AA Labels says that the launch of its new printed cartons service is set to disrupt the packaging market by providing SMEs with greater flexibility and more affordable packaging solutions.
The new service, which might potentially serve as an inspiration for some companies operating in the commercial print space, was developed in response to customer feedback and industry research. It is aimed specifically at those businesses that require affordable packaging for short print runs, with quick turnaround times.
The company, which is family-owned and based in Peterborough, says that the packaging sector’s traditional quotation and ordering process is ‘outdated, cumbersome and time consuming.’ Its solution, which AA Labels claims is a market first, provides a printed cartons service which enables businesses to complete the entire process online, providing the agility to meet the demands set by retailers. Users can select the size and style of the paperboard carton required, upload their artwork and order the required quantity at the click of a button. The new service will also provide greater access to the personalised packaging market, an area which research shows as playing a key role in increasing consumer engagement, brand awareness, customer loyalty and sales.
Sohail Sethi, managing director at AA Labels, commented, ‘Our research highlighted a key gap in the market for a full online service rather than the industry’s traditional quotation and call back model. The packaging industry relies heavily on outdated legacy practices and tradition, so there is an opportunity to disturb the market in the same way that we have done and continue to do with our range of label services. The labels market has been operating successfully under the buy online model for many years, so business owners recognise and understand the benefits of this approach. The core concerns for our customers are affordability and flexibility; they do not have the resources to commit to large print runs, they need fast order fulfilment and they do not want to compromise on print quality.’
The new service includes printed product cartons and sleeves, as well as promotional ‘table talkers’ including cubes, pyramids and tent cards, along with bottle neck collars, door hangers and many other promotional items, for customisation and short-run. There is an express option available to customers for whom speed is of particular concern and AA Labels will also be developing a number of pre-designed templates for brands working to a limited budget.
