5 Must-Have Features in a custom printed coffee bags

Custom coffee pouches are more than just packaging—they’re a key part of the coffee business. They showcase your brand, protect your coffee’s freshness, and support sustainability. For roasters and sellers, these pouches are a direct way to connect with customers and stand out on the shelf.

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A well-designed custom coffee pouch grabs attention, shares your story, and keeps your product fresh. Features like one-way valves and resealable zippers add convenience, while eco-friendly materials meet growing consumer demand for sustainability.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about custom coffee pouches. We want to help you make the best choices for your coffee products business.

What Are Custom Printed Coffee Bags?

Custom printed coffee bags are specialized packaging designed to store and protect coffee while showcasing a brand’s identity.

These bags are tailored with unique designs, logos, and information, making them an essential tool for branding and communication.

Beyond aesthetics, their purpose is to preserve coffee freshness by shielding it from light, oxygen, and moisture, while also offering convenience and sustainability features.

What Are the Most Common Types of Coffee Bags?

Coffee bags come in various styles, each designed to cater to specific packaging needs. The most common coffee bag types can be categorized into two main groups: single-serve portion packaging and bulk coffee packaging for multiple uses.

Coffee Bag Styles for Single Serve (Portion Packaging)

Pillow Bags (Frac Packs): Pillow bags, also known as frac packs, are simple, lightweight, and cost-effective options for single-serve coffee portions. These small, central sealed bags are perfect for packaging individual servings of ground coffee or instant coffee.

Stick Packs: Stick packs are long, narrow bags ideal for single-serve instant coffee or ground coffee portions. They are compact, convenient, and easy to tear open, making them perfect for on-the-go consumption.

Drip Coffee Bags: Drip coffee bags are designed to function like tea bags, allowing users to brew a single cup of coffee by steeping the bag in hot water. These bags are typically made from filter paper and contain pre-measured portions of ground coffee for a hassle-free brewing experience.

Coffee Bag Styles for Bulk Coffee Packaging (Multi-Use)

Stand-Up Pouches: Stand-up pouches are versatile and popular for bulk coffee packaging. They have a flat bottom that allows them to stand upright on shelves, providing excellent visibility and easy access to the coffee inside. Stand-up pouches often feature resealable zippers to maintain freshness after opening.

Flat-Bottom Bags: Flat-bottom bags, also known as box pouches or quad seal pouches, offer a sturdy and attractive option for bulk coffee packaging. These bags have a rectangular base that provides stability and a clean, professional appearance. Flat-bottom bags offer ample space for branding and product information, making them ideal for showcasing small-batch or locally roasted coffee.

Side-Gusset Bags: Side-gusset bags feature expandable sides that allow them to accommodate larger quantities of coffee while maintaining a compact shape. These bags can stand upright when filled and are commonly used for bulk coffee packaging in cafes and coffee shops. Side-gusset bags are durable, protective, and can be customized with attractive designs and informative labels.

The choice of coffee bag style depends on factors such as the quantity of coffee being packaged, the intended use (single-serve or multi-use), and branding requirements.

What Materials Can Be Used for Making Coffee Bags?

Custom coffee bags can be made from a variety of materials, each offering unique benefits for preserving the freshness, flavor, and aroma of the coffee.

According to the study by Core.ac.uk. (n.d.). "Common materials used today for coffee packages are aluminum, low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP) and paper."

Here are the most popular materials used in the coffee bag packaging industry we have found:

• Kraft Paper: A natural, biodegradable, and compostable material made from wood pulp, offering a rustic and eco-friendly appearance. Kraft paper can be combined with PE or PLA lining to enhance its barrier properties.
• Plastic (PE, PET, BOPP, LDPE): Various types of plastic are used for their durability, flexibility, and excellent barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and light, helping to maintain the freshness of the coffee.
• Laminated Foil Bags: These bags offer superior barrier protection by combining the strength of plastic with the excellent barrier properties of aluminum foil. They are ideal for preserving the freshness and flavor of coffee over an extended period.
• Rice Paper: A unique and eco-friendly material made from renewable resources like bamboo and rice straw, offering a rustic and natural appearance.
• Eco-Friendly Materials: Recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable options, such as PLA (polylactic acid), are gaining popularity among environmentally conscious consumers.

The choice of material depends on factors such as the desired shelf life of the coffee, the brand's sustainability goals, and the overall aesthetic.

Benefits of Custom Printed Coffee Bags

Custom printed coffee bags offer more than just functional packaging—they’re a powerful tool for building your brand and connecting with customers.

Brand Identity and Recognition

Custom designs make your coffee stand out. A well-crafted logo, color palette, and design help customers instantly recognize your brand on store shelves or online.

Differentiation

Unique packaging sets you apart in a crowded market. A creative custom coffee pouch can grab attention and communicate the quality and personality of your product.

Customer Engagement

Your packaging can share your brand’s story, highlight product details like origin or roast level, and connect emotionally with buyers. It’s a chance to build trust and loyalty.

Eco-Friendly Options

Using recyclable or compostable materials shows your commitment to sustainability. This resonates with eco-conscious customers and reinforces a positive brand image.

Marketing Opportunities

Custom coffee bags are perfect for seasonal designs, QR codes that link to exclusive content, or promotional messages. They turn your packaging into an interactive marketing tool that drives engagement.

How Are Custom Printed Coffee Bags Made?

Creating custom printed coffee bags(fr,tl,ko) is a detailed process that combines design, printing, finishing, and pouch formation to deliver a functional and visually appealing product.

Each step is carefully planned to meet the specific needs of coffee businesses, ensuring the bags protect the coffee while showcasing the brand effectively.

Design Submission

The process begins with submitting a print-ready PDF file that includes all branding elements such as logos, colors, and artwork. This file must be high-resolution (300 DPI or higher) and include vector graphics for sharp and clear printing. Manufacturers often provide templates to ensure accurate placement of designs and proper alignment during production.

Pro Tip: Always include bleed areas and crop marks in your design file to prevent any unintended white edges after trimming.

Printing Techniques

There are three main printing methods used for custom coffee pouches:

Digital Printing: Uses digital technology to transfer designs directly onto the material without the need for plates.

• Pros: Best for small batches, vibrant colors, and intricate designs with no setup costs.
• Cons: Higher per-unit cost for large-scale production. Limited material options compared to other methods.
• Ideal For: Startups, limited-edition packaging, or brands testing new designs.

Flexographic Printing: Utilizes flexible plates to transfer ink onto the material.(learn more).

• Pros: Economical for medium to large production runs, works well with various materials like kraft paper or plastic laminates.
• Cons: Requires plate creation, which adds upfront costs and time. Slightly less detailed than digital printing.
• Ideal For: Brands with consistent designs and ongoing packaging needs.

Rotogravure Printing: Engraves the design onto cylinders for precise and high-quality printing.

• Pros: Exceptional detail and consistency, ideal for metallic inks or complex gradients in large volumes.
• Cons: High initial cost due to cylinder engraving but cost-effective for large orders.
• Ideal For: Established brands with high-volume requirements or premium product lines.

Finishing Touches for Coffee Pouches

Pouch finished effects refer to the final coating or treatment applied to the exterior of coffee bags. These effects enhance the visual appeal, protect the packaging, and can influence consumer perceptions of the product.

Matte Finish

Matte finishes provide a non-reflective, soft appearance to coffee bags. This effect is achieved by applying a matte lacquer layer to the surface, reducing its reflectivity. Matte finishes offer several advantages:

• Creates a premium, sophisticated look
• Reduces fingerprints and smudges
• Enhances readability of text and graphics
• Conveys a natural, eco-friendly image

Many specialty coffee roasters prefer matte finishes for their custom bags.

As Stephen from Lucid Coffee Roasters explains, "I felt that the glossy option looked cheaper. I chose a rough matte finish to associate my brand with a certain quality".

Glossy Finish

Glossy finishes create a shiny, reflective surface on coffee bags. This effect is achieved by using clear print substrates or applying a glossy coating. Glossy finishes offer these benefits:

• Vibrant color reproduction
• Eye-catching shine that attracts attention
• Smooth texture that feels premium
• Excellent protection against moisture and scratches

High-gloss finishes can make colors pop and create a striking visual impact on store shelves.

Metallic Finish

Metallic finishes add a shimmering, reflective quality to specific areas of the coffee bag. This effect can be achieved through various methods, including embossed foil and metallization techniques. Metallic finishes offer these advantages:

• Creates a luxurious, high-end appearance
• Highlights specific design elements like logos or text
• Catches light and attracts attention
• Can be used for anti-counterfeiting measures

Metallic finishes are particularly effective for emphasizing brand elements or creating a premium look for specialty coffee products.

By carefully selecting the right finished effect for your custom printed coffee bags, you can enhance your brand's visual appeal, protect your product, and influence consumer perceptions

Coffee Pouch Formation

The printed material is shaped into pouches using different methods depending on the packaging style:

Rollstock Film on VFFS Machines

Used to produce gusseted bags or pillow bags efficiently in high volumes. Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS) machines shape the rollstock film into pouches, fill them with coffee, and seal them in one continuous process.

Premade Pouch Styles

Includes doypacks (stand-up pouches) or flat-bottom bags that are pre-formed before filling.

• Automated Packing Machines: Ideal for mass production where premade pouches are filled and sealed automatically.
• Manual Packing (Hand-Filled): Suitable for small batches or artisanal coffee brands looking to maintain a handcrafted feel.

Pro Tip for Coffee Businesses: If you’re scaling up production, consider investing in automated systems like VFFS machines for efficiency. For smaller operations, premade pouches filled manually offer flexibility without requiring heavy machinery.

Customization Options for Custom Coffee Bags

Optional components, or add-ons, for coffee bags are additional features that enhance functionality, convenience, or visual appeal. Choosing the right add-ons for your coffee bags can set your product apart in a competitive market.

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Below is the table outlining common add-ons for coffee bags:

Why Do Coffee Bags Have Vents?

Coffee bags have vents, or de-gassing valves. These one-way valves allow carbon dioxide released by freshly roasted beans to escape without letting oxygen in. This process preserves the coffee's flavor and aroma, prevents bag inflation, and enables immediate packaging after roasting.

What Are the Common Coffee Bag Sizes?

Coffee bags come in various standard sizes, each designed to hold a specific weight of coffee. Typically, these bags range from 4 to 12 inches in width, 6 to 18 inches in height, and 2 to 8 inches in depth, depending on their intended capacity.

These sizes cater to different needs, from single-serve portions to bulk packaging. Understanding these sizes helps in selecting the right packaging for your coffee products.

Standard Dimensions and Weight Options

Common standard coffee bag sizes are typically measured in grams and ounces. Here are the standard dimensions and weight options:

What Are the Most Popular Coffee Bag Sizes in Retail?

In retail, the most popular coffee bag sizes are typically 8 oz (227 grams) and 12 oz (340 grams).

These sizes are favored because they balance convenience and freshness, making them ideal for most consumers. Larger sizes, like 1 lb (454 grams) and 2 lb (907 grams), are also common for those who consume coffee more frequently or prefer to buy in bulk.

Is 350g (12 oz) the Perfect Amount of Coffee?

A 12 oz (340 grams) bag of coffee is often considered ideal for many consumers. It provides enough coffee to brew approximately 24-30 cups, depending on the strength and serving size.

This size is popular because it offers a good balance between quantity and freshness, ensuring that the coffee remains flavorful until the last cup.

Custom Printed Coffee Bags Trends in

In , custom coffee packaging is evolving to meet changing consumer preferences and market demands. Coffee brands are focusing on sustainability, visual appeal, interactivity, and seasonality to stay competitive and connect with their audience.

Growing Demand for Eco-Friendly Materials

Sustainability has become a necessity in coffee packaging. Consumers are increasingly seeking recyclable or compostable options, such as kraft paper with PLA linings or post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials.

Why It’s Trending:

• Coffee drinkers are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging, with studies showing up to a 9.7% premium for eco-friendly options.
• Regulations and consumer expectations are pushing brands toward greener solutions, including recyclable bags and home-compostable materials.

Use of Vibrant Illustrations and Minimalistic Designs

Packaging design is becoming a balance between bold, vibrant illustrations and clean, minimalist aesthetics. Bright colors and playful patterns grab attention on crowded shelves, while minimalist designs convey sophistication and quality.

Why It’s Trending:

• Gen Z and Millennials are drawn to visually striking designs that they can share on social media, boosting brand visibility.
• Minimalist aesthetics resonate with consumers who value simplicity and elegance in their purchases.

Expert Insight: Choose a design style that reflects your brand identity. For example, opt for vibrant illustrations if your brand is youthful and energetic or minimalism if you’re targeting a premium market.

Integration of Technology

Smart packaging is transforming how coffee brands engage with customers. QR codes printed on coffee bags allow consumers to access brewing guides, origin stories, or sustainability practices with a simple scan. .

Why It’s Trending:

• QR codes enhance transparency by sharing detailed product information without cluttering the design.
• They create opportunities for interactive marketing, such as linking to videos or offering discounts for future purchases.

Expert Insight: Use QR codes strategically to tell your brand story or provide added value, like brewing tips or farm-to-cup journeys.

Conclusion

Custom printed coffee bags are essential for building a strong coffee brand. They protect your product, showcase your story, and leave a lasting impression. With sustainable materials, creative designs, and functional features, the right packaging can set your brand apart.

As trends shift toward eco-friendly options and innovative designs, now is the time to upgrade your packaging strategy. Whether it’s recyclable materials or QR codes for added engagement, thoughtful packaging connects with customers and reinforces your values.

Ready to elevate your coffee packaging? Contact us today for expert advice or to place an order for custom printed coffee bags that represent your brand perfectly!