Where to find reusable bags?

Q: An article in the May issue of Michigan Retailer showed the value of selling reusable bags as an alternative to paper or plastic bags given at checkout. Where can I find a supplier for customized reusable bags?

A: Many vendors now offer reusable bags to retailers wholesale; most of them offer custom printing as well. Custom-printed orders may require a minimum purchase of 250 or more bags.

Many types of reusable bags are available, with features that may appeal to various types of customers and stores. They vary primarily in materials (recycled or recyclable plastics, cotton, organic cotton, hemp), size, functionality and design features.

Wholesale suppliers can be found readily through an Internet search on the words “wholesale reusable bags.”

Michigan Retailers does not endorse or have first-hand experience with any supplier, but U.S.-based online suppliers with good online feedback include:

• Reusablebags.com
• Ecobags.com
• Reusethisbag.com

In addition, your current supplier of bags or packaging may also offer reusable bags—if not now, then soon. Barb Stein, with the Heart of Rockford Business Association—whose reusable bags were pictured in the May Retailer—ordered the group’s bags through a sales rep with Gift Box, a supplier of retail packaging.

Stein was pleased with the results. The Gift Box website (www.800giftbox.com) does not list reusable bags in its online catalog—a retailer must make the request of a sales rep.

As with any product for your store, research will lead to the best combination of affordability and quality. Ask your customers about their preferences and talk with other storeowners about their experiences with reusable bags.