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Opening a Farm Shop? 5 Tips for Cost-Effective Printed Bags
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Opening a farm shop, deli or café is an exciting step for any rural business. There is plenty to think about, from the shop layout and point-of-sale system to finding local suppliers. Packaging is another part of the planning, and printed paper bags are a simple way to get your branding seen by customers after they leave your shop.
At Templecoombe Ltd, we regularly help businesses with their first printed bag order. Here are five practical tips to help keep the costs down while still creating bags that are an investment in your brand..
1. Keep the number of sizes to a minimum
It can be tempting to order several different bag sizes, but for a new business it is often better to start with one or two versatile sizes.
A medium twisted-handle or flat-handle bag can be suitable for a range of products, from jars of honey and fresh bread to cheese and other local produce. Ordering larger quantities of fewer sizes can also help to reduce the price per bag.
2. Consider using one or two colours
You don't necessarily need a full-colour print to create an attractive bag. A simple one or two-colour design can work very well, particularly on natural brown kraft paper.
Dark green, black or another strong colour can give a natural, traditional look while keeping the printing relatively straightforward.
3. Look at natural brown kraft paper
Natural brown kraft is a popular choice for farm shops as it fits well with the look and feel of locally produced and natural products. It also avoids the need for a fully white paper, which can make it a practical and cost-effective option.
4. Make your design work for the whole business
If your farm includes a shop, café, pick-your-own or other activities, think about how the bags can be used across the business.
Rather than printing something very specific such as "Farm Café Takeaway", a design based around your main farm branding, website and contact details can be used for different parts of the business.
5. Give yourself plenty of time
It is always worth allowing enough time for your printed bags to be produced, particularly if you are opening a new shop. Anything rushed reduces production options and often attracts a surcharge. In addition, it may limit you to an inferior print at the same cost as a more sophisticated version; only available with more time.
There are plenty of paper and printing options available, so ordering early gives you time to look at samples, finalise your artwork and make sure the bags are ready for opening day.
Need help with your printed bags?
If you're visiting the show, come and see us at the Templecoombe Ltd stand number FM634. We will have a selection of bags and samples available to look at, and our team will be happy to discuss your requirements and provide a quotation.