When it comes to choosing the right bags for your business, even the smallest ones, first you have to consider the type you want. That is because the array of options of small gift bags is huge, ranging in appearance, size, style, colour and material, and some of the most obvious choices you have these days are paper and plastic bags.
Whether you are into a jewellery business and you need elegant and sophisticated small present bags, or you have a specialised candle store, finding the right bags out of a myriad of choices is easy when you consider these two main materials: paper and plastic. Having the right packaging won’t only improve your brand reputation, but it will also protect the products and increase brand awareness.
Paper vs. Plastic
Regardless of the type of your business, having the right small gift bags can make a difference, as the choice is huge. Aside from the usual things like choosing carriers with smaller or larger handles, twisted or not, printed or not, the most important thing is to choose the right material, because plastic/paper bags might or might not be the right choice for your business.
Paper
The first and most obvious thing that needs to be stated is that these cute, sturdy and appealing types of ‘totes’ are one of the best eco-friendly options available on the market. And precisely this is one of the main reasons why so many business owners have them as their first choice. But just like any other material, this one also has its pros and cons, so make sure to take them into account before making any decision.
Pros
Eco-Friendly
As already mentioned, this material is eco-friendly and, consequently, these ‘totes’ are considered a great environmentally friendly option. This goes mainly to those that are made from recycled paper materials, making them also a great biodegradable option.
Sophisticated Feel and Appearance
When compared to plastic, these pouches certainly are more elegant, appealing, and luxurious-looking. Even to the touch, small gift bags made from paper seem more sophisticated, which is one of the main reasons why they are the first choice made by high-end retailers.
Excellent Brand Promotion
Being made from paper means that they allow for printing. They also allow for the use of stamps and stickers on them, and if your business is related to crafts and DIY projects, you can even draw and paint on them to make them more unique. All of these things are a great chance for your business to be noticed by many people, making it a great way to promote it.
Reusable and Sturdy
The truth is that today’s bags made from paper are sturdy and durable, especially the ones with reinforced handles, making them perfect for being reused.
Cons
Less Water-Resistant
This is maybe one of the first things that needs to be stated about these pouches, in case this is something you care about. However, this particular con is mostly important for food businesses that offer delivery, otherwise, this particular con can’t hurt your business.
Higher Cost
When compared to plastic, it seems that the ones made from paper tend to be more expensive, however, you can always save a lot when ordering in bulk. So, if your business seeks the use of paper sacks, make sure to look for bulk offers.
Plastic
Pros
Cost-Effective
The first thing that needs to be noted about the small bags for presents made from plastic is that they are more affordable than the ones made from paper.
Durable and Water-Resistant
They also seem pretty durable, especially if the plastic is thicker. Being made from plastic also makes them resistant to water as well as grease, which isn’t the case with the ones made from paper. These benefits make them the perfect option for restaurants and food-related businesses.
Lightweight and Easy to Store
When compared to those made from paper, plastic ones are lighter in weight and easier to store. They don’t take up that much storage space, making them a great choice for those who are limited on space.
Reusable
Just like paper, some of these sacks can also be reused by customers for different needs.
Cons
Bad for the Environment
The first and most important con about these gift pouches is that they are bad for the environment. Being made from plastic makes them impossible to break down naturally. In fact, when exposed to the sun and some other weather elements, these pouches can release toxins and chemicals that are extremely harmful to the environment.
Limited Branding Aesthetic
Even though printing on plastic is possible, keep in mind that printing on it won’t be as effective and as eye-catching as printing on paper. Plus, printing on paper looks more luxurious than on plastic, so if brand promotion is an important goal for you, make sure to keep this con in mind.
Regulatory Restrictions
Given the fact that these small bags are made from plastic, many cities and states have banned or restricted their use. So before purchasing, be sure that they are allowed in the state you’re living in.
How Big Are Small Gift Bags?
Regardless of the material you choose, you can choose from some of the common sizes, like 7.60 x 5 x 10 and 13 x 7.60 x 21.60. Keep the business needs in mind to choose the suitable bag size. If you run a business that offers products in different sizes, then buying varying sizes could be the key to making the most of this purchase.