Putting your customers' purchases into a merchandise bag printed with your logo is a smart idea. When your customers walk around after purchasing something from your store, they will be a walking advertisement and other people will see what kind of great products you offer.

There are so many retail merchandise bags to choose from. Some companies sell bags in bulk while others don't. Some offer colored bags; some offer custom printing so you can get your company's name or logo printed on them.

The type of merchandise you sell will determine the type of bags. Merchandise bags tips include:

1. Use merchandise bags that are clear. When your customer walks out your door, they will immediately begin advertising your store and your products.

2. Send your customers off with paper merchandise bags to please environmentally-conscious customers. Many of these bags are made from recycled materials.

3. Pack your products in poly merchandise bags. These bags are strong and versatile. Get some with handles for easy carrying.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy clear merchandise bags to show off your products

Putting your customers' purchases in a merchandise plastic bag that's clear means showcasing your products for other shoppers to see. This works particularly well if your store is located inside a mall. These bags can be traditional clear, frosted or translucent colors.

I recommend: Stock custom printed clear T-shirt bags for merchandise from Uline Shipping Supplies. Check out the frosted bags at Online Services; they come in a variety of sizes and you can get frosted colors as well as clear frosted.

Go green by using a paper merchandise bag

With emphasis on the environment increasing these days, many customers prefer paper bags to plastic ones. Stock some of these to give your customers a choice even if you decide you still need to use plastic as well. Even better, use merchandise bags made of recycled material.

I recommend: Any of the bags from BagsOnTheNet can be custom printed; most are eco-friendly. Use eye-catching paper bags with a newsprint pattern from Store Supply Warehouse.

Try out quality poly merchandise bags

Poly bags can be used to package pretty much anything. They are sturdy and are difficult to tear and therefore, can be used for heavy items. They are great as marketing tools since they are very professional-looking and will last a long time. Many customers keep their bags to reuse so this is also something to consider.

I recommend: Buy strong high-density bags in various colors from PAPER MART. Choose imprinted colored poly bags, merchandise-ready from MyShopAngel.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Getting custom merchandise bags made up is very important. You want your bags to work for you: They not only remind the customer of where they got their products, but they give other potential customers an idea of where they can shop.