, these are easy to carry.

3. Garment and Dry Cleaner Bags:

For your garment business, you need an intelligent solution which not only protects the garments, but also keep them wrinkle free. Luckily, there are special bags which offer an opportunity to keep your stuff safe and maintain your brand your image. All you need is dry cleaning bags and plastic garment bags. Now, whether you need to ship cocktail party attire or a bride’s wedding gown, you can do it without any fear. Moreover, get them printed with your logo design or/ and contact number to brand your image.

4. Food Packaging bags:

The food industry has gone under a sea of change in the last decade. And without a doubt the competition in the food packaging field is fierce. For this, you must have the right type of packaging solution for your products. This category includes a large variety of shopping bags. Whether it is about stand up pouches, flat pouches, or the side gusseted bags, you need to ensure that you provide FDA approved bags. These are safe for all types of food items like fruits, nuts, coffee, liquids, grains, jerky, spices, pet food, breads and lots more. Along this, these bags must be resistant to light, oxygen and moisture.

5. Euro Tote Bags:

When it comes to presentation, nothing serves better than these types of bags. Being recyclable, environmentally friendly and reusable, Euro tote bags fits your business needs. You can get these customized for the size and gauge specifications easily. Present your consumers a superior quality and shopping experience with these bags.

To conclude, remember, gone are the days when consumers sacrificed the comfort and ease for the sake of great looks. Now the users wittily seek out for stuff which serves the best and offers amazing looks, altogether. So, differentiate yourself from your competitors with any of the aforementioned shopping bags!

4 Retail packaging for the businesses in 2016

As per the branding experts, it is highly important to create packaging designs which stand out on the shelf. This helps in establishing customer’s loyalty. Undoubtedly, marketers and branding professionals will lend you with endless options. But in order to serve your customers with nothing less than the best, you need to be aware of the latest trends. Find out them here.

Packaging design standards are never same. They have been changing and evolving with the passage of time, as per the consumer desires. And if you really wish to rule the market, all you need is a mastering packaging design. Remember, it doesn’t involve only knowing your brand. It is about connecting with the cultural trends which resonate with the target audience.

What? Trying to keep up with trends? Well, you problem is solved here. Checkout some of the amazing trends for 2016 here:

Action-oriented and environment friendly

If you want to make a real difference, environmentally friendly design is the popular trend to go with. Businesses need to take an action-oriented approach. This will help earning customer trust by presenting earth-friendly policies and your responsibility towards sourced materials. It is often seen that customers look for products which that make them feel closer to nature.

Abstract art will work magically

Nowadays package designers will do anything to make a product catch the consumers’ eyes. Thus, you can also try the same. It can be neon colors, giant lettering, or even extreme minimalism. This type of packaging is getting popular in 2016. Many big and small brands have begun trading out these loud design elements. The reason is simple; it offers more elegant and art-focused look.

Hold on the old school approach

Yes, it is 2016, but the packaging trends will definitely take you back in the history. The playful spins on old trends are getting popular. It can be a design from prohibition-era or a vintage-style tattoo. You will easily observe multiple retro design requests to cater the hipsters target market. So, if you are running a business which has something to do with youthfulness, you can add quirky humor with vintage design approach.

Handmade with love

For those busy adults, intricate patterns and scenes were something used to explore their creative side. And now it has been observed that consumers are leaning toward the handmade more. Actually, this growing trend is a sign for authenticity and honesty. Hence, you can gift your consumers a small-batch or anything which is crafty.

So, with these you’re ready to get ahead and beat out your contenders. Choose the best packaging designs for your business and step ahead!

Essential Tips To Select the Right Retail Bags for Your Business!

For every business, it is important to differentiate from the competitors. And all the difference you make depends on your marketing plan…

“The aim of marketing is to know and understand the customer so well the product or service fits him and sells itself.”

But, nowadays it is no more constrained to the products and services. There are several other factors influencing. Hence, in order to standout in the competitive market place, it is vital to think and implement some innovative ways. You need to think out of the box to make your target market buy from you.

Choosing the right type of retail bags can be a crucial decision for your business. There are number of factors to be considered including the type of material used, cost, durability, etc. Let’s help you to select the one which best suit the needs of you customers. Here are some tips to consider:

You need to be very careful while choosing retail packaging stuff if you are into animal feeds and food supply. Make sure you get the correct grade of bag so that the content is suitable for the animal or human consumption.
Are you into sand or gravel business? Then you need to ensure that you pick the builders bags. These offer highest durability and are resistant to wears and tears.
For the retail environment businesses, who wish to reduce the use of plastic bags, paper packaging would be better. This will be more beneficial option for both, you and your customers.
If you have been using paper bags for long and now want to replace them with something more durable, high quality plastic bags can be chosen.
Other thing to be noted is to get your bags customized. You can simply get the bag printed with your logo and contact details. Let the people know you, where to contact you, and so on. You’ll get plenty of free advertising.
If you are working in a location where there’s risk of flooding, i.e. for emergency services, sandbags are the perfect solution. Hence, if you live near a canal or river, these help you rest assured that you’re protected.
If you are chemical manufacturer or distributor, you can pick up the packing stuff which holds chemicals and avoid contamination and spillage.
Looking for a great alternative to wheeled bins, recycling bags will be the right choice. It will simple make sorting out and collecting recyclable items easy for you.
Go for reusable bags. This helps you reduce your costs and it is nice way to make your customers reuse the same bags, and put their contribution in saving environment.

Being an entrepreneur, it is important to understand the basic needs of your consumers. Moreover, you must keep an eye of the ongoing trend in the industry. For many businesses owners, shopping bags can as a simple object used by the customers to carry all the purchases. But for an intelligent business man, it is a tool to attract more customers and form brand awareness in the market. Hence, make a smart decision, and choose the retail bags wisely.

Stand-Up Pouches: Are They Making Up To The Future Of Packaging?

In the last few years, an exponential growth has been observed in the U.S. market for products with stand-up pouches. Together with Canada, it has used around 19.8 billion stand-up pouches in the last year.

And that’s not all! As per the report issued by PCI Films, “The U.S. Market for Stand-up Pouches to 2018”, a steady growth is expected in the market. The report shares the detailed information regarding the U.S. stand-up pouch market by volume, the trends of pouches in more than 30 sectors, existing and planned filling capacities, and lots more. Majorly, it forecasts the growth of the market through 2018, which depicts how the market will develop.

In case, you are also planning for this mode of packaging for your products, here are some reasons to help you make a quick decision. Read on:

Customization gets easier

Label is an essential part of any rigid package, and yes, it adds to the total cost of the filling process. Being supplied from a different supplier, these labels often turn out to be a chokepoint in the filling process. However, in case of flexible packaging, or pouches, the full printing features along with the lamination of the films are included. Thus, it marginally increases the cost of the pouch, without affecting the filling process.

In addition, there are endless printing options, giving you freedom to decorate.

Barrier properties

Another major advantage of flexible packaging over rigid packaging is that it serves you with the ability to ‘dial-in’ the appropriate barrier for the product and end-use. For example, your end product is such as juices or some other type of drink, which needs a reasonable oxygen barrier. The traditional bottles, the one made from PET or glass provide a barrier for all products, whether it is needed or not.

However, pouches can be supplied with barrier properties. Hence, you have an option to provide moisture and aroma protection, and to restrict the same.

It is light weight:

Let’s illustrate with an example, the bottled water. If it is your product, your main aim would be somewhere around making the packing lighter and producing less waste. These stand-up pouches serve both the purposes. Do you know the use of pouches will help water companies to reduce their packaging weight by 50 percent? Hence, your next smart move needs to be replacing the plastic bottles with lightweight and flexible pouches.

Variation and dispensing in one step

Adding variety to the packing style is possible with these flexible plastic films. You can craft them into any shape, add handles, modify fitments, and blend opening features. Nowadays these come with advanced dispensing functions like scored tear features and screw-top caps. So, flexible packaging is ideal for enhancing rigid packs, meanwhile adding attractive decoration features to the same.

Greater sizes

Thanks to the advanced technology, now flexible packaging has significantly increased the ability to produce packaging of ever-larger sizes. Yes, now you can benefit your business with larger retail flexible packages.

And these reasons are sufficient to explain the future and why there will be a definite increase in volume of stand-up pouch. Moreover, the users can expect advancements in re-sealable packages, seal packages, etc., which will continue expanding as per their needs.

NYC’s 5-Cent Plastic Bag Tax Fee Delayed (Until February)

Big news for the city shoppers- now at least till February, you don’t need to pay five cents for plastic shopping bags. Yes, you read it right!

On Tuesday evening, the state Senate passed a bill stating that it would stop the city’s shopping bag fee, which was in its tracks recently. It was the speakers of the Assembly and the City Council, making a combined agreement to the delay for the fee’s implementation. Now it is extended up to next February.

As per the city law, the shoppers were to charge 5 cents per shopping bag. But now the elected officials have put a pause on this so called a “plastic bag fee”. This charge was for both plastic and paper bags. It was the assemblyman Michael Cusick who sponsored the state bill to undo the city’s law. Along with his senators, it was him to argue that the fee is a tax applied unevenly to certain kinds of shoppers. And, it was nothing more than another tax on the middle class folks. Thus, in an agreement with Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, it was decided to delay implementation of the fee by the Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, from October to February.

Now when the anti-fee bill passed the Senate, the next one, i.e. the Assembly bill will be something harder to be. Meanwhile, Mark-Viverito, the Speaker of the New York City Council and the Council member for the 8th District, in a statement said that whether it is about reducing greenhouse gas emissions or strengthening the city’s air code, the City Council is proud of the success attained so far and will continue to make similar efforts!

Albany Pols Express their love for Plastic Bags!

While the world is running behind methods to make earth a pollution free planet, there is something coming opposite from the New York State Legislature. If you remember, the recently adopted 5 cent fee on disposable plastic shopping bags, yes, for the same now it turns out. The Albany venalities are rising in number, having bribing, extorting, and influence-peddling in the top list. And now one more step to hinder the good work. With an aim to squelch the New York City’s recently adopted fee for the disposable plastic shopping bags, Albany session comes with a noxious bill.

What was the ‘5 cent fee’ plan?

It took several years for the City Council to come up finally with the wrought compromise, in the form of passed fee, as an antipollution measure. Basically, the purpose was to significantly reduce the use of the bags, which are well known for their ubiquity and indestructibility. With the passage of time, these have turned up as one of the city’s signature eyesores, and of course, a serious environmental threat.

What is the state legislation up to?

Now sponsored in the Assembly by Michael Cusick, a Staten Island Democrat, and in the Senate by Simcha Felder, a Brooklyn Democrat, the legislation is about to forbid any city from imposing fees or taxes. As per the reports, this decision has been taken to discourage the use of plastic bags.

Simply, the measure would make the city accept the perpetuation of the plastic-trash. So, probably these will continue festooning tree branches, clogging the sewers, and littering on sidewalks. As compared to New York City, Albany seems to be more powerful. The plastic-bag-makers are the lobbyists, scoring high these days.

The cities which have already tried the fee structure, have found it working splendidly. But for the legislation, it is not the tax, to be worried for. In fact, it is the nickel, which causes inconvenience. Just for meddlesome reasons, Albany pols are there to overrule the City Council. While it was simple to get hands on disposable bags through the decision by the City Council, but if the Legislature persists in passing such a meddling bill, it is will be an awful act.

Stand Up Pouch Packaging: The Newer Way To Success!

Packaging industry has gone through the sea of change over the last decade. While several innovations come and go, the one ruling the market these days is of stand-up pouches. Yes, these have come forth as a revolutionizing packaging for countless industries. Here is a list of some advantages you need to know about them.

In every industry the competition is getting harder day by day. For example, food and beverage industry, there is a flurry of products in the market. In order to entice the customers and keep them buying your product, you need to think over the edge. Simply focusing on quality might not lead to the desired results. How can you you’re your products stand out in the crowd of other similar products? Here comes packaging!

Well, it is not constrained to the same industry, and many other businesses too are benefiting from it. And among this, the recent trend is of those durable and easy to carry stand up pouches. These are a form of flexible packaging and are generally a blend of plastic, aluminum, and other materials. Being strong, these protect your products from both, environmental and physical hazards. That’s not all!

Below are listed some major advantages of these pouches;

FDA certificate:

Buyers are highly concerned about the quality of products they purchase. This is probably a reason why they look for the ‘safest’ option available. So, for your business there will be no better endorsement than having FDA certification. Yes, stating ‘FDA compliant packaging’ on the label of your product will be no less than a blessing to increase your sales and win over the customer’s loyalty.

Lower shipment costs:

Have you even calculated the cost of shipment and how it affects the price of your products? If not, do the same today and just check how much your sales can increase if you cut down the price. Stand up pouches allows you to cut down the shipping costs twice.

Being lightweight and shipped flat, it’s cheaper to deliver the pouches to and from the production site.
It lowers the overall weight of the packaged product.
It simplifies the way to arrange, cutting down on the space required.

In all, reduces the shipping costs and benefits your business.

Versatility of design:

You might have been dealing with those tin cans or jars. In that case, the labeling options were limited. And if there were some tech solutions to go for an extraordinary kind of design, the problem arises with cost of doing so. Hence, limited options and budget somewhere hold back your creative packing plans. Not anymore you! For the high level of competition, now businesses can go ahead with innovative packaging ideas, without putting a big hole in their pocket with these stand-up pouches. These can be easily customized and make branding an easier task. Beautiful and colorful design will cost you very little.

Reusability:

Yes, these flexible packaging options are reusable. Generally, stand up pouches come with zip locks, spouts, and re-sealable seals. While these features make it usage more convenient, it gives an option to reuse the same pack. In case, your consumers are looking for more convenience in an eco- friendly manner, this feature can be an added advantage. It can be helpful in increasing the sales.

Better brand image:

Looking for creative packaging for your business? Nothing serves you better this. You can simply make your brand more visually appealing. And when you keep it environmentally friendly, users feel great about using your product.

Hence, if you have been worrying for the dangers your products face during transport and storage, you have the right solution. Stand up pouches are more convenient and usable. And the good thing is that the manufacturers can now experiment with attractive designs and attract the users!

The Disposable Bags Get Approval from NYC Lawmakers for 5-Cent Charge

Now you’ll be charged for that plastic bag you use at the grocery store. Yes, you read it right! The New York City Council committee recently recommended a 5 cent fee, which was passed in a 28-20 vote. The supporters are expecting this to make New York cleaner and a great step to protect the environment. It is said to work well in many other cities and countries. And the same is expected here.

Well, the proposed law has been a much talked about topic for more than two years. Basically, it is an idea to give people a financial incentive to make a switch over to reusable bags. And as for now the law states that grocery stores will now charge at least 5 cents for every plastic or paper carryout bag for the customers who don’t get their own reusable bags.

What was the Problem?

Thousands of New Yorkers, every minute and every day, reach across the counter at supermarkets and shops, accepting disposable plastic bag, without a second thought. The ever rising number of these bags led to a significant rise in the city’s sanitation problems. It is estimated that nearly 10 billion bags a year are tossed in the trash, i.e. making it 19,000 for every minute. That’s really huge!

As for now, the city officials poised to test whether this 5-cent charge will stop New Yorkers from utilizing those convenient, but environmentally unfriendly sacks or not. The bill was approved by the City Council. According to it, most merchants need to charge customers at least a nickel for every bag they demand. And it also includes those bags made of paper. This isn’t a tax and the stores will get to keep the collected money.

What People Have to Say?

The bill gets a mixed bag of reactions. As far as the supporters are concerned, they are hoping that the extra charge will make the New Yorkers think twice before accepting the bag. And they will perhaps start bringing their own. Finally, expecting to reduce the number of bags, filling the landfills that blow into the trees and waterways!

For the Mayor Bill de Blasio, it is a goal of making zero waste to landfills by 2030. He is excited over this and will sign the bill, which is expected to take effect from Oct. 1. And if the law is enacted, New York City will become a part of more than 150 other municipalities all over the globe, which have already passed ordinances to charge a fee for bags or to ban the single-use plastic bags.

It was the former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg who proposed a plastic bag charge for the first time in 2008. However, the idea was dropped due to its failure in getting support from the City Council. Then the current bill was introduced in 2014. It was for 10 cents, but now it has been amended to slash the per-bag fee to 5. So, for now it will be the time to decide what the law for ubiquitous and easily torn plastic bags from the grocery store will bring forth in New York City!

MInority Business Enterprise (MBE)