If you’re producing products, from produce to confectionery, and everything in between, finding the right packaging bags in New Zealand can make a significant difference to customer satisfaction and your bottom line. You want something that protects your products, looks good on the shelf, and keeps your customers happy, all without breaking the bank.

That said, when it’s not your speciality, it can be intimidating to make decisions around the packaging aspect if you don’t understand all your options. That’s why we’re going to help you learn a bit more about this essential part of your offering using our ultimate guide. Read on as we explore the primary types of packaging materials and bag styles available, and which packaging supplies NZ businesses turn to for guaranteed customer satisfaction.

Choosing the Right Bag Material

First things first, the material you choose will have a significant impact on the strength of your packaging, the longevity of the product inside, and the overall appearance of the package on the shelf. At Allflex, we offer a range of distinct packaging bags NZ producers typically reach for, so let’s break down the main options.

BOPP (30µ, 40µ or 50µ)

Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) might be a mouthful to say, but it’s one of the best materials out there if you want something strong, moisture-proof, and nice and shiny. Available in thicknesses such as 30µ or 50µ, BOPP bags are a top choice for making your products look sharp on the shelf.

If you want a longer shelf life, we offer BOPP films with various coatings, such as ALOX, PVDC, EVOH, etc., to improve oxygen and moisture barriers.

We tend to recommend these bags for items like bakery or confectionery goods. 

PET (20µ)

PET (short for Polyethylene Terephthalate) is another strong contender. It’s tough, keeps out moisture and oxygen, and protects your product’s freshness. If you’re packaging confectionery or bakery goods, then PET’s a real solid choice. Also ideal for pies, the film has a high temperature tolerance, allowing it to be used in a microwave and oven (not more than 170°C) as long as the bag has perforations or is opened before heating.

Polyethylene

Finally, we have polyethylene. This material is everywhere, and for good reason. It’s affordable, easy to use, and compatible with various packaging bags in NZ. Businesses appreciate polyethene for its moisture protection, flexibility, and affordability. Additionally, it comes in recyclable versions as well.

We tend to recommend PE bags for produce, courier packaging, and everyday retail items. But thanks to its flexibility, it will stretch beyond this set of standard uses.

Choosing the Type of Packaging Bag

Once you’ve sorted out your material, the next step is to work with your packaging consultant to pick the style that suits you best. There are a few popular styles of packaging bags in NZ, but there are three that we want to focus on today:

Perforated Bags

Perforated bags are dotted with tiny holes that keep items fresher for longer. If you’re selling fresh produce, bread, or baked goods, these perforated bags allow air and moisture to flow through without exposing the products to the air completely.

Compostable Bags

Kiwi consumers love a good eco-friendly option, and compostable bags are right on trend. These bags are made from plant-based materials that are designed to break down properly, without lingering in local landfills for an extended period.

Choosing compostable bags is an excellent approach for appealing to eco-conscious consumers, as it demonstrates that your brand is walking the walk. They’re particularly useful for boutique food brands or anyone who wants to show their care for the planet.

Vacuum Bags

Vacuum bags are one of the most popular packaging supplies in New Zealand because they place a product in a state of suspended animation. The bags suck out all of the air, keeping your product fresher for longer. Not only does the shelf life of a given product receive a significant boost, but the vacuum seal also protects everything inside against moisture and invading bacteria.

Here are a few quick takeaways to keep in mind:

• Tough, clear bags like BOPP are great for showcasing products.
• Compostable bags are a winner for eco-friendly brands.
• Vacuum brands top the charts for anything that needs a long shelf life.

All of this accounted for, it’s not your job to be a packaging expert; it’s your job to produce incredible products! Navigating the world of packaging supplies in NZ is a lot easier with the right partner by your side, especially if your goal is to stand out from the competition.

Let’s make it happen!

The team at Allflex Packaging is ready to match you with the right packaging bags NZ-wide for your business. We’re the premier supplier of packaging supplies in New Zealand, connecting producers, suppliers, and supermarkets with the packaging they need to achieve success in a competitive market.

If you’re looking to stand out on the shelf and deliver for your customers, you’re in the right place. Get in touch with our team for an initial packaging consultation today.