Friday's Industry Tips

Hi everyone,

This week, we’re bringing you another exciting edition of our Friday tips. We’ve gathered a range of packaging solutions and advice that we hope will help streamline your operations and meet the unique needs of your industry. So far, we’ve covered the antiques and furniture sectors—two areas we've had a lot of experience in. If you're working in either of those fields, we hope these posts have been useful. In the coming weeks, we'll be expanding to cover more industries.

Today’s focus is on the fashion sector—a complex and dynamic area with a wide variety of products, price points, and distribution channels. We’ve worked with many fashion businesses, especially those in e-commerce, but we’ve also received requests from wholesalers and high street retailers, each with their own specific requirements.

With the rise of online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy, many new clothing retailers are reaching out for guidance on how to build a strong brand image without breaking the bank. That’s exactly what we’ll be covering today: some top packaging recommendations that can benefit any fashion business, whether big or small. Keep reading and join us next week when we dive into presentation packaging for fashion.

Have you worked in the fashion industry? Or do you have a different sector in mind that you’d like us to cover? Feel free to reach out to us on Twitter — @kitepackaging — and share your thoughts and questions!

Fashion Industry Needs

Whether you're a fashion wholesaler, part of a small design house, work in luxury brands, operate an e-commerce site, or run a high-street store, you know that packaging needs can vary widely. But there are some common goals across the industry.

The fashion sector is all about lifestyle. While it's not a necessity like food or healthcare, it's a major personal purchase for many people in the UK. The industry is worth over £21 billion in the UK alone, making it one of the most significant retail markets.

Given the high stakes involved, quality packaging is essential. Here are the key requirements:

• Perceived Value
  Clothing is often seen as a personal statement. Whether a piece costs £10 or £500, customers expect a packaging experience that reflects the value of their purchase. Good presentation helps create a positive first impression and enhances the overall shopping experience.
• High Volume
  Most fashion businesses operate at scale, with frequent shipments and fast-moving trends. This means packaging needs to be efficient, cost-effective, and easy to handle, especially during busy periods.
• Brand Image
  Even for new brands, packaging plays a crucial role in building recognition and standing out in a crowded market. A consistent and professional look helps reinforce your brand identity and makes your products more memorable.
• Protection Against the Elements
  While many packaging materials protect against damage, in fashion, the main concern is keeping clothes safe from moisture, dust, and other environmental factors that can affect fabric and color.

Packaging Solutions for the Fashion Industry

In this first part of our "Packaging For... Fashion" series, we’ll take a closer look at the standard packaging used for general distribution. These are the essentials that help keep operations running smoothly, especially for high-volume orders. Next week, we’ll dive into presentation packaging and how to make your products stand out to customers.

Mailing Bags

Mailing bags are a popular choice in the fashion industry, especially for e-commerce and catalog-based retailers. Many of the clothing brands we work with opt for Kite Essentials mailing bags because they offer great value without compromising on quality. These bags are waterproof, helping to keep items clean and dry during transit. Plus, they’re made from 95% recycled material, which is a big plus for eco-conscious businesses.

Grey mailing bags are a favorite among many retailers because they look professional and help maintain customer privacy. They also come with a peel-and-seal strip, making them quick and secure to use without the need for tape or staples.

For heavier shipments or extra protection, co-extruded mailing bags are a better option. These three-layer polythene bags are stronger and more durable, ideal for sending larger orders or delicate items. Their opacity also makes them perfect for companies like lingerie retailers who prefer discreet packaging.

BDCM Boxes

BDCM boxes were originally designed for printed materials, but they’ve become a staple in the fashion industry due to their pre-printed labels. These labels clearly show the size, color, and product code, making it easy to identify contents without opening the box or scanning a barcode.

This feature is especially helpful for wholesalers who distribute to multiple retailers, as it streamlines the sorting and delivery process. BDCM boxes are also great for in-store organization, helping manage stock efficiently when space is limited.

These boxes are made from strong single-wall cardboard and come in four sizes to suit different needs. They’re also designed to stack neatly on standard pallets, improving storage and transport efficiency—something that’s vital in fast-paced fashion environments.

Wardrobe Cartons

Wardrobe cartons are a natural fit for the fashion industry, specifically designed to carry clothing. Originally used by moving companies, they're now widely used by fashion retailers for storing, transporting, and organizing garments.

These boxes are quick to assemble and allow clothes to be hung directly inside, preventing wrinkles and lost hangers. Their sturdy double-wall construction makes them self-supporting, saving valuable back-of-store space. They’re also a favorite for fashion shows, where time is of the essence and outfits need to be transported quickly and neatly.

Stylists and designers often use wardrobe cartons to transport collections to clients and photo shoots, highlighting their versatility and practicality in the fashion world.

Next Week

Join us next Friday for part two of our "Packaging For... Fashion" series, where we’ll explore the best options for creating a premium, well-presented product for customers. Until then, have a great weekend!