Natural Fabrics, Retail Influence Carrying Bag Market

The bags/totes promotional product market continues to be driven by retail trends. Bags and totes made of natural fibers are also continuing to gain momentum as U.S. cities begin to ban the use of plastic bags. And, pockets and features that allow technology to be stored safely, yet close at hand, is an emerging trend. Grocery bags, totes, backpacks, gym sacks, messenger bags, and rucksacks are just some of the items distributors can present to their clients.

Gary Mosley of Kati Sportcap & Bag notes that the bag category is unique because there is something for everyone. “There is such a variety of price points and styles,” he comments. “Just about everyone uses a bag in some form every day.”

According to Alan Tabasky of Bel Promo, cotton and jute material bags in natural colors are trending as a result of retail and eco-conscious markets. Dave Porter at Sportsman Cap & Bag agrees, adding that 100 percent cotton solutions generate a great deal of interest – particularly for end-users who looking to “go green.”

BIC Graphic’s Margit Fawbush also weighed in on the natural trend. “Cotton bags are a favorite among millennials because it is a lifestyle statement about being eco-conscious,” she comments. She adds that shopper totes are popular because of their clean lines, comfortable handles, and leather accents. Other trends are military inspired features such as leather accents, buckle closures, extra pockets, and a utilitarian feel in form luggage and bag designs. 

Grethe Adams of Southern Plus echoed and expanded on Fawbush’s thoughts. She agreed that the casual, rugged look and feel of the company’s jute bags are particularly popular with the millennial crowd. They have a high perceived value but are relatively inexpensive while being eco-friendly. She adds that tech-gadget bags are also popular, with pockets and features that keep phones and tablets secure but also allow quick access.

Another growing trend is in decoration, specifically a growing interest in full-color imprints, Adams notes. “Requirements for complicated graphics have increased dramatically and is partially driven by advances in technology to facilitate such complicated imprint on stock bags,” she explains. “Edge-to-edge print has also become a more frequent request and is an option we offer on some of our cotton totes.”

The rucksack is also hot, Fawbush of points out. “With a drawstring closure plus flap and buckles, this trend is all over high-end handbags,” she says. “Bags with a hip, urban style are more popular than ever – both in retail and promotional products.” She adds that two-tone polyester, which is an upgrade to the traditional 600D polyester, has a higher perceived value and provides the perfect finish to a street style/casual look when used in retail.

Vitronic Promotional, Lindsey Schultz says it’s all about taking the classic pieces and adding new colors – citing the company’s classic Colored Economy tote’s newest colors: Perky Pink, Osaka Blue, Sorte, and Vital.

Porter at Sportsman Cap & Bag maintains that demand has been increasing significantly. “By dividing the category into five niches, Sportsman Cap & Bag can help educate those in the bag category,” he elaborates. “The niches – backpacks, duffles, messenger bags, gym sacks, and totes – provide a variety of options for all types of customers.”

“Demand has been strong and increasing,” Tabasky intones. “Bags are a great way to showcase your logo and message. They are reused countless times and in all industries – the average cost of impression is practically free – when you consider the amount of time we reuse nicer bags and the amount of times that bag and logo is viewed by the public.”

Fortunately for distributors, promotional products suppliers have a wide array of new and best-selling bags and totes that address new and emerging trends in this market. Top sellers at Sportsman Cap & Bag are a range of totes, including those from Q-Tees, Blackman maintains. “The Q800 and QTB are big sellers because they are versatile, coming in various colors that are perfect for many different needs,” he comments, adding that roll top backpacks – like the CH104123 from Champion – are also popular. These bags provide a large main compartment and opt for a buckle closure rather than a zipper. Sportsman’s Porter adds that another top seller has been the range of bags from HYP because of their versatility.

The upscale Wellington is a favorite of Adams of Southern Plus. “We still see neutral colors trending high so this bag is an ideal choice if looking for a more upscale option,” she explains. “The premium waxed cotton canvas is water- and stain-repellant and adds strength and durability. The wide 100 percent cotton webbing handles add to the classic, low-key look of this tote.” The tan color also makes this bag a good unisex option, Adams points out.

The reusable grocery bag is huge at Kati Sportcap & Bag, according to Mosley, as communities continue to move to regulate disposable bags. “For customers, these bags are a great way to get their imprint out there in an inexpensive way that will be used repeatedly,” he says.

Ombre is one of the current hottest trends, notes Schultz of Vitronic Promotional. “We are introducing this trend with a new sport pack, as well as a cooler and umbrella,” she comments.

Promotional products suppliers agree that the staying power of bags and totes, their high perceived value, and large imprint area for logo and message are strong selling points. To that end, Blackman of Sportsman Cap & Bag believes this market’s strength lies in its variety. “No matter what you need, there is a bag or tote for you,” he emphasizes. “There are so many styles, colors, and prices that once you find out what the customer needs, there will be a style for them.” 

In agreement is Kati Sportcap & Bag’s Mosley. “There are sales opportunities all around for bags,” he states. “Once you know that, it’s just a matter of asking the right questions: Who is their audience? What end use do they have in mind? How can you meet their budget and timeline?”

Bags and totes sell themselves, according to Thinc Actionwear’s Schroedl and Schultz of Vitronic Promotional. “A very effective way to sell bags and other apparel is to simply give out samples,” Schroedl recommends. “Customers, decorators – you name it – they love free samples. After that, the bags sell themselves.” Schultz adds that the company’s sports pack is an eye-catching product that sells itself and really enhances the brand. “It is perfect for outdoor events like 5Ks, color runs, bike-racing parties, yoga classes, etc.,” she enthuses.

Finally, Adams of Southern Plus recommends bundling a bag with another item for a customized solution. “Try a beach bag with a beach mat or flip flop or beach chair, a work tote with a lunch cooler, a gym bag with a workout/exercise towel, or a travel duffel or tote with a travel blanket and neck pillow,” she says.

Clearly, distributors have a range of options to present to their clients when it comes to totes and bags and with the right presentation, sales are sure to be “in the bag!”

The Jumbo Tote from AST Sportswear is made from 12-oz. 100% cotton canvas. Featuring extra long natural web handles, it has full side and bottom gussets and is available in 11 colors.

The Gypsy Non-Woven Shopper Tote from Bullet has an open main compartment with Velcro closure and double 30" reinforced handles. It is reusable and a great alternative to plastic bags.

Carolina Made carries Ame & Lulu’s Panel Totes. This style features 18-oz. 100% cotton canvas with 100% nylon liner, water repellent treated, large main compartment with snap closure, interior zippered pocket.

No perfect weekend is complete without the Canvas Overnighter from Clava. This canvas bag features top grain leather accents in a rich café color. Its generous main body leaves plenty of room for packing. Choose from several coordinating Redford pieces to complete your set.

Elevate Tangent 15” Computer Backpack from Leed's is made from water resistant material and zippers. It has a large front pocket with organizer, top front zippered pocket for quick access items like sunglasses, front grab handle for convenience, a dedicated laptop compartment with side zippered access, padded rear shoulder straps and back with trolley sleeve, sternum strap, side water bottle pockets with drawstring closures and branded Elevate accents.

Great for carrying all necessities for a great day at the beach, this bag from Pro Towels is made from a 100% polyester blend that repels sand, dries quickly and is allergen free. It is offered in five colors.

The Ame & Lulu 25.5L day tote, available from S&S Activewear, is made from 18 oz., 100% cotton canvas and has a 100% nylon liner, water repellent treated,  28" contrasting self-fabric handles, 10 1/2" drop. The main compartment has a zippered closure and zipped back and interior pockets.

Designed to complement Towel Specialties’ Freestyle™ and Spinnaker™ Beach Towels, the Nautical Reversible Bag features cotton canvas construction with two zippered 10" x 10" compartments, one inside and one outside, for carrying accessories to the beach or pool. The cushioned shoulder straps provide comfort and make it easy to carry.

This rugged duffle bag from Sportsman Cap & Bag is made of 85% cotton/15% polyester, 12-oz. Concrete Cloth Canvas. A zippered main compartment, inside pocket and exterior zippered pocket offer extra organization. The adjustable canvas shoulder straps and snap canvas wrap handles allow for easy transportation.