What is Flexible Packaging? Custom Pouch Packaging? By definition, custom flexible packaging is a custom-made package that can change its shape. Flexible packaging companies use materials that may include combinations of film, foil, metallic or coated paper, or plastic. They also might just be made of one of those materials. Stand up pouch packaging is one of these types.
For food packaging, as opposed to boxes or bottles, they might be different types of pouches, bags, shrink sleeves, film wrap, over-wrap liners or flexible lids.
It’s possibly the fastest growing trend in the packaging industry. Why? Because traditional packaging often uses more material which ends up costing more money for food manufacturers. Packaging that is flexible allows manufacturers to not only save money in transportation and sourcing, but also cause less environmental pollution which contributes to sustainability. Less carbon footprint!
A case study by the Flexible Packaging Association compared cookies in a flexible pouch versus a rigid clamshell. They found that packaging that is flexible resulted in using 87% less coal or 64% less crude oil than rigid packaging; 79% reduced CO2 emissions during manufacturing; and 69% lower solid waste into landfills.
Additionally, the size of pouch packaging takes up less space, letting more packages per load fill up the trucks that transport them. This ends up saving fuel and producing less emissions. It uses up less natural resources. During transportation and storage, this type of packaging is much more durable and less likely to be damaged.
Here are just some of the advantages of working with custom flexible packaging companies:
- Packaging Is Lightweight
- Durable
- Resealable
- Environmental sustainability
- Easy to store
- Increases shelf life of product
- Top to bottom full package print ability
- Unique eye-catching product appearance and impact resulting in more effective branding
Custom Pouch Packaging – Call 800-495-1306
Have your brand be a part of this growing trend in packaging with options of flat, gusseted or custom stand up pouches.
Flexible gusseted pouches have
For powder, liquid or solid product, both custom printed stand up pouches and custom flat pouches offer longer lasting freshness due to reseal ability of the package, and barrier films prevent moisture and oxygen from getting into the pouch packaging.
All of these pouches can be printed with either a gloss or matte finish, and can even be furnished with a spout for liquid or powder products.
Food stays fresh for longer because of food grade laminates. They save your company money in freight, and save shelf space, so more packaging can be placed on the shelf.
Compared with traditional bag-in-a-box cartons, containers or cans use up to 75% more material than environmentally friendly pouches.
Digital Printed Stand Up Pouch Packaging – Call 800-495-1306
Perfect for snacks, pet food, frozen foods, household products and more, the bottom gusset expands when filled, and stands on its own, with tear notches to easily open and reseal the pouch. It is designed for strength, reinforced with sealed sides for bulk storage on shelves.
Digital printed stand up pouches for food packaging or liquids or powders can be manufactured in a variety of materials in either clear or solid colors. One side can be clear and the other side a solid color so that customers can see your product. Whether an eye-catching glossy or classic matte finish is required,
Options include tear notches, re-closable zippers, degassing valves, and hang holes to allow for product to be displayed on a hook.
Custom Flat Pouches – Call 800-495-1306
All the same options above are available as custom printed flat pouches. The only difference being that custom printed stand up pouches have a gusset whereas flat pouches do not. Custom flat pouches are designed to lay flat, generally to hold smaller items like seeds, spices, nuts, candies, snacks or even powders and lotions. Again, the zipper lock on the pouches keeps products fresh.
So how can you choose which option is right for you? We wrote an article on how to choose custom food packaging for a business that should help.
Flexible Packaging Companies Are Becoming More Plentiful
While it’s true that more and more flexible packaging companies are popping up all the time, Nova Custom Printing has been in business over 30 years. We provide our clients with a wide variety of high quality labels, stickers, decals and all forms of custom packaging quickly, efficiently, and affordably. Our experienced customer service keep our clients loyalty going strong. It’s with this same level of dedication and commitment that we offer custom flexible packaging with all types of pouch packaging to compliment your brand. We also print labels and stickers that are promotional in nature, to help with marketing. Contact us for a custom price quote today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Pouches
What are these pouches and why is it used by modern brands?
Custom pouches refers to flexible, made-to-order packaging that conforms to the shape of its contents while providing strong barrier protection against moisture and oxygen. It is widely used by food, beverage, and consumer-goods brands in NY, NJ and across the nation because it reduces material usage, lowers freight costs, and improves shelf appeal. Nova Custom Printing produces custom-printed pouches with resealable zippers, matte or gloss finishes, and optional spouts, making it ideal for dry goods, liquids, and powders.
What products are the stand up version best suited for?
Stand up pouches are flexible packages with a bottom gusset that allows them to stand upright on retail shelves, improving visibility and space efficiency. They are commonly used for snacks, coffee, pet food, and household products throughout the Tri-State area and nationwide due to their durability and reseal-ability. Nova Custom Printing offers digitally printed stand-up pouch solutions with features such as tear notches, hang holes, and degassing valves for specialty products.
How does packaging in pouches help reduce shipping and storage costs?
Stand up pouch packaging minimizes shipping and warehousing expenses by using significantly less material than rigid containers while allowing more units per truckload. This efficiency is especially valuable for brands distributing in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island and the Northeast where logistics costs are high. Nova Custom Printing supports this model by offering lightweight, high-barrier pouch packaging designed to maintain product freshness while maximizing pallet density.
Why is flexible considered more sustainable than rigid packaging?
Custom flexible packaging is considered more sustainable because it uses fewer raw materials, produces lower CO₂ emissions during manufacturing, and generates less landfill waste than boxes, cans, or clamshells. Many brands serving NYC and across the U.S. choose this option to reduce their environmental footprint without sacrificing performance. Nova Custom Printing provides food-grade laminated flexible packaging that supports sustainability goals while extending shelf life.
How do companies that manufacture flexible packaging options support branding and shelf impact?
Leading flexible packaging companies help brands stand out by offering full-surface, high-resolution printing, custom finishes, and unique pouch structures that enhance shelf presence. This is particularly important for products sold locally, where competition is intense. Nova Custom Printing delivers brand-forward pouch packaging along with complementary label and sticker printing to ensure consistent visual identity across all product lines.
How do I choose between flat pouches and gusseted pouches for my product?
Choosing between flat and gusseted pouches depends on product size, weight, and retail display needs. Flat pouches are ideal for smaller items like spices or samples, while gusseted pouches work better for bulk goods that need to stand upright. Brands operating across New York, New Jersey, and the entire USA often select formats based on shelf constraints and distribution channels. Nova Custom Printing assists with pouch selection, material recommendations, and custom printing to match specific product requirements.
