Printed stand-up pouches are a versatile and cost-effective packaging solution used across various industries. The food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries — among others — favor this kind of packaging solution for its endless advantages. Businesses enjoy the lightweight design, extended shelf life, and strong branding opportunities they provide. However, costs can vary significantly based on multiple factors. Understanding these cost components can help you optimize your packaging budget without compromising quality.
Material Selection
When it comes to stand-up pouches, the material you select can make a dramatic impact on your overall costs. Many businesses use plastic materials (polyethylene, PET, polypropylene) for their packaging because they’re cost-effective, durable, and widely used for food and non-food products.
Companies who want to stand out in the market might use foil laminates. These provide excellent barrier properties for moisture, light, and oxygen, but tend to be more expensive.
Other companies choose to cater to the growing amount of eco-conscious consumers. In fact, 92% of shoppers say sustainability is important when choosing a brand today. Compostable and biodegradable films are a sustainable option that appeals to this target audience, but they come at a premium price.
Printing Method
Typically, you’ll be able to choose between digital printing and flexographic printing for your printed stand-up pouches. The printing method you choose will also have an impact on your overall costs.
Digital printing is a modern printing method that applies high-quality, full-color designs directly onto flexible packaging materials without the need for printing plates. It has low setup costs and fast turnaround times, making it popular for many businesses. However, this method is best for small to medium orders, as there’s a higher cost per unit for large runs.
Flexographic printing is a high-speed, cost-efficient printing method that’s widely used in the industry. It uses flexible relief plates wrapped around rotating cylinders to transfer ink onto the packaging material. This process will be best for larger orders as it has higher setup costs than digital printing.
Pouch Size and Shape
The size and shape of your pouch is a major consideration for your business. For example, one of the first choices you’ll have to make is whether you’d like to use a standard or custom size. Standard sizes are more cost-effective as they don’t require special molds or adjustments. Conversely, custom dimensions may incur additional costs for material waste and specialized production.
Adding additional structural components will also affect cost. When it comes to stand-up pouches, you have a choice between gusseted or flat-bottom pouches. Gusseted stand-up pouches are designed with folded and sealed material on the sides or bottom, which allows them to expand and stand upright when filled. Flat-bottom pouches have a flat, rectangular base that allows them to stand upright more securely. Which option you choose will have a direct impact on cost. Some businesses also opt for a flat-bottom pouch with side gussets, which will increase costs.
Special Features and Add-Ons
More consumers are looking for convenient packaging. In fact, 57% of them noted that ease of use was a significant criterion when evaluating food packaging. Adding special features can help you appeal to this audience, but they may increase costs. Examples of special features include:
- Zippers
- Tear notches
- Spouts for liquids
- Window features for enhanced product visibility
All of these improve convenience for your products. However, the benefits must be weighed against the potential cost increases. An experienced packaging manufacturer can help you determine what’s best for your brand.
Have Questions About Printed Stand-Up Pouches? Turn to Craftsman Label
Ready to make your products stand out with high-quality, custom branding solutions? Trust Craftsman Label. Our team understands that your packaging is a powerful tool for attracting customers. That’s why we specialize in crafting branded solutions that look great and perform under real-world conditions.
With our expertise in label printing and commitment to exceptional quality, we’ll work closely with you to create products that reflect your brand’s personality and meet industry standards. Contact us today to get started.
