Being that cotton is such an easy material to print on, most printing techniques work well on cotton tote bags. But there are several that we would advise for the best results…
Screen printing is a popular and versatile printing method for cotton bags. It involves applying ink through a stencil onto the fabric using a fine mesh screen.
The process starts by coating the mesh screen with a light-sensitive emulsion that is then exposed to light using a film positive of the design to create a stencil on the screen.
Once the screen is placed onto the cotton bag, ink is applied and pressed through the mesh onto the bag underneath using a squeegee. The printed bags are then left to dry and cured by heating them at a specific temperature for a set amount of time.
As a result, screen printing produces high-quality, long-lasting prints that are perfect for designs with solid colours.
Heat transfer printing involves using heat and pressure to transfer a design onto the fabric. The design is first printed onto a special transfer paper using a digital printer, and then the paper is placed onto the fabric and heated. The heat causes the ink to transfer onto the fabric, creating a permanent and durable print.
Heat transfer printing is ideal for printing detailed designs and photographs, as well as designs with multiple colours and gradients. It is also a good option for small volume orders, as it does not require a minimum order quantity.
Direct-to-garment printing, or DTG printing, is a digital printing technique that involves using a specialized inkjet printer to apply ink directly onto the fabric. DTG printing can produce high-quality prints with vibrant colours and intricate details. It is ideal for printing photographs, detailed designs, and designs with multiple colours and gradients.
DTG printing is also a good option for small volume orders, as it does not require a minimum order quantity. However, it may not be as cost-effective for large volume orders, as the printing process can be time-consuming.
Dye sublimation printing involves using heat to transfer dye onto the fabric. The design is first printed onto a special transfer paper using a digital printer, and then the paper is placed onto the fabric and heated. The heat causes the dye to vaporize and penetrate the fibres of the fabric, creating a permanent and vibrant print.
Dye sublimation printing is ideal for printing full-colour designs and photographs, as well as designs with complex patterns and gradients. It is also a good option for cotton bags made from polyester or a polyester blend, as the dye sublimation process works best on synthetic fabrics.
Embroidery is a classic and timeless technique for customizing cotton bags. It involves stitching a design or logo onto the fabric using coloured thread. Embroidery can create a textured and three-dimensional effect that adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to cotton bags.
Embroidery is ideal for printing small designs and logos, as well as designs with multiple colours. It is also a good option for cotton bags made from thicker fabrics, such as canvas or denim.
In conclusion, there are several printing techniques available for customizing cotton bags, each with its own unique benefits and applications. But screen printing, heat transfer printing, direct-to-garment printing, dye sublimation printing, and embroidery are five of the best printing techniques for cotton bags, depending on your design, quantity, and fabric.
By choosing the right printing technique, you can create custom reusable cotton bags that reflect your style and values, while promoting your brand and reducing your environmental impact.
]]>Fairtrade Fortnight is a two-week campaign that runs every year with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of fair trade and encouraging consumers to choose products that have the Fairtrade certification.
Fairtrade refers to the global movement, and certification system, that seeks to ensure that producers in developing countries are paid fairly for their labour and products. The main purpose of this movement is to combat poverty, inequality and exploitation in global trade.
This exploitation often takes the form of low wages, long working hours, poor working conditions, and environmental degradation, among other issues.
In addition, multinational corporations often have more power and resources than local producers and suppliers, which can lead to unfair business practices and unequal distribution of profits. For example, companies may force suppliers to accept low prices for their products or to meet unrealistic production targets, putting pressure on workers and leading to poor working conditions and labour rights violations.
During Fairtrade Fortnight, events are organized to promote Fairtrade products and inspire consumers to make more ethical purchasing choices.
The campaign also highlights the stories of the farmers and products who benefit from fair trade, and the positive impact that this movement can have on their lives and communities.
By supporting Fairtrade, consumers can help to create a more equitable and sustainable global economy in several ways:
It is clear to see that there are many reasons to get behind Fairtrade and start purchasing their products.
Fairtrade Fortnight, in particular, is an important opportunity to raise awareness about these important issues and encourage more people to make a difference.
The 2023 campaign highlights the urgent threat to the future of the foods we love and the livelihoods of the people who grow them. The current economic crisis is having a heavy toll on smallholder farmers and workers and if producers can't earn enough to cover costs, then they won't be available to continue to grow food.
By choosing Fairtrade products, you are taking a stand with farmers and workers worldwide for fairer incomes so they can continue to financially support themselves.
The best way to get involved in Fairtrade Fortnight and support the cause is by purchasing Fairtrade certified products, such as our Fairtrade bags.
This collection of certified bags guarantees that the cotton and canvas used have met strict ethical and environmental standards.
In order to earn the Fairtrade certification, these bags have met the rigorous standards set by Fairtrade to ensure fair and ethical trade relations between small-scale farmers in third world countries and global buyers or distributors. This means that farmers and workers receive fair pay, safe working conditions and workers' rights whilst shoppers receive high-quality, ethically produced bags that they can feel good about using time and time again.
With over 6000 other Fairtrade products to choose from, including chocolate, flowers and wine, it is easy enough to show your support – just look for the black, green and blue Fairtrade label.
There are a few other ways to get involved too:
Though there are a broad range of merchandise products that you can create, the most popular choice has always been printed bags.
They are affordable, versatile, practical and have a wide appeal so they work for all sectors no matter the audience that they are trying to reach.
If that is not enough to convince you that printed bags are the way to go when it comes to promotional products, then here are just a few more reasons why you should seriously consider investing in them for your next business event.
Most events, especially trade shows and exhibitions, are filled with businesses all battling for the same thing – the attention of the attendees. This means that you have to go above and beyond to stand out from your competitors and a bold printed bag can do just the job.
With the right artwork, a bespoke style and some sustainability credentials, you can create an attractive reusable bag that will have your business on everyone's radar.
For example, we stock a stunning collection of premium tote bags made from eco-friendly materials that will cause any passers-by to stop in their tracks, or there are our CYCLO® recycled bags which are bursting with eco-credentials.
Once you have used some stylish and bold bags to get eyes on your business, the next step is to attract people to your stand by distributing them. Everyone loves a freebie, especially one that is practical and of real value or use to them and what is more useful than a reusable bag, such as a cotton tote or jute shopper.
A sustainable printed bag can be used for shopping, gifting, commuting to and from work, travelling and so much more. The fact that it is a durable product with a long lifespan means that, in the eyes of the recipient, it is an item of high value and one that they would usually have to pay a small price for in a shop. Therefore, to receive one for free is looked upon favourably which will have people running to your stand and looking at your business more positively.
You can even showcase the functionality of the bag to the attendees by using it as more than just a promotional product. It can be filled with further branded merchandise and printed marketing tools, such as a company brochure, acting as a gift bag for additional promotion of your business to attendees.
Once the event attendees have picked themselves up one of your printed bags, the chances are that they will take it home and use it for months or years to come leaving them with a lasting impression of your business. This long-term marketing is invaluable because though they may not need your product or services at the time of receiving your promotional bag, there might come a time when they do and your business is likely to come to mind before others because they will have seen your brand name or logo on their bag every day.
The most important and impactful role of a printed reusable bag, which makes it well worth the investment, is as a walking billboard for the message, product, service or event that you are trying to advertise.
What makes reusable bags so effective as branded merchandise is that they are a product that will be used in many different locations for months, potentially years, after the event. This means that the artwork displayed on it will earn hundreds to thousands of impressions over the course of its life. It is the type of brand awareness that cannot be replicated by digital marketing or any other forms of offline marketing for two major reasons.
A printed reusable bag will be seen by such a diverse range of people on a day to day basis because there are endless possibilities when it comes to where it may be taken, especially if the bag is versatile.
It could end up at the gym, in the office, on a university campus, in various supermarkets and shopping centres, at a festival and other events, or even in foreign countries when being used as a carry-on or travel bag.
Furthermore, unlike social media adverts or even traditional billboards at stations or on roadsides, a reusable printed bag isn't always just a brief message that will be scrolled, walked or driven past. Often the bag will be worn in the hand or on the shoulder or lap of the owner whilst standing in queues or sitting on public transport which gives onlookers time to read and digest the information displayed on the bag.
How powerful and memorable this is will depend greatly on how creative you get with your bag and its artwork.
With a team of inhouse designers and a plethora of experience, we can help you create a unique and eye-catching printed sustainable bag that will be worn with pride and is sure to grab the attention of passers-by. We will even ensure that it aligns with your brand and messaging by sticking to corporate colours and designing a bag that will appeal to your demographic.
For example, if you are a beauty brand that is beloved by young, working women, then we can create a trendy cosmetic case in your brand colours or, for a travel company that specialises in summer getaways, a bright and colourful beach bag is the perfect promotional product.
Learn more about how we can help you create a printed reusable bag that will take your business to new heights by getting in touch today at sales@ecoduka.com or complete our contact form.
As a result of the donations that we made as a company throughout the last 12 months, we have been able to fund and support a high-quality education for 20 students at the Auro Technical School in Uganda.
This covers the cost of a uniform, textbooks, stationery, one pair of shoes, exam fees and so much more.
We are excited to continue our sustainability journey by supporting more amazing causes in the new year!
Although this is a popular and smart way to use branded bags to promote your business, there are some other creative marketing strategies that you can use to help get noticed and make an impact on your audience.
A gift with purchase is a well-known marketing technique that businesses use to convert visitors into customers, promote a specific product or increase average order values. They use the promise of a free gift with your order as an incentive for making a purchase whether that be a reward for every new customer, spending over a certain amount of money or ordering a particular product.
Printed bags are a great gift for this marketing method as they are a versatile product that come in all shapes and sizes so you can create a product that perfectly aligns with your brand. For example, branded cosmetic bags are a great gift with purchase idea for beauty companies and printed drawstring pouches are perfect for jewellery brands.
This offer not only directly entices new customers and increased spending, but it also gives you the chance to further advertise your brand. Once these customers receive their promotional bag and begin to use it, they will be wearing it outside and around other people which will be raising awareness of your business to all those who see it.
Social media competitions are a growing trend on platforms like Instagram as they are proven to be a very effective way of increasing engagement, growing followers and building brand visibility.
The strongest and most successful giveaways all have one thing in common – a highly sought after prize.
If users of the social media platform are given the chance to win something that they truly want or need, then they are far more likely to enter the competition no matter what it requires.
As low-cost as they are to create, promotional bags can have a high perceived value because of how useful and long-lasting they are which is what makes them a good choice for a giveaway. This becomes even more true if you invest in a premium sustainable bag or something more unique, such as a foldable bag or cooler bag, as these are extremely practical and less commonly used as promotional merchandise.
Promotional bags don't have to be freebies. You can actually make an instant return on investment by adding these products to your store and selling them to your customers.
This could be done by placing them at checkouts to offer customers an eco-friendly method of carrying their purchases home, or by having a limited edition stock and introducing them as a product line.
Branded reusable bags and totes have a value and many are willing to invest in them especially since they know that it will last them many uses and many years. This is particularly effective within the fashion and travel industries as sustainable bags are very much aligned with these types of brands.
If you manage to design a promotional bag that is of high-quality and looks good, then it could end up being worth a lot of money in the eyes of your customers.
We supply over a hundred different styles of reusable bags made from various sustainable materials including cotton totes, jute shoppers and canvas cosmetic bags.
From our extensive range, you can find a plain eco-friendly bag that meets the needs of your business and can be easily custom-printed with your bespoke artwork to create a promotional bag that will give your business the boost that it needs.
Enquire about our bespoke service here
]]>Fortunately, not only do we supply a range of affordable gifting options that are great for the holidays, but all of our products are sustainable which means their carbon footprint is low and they are long-lasting so a worthwhile investment for your friends and family.
Tote bags are a versatile product that everyone can find a use for and we have plenty to fulfil each and every purpose.
Our Ivy Market Tote is a gorgeous everyday bag for work, shopping, days out and more – it’s the perfect gift for those that love fashion and want to add this sustainable option to their handbag collection.
Then we have our Cosmos Canvas Bag which is the ideal eco-friendly holiday accessory. It can be packed with a towel, swimsuit, books and everything else you need for a day at the beach or by the pool.
You can explore our full range of premium tote bags to find the right match for that special person in your life this Christmas.
If you have a friend or family member that plays sports or is always at the gym, then our collection of sustainable gym bags are a great gift option.
We have our Clematis rPET Drawstring Bag which is available in five fabulous colours, or our Saffron Canvas Duffle Bag with a zip closure and leather puller, and there is even our Anthos Lightweight Cotton Bag that has convenient shoulder straps and a drawstring closure.
Every bag in this collection is durable, spacious and made from high-quality and eco-friendly materials to ensure that workouts are that little bit greener.
We even have something for the little ones with our range of eco-friendly school bags.
There are drawstring bags that are perfect for PE, jute book bags and messenger bags too so your children can return to school in the new year with style and sustainability.
Our range of simple yet stylish cosmetic bags are a dream gift for anyone in your life that loves make-up and beauty as this zipped pouches are the perfect way to store and transport cosmetics.
The Bluebell Canvas Makeup Bag is one of our most popular thanks to its durability and beautifully brushed finish whilst our Statice Denim Bag is a trendy twist on the classic makeup case.
Each bag is lined making it easy to clean and has a secure zipper to ensure the contents inside remains safe whilst you are on the move.
A great little stocking filler for students, young professionals or children of a school age, our sustainable pencil cases are great for carrying around station whether to school, university or work.
Our Peony Canvas Case is super durable and has a nylon zip closure with a metal puller and our Nova Jute Case is a little different than your standard pencil case being made from natural hessian.
They can even double as handy little pouches for your handbag or car to store essentials in a more convenient and eco-friendly way.
One of our newest collection is our range of reusable water bottles – all made from stainless steel.
These are truly a gift that appeals to everyone because we all need to stay hydrated at work, home and on-the-go so a reusable water bottle makes it much easier to do so.
Not only does it promote a healthy lifestyle, but it also reduces the use of plastic water bottles which are hugely damaging to the planet.
Our Nile Powder Coated Bottle has a sleek and simple design that young professionals and gym goers will appreciate. Plus it is available in 16 vibrant colours so you can purchase one in your loved ones favourite colour.
Our Congo Double Walled Bottle is great for the outdoorsy adventurer as the carry handle makes it easy to keep in your hand whilst on hikes, walks or runs.
Check out the entire range of reusable water bottles here.
Another piece of drinkware that everyone in your life will love and appreciate are our refillable coffee cups.
You are more than likely to know a few people that cannot function without their morning coffee…or six, and this collection of travel mugs will ensure that they can get their caffeine fix no matter where they are.
Our Ebro Glass Mug is a super trendy alternative to a classic travel cup that appeals most to millennials whilst our Amur Stainless Steel Mug is a more simple and understated cup that has a universal appeal.
We even have a range of coffee cups made from plant fibre (plain or patterned) that look amazing sitting on a work desk or in your hand during the commute.
Shop our full collection of travel mugs here.
]]>What is October without a pumpkin or two?
Whether you are using them to decorate your home or to cook for dinner, pumpkins are synonymous with autumn as it is the season in which they are harvested. However, as with any food that is grown, the most eco-friendly option is to shop organic. Organic pumpkins have been grown without the use of any harmful chemicals which is better for the planet and for your health.
It is also a good idea to look for locally-grown pumpkins to reduce your emissions. These can be found at farmers' markets, local grocery stores and even in some larger supermarkets (just check the label first).
A shocking 12.8 million pumpkins are thrown away in Britain every year and this is, largely in part, due to the fact that many people don't realise that here are many ways to make use of a pumpkin instead of disregarding it as waste.
You can roast the pumpkin seeds to make a nutritious snack, the flesh of the pumpkin can be used to make a pumpkin soup which is very satisfying this time of year, and you can even peel and cut up the pumpkin then roast it and add it to a salad.
Halloween is the perfect excuse to socialist and get together with friends and family.
If you have decided to host a Halloween party, then find little ways to keep it as green as possible by reducing waste which can often be a huge side effect of parties.
You can provide labelled recycling bins for guests so that they know where they can sustainably dispose of their rubbish, provide reusable cups or cutlery rather than single-use ones and don't overdo it when it comes to food and sweets as buying too much may result in a lot of it getting thrown away.
Get rid of the plastic bags or buckets that are so commonly associated with trick or treating and opt for a reusable tote bag instead. You can even add an element of fun to it by encouraging your children to decorate their bag before they head out.
This is a great way to reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and keep your carbon footprint low this time of year.
We stock a large range of reusable bags, including cotton totes and jute shoppers, and they are all perfect replacements for plastic bags and containers when trick or treating. We even supply a range of colours so you can match it with your costume or theme it with the traditional Halloween colours, and we have a number of sizes to choose from too.
]]>As a result of this growing pressure, many large brands have been found to be using false marketing tactics, known as greenwashing, to boost their eco-credentials and satisfy the needs of their consumers.
This has led to sustainability claims always coming into question and it can be frustrating for those who are being honest and transparent because they have to go above and beyond to prove every claim that they make.
Fortunately, there is one easy way to tackle this issue and that is by using tracer technology in the textile industry.
Traceability is the key to unlocking transparency when it comes to sustainability. It refers to the tracking of a product's journey from sourcing the raw material through to delivery to the end consumer – though the degree of detail and depth can vary depending on the tracer technology being used.
The tracers are typically embedded into the fibres of the material at the earliest stages of production so that every step onwards is clearly tracked.
This journey is then visible to the consumer via a QR code displayed on the product label.
This type of technology being embedded into sustainable products enables consumers to gain more visibility into its development so that they can verify all of the environmentally-friendly claims made by the business.
This goes a long way towards eradicating greenwashing which is become a big issue in the textile industry and helping businesses build trust with their customers.
There are also benefits to traceability outside of addressing and verifying sustainability.
It can help with quality management as any defects can be easily traced back to the guilty party, it's a great marketing tool that can put you ahead of competitors and it can assist in achieving supply chain circularity.
We see the value in tracer technology so much so that we have incorporated it into our brand new line of recycled cotton bags.
In our latest collection of Ecoduka Recycled CYCLO® Bags, we have embedded Aware™ tracer technology into each product.
Aware™ is an advanced technology that is easy to use, highly secure and can truly verify the authenticity of recycled materials.
The tracer particles are added to the recycled fibre before it is spun into yarn which can be used to create a digital version known as the 'digital twin'. This 'digital twin' is registered in a secure blockchain and includes properties such as colour, composition, weight and the original certification.
In other words, every product made from CYCLO® recycled fibres has received a unique 'fingerprint'.
Each bag has a label attached that displays a QR code which can be scanned to access all the details. This means that you can be sure that you are buying a product from a conscious and responsible brand offering you full transparency about the sustainable materials they used for that product.
The AWARE™ hangtags are exclusive for products in which the AWARE™ tracers have been detected in the material and matched with the digital twin yarn registered on blockchain.
Explore our full range of Ecoduka Recycled CYCLO® Bags with Aware™ tracer technology here
]]>Promotional products are a particularly impactful marketing tool for small businesses that may not have the budget for costly Instagram campaigns on advertisements on Google.
There are a wide range of product types to choose from all of which can be custom-printed with your branding to create a piece of merchandise that will spread awareness of your business.
One of the most popular promotional products are sustainable bags. From custom-printed totes to reusable branded shoppers, sustainable bags are a brilliant way to increase brand visibility as they act as a walking billboard for whatever message you want to share.
They are also a multifunctional product that can serve many purposes as a promotional item for your business.
One of the most common uses of branded bags is as a promotional tool that is distributed at events, trade shows and exhibitions. Businesses will typically fill a custom-printed bag with a few promotional goodies, such as printed notebooks and pens, and a brochure with more information about their brand, or a business card to encourage follow-up contact.
Promotional bags used in this way can generate over 3,000 unique impressions over the course of its lifespan. Not to mention it provides the end user with a practical product that they can use every day to replace harmful single-use plastic bags.
Custom-printed bags make great gifts for your clients as a sign of appreciation for their loyalty and continued support. It may seem like a small gesture but this can go a long way in helping to retain clients and keep them happy.
They can even be gifted to employees when being onboarded or hitting a target.
There is now a cost attached to plastic carrier bags which is why many businesses have made the shift towards more sustainable options, such as reusable bags made from eco-friendly materials.
When you then custom-print these bags with your branding and logo, you are creating a sustainable bag that both promotes your business and serves as a replacement for plastic bags.
It is even common for these bags to come at a small cost and many are willing to pay because they know they are receiving a quality product that can be used multiple times.
It is common practice for businesses to run giveaways on social media to help boost their followers and increase brand visibility.
The most powerful giveaways are the ones that have quality prizes that people truly want and need, and a printed bag can be a great addition to this when included as part of a bundle of promotional prizes.
Plastic packaging is slowly being eradicated from businesses and the best alternative is eco-friendly branded bags.
Drawstring pouches can be used to store jewellery and candles, zipped pouches can be used to pack stationery or beauty products and jute bags make for great hampers.
This sustainable switch isn't just necessary for the planet but it also has the potential to improve the customer experience and leave them with a lasting impression.
Small businesses can see massive benefits from sending out PR boxes to influencers, celebrities, journalists and notable people in their industry. But you should not only fill these packages with sample products and information about your business.
Additional gifts, such as custom-printed sustainable bags, are a simple way to advertise your brand and impress those receiving your PR box.
Sustainable bags are a promotional product with real value. They can range from more affordable cotton tote bags to premium canvas tote bags all of which can be added to your store as a retail product.
This can become especially effective when it aligns perfectly with your brand. For example, a swimwear company can create and sell beach bags or an activewear brand can add gym bags to their product range.
Last but by no means least, printed bags are not just a great corporate gift but they make a great gift for customers too.
A gift with purchase is a simple add-on product that comes free when a customer takes a certain action set by you. It usually serves the purpose of being an incentive for an increased spend or to buy a specific product. For example, a beauty brand may offer a cosmetic bag as a gift with purchase when customers spend over £60 or when they buy a particular item.
If you would like to explore the idea of creating promotional bags for your business then we have a huge collection of stock bags that can be custom-printed with your logo and artwork, including our hugely popular Bali Jute Shopping Bag which is great for supermarkets and checkouts.
We can also help you create a bespoke, sustainable bag for your business using your branding and guidelines.
Learn more about this service here
If you are looking for an impactful, affordable and sustainable way to grow your business and promote your services or products, then reusable water bottles are a great option.
Our new collection of eco-friendly drinkware includes reusable water bottles that can be custom-printed with your company branding or bespoke artwork.
They are the perfect promotional product for networking events and exhibitions or for corporate gifting at client meetings or when onboarding new employees.
Here are just a handful of reasons why your business would benefit from promotional water bottles…
There is more pressure than ever on businesses to demonstrate sustainability and put more tangible solutions in place when it comes to corporate social responsibility. Plastic-free water bottles as a promotional product are one way of accomplishing this.
An estimated 16 million plastic bottles in the UK end up in landfills, incinerators or our natural environment, such as the ocean. The best way to combat the plastic pollution that is harming our planet is to reduce the amount of plastic waste that we are producing as a society; providing a plastic-free alternative to PET water bottles is the perfect place to start.
By creating branded reusable water bottles to promote your business, you are offering potential (or existing) customers or clients a sustainable product that they can implement into their day to day lives making the switch from harmful single-use plastics.
This will also help boost the reputation of your business as you are encouraging sustainable practices.
As well as promoting sustainable living, refillable water bottles also aid in living healthier by making it easy for people to stay hydrated on the go.
It's essential, as humans, that we drink approximately 2 litres of water a day but this can be challenging when you live an active lifestyle that requires you to be outside or travelling on a regular basis.
Promotional refillable bottles will help align your business with healthy living by giving your audience a product that they can use to ensure they are drinking enough water no matter where they are.
The most effective promotional products are those that can do two things well – leave a lasting impression that establishes brand recall and spread a clear message to the right people.
Reusable water bottles definitely achieve the latter with ease.
They can be custom-printed with your branding or bespoke artwork using screen printing or laser engraving on the bottle surface.
This large print area offers you the opportunity to display a coherent message to all those who see it, and it has the potential to be seen by many thanks to the nature of sustainable water bottles.
As a travel-friendly promotional product, custom-printed water bottles are often taken to the gym, on the commute, to work, on trips; in fact, they are transported almost any and every where that one may go throughout the day.
This means that your promotional water bottle can receive hundreds and thousands of impressions over its lifetime because it will be seen by anyone that the user encounters on their travels whilst they have the product in hand.
As mentioned above, it is also important for promotional products to leave a lasting impression and creating merchandise that is practical and has a long lifespan is the best way to do this.
The purpose of a reusable water bottle is to be used time and time again in all situations and environments; this means that it has to be durable in order for it to remain usable for a good length of time.
As a result, printed water bottles can be kept for months, even up to a year, which means that your message (or branding) will be seen by the user over and over again throughout that time.
Finally, there is no real value in a promotional product if it isn't something that people actually want, need or have any desire to own. This will only result in them throwing it away or rejecting it completely.
Therefore, you need to consider if there is a demand for the promotional product that you are investing in otherwise it is not a smart marketing decision.
Sustainable water bottles meet this requirement for several reasons: they are a stylish accessory, they are functional and they appeal to everyone.
This means that no matter what purpose you want your promotional water bottles to serve, you can always get good results because the recipient will have a use for it.
If you want to create an impactful, practical and eco-friendly promotional product then explore our range of sustainable drinkware.
You can print or engrave your bespoke artwork onto any product in this range and quickly create stylish and high-quality branded merchandise that can work as a corporate gift or promotional product for events.
]]>Fortunately, we have discovered one way to reduce this harmful practice. Through a process of collecting plastic bottles, recycling them and converting them into sustainable fibres known as Recron® GreenGold.
Recron® GreenGold is a fibre that is made from 100% post-consumer waste PET bottles, i.e. plastic water bottles.
It's a specific type of rPET that has additional eco-friendly benefits and looks and feels like cotton.
It also boasts backward and forward traceability through tracers that are embedded into the fibres. This enables consumers to have full visibility as to the journey of the finished fabric to verify all sustainability claims and eradicating greenwashing.
This innovative and eco-friendly material was created by R|Elan™ Industries Limited.
R|Elan™ Industries Limited are a company based in India that hold the title of the world's largest producer of polyester fibre and filament yarn. They have an impressive technology centre with 80 scientists and technologists who have worked tirelessly to create a range of advanced fabrics using recycled materials.
Outside of Recron® GreenGold, which falls under their eco-friendly range of fabrics, they have also created high performance fabrics that are great for activewear and aesthetic fabrics that work well for high fashion apparel.
They also developed a more specific type of Recron® known as GreenGold Ocean which is a fibre made entirely from ocean bound plastic.
This re-routes plastic waste that would have otherwise ended up in the ocean and give it a new life by converting into a fibre that can be used to make a wide range of textiles.
The process used to make Recron® GreenGold fibres is simple and can be broken down into three steps.
Waste PET bottles are collected across India by local vendors and through an initiative launched by R|Elan™ to promote the recycling of PET bottles through the use of reverse vending machines.
Following this, the bottles are taken to a recycling facility where they are ground up into small flakes, washed and dried. This is also the stage at which the GreenGold tracers are added.
Finally, the small flakes are then chopped down into pellets, melted and stretched into string-like fibres.
These fibres can be spun together to create Recron® GreenGold yarn which is what we use to create our latest collection of recycled bags.
This entire process is known as a closed-loop production where waste material is upcycled, recycled or reused to keep it out of landfills and in circulation.
In this case, the waste are the plastic bottles which are being recycled to make an eco-friendly material that can continue to be recycled again and again after its useful life.
Recron® GreenGold boasts plenty of eco-credentials and it is a fibre with one of the lowest carbon footprints.
It all begins at the very source material, which is recycled plastic waste, right through to the finished product which can then be recycled itself.
Even the production process is highly sustainable thanks to a concept known as zero waste management.
This ensures there is no waste at any stage of the production process whether that means using renewable, solar energy or recycling approximately 90% of the water that is used.
Furthermore, this process is entirely free of any harmful chemicals.
We are proud to be working in partnership with R|Elan™ Industries Limited to bring you our latest collection of rPET bags.
This range includes five brilliant sustainable bags, such as a classic recycled PET tote and a recycled PET drawstring pouch, that are all made from 100% recycled plastic bottles yet look and feel like cotton.
They are the perfect eco-friendly replacement to harmful single-use plastic bags and contribute to a circular economy that keeps plastic out of landfills and in continued use.
But there is a tendency for a lot of summer activities (or actions that come as a result of higher temperatures) to lead to damage to the environment and an increased carbon footprint.
Fortunately, there are some easy ways to be more considerate of your actions this summer and ensure that you enjoy the season without causing excessive harm to the planet…
You have probably taken your fan out of the loft or storage by now, especially to get through the uncomfortably warm nights and, as necessary as they are in this country, fans can consume and waste a lot of energy.
The mistake that many people make is to leave the fan on even when they’re not in the room believing that it will keep the room cool. However, fans merely move air around which helps keep you cool by evaporating sweat so it serves no purpose when you’re not in the room. Therefore, you should make sure that you turn off your fans when you leave the room.
Another consequence of the hot weather is that you may find yourself needing to take more than one shower a day. Although we would always advise trying to stick to just one, it is understandable that you may find yourself needing a second wash before bed after a busy day in the sun.
If that is the case, then it is very important that you keep your shower short (approximately five minutes) in order to limit your water usage.
The average shower takes 8 minutes so if you can trim off just two minutes, you could save 4 gallons of water every day.
Staying hydrated is essential during the summer so having a bottle of water to hand at all times is a necessity.
In order to greatly reduce the chances of you needing to buy a plastic bottle of water whilst out and about, invest in a reusable bottle that you can refill every time you need to hydrate.
It is advised that you wear sunscreen every day to protect yourself from harmful UV rays; even on a cloudy day, 80% of the sun’s UV radiation reaches the earth.
With that being said, the majority of people living in the UK only apply sunscreen during the summer months or when they go on holiday. Either way, it is important to ensure that your sunscreen of choice is reef-friendly. This means that it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals that are toxic to marine life.
When the sun is out there is no excuse to be driving everywhere, especially short journeys that can easily be walked or cycled. Not only is this better for your health and a great opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful weather, but it will help reduce your carbon footprint.
Another benefit of this warm and dry weather is that you can start hanging your washed clothes outside on your balcony or in your garden to dry rather than using a dryer. If all households with a tumble dryer dried one load of washing outside each week, instead of by machine, they would save over a million tonnes of CO2 in a year.
This time of year is the perfect opportunity to bring that carbon footprint down and give your washing a more eco-friendly and cheaper drying process.
When summer arrives there is one guarantee, your calendar will be packed full of activities from holidays and festivals to picnics and BBQs. But if you are planning to host or attend such an event, then try to keep it waste and plastic-free.
For example, you should switch out the single-use plastic bags and cutlery for eco-friendly cotton totes and reusable bamboo cutlery.
Food waste can also be an issue at these types of social gatherings so it is important to be mindful of how much food you are buying so you don't have an excessive amount. If you do end up with leftovers then whatever can be frozen or refrigerated and eaten later should be and any unopened goods can be donated to food banks.
]]>We source the raw cotton for our reusable cotton bags from India where many of the bags are also manufactured. But Covid and, as a result, inflation have had a real impact on the cost of this fibre and it is being felt throughout the textile industry.
A year ago, cotton could be purchased for as little as 50 cents a pound, whereas it now sits at well over $1 and continues to creep up. This is great news for farmers but tough on the textile and garment industry.
There are a number of factors at play that have caused this sharp rise in the cost of cotton – the main one being that availability is scarce yet the demand has only increased.
One of the largest cotton producing regions in America, West Texas, is experiencing its worst drought conditions in decades which means that growing cotton has been difficult.
Then there is the continued trade tensions between China and the US who banned imports of cotton grown in Xinjiang province, China, due to allegations of serious human rights abuse.
This has led to China being forced to purchase more US cotton than before in order to meet the needs of mills looking to avoid using Xinjiang cotton.
Furthermore, with inflation causing energy prices to skyrocket, materials derived from oil are a lot more costly so manufacturers and businesses are opting for alternatives which often leads them to cotton. This pushes up the demand and makes cotton more valuable.
Simply put, the economic value of a commodity is determined by supply and demand. When demand is high and it can easily be met because the supply is readily available, pricing is low as suppliers are undercutting one another to beat out all of the competition.
But when the supply is low it increases the value of the item, hence cotton farmers are able to charge premium rates for their hot commodity.
When the raw material gets more expensive, the manufacturers have to also increase their prices in order to continue making a decent margin which causes a domino effect that reaches the end consumer. This results in increased pricing across clothing and other fashion items, including our cotton bags.
It isn't just the raw material that is costing suppliers more, but the shipping of these goods to the factories and/or the warehouses is also more expensive.
When all costs are factored in, it justifies the jump in pricing that you will start to see within the fashion and textile industry.
Although we continue to do all that we can to ensure that our cotton bags remain affordable and in keeping with economic sustainability, we also have a duty to our employees and clients to ensure that we remain a profitable business.
This means that we have to maintain a particular profit margin in order to keep our business running successfully so when the cost of materials goes up, our product pricing has to increase too.
You'll notice the same will happen throughout the textile and garment industry over the coming months. But we guarantee that our prices will remain fair and reasonable and that we will continue to deliver quality and honest cotton and canvas bags to each and every one of our customers.
]]>But how do we avoid this travesty and ensure that we do not use up this limited resource?
Well, the answer is simple. By living more sustainably and being more conscious of how much water we consume within our household, we can work towards reduce our water usage as a planet and help conserve this resource.
Here are five simple things that you can start doing today to make a real change…
The common assumption is that dishwashers waste a lot of water and are probably more harmful to the environment than they are helpful – this is not the case.
On average, dishwashers have been found to be four times more water-efficient than washing by hand. Therefore, installing a dishwasher and using it regularly (and only on full loads) will go a long way towards reducing your household water consumption. Plus, it will free up a lot of time for you!
Have you ever timed yourself in the shower?
According to research, the average person spends roughly 8 minutes in the shower each day although this can vary depending on a few factors, such as hair washing days.
Though this may not seem like a long time, each minute spent in the shower requires just under one gallon of water. This means that by cutting down your showers by 2-3 minutes a day you could end up saving close to 14 gallons of water a week which would be enough water to meet the required daily intake of a person for 21 days. That is a lot of water.
It is a harmful habit but we are all guilty of doing it from time to time. Whether it is when we are brushing our teeth or washing our face, it is easy to leave the tap running when water isn't even being used. This is wasting a lot of water. In fact, a running tap can use up to 9 litres of water per minute.
Therefore, make more of a conscious effort to turn the tap off when it isn't being used to reduce how much water is going to waste in your home.
The average family home (which consists of two adults and two children) finds themselves doing four loads of washing every week. One cycle on a washing machine uses approximately 39 to 53 litres of water depending on the temperature, size of the load, water pressure and a few other factors. This can equate to almost 200 litres of water being consumed every week for clothes washing.
Even cutting down your number of weekly washes by one can make a significant difference, and this is easily done. For example, you should only use your washing machine when you have a full load and you don't need to wash your clothes after every wear only when they are dirty or begin to smell.
With summer quickly approaching, there will be a sudden need to start watering your garden as we experience long periods of time without any rain.
It is easy to lose track of how much water you are consuming when you use a hose whether it's to water your garden or wash your car. Not only can hoses be wasteful but they also contain harmful toxins that are released into the environment every time you use them.
By opting, instead, for a watering can, you can be more mindful of how much water you are using and have better control over it too.
]]>Furthermore, bags are practical so those that receive them will be able to put them to use giving your business the opportunity to receive a large number of impressions over time.
They are an item that has the potential to be seen by hundreds to thousands of people when being worn on the commute to work, to the shops, on walks and even whilst on holiday.
If you have decided to create promotional bags for your business then you should take time to consider which style of bag works best for you.
There are so many options available but here are some of the most popular ones that we supply…
Totes are most likely the first style that comes to mind when you think about promotional bags. This classic style can come in so many variations that give it many uses and applications; it's part of the reason why it is such a great choice for many businesses.
The most appealing feature of tote bags is that they can work well as a promotional item across all sectors.
Retailers can create branded tote bags that can be sold at the checkout, fashion brands can make stylish totes for giveaways or promotional offers and small businesses can use custom totes to build brand awareness.
We can supply you with a custom tote bag to suit your target audience and the needs of your branding. With a beautiful range of cotton tote bags and canvas totes, you are sure to find something in our stock that will work for you. Otherwise you can get in touch with our team to help you create something bespoke.
Gifting is a huge market that has its uses all year round from birthdays and anniversaries to Christmas and weddings.
Many retail businesses, if not all, are in the gifting industry even if they do no market themselves that way; therefore, selling or providing custom-printed gift bags is a huge opportunity to not only increase revenue but elevate the brand and customer experience.
We have an exciting range of sustainable gift bags that can be custom-printed with your artwork. Our jute bottle bags are great for packing wine, champagne and other bottled beverages whilst our eco-friendly jar bags are perfect for gifting candles, homemade jams and honey and other jarred goods.
Branded gift bags are the ideal finishing touch for any gift and you can even make something bespoke if you have more unique products. Just contact our team to discuss your needs.
Drawstring pouches are great for product packaging and have become more and more popular for jewellery, hair, home and beauty brands. They can be used to store candles, skincare, bath bombs and other small items then reused by customers as travel or gift bags.
The drawstring closure keeps everything inside secure and the cord strings make them easy to transport.
Our range of drawstring pouches come in a range of sizes and materials including natural jute and organic cotton. They can be customized with your bespoke artwork so that you can create custom packaging that align with your brand.
It is a simple and sustainable way to enhance your products and remove wasteful and harmful packaging from your business.
Another style of sustainable bag that works well as a promotional product are zipped pouches. These are typically associated with cosmetic bags and pencil cases so they are the perfect fit for a beauty or stationery brand.
They may not garner as many impressions as a tote or gift bag but they have a more luxe feel because of the finishing details such as the beautiful YKK zippers and inner lining. This gives them a higher value whether being sold or given away as a free gift.
Our collection of pouches with zip closures are all made from sustainable materials and can be tailored to your business with custom-printing or full customization. This helps you create a promotional zipped pouch that aligns with your brand and offers your customers a useful and high-quality bag that can be slipped into their handbag or suitcase whenever they are on-the-go.
Now for something a little different.
Cooler bags are not an obvious choice for promotional merchandise but that is what makes them even more effective. It will help businesses stand out amongst competitors playing it safe with branded shoppers, and provide something of real use (that many people don’t already own twenty of) and value.
Printed cooler bags are perfect for this time of year as people start to go on weekend trips, host BBQs and picnics and, essentially, require a method of keeping food and beverages chilled whilst on-the-go. It can even make for a great lunch bag all year round.
We have two stock cooler bags – a jute cooler and a canvas cooler - that can be custom-printed with your artwork or logo. Both are eco-friendly and durable with an insulated lining and hard-wearing handles.
Alternatively, you can create a bespoke cooler bag to best suit the needs of your business whether it's a bottle cooler bag or a smaller cooler bag for lunch.
Whether you're planning a staycation with children or booking a trip abroad with your partner when the weather starts warming up, travelling can be a huge contributor to your carbon footprint.
In fact, tourism is responsible for approximately 8% of the world's carbon emissions with the majority of this caused by the means of transport.
This doesn't mean that you have to say goodbye to the getaways and stay home all year as there are a number of ways to make your travels more sustainable and keep your carbon footprint down.
When going abroad, the only feasible method of transport is via plane which, unfortunately, is one of the least sustainable ways to travel. Air travel accounts for approximately 2.5% of global carbon emissions with no real advancement or progression in making this means of transport any greener.
This doesn't mean you have to wave goodbye to overseas holidays but you should certainly cut down on the number of them that you take each year if you find that you are flying on a regular basis. One flight a year or every other year is ideal and short-haul is always more eco-friendly than long-haul.
You can still make the most of your annual leave by spending the rest of the year taking staycations instead which is a much more sustainable option so long as you avoid taking your car.
Driving for your holidays is only slightly less damaging to the environment than flying which is why using public transport as an alternative is always encouraged.
There are trains and coaches readily available, and usually more affordable than fuel for the car, to take you to any destination in the country.
Single-use items are popular for holidays as they are often more convenient and travel-friendly than the reusable alternatives. We often purchase disposable products such as makeup wipes, cotton buds, and now, face masks.
These wasteful investments should be avoided wherever possible as they are extremely harmful to the planet as they contribute to the overflowing landfills and plastic pollution problem.
Instead, opt for the reusable alternatives as these are far more sustainable and you get more for your money as these products can often last weeks, months or even years.
When talking about sustainability the focus is often put on the environmental pillar and the social aspect can sometimes be overlooked. But it is just as important.
The best way to action social sustainability when travelling abroad is to support the local community by investing into it.
It's common for holidaymakers to spend the majority of their trip at the resort because it's hassle-free and all inclusive. But this is only putting money into the pockets of foreign organisations.
Even if you only make the effort to spend a day outside of the resort, shopping at a local market, eating from a local restaurant and taking in the culture of the country that you have visited, you will make a massive difference to the lives of those who call it their home.
Before booking your getaway, one simple thing you can do is check the eco-credentials of the accommodation that you are looking to stay in.
Many hotels, hostels and resorts are now considering ways in which they can uphold sustainability values with some common examples being installing solar panels, implementing recycling schemes and using only organic produce for their food menu.
There are even eco-labels that can be awarded to hotels, such as Green Key, so they can prove their green credentials and make it easier for travellers to find the most sustainable hotels for their stay.
When you have a holiday coming up, there is a desire to splurge and go on a shopping spree to buy all the things that you think you need for the trip; this could be everything from new clothes and shoes to toiletries and cosmetics. However, more than half of this will probably end up going to waste.
Going on holiday should not be an excuse to buy a whole new wardrobe if you already have appropriate clothing for that climate. You can treat yourself to one or two new items but anything more than that steps into non-sustainable territory.
Instead, utilize what you already own or borrow items from friends and family so that you avoid having to buy products that you are likely only going to use for this trip.
Your luggage contributes to carbon emissions because a plane's fuel consumption is greater if it's carrying a heavier weight. Therefore, the more you pack the bigger the negative impact you have on the planet.
Packing light can be a challenge, especially if you are going away for over a week and have many excursions and activities planned, but one helpful tip is to use a smaller suitcase as it will restrict how much you can pack and force you to downsize.
Also, try writing a checklist and not straying from it, planning your outfits ahead of time for each day and picking pieces that are adaptable and versatile so can be worn multiple times; hence, you will need less options.
]]>This can be applied to your cotton tote bags too. Although they are designed to be long-lasting, reusable bags with the average lifespan of two years, there will come a point when you need to purchase some new ones. This may be because they start to look worn and tired, they may have lost some of their strength due to loose threads or they have experienced wear and tear leaving them no longer fit for purpose.
But all is not lost.
When your cotton tote is no longer useful for shopping or days out, it doesn't mean that your investment has gone out of the window. Your bag can be repurposed and given a second life in a number of different ways…
When you no longer want to take your cotton tote bag out of the house then you can keep it hidden but still put it to good use as a dust bag for shoes and handbags.
When your fashion accessories are left sitting in the wardrobe or on shelves for weeks and months on end, they will quickly collect dust. To avoid this frustrating situation, cotton dust bags are encouraged as a way of safely storing your shoes and bags so they don't get dirty.
Simply slip your items into one of your old cotton totes and keep them dust-free until you are ready to wear them.
You can also find a use for your cotton tote bags in another area of the home – the kitchen.
If you cut off the handles of your bag, you can transform it into a cotton sack that can be used to store vegetables such as potatoes and onions.
It's a great way to keep loose food items secure and in one place and it will help you keep your kitchen organized. It will even keep your produce fresher for longer which reduces your food waste.
There are many everyday activities around the house that require the use of a bag and many people used to hold onto their used plastic bags for these tasks. One such task is for the collection of household recycling.
You can place recyclable goods such as cardboard, cans and plastic bottles into a bag and transport it to your outdoor bin or to a recycling facility.
By putting your used cotton tote bags into action for this purpose you are facilitating an act of sustainability using a sustainable product.
Cotton bags come in handy when you're travelling too, even after they can no longer be used to transport goods or are no longer appealing enough to be worn in public.
For example, a cotton tote bag is great for separating your dirty clothes from the clean clothes in your suitcase whilst on holiday, or for keeping your more intimate items stored out of sight.
We stock a wide range of stylish sustainable cotton tote bags that are designed to replace harmful, single-use plastic bags in a bid to reduce plastic pollution. These versatile bags are made from ethically-sourced cotton (with the option of organic cotton too) and can be used for shopping, travelling, picnics, days out and more.
They are even able to be custom-printed for those who need promotional or retail bags for their business.
This plant is mainly grown in India which is where we procure our jute from, and make many of our jute bags.
Jute has been used for the production of textiles in ancient Africa and Asia since the 3rd millennium BC and wasn’t discovered by Europeans until the 17th century. They transported it from Bengal to Europe where it found its way into many different industries even being used in the British military.
By 1790, jute found its way to Scotland which led to a very successful jute trade there and ended up being where the world’s first woven fabrics were made.
In 1855, British entrepreneur George Acland set up India's first jute mill which is located in present-day West Bengal. This only grew and expanded as the jute industry continued to thrive.
Today, jute is experiencing another surge in popularity thanks to it being an eco-friendly replacement to harmful materials such as plastic. As society shifts towards more sustainable living, we are embracing greener choices and this includes using fabrics, such as jute, to create everyday products.
The jute fibre used to make the finished fabric is extracted from the vegetable plant by hand at time of harvest which is usually from June to September.
The process is called retting and it involves the jute stems being bundled together and immersed in slow running water, then stripped to remove the non-fibrous matter. This enables the silky fibres to be separated easily and combed into long strings which are spun into yarn at jute mills and later taken to factories to be woven into jute fabric.
Jute is celebrated for many reasons – it is versatile, durable, hard-wearing to name a few – but one of our favourite things about this material is its eco-credentials.
This natural fibre is beloved for being recyclable, taking less than two years to biodegrade and growing in only 100 – 150 days. This makes it a renewable resource and a material that won't cause harm to the planet at the end of its useful life.
In addition, jute plants consume 15 times more carbon dioxide than the average tree, they don't require any harmful chemicals such as pesticides or fertilizers and, as a feeder crop, they add nutrients back into the soil improving the land for the next rotation of crops.
The jute industry also supports roughly 5 million people in the poorest regions which makes it socially and economically sustainable as well as environmentally-friendly.
As a business that puts sustainability at its heart, jute is one of the main materials that we use to create a wide range of our bags. We have jute pouches, jute shoppers, jute totes and even jute pencil cases that are all available to be customised for businesses that want to create printed promotional products. It’s the perfect way to embrace greener practices, enhance your brand and excite your customers or clients without breaking the bank.
Browse our full collection of jute products here. Along with our new starch stiffened jute bag with no lamination
]]>Not only can sustainability increase revenue and give you a real competitive edge within your industry, it can drive brand loyalty and trust with 97% of consumers stating that they are more likely to trust a retailer that supports environmental issues.
For businesses to get it right and avoid accusation of greenwashing, they must understand what really matters to those who shop sustainably. It is all well and good to make small changes towards being greener, but how do you actually connect with sustainable shoppers so that they become a loyal customer?
As with any attempt at attracting a particular audience to your business, you need to establish the customer profile so that you can better understand what actions need to be taken to appeal to them. This means identifying the typical sustainable shopper by considering some of these questions; what are their interests, what is their average income, where can you find them?
When it comes to the age of the average sustainable shopper, though the range can be wide, Gen Z makes up the majority with 62% of them stating that they prioritize sustainability when shopping, closely followed by millennials. This means that most eco-conscious shoppers are under the age of 40.
We also know that these shoppers are willing to spend more on sustainability, they are knowledgeable and passionate about sustainable issues and they stand firm in their decision to shop sustainable.
All of these characteristics can aid you in building a detailed customer profile and once you know what these shoppers look like, you can put yourself in their shoes and tap into their mindset.
The biggest concern that an eco-conscious shopper has is the future of the planet which is why they care about shopping with sustainable businesses. They feel the weight of environmental issues on their shoulders and want to play their part in protecting the planet and all those that live on it.
With all of the above in mind, you can now begin to build out a plan for attracting these eco-conscious shoppers to your business.
Establish your key values
Just as sustainable shoppers often have certain values that may be more of a concern or focus for them, your business should also hold key values when it comes to sustainability. Of course, the end goal is to be as sustainable as possible across the board but it helps to start with some key values that are either most important to your consumers, or are easiest for you to uphold.
For example, you may decide that waste is a huge issue within your business from excessive packaging to discarded materials during production so your key value or aim will be to reduce waste.
Once you have established 3 - 5 clear sustainability principles that you want to focus on as a starting point, display them across your website and social platforms to make it known to customers so those who share your values will be drawn to your business.
Be transparent
The majority of sustainable shoppers are young and have grown up in the digital age with information at their fingertips so they know how to do their due diligence before buying from a business.
Therefore, when you make any sustainability claims on your website or in marketing material you need to be aware that thorough research will take place on the customer's end to ensure that everything being said is accurate.
You can make this easier for the customer by putting as much information as possible on your website whether this is the name of the factories that you work with, blogs about the materials you use or a list of your certifications. You can even go as far as to showcase behind-the-scenes photos and videos of your operations so that customers can clearly see what goes on within your business.
When you are clear and honest about every area of your business, you will avoid facing any accusations of greenwashing.
Even when you get it wrong or when there are areas in which you fall short, admitting your failures is just as important as shouting about your successes. Eco-conscious consumers appreciate honesty and, since they are highly likely to get to the truth anyway, it is best to be upfront and admit that you are not perfect but that you are working to get there.
Remember, sustainable shoppers are not looking for perfection, just transparency and progress.
Share your story
A great way to appeal to this market of shoppers is to connect with them on a deeper level. They don't just want to be constantly sold to so filling your social pages with product images or sending sales emails every week will not be enticing to them.
The best method of marketing for this audience is through story-telling and more personal insight into the brand or business, especially as it relates to sustainability.
This could be done through sharing team photos, writing up the story behind your company and placing it on your website and educating your audience on sustainability issues by posting about events, organisations and more.
Look beyond saving the planet
Though it plays a huge role, sustainability within businesses isn't all about what they are doing to protect the planet. It has become synonymous with quality which means that eco-conscious shoppers expect sustainable products to be built to last.
This also plays into why they are willing to spend more – they know that they are getting something with a long lifespan so the investment makes sense.
Even if you say and do all the right things relating to sustainability and begin to attract the eco-conscious shoppers, they won't stick around if they do not get a product or service of quality.
That is why you need to consider more than just your carbon footprint if you want a business with longevity.
Before you get started, you should familiarise yourself with all of the options available so that you can make the right decision for your business.
We offer a professional design and printing service using any of the below techniques. You can learn more about it and get a quote here
Screen printing (or silkscreen printing) is a popular, traditional printing technique.
The process involves transferring a stencilled design onto a flat surface using a mesh screen, ink and a squeegee. It's ideal when printing on textiles and is the go-to printing technique for bags and clothing.
We would recommend screen printing for:
This method is a specific type of screen printing based on the combination of the 4 basic inks cyan, magenta, yellow and black. With CMYK printing, a full-colour print that enables exact Pantone colour matches can be achieved by using these four screens.
This is a slightly more expensive method of printing but it can be essential when a design requires specific colours.
We would recommend CMYK printing for:
Digital printing is the most modern and cost-effective method. A digital-based image (PDF) is sent to the printer and a laser or inkjet is used to apply that image to a surface.
It's simple, fast and works really well on bags, kitchen textiles and clothing.
We would recommend digital printing for:
One of the most commonly used print methods for fabrics is rotary printing which is a type of screen printing.
Ink is pressed through mesh on a cylindrical screen onto fabric. It works on many different types of materials and is ideal for bags, clothing and kitchen textiles.
We would recommend rotary printing for:
Though it may be considered an old-school method, transfer printing is still a great option.
It uses a heat press to apply a design from paper onto another surface. There are endless possibilities when using this technique as there are no restrictions when it comes small, intricate details.
We would recommend transfer printing for:
Embroidery is a well-known branding (not so much printing) technique that uses a needle and thread to stitch the artwork or pattern into a fabric giving it a more luxurious look.
Though it can be more time-consuming and costly than other methods, it adds a lot more value to the product itself so can be worth the investment.
We would recommend embroidery for:
Litho printing (lithography) is a trusted classic where the artwork is etched onto an aluminium plate using a laser. This plate is covered in wet ink and then put onto the printing press which is made up of lots of rollers that the material goes through.
We would recommend litho printing for:
Tonal printing is a more subtle technique that is used to create a worn look. It uses water-based ink to create a hue that is lighter or darker than the fabric being printed on that makes it look aged. It's ideal when you want to achieve a very specific vintage feel on your textiles.
We would recommend tonal printing for:
Foil printing adds a premium look to any product. It uses a pre-glued metallic foil and a heated die to press the design into the surface of the material. It works well for single colour artwork and can be used on a variety of materials but looks great on bags, notebooks and clothing.
We would recommend foil printing for:
Glitter printing is a type of transfer printing that uses the glittering granules visible after print as part of the design. It's a great way to make a statement and can be used on virtually any material but it isn't the most durable printing method.
We would recommend glitter printing for:
If you would like to explore any of these printing methods for your sustainable, custom bags by using our professional bespoke and branding service, then click here to get started.
]]>Our beginner's guide is here to help demystify the rules of recycling by explaining what can and cannot be recycled, and how.
Plastics are possibly the most complex material when it comes to recycling but it is arguably the most important as UK households throw away, on average, 40kg of plastic every year.
There are seven different types of plastics found around most homes and they can be identified by the triangular symbol that they are all marked with as each type is assigned a different number between 1 and 7.
The easiest to recycle are:
Whilst the most difficult plastics to recycle are LDPE (shopping bags), polystyrene (takeaway boxes, plastic cutlery), and PVC – all of which must be recycled at specialist recycling points.
Finally, there are the plastics that can't be recycled at all, such as crisp packets, cling film and salad bags, instead these items end up in landfills.
Metals are another commonly used material that should be recycled in order to reduce the strain on our limited resources.
Most metal items are usually found in the kitchen and almost all metals are recyclable with the most common being:
The only non-recyclable metals that can be found in everyday items are Mercury and Lead.
Other common materials found in the home that can be easily recycled include:
Beyond understanding which materials can and cannot be recycled and how to prepare these items for recycling, there are some other simple things you can do to increase your recycling and ensure that it is always done correctly.
'Carbon footprint' is the measurement often used to track how green a household or individual is. This is calculated as the total amount of greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide and methane) that are produced by our actions.
If your carbon footprint is high, this indicates that you are not living as sustainably as you should be and that there are probably many adjustments you can make in your day to day life to bring this number down.
The ultimate goal is to become carbon neutral. This is when your carbon output is effectively reduced to zero which is as eco-friendly as it gets.
Unfortunately, getting an exact figure for your carbon footprint is almost impossible because it would require you working out how many carbon emissions you produce when you do anything that uses energy or emits CO2.
Furthermore, your carbon footprint is likely to vary drastically day to day as seasons, life events and many other things can have a huge impact on it.
However, you can get a rough idea as to how high your carbon footprint is by looking at the activities that produce the biggest emissions and assessing your contribution on a weekly/monthly/yearly basis.
Some examples include:
If you find that you are getting large numbers for most of the above, then the chances are your carbon footprint is pretty high too.
But if you want to start getting to the nitty gritty and breaking down the numbers, there are mathematical methods that can be used to work it all out. For example, multiplying your monthly electric bill and gas bill by 105 will give you a figure for the energy usage in your home.
There are several good online calculators available for free, including this one by Cool Climate.
If you have identified that your carbon footprint is too high, or at least higher than you would like, then there is plenty that you can do about it.
You can reduce your carbon footprint as quickly as today by making some small tweaks and changes to the way that you are living.
Some of the easiest things you can do include:
There are also many big changes that you can make which might be more of an investment and sacrifice on your part, such as:
If your goal is to become carbon neutral then the changes listed above will get you closer but will not help you reach it.
The only way to truly become carbon neutral is to balance out your remaining emissions through carbon offsetting. This is where you compensate for your output by contributing to schemes designed to make equivalent reductions of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere; for example, by giving money or time to projects that decrease greenhouse gases levels.
It's quite easy to do and goes a long way towards getting you to that carbon neutral status.
You can even get started on improving your carbon footprint today by replacing your single-use plastic bags with our reusable alternatives. From gift bags and bottles bags, to shoppers and totes, we have a wide range of sustainable bags made from organic cotton, jute and other eco-friendly materials.
All our bags are ethically-sourced from one of our accredited factories in the Far East and can be custom-printed with bespoke artwork for businesses who need promotional or retail bags.
Whether you are gifting to a loved one, creating customized bags for your small business or just want to make something special for yourself, we have a whole host of ideas when it comes to how you can decorate your plain tote.
So grab your markers, paints and arts & crafts kit and let's get creative…
But if you decide that DIY decorating is not in your wheelhouse and you want something more professional, then we provide a printing service supported by our in-house design team. Whether you already have the digital artwork file that you can email across or you want us to help you create one, we can get your designs printed onto any of our tote bags using one of many printing techniques including screen printing and transfer print.
]]>One very common phrase that gets used is 'circular economy' which is defined as 'a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the life cycle of products is extended.'
Our current economy is built on 'take, make, use, dispose, repeat' which is a linear model that is draining resources and destroying the planet (amongst other things) so it is not a sustainable way to live. In trying to find a solution to this problem, the circular economy was introduced.
This system is rooted in three principles: eliminate, circulate and regenerate. The sole purpose of circular economy is to eliminate waste and protect non-renewable resources by keeping materials and products in circulation for as long as possible rather than throwing them away.
By design, circular economy creates an economy that is restorative and protects the environment from the pollution caused by excessive waste and the production of goods.
There are many examples of circular economy in our society and you are likely to encounter one every day. When you put an empty container or water bottle into a recycling bin, when you take your clothes to a charity shop or even when you repurpose old furniture, you are contributing to a circular economy.
As for specific materials and products that are created as a result of the circular economy, rPET is a very popular example. It undergoes a closed-loop production where plastic water bottles are mechanically recycled and converted into new fibres that can be used to make a range of products, including clothes and home textiles.
This process has been replicated across other fabrics, such as cotton and canvas, to create a long list of recycled materials that are now being used in the fashion and textile industry.
It's a model that is growing in popularity across many industries; from circular fashion to return deposit schemes, consumers are being encouraged to divert their waste from landfills by increasing their lifespan and get involved in the circularity by purchasing recycled or pre-loved goods.
The biggest and most obvious benefit of the circular economy is that it reduces the amount of waste being sent to landfills.
The most recent figures (2017) show that UK households produce 27 million tonnes of waste each year of which over 54% ends up in a landfill or the ocean - and this doesn't even include commercial or construction waste. This leaves piles of products and materials slowly decomposing (that is only the ones that can) and emitting an excessive amount of harmful carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
In fact, landfill waste contributes to approximately 5% of global CO2 emissions. This may sound like a small figure but, to put it into perspective, it is doing more damage to the environment than deforestation.
By encouraging people to recycle, and offering them more recyclable options when it comes to packaging, clothing and other consumer products, these figures will decrease substantially.
Another benefit is that circular economy reduces the use of non-renewable resources. Instead, of draining the limited resources we have, such as oil and coal, to make brand new materials, a circular economy reuses what has already been made.
The reality is that if we keep using non-renewable resources at the current rate then we will start running out of them as early as this year. For example, chromium could be eradicated from the face of the earth in 2022 whilst lead will completely disappear by 2025 and oil may be non-existent in just 24 years.
A cyclical model of living will enable us to hold onto these resources for far longer and build economic, social and natural capital by making the transition to renewable energy and regenerative production.
Furthermore, closed-loop production, which is a by-product of circular economy, requires less energy and water usage; this effectively lowers carbon emissions.
In fact, reports show that by designing out waste, keeping materials in use and regenerating farmland, emissions could reduce by 9.3 billion tonnes. This would have a substantial positive impact on the environment and slow down climate change which is more than enough reason to start recycling and repurposing at a higher rate.
We encourage and support the circular economy with our recycled bag collection. Each bag in this range is made using recycled materials certified by GRS (Global Recycled Standard) and is recyclable itself to keep it in a closed-loop production model.
Businesses can also add their logo or artwork to these bags to create an eco-friendly custom-printed bag for promotional events, giveaways, gifting and more.
The time of year and change in season doesn't have to mean that the environment suffers as there are many ways for you to continue to live sustainably even with all the obstacles that winter brings with it.
Limit how long your heating is on
January is often the coldest time of year with temperatures dropping to subzero most nights and ice a common occurrence in the mornings. Consequently, many of us find ourselves switching on the thermostat as soon as we wake up and keeping it on for many hours throughout the day, especially if we are working from home.
This has a huge negative impact on the environment because of the harmful emissions that are released every time the heating is switched on. To put this into perspective, an ordinary small, terraced house with a well-insulated loft and a modern gas-fired boiler will produce around 2.75 tonnes of planet-warming greenhouse gases a year – the same amount as driving 11,770 miles in an average car or flying 11 round trips to and from Rome.
In order to reduce the harm being caused to the planet – and cut your energy costs – you should make a conscious effort to limit the amount of time your heating is on each day.
The best way to do this is to set it on a timer so when you turn it on it switches itself off after an hour, for example, or to set it to turn on and off at specific times limiting to your usage to, let's say, 3-4 hours each day.
When it does get cold, you can also look for alternative methods of keeping warm whilst you're in the house such as having a hot drink or wearing more layers and thick socks.
Also consider assessing the insulation in your home to find areas where heat might be escaping and cold air may be getting in such as gaps around doors and poorly fitted windows.
Turn on the lights only when needed, and remember to turn them off too
Winter also means that the days are a lot shorter because it gets dark earlier in the day and stays dark until later in the morning. As a result, you find yourself needing to turn on the lights in your home whilst you're getting ready for work in the morning and long before it is even time for tea. This could mean that there are lights on in your home for anywhere between 4 – 8 hours longer a day when compared to spring or summer.
When we no longer have any natural light available to us (which is already limited during the day in winter), it can be harmful to our eye health not to get access to substantial light so turning on the lights is almost unavoidable.
However, there are some changes you can make in your home to make it more eco-friendly such as installing LED lights or investing in oil lamps that do not require any electricity.
You should also make a conscious effort to turn off all lights whenever you leave a room to keep your energy consumption a little lower. Even when you are cooking dinner, for example, and leave the kitchen for twenty minutes whilst the food simmers, if there is no one in the room who needs light then it can be turned off until you return to it.
Keep car journeys to a minimum
With the low temperatures and unpredictable weather, people are far less likely to opt to walk their children to school or cycle to work if they have the ability to jump in their warm, dry car instead.
Although this is understandable on an extremely cold and wet day, car journeys should still be kept to a minimum whenever possible, especially when being used for short trips.
If you do find yourself using your car more during the winter, then look at ways in which you can still keep your carbon footprint down. For example, offer to carpool on your commute to school or work so that there are fewer cars on the road, or be more conscious of how you are driving as reducing your speed and smoother acceleration can result in less carbon emissions.
Though this is not a viable option for everyone, if your budget allows and you find yourself driving a substantial amount every day, then it could be worth investing in a greener car. It could also end up saving you a lot of money on petrol and the many Clean Air Zones that have been introduced around London, Birmingham and many other parts of the UK.
Stay off the electronics, even if it is cold outside
Furthermore, the winter weather and seasonal affective disorder means that people stay indoors a lot more rather than going out to socialise or entertain themselves. This results in more time being spent watching TV, playing video games or using laptops – all activities that require electricity and consume a lot of energy.
Be mindful of how long are using these electronics on a day to day basis by monitoring your time and sticking to a strict limit such as only two hours of TV a day or only allowing yourself to play video games one evening a week.
You can also look for other things to do that don't require electricity at all; read a book, invite friends over to play board games or do a puzzle, do some baking or arts and crafts. There are so many other options and you may even pick up a new skill or two.
A new season doesn't mean you need new clothes
Finally, as the seasons change we feel pressure, or the urge, to invest in new items of clothing to prepare for the change in weather and the plans we have for the upcoming months. But before you go on a spree and make the most of the January sales, consider whether you actually need a new wardrobe, just a few key items or nothing at all.
Maybe your favourite jumper from last winter is no longer in fashion but you can do some DIY work to create something new, or your go-to pair of jeans might be a little loose around the waist but that is something that can be fixed with a needle and thread.
There is usually a way to revamp or rework your clothes from the previous year so that you don't find yourself buying a plethora of new items and falling into the trap of overconsumption.
This doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to a new coat or pair of boots but the key is to only get what you need and keep your purchases to a limit.
]]>However, it doesn't have to be such a challenging task.
There are some brilliant options available when it comes to sustainable gifts whether you want to make a big gesture or grab a few stocking fillers. We have several gift ideas available on our store that will bring a smile to the faces of those you love…
Do you know someone who has a huge makeup collection? Or someone who loves to travel and needs a convenient pouch to store some essentials in?
We have a collection of eco-friendly cosmetic bags that are the dream gift for those who need somewhere to store their cosmetics at home, or carry them when they're on the go.
All of our makeup bags are made from ethically-sourced canvas which means they are durable and easy to clean, and they come with a stunning zip closure to keep the items inside secure.
We're sure that there is someone in your life who drinks coffee as though their life depends on it and what better gift than one that makes their caffeine obsession more sustainable.
Whether your work colleague is boiling the kettle every hour or your best friend takes daily trips to their local coffee shop, our stunning range of reusable coffee cups will make for their perfect companion.
Made from bamboo and corn starch, these travel mugs are an eco-friendly and thoughtful present that will go a long way.
Choose from six colourways or our four patterned designs.
Our range of premium tote bags make brilliant gifts for the fashion and eco-conscious. These sustainable shoppers are great for all occasions whether going for lunch or a work meeting, and they will never go out of style so this is a gift that will last a lifetime.
Choose from products such as our popular Ivy Market Tote Bag or our Camellia Canvas Tote Bag – there is a material and design to suit everyone.
We've got the perfect sustainable stocking filler in the shape of our Wisteria Black Padded Canvas Sleeve. It's a simple yet chic multi-functional carrier with a magnetic button closure that can be used to store and protect a tablet or as a sleek document holder for meetings and travel.
This is an excellent gift for young professionals or those that are always on the move.
If you have a loved one that is always in the gym or training for a sport, then this collection is for them. Our sustainable gym bags come in a variety of colours, materials and designs so that you can find the perfect one to gift to your brother, sister, friend, parent, son or daughter.
That way, they can carry their clothes, equipment and other essentials needed for a workout with an eco-conscious edge.
From rPET drawstring bags to a stylish canvas duffle, there truly is something for everyone.
We've got something for the students too with our range of sustainable school bags and supplies. Whether you're gifting someone at school, college or university, this collection boasts an array of eco-friendly products made from jute, rPET, cotton and more.
There are pencil cases that make for great stocking fillers, book bags, messenger bags and drawstring gym bags. It's a practical and fun way of introducing younger children to the world of sustainability.
Still haven't managed to find the perfect gift from this list of options?
Well we have hundreds more products for you to browse including our new biodegradable straws, children's bamboo dinner sets and soft furnishings.
It's easy to overlook this part of our everyday lives yet the fashion industry accounts for roughly 10% of global carbon emissions and it contributes to a huge amount of waste in landfills. In fact, we throw away an estimated £140 million worth of clothing every year.
So, how can we cut down on our shopping habits and reduce our clothing waste to create a more sustainable wardrobe?
Organise Your Wardrobe
The first mistake that we often make, and that can lead us to overconsume, is not being fully aware of what pieces we already own. It's easy for a beloved t-shirt or beautiful dress to get lost at the back of your wardrobe and forgotten leaving you to buy a duplicate of something you already have and that hasn't been worn much, if at all.
If you take some time to sort through your wardrobe and organise it so that you know exactly what you have before you start shopping, you'll find that you end up needing to buy a whole lot less and might rediscover some old treasures.
Build A Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is all about minimalism and investing in key, classic pieces that are versatile so that you can get more outfits out of less items. The idea is to avoid buying into trends and to stick to items of clothing that will never go out style. Some good examples of this are a plain white t-shirt, blue denim jeans, little black dress, leather jacket and a fitted blazer.
By building a capsule wardrobe with these kinds of garments, you will find yourself no longer having to throw away clothes because they have 'gone out style'. You will also be able to remix each piece and wear it many different ways giving yourself less excuse to need to buy a new outfit for every occasion.
Shop Quality Over Quantity
The need or urge to buy new clothes is unavoidable. Whether you are starting a new job that has a strict dress code or you have been invited to a themed party, shopping less – though good in practice – isn't always easy, or even possible.
The biggest change occurs when we consider how we shop and not just how often we shop. When you make smarter shopping decisions and create healthier shopping habits, you will see an instant positive shift in the sustainability of your wardrobe.
For example, investing in good quality pieces can be pricey but it works out more cost-effective in the long run as the clothes will last longer and you will get far more wear out of them. This means less waste and, often, supports better ethical working conditions for those who are manufacturing the clothes.
Reign In Impulse Buying
You should also try to make more considered purchasing decisions and not get carried away with impulse buying. A great way to practice this is to ask yourself if you really need the item before you checkout (is this the item that you had on your list or is this something you have just stumbled upon?) and if the answer is no then leave it in your wish-list or place it back on the rail, wait a week and if you are still thinking about it then give yourself permission for a treat.
You will find that, in most cases, you have long forgotten the cute skirt or stylish jeans that you almost purchased out of impulse before the day is even over.
You can also ask yourself some other questions before making a purchase such as 'do I have anything to wear it with?', 'will I wear it at least 30 times?' and 'is there anything about it I don't like about it?'. By taking a minute to ask yourself these questions and really consider your investment, you are giving yourself time to rethink unnecessary and wasteful buying decision.
Go Greener
One of the most important things you can do is start supporting sustainable brands and businesses within the fashion industry.
There are so many of them on the market and a lot of well-known brands are taking positive steps towards being more sustainable so you will be spoilt for choice.
Just make sure that you don't get blindsided by greenwashing tactics by looking out for certifications and doing your research.
Try Thrifting
Charity shops and thrift stores are not only a great way to save money but they are also a more sustainable way to shop for new clothes because they are, technically, not new.
These businesses are extending the life of garments that are wearable and in good condition, saving them from the landfill, so shopping there means that you are supporting this circular economy.
It can also be a fun experience and you will often find some great vintage, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Do Some Repairs
When it comes to clearing out your closet, the first items to go are the ones that we usually deem no longer wearable because they have a stain or a tear or they no longer fit. However, these sorts of things can sometimes be fixed by you or a tailor.
Your favourite pair of jeans that are now baggy at the waist because you have lost some weight can be tailored by a seamstress, stains can be removed with a little home remedy and rips can be sewn up in five minutes with some needle and thread.
Even if some DIY doesn't fix the problem, it is always worth trying to find a resolution before you toss the item aside altogether.
Upcycling Is Always An Option
Other common reasons for throwing away items of clothing is because the trend has passed, you've had it so long/worn it so much that you're bored of it or you just no longer like it. When this is the case, you should try upcycling before throwing it away.
Plain jeans can be transformed into shorts or distressed jeans, an oversized jumper can become a boxy cropped jumper or a simple t-shirt can be tie-dyed to give it some character. The options are endless and it's a great opportunity to create something unique and add your own personal touch to your wardrobe.
Donate Or Sell What You Can
If all else fails, you can donate or sell your clothing. You should only find yourself throwing items away if they are in really bad condition or if they cannot be worn by anyone else such as bikinis.
You can start by asking friends or family if they want anything from your pile of rejected items and then take whatever is left to a charity shop.
There are also a handful of brilliant apps and websites that enable users to sell their clothing, even if worn, so you can make a little money and give your clothes a new home.
One of the most popular product options when it comes to branded merchandise are reusable bags.
Since the 1950s custom printed tote bags have been used as a method of marketing for businesses, big and small, across all industries, and it continues to be a favourite thanks to its effectiveness.
With the 10p charge on plastic bags and constant push for more sustainable living, reusable bags are more necessary than ever and have become increasingly popular over the last few years with an estimated 20-30 per household.
This means that there has been no better time than now to invest in promotional bags as a tool for marketing.
The most important thing to consider when creating branded merchandise is how likely it is that the person it is being given to will hold on to it and use it.
In the case of reusable bags, they are a practical product that appeals to everyone. There are very few other promotional products that are useful to all demographics regardless of age, gender, household income, interests, occupation etc.
Consumers are likely to have a more positive opinion of your business if you provide them with something of use which could be why 50% of consumers are more likely to do business with the advertiser that gave them a printed bag.
Furthermore, the sheer nature of tote bags means that their visibility goes far beyond the person using it as they will be seen by everyone who encounters that person whilst they are using the bag; families at the supermarket, professionals on the commute to work and millennials at the farmers market.
Promotional bags are often referred to as walking billboards for the product, service or message that you want to share with the world.
In fact, bags generate the most impressions when compared to any other promotional product with nearly 6,000 over the course of the life of the bag. This enables businesses to get their brand name seen by thousands of people every single day without any ongoing cost attached.
Promotional products often get a bad rep for being wasteful as it is common for them to end up in the bin shortly after being handed to someone which means that it will quickly find its way to a landfill where it will take hundreds to a thousand years to decompose.
Therefore, when tapping into this market you should look at more sustainable options, and reusable bags are just that.
A single reusable bag can replace two disposable shopping bags per trip, two times a week equating to 192 bags a year being saved from landfills which is why they are such a great eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags.
In order for a bag to be reusable, it will need to be made from a material that is durable to ensure that it is able to withstand the regular use and wear and tear it faces from carrying around groceries and more every week. Hence why they are often made using cotton, canvas and other eco-friendly materials that are heavy-duty and will increase the lifespan of the bag.
As a result, branded bags are products that the end user will keep for some months, even years, leaving a lasting impression and acting as a constant reminder of your business long after they have interacted with you.
Then there is the simple fact that bags are such versatile and customisable products that they enable businesses to be truly innovative and create merchandise that is authentic to your brand or message. For example, reusable bags can be dyed to match the brand colours or they can be produced in a particular style to align with your products such as branded bottle bags for a winery or bar trying to promote their business.
Bags also provide you with a large surface area (depending on the bag size) to print on so you can ensure your message is visible and clear to all who might see it as opposed to pens and keyrings which have limited space that restricts the type of artwork you can print on them.
Of course, the bolder and more creative your custom printed bags are the better brand recall and impact that they will have so the most important thing is to ensure that, when using this method of marketing, you make the most of it as you can significantly increase brand awareness when you get it right.
Our Bespoke and Branded Bags service connects you to our team of in-house designers who can work closely with you to create a brand-authentic and engaging promotional bag for your business. Whether you want to custom print on one of our stock bags or design something fully bespoke, we are here to help you bring your vision to life and elevate your brand.
Enquire today by giving us a call on 01923 537 433 or emailing us at sales@ecoduka.com
Upcycling is a form of recycling but, instead of turning waste into a new material which can be used to make a new product, the original product is altered in some way to give it a new purpose or extend its life. This is usually done when the old product is no longer fit for, or needed for, its intended use.
Some common examples of upcycling include repainting or sanding down old furniture when the original paint is starting to chip or no longer suits your interior style, cutting up a pair of jeans so they can be worn as shorts or turning empty jars and containers into chic tableware.
This creative reuse of products that would otherwise be considered as waste has grown in popularity over the last decade and is now seen as a huge trend particularly within the fashion and home interior industries.
Protects the environment
There is a lot of value in upcycling with the main benefit being that it is great for the environment. With more and more of us practicing upcycling before throwing things away, we are seeing a reduction in the amount of waste across household items such as clothing, furniture and home textiles.
This can have a huge positive impact on climate issues, such as air pollution, because just one pound of clothing not going to landfill can prevent approximately seven pounds of CO2 emissions from damaging the environment; and that is just the tip of the iceberg.
Conserves limited resources
Upcycling also conserves our limited resources as it requires much less energy than manufacturing new products, or even recycling, and it prolongs the life of products made out of materials that are finite.
A good illustration of this is wood which is diminishing at a scarily fast rate. Instead of throwing away tables, chairs and other wooden products as soon as they look a little worn or are slightly damaged, when upcycled they get sanded down and refinished or chopped up and transformed into something new.
This lessens the demand and strain on the short supply of certain finite materials.
Saves you money
Upcycling can often be a means of survival and a necessity for those who cannot afford to make new purchases on non-essential items. For example, instead of buying a new dress for a special occasion using what you already have to create one is a great money saver.
Even if you do have the funds to treat yourself every once in a while, who doesn't want to save their money wherever possible so that it can be spent on bills, food, holidays and other things that cannot be obtained through upcycling.
Develop your skills
On a lighter note, upcycling is a great way to develop resourcefulness, creativity and artistic skills which makes it a good practice to instil in your children.
You might even discover a hidden talent for sewing or painting which could lead to a side hustle, or a whole new career.
Not to mention there is something hugely satisfying about creating something new out of something old especially if you have found a way to extend the life of a product that is of real importance to you or that you spent a lot of money on.
The sense of accomplishment and pride that you feel when you complete an upcycling project successfully can almost make the finished product feel even more valuable too.
Create something unique
Finally, upcycling is an opportunity to create something truly unique whether it's homeware, garden decor or clothing. This is an exciting prospect; to own a product that is completely customized to perfectly fit your aesthetic and needs – something that you can't find in any store and that no one else will have. A truly one of a kind piece.
It's clear that there is real merit in upcycling and it doesn't take a massive amount of time or energy to do it. In fact, it could save you both of those things, as well as money.
So, next time you are about to take a trip to your local dump to deposit a handful of items consider whether upcycling might be a viable option instead.
Is there a way you can use the product for something else? Can you break it down and build something new? Is it just in need of a bit of TLC to keep it going for another year or two?
Ask yourself those questions and if the answer to at least one them is yes, then grab your arts and crafts kit and get to work.
]]>Beyond the corporate social responsibility that all businesses have, there should be a human and moral value that crosses over into the company ethics when it comes to being cruelty-free, ethically-sourced/made, eco-friendly, plastic-free etc.
Though their impact on the environment may not be as great, even small businesses should consider how they can be more sustainable because it does make a difference to the planet and, possibly, the success of the business.
By making an effort to embrace greener practices and processes, you will attract more eco-conscious customers, positive publicity and feel good knowing that you are having a positive impact on the planet.
It doesn't have to be an all-consuming, costly activity. There are a few minor changes that small businesses can make today to start their journey towards sustainability.
Though a lot can be said about technology, both good and bad, the benefits of it are undeniable especially when it comes to the role it plays in helping us reduce the amount of paper we use and waste.
You may have noticed over the last few years that most retailers and restaurants no longer print receipts and, instead, send them directly to their customers via email by asking for their details at the point-of-sale.
With receipts always ending up in a bin or littered on the floor (after spending a few days/weeks/months at the bottom of your bag or the corners of your pockets), and being sent to landfills, these plastic pollutants generate 1.5 billion pounds of waste in the UK ever year.
Another example of paperless business practices are the countless apps that allow us to sign documents digitally which means that we no longer need to print reams of paper just for the sake of signing something that will inevitably end up in the shredder.
All in all, not only does going paperless reduce the amount of trees that need to be cut down to supply us with the necessary material, but it can save on space, clutter and the time-consuming chore of shredding it all eventually.
One of the biggest changes that has occurred over the last year and a half as a direct result of Covid-19 is the flexibility that businesses are now offering their employees when it comes to location of work.
When we were in a full lockdown, we had no choice but to adapt and find ways to still get work done from the confines of our homes. This meant that many people set up home offices, invested in stationery and laptops and fell into a new routine that worked for them and, in most cases, it had little to no impact on their productivity at work and, in others, they actually saw a positive change.
During this period, we also witnessed a record drop in fossil carbon dioxide emissions by 2.4 billion tonnes – an achievement that was, in part, a result of fewer cars being driven on the roads as people no longer had to travel to and from work.
It has already been established that a third of all CO2 emissions from passenger transport comes from commuting which goes to show that giving employees the opportunity to work from home, even if it is for only one or two days a week, could go a way towards slowing down the damage that we are doing to the environment.
Small businesses should also assess their energy usage in the workplace and find ways to cut down. Not only will this help protect the planet, but it can be a huge cost-save for your business too.
One of the biggest energy consumers in most workplaces are electrical appliances, particularly computers and lights which are used all day and all year-round.
During spring and summer, it should be easy enough to make use of natural light if that is available to you for most of the day. However, if you don't have access to much natural light, you are working late or it's winter, then turning on the lights is almost unavoidable. But the part at which some fall short is remembering to turn them all off.
Be sure to insist that the last person to leave takes some time to ensure that all lights are turned off at the end of the day as well as computers and any other electrical devices that no longer need to be switched on.
Another energy waster are thermostats. Whether you are heating up the workplace during the colder weather or trying to stay cool with air conditioning during a heatwave, the workplace temperature can be a big point of contention as well as an energy consumer.
Although the workplace does need to fall within a specific temperature range for health and safety reasons, you should consider all options before turning the heat or the air conditioning on.
For example, try opening some windows, investing in low energy desk fans, gifting hot water bottles to your employees etc.
When it comes to impressing your customers with your eco-credentials, the first thing to consider is your packaging as this is tangible evidence that you can use to display your efforts towards sustainability.
If you are a small retailer that delivers physical products then think about the materials you are using to package your products and whether all of it is even necessary.
The most important thing is to cut down on, or completely eradicate, the use of plastic from your packaging and other non-essential waste.
Then start using recycled cardboard boxes, recyclable paper and organic cotton pouches and drawstring bags where appropriate.
Not only are these far more eco-friendly packaging alternatives that will satisfy the demands of a growing public outcry for more sustainability from businesses, these items are usually of a higher quality and reusable which provides an even better overall service to your customers.
We are a wholesale supplier of eco-friendly bags including reusable pouches that can be used for packing products such as jewellery, candles, soaps, cosmetics and hair products.
From your suppliers to your couriers, you should always closely assess those that you do work with to ensure that you are supporting sustainable businesses as much as possible.
For example, opt for the courier company that is taking active steps to reduce their carbon footprint over the one that isn’t even if it might cost a little more.
You can also take this a step further with some charitable work.
There are many amazing green causes that raise money to protect wildlife and the planet or for reforestation projects around the world.
You could financially support any one of them by donating a portion of your revenue each month, or by signing up to a project that allows you to plant a tree for every order you receive.
Whether you are gifting your employees or marketing your business at an event, the custom printed products that you give away should be eco-friendly and ethically sourced too.
Promotional products are known to be wasteful especially when made using harmful materials such as plastic, and when made cheaply causing them to have a very short lifespan. This doesn't mean that you should completely abandon branded merchandise for events, giveaways or gifting, especially since they are an incredibly effective method of marketing.
Instead, emphasis should be put on creating sustainable promotional products that won't end up in the bin.
We can help with this.
We stock a range of quality, reusable bags including cotton totes, canvas shoppers and jute gift bags all of which are perfect for promotional purposes.
Our bags are made from sustainable materials and can be reused multiple times which makes them less wasteful, and we can even help you design the artwork for your promotional bags or custom print your branding onto them using one of our professional printing techniques.