FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Theresa Brixius Director of Public Relations 440.258.8856 tbrixius@abc-packaging.com Packaging tips for pet food manufacturers. Cleveland, OH – It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there, at least when it comes to pet food. Today, it is a $17 billion industry, and is projected to continue growing exponentially. With those figures, there are bound to be dozens, if not hundreds, of companies competing for their slice of the pie. According to David Marinac, president of ABC Packaging Direct, one of the best ways for pet food manufacturers to stand out from the competition is to use innovative flexible packaging methods, such as stand up pouches that offer superior benefits over traditional methods, like cans or paper sacks. “ABC works with our customers to make sure we pair the right product with the right type of package,” Marinac says. “We want to learn about the product, so that we can make the best decision when it comes to packaging.” When considering flexible packaging, Marinac recommends asking yourself the following questions: What are the primary ingredients of your product? It is important to select the best type of film structure for your product. To know what is best, consider the primary ingredients. Oil-based products, such as fish food, can degrade plastic over time and often require a foil or aluminum layer to help maintain the product’s freshness. Will your product be used all at once, or over a period of time? Dog or cat treats, for example, are rarely served all at once (we hope). “Consider equipping your pouch with a zipper closure or press-to-close seal,” advises Marinac. “This is extremely convenient for consumers, and will help keep the product fresher for a longer period of time.” 2162 Clifton Way • Avon, Ohio 44011 • Ph: 216.591.1271 • Fax: 216.591.1276 Email: info@abc-packaging.com • Web: www.abc-packaging.com Is your product light-sensitive? Some pet food ingredients are light sensitive, and prolonged exposure to any light source can begin to degrade their freshness and nutritional value. On the flip side, some manufacturers want consumers to see the size, color, or shape of their product in the package. There are pouches available in both options: completely opaque, or with built-in see-through windows that give consumers a peek at what is inside. How will your product be displayed? Standup pouches offer many different options when it comes to merchandising. Whether it is sitting on a shelf, standing on a shelf, or hanging in a peg display, they can enable you to achieve the best look with either option. How will your product be shipped? Many pet food manufacturers sell their products online, which means they should think about employing packaging methods that are durable and easy to ship. Stand up pouches offer both. Are graphics and printing important to you? Some manufacturers want their product to stand out on retail shelves with elaborate printing and graphics. Stand up pouches take well to different printing techniques and are great for those looking for a customized package unique to their brand and product. “If such techniques are not within your strategy or budget, ABC offers stock bags you can use that offer the same benefits of printed flexible packaging, without the added costs of custom printing,” says Marinac. No matter what your product, there is a stand up pouch perfect for it. “If you’re looking to make an impact on retail shelves, or if you want to add convenience features for consumers, consider stand up pouches,” advises Marinac. “ABC will work with you to find the best possible option for what you need.” For information about stand up pouches and the different options available to you, visit ABC Packaging Direct online at: www.standuppouches.net or www.abc-packaging.com. ###