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    • Mixtiles Removable Wall Art | The World’s Easiest Photo Framing

      Mixtiles Removable Wall Art | The World’s Easiest Photo Framing

      Mixtiles have taken the concept of photo framing to a whole new level, offering a hassle-free and creative way to decorate your walls. With their lightweight design and specialised removable adhesive, Mixtiles allow you to easily reposition them without needing any tools or worry about damaging your walls. Removable wall art is a game-changer.

      Gone are the days of making a big decision about selecting the perfect photo or art piece for a room. Mixtiles have revolutionised wall art, turning the process into a fun and spontaneous adventure. Now, you can transform your cherished memories and everyday snapshots into cool wall art or a memory wall without consulting an interior designer. From family gatherings to adorable pet moments and breathtaking vacations, every photo can find its place on your walls.

      If you’re curious about removable wall art and what makes this such a popular option in today's market, keep reading our guide to Mixtiles.

      What are Mixtiles?

      Mixtiles is best known as a brand of removable Wall Art. The square lightweight frame is well known, and it utilises a specialised removable adhesive, enabling the user to re-position the frame without using any tools – simply peel off the wall and re-stick. The frame has to be lightweight as it’s actually a very demanding adhesive application. It needs to adhere and yet remain ‘live’ for potentially repeated re-positioning. From experience, we can say that you will need to do extensive testing if you are using your own adhesive, or you can relax with Adventa’s adhesive!

      A great part about it being light is that they become so easy to mail and handle, plus there is less to worry about. Even if you place them in a very active young child’s bedroom, they are unlikely to cause any damage if they do get moved.

      Why are Mixtiles so Popular?

      We believe that Mixtiles have actually created a paradigm shift in the consumer buying motive. Using mini wall art means it is no longer that ‘big’ decision (excuse the pun) to select the photo or art design that you’re going to give pride of place in a room that needs a little décor. It is now a situation where those special photos (which we take more than ever) can be turned into something cool without consulting an interior designer!

      Those images you took of your family, friends, pets, and holidays can all be incorporated and added to or changed. Even if the photos are not prize-winning quality, they’ll mean a lot to you, and the combination can look stunning. It makes a refreshing change from conventional wall hanging, now you can simply ‘slap’ them on the wall and stand back and see if you like the positioning and rearrange them to suit. Positioning guides are available, but consumers can get creative. You will see many ideas on social media, like diagonally up staircases, etc, etc!

      One reason the industry likes this style of frame is the ease of manufacture, making them so much faster to assemble than conventional frames. They can nearly always be personalised with existing print equipment, whether this be photo printers, digital toner or inkjet – printers already have the equipment they need.  A nice feature is the option of removing some of the black leather finish recycled backboard to reveal a barcode – ideal for those with high-volume duplex printers to help ensure they go to the correct destination!

      Who Manufactures Mixtiles ‘style’ Frames?

      Adventa manufactures removable frames in our highly automated factory. We normally refer to them as the AirFrame or StickY Frame. However, our customers often use their own name for the same product. We protect the design byº Patent. This is because, whilst it may seem a straightforward design, a lot of time and detail went into it. When it comes to product design at Adventa, our team is undoubtedly world-class and industry-leading. Several considerations that we always think of when designing include: is it aesthetically pleasing to the consumer, is it fit for purpose, is it easy and fast to assemble for our print customers and very importantly, can it be stacked efficiently by a robot as it comes off the production line.

      Because we have complete control of the production process, we can also ensure that the frames include some recycled content, making them more eco-friendly.

      What Options Do Mixtiles Have?

      Design, Size and Colour! Most major print companies like to find ways to differentiate. Hence, we have options.

      Design

      With the design, we have the all-new ‘Clear AirFrame’. This unique design captures the print inside a twin clear cover with a clear border. For example, an 8x8 Frame can hold a 6x6 print that appears to be ‘floating’. Also, frameless versions (often referred to as ‘Tiles’) are growing in popularity, these can be either printed with a UV ‘flatbed’ printer directly onto the surface, or conventional style prints can be bonded onto the front surface thanks to the adhesive area we laminate on – a simple jig is also available to make this process as foolproof as possible. If you like the option of these to also stand on a desk, most of the frames have an option on simple support, and we now have a stand support available for the frameless ‘tiles’.

      Size

      We manufacture AirFrames in a growing number of sizes. The currently include 5x7” (13x18cm), 8x8” (20x20cm), 8x10” (20x25cm), 11x14” (28x36cm), 12x12” (30x30cm), 16x16” (40x40cm) – please note sizes are approximate and denote the print size the frame accepts.

      Custom sizes and shapes are available for frames on request. There would normally be an opening MOQ of 10,000 pieces for a new size or shape frame. Unlike conventional frames that are made from jointed wooden mouldings, there is no restriction on shape. For example, hexagons, circles or love hearts would all be possible. With the frameless version, these are available in different thicknesses, custom sizes and shapes are possible from only 1000 MOQ.

      Colour

      Across all regions globally - black wins in terms of popularity. However, white cannot be ignored. In terms of differentiation, you could consider a set of fun colours (MOQ only 1000 per colour) eg for children's bedrooms or even ‘the colour of the year’; check out these colour ideas here:

      Removable Wall Art - TLDR

      We think it's high time for more print companies to get a slice of this massive market. It is here to stay. Since they can be easily rearranged and repositioned without causing any damage or leaving so much as a mark on the wall, this product is ideal for today’s discerning consumers that are looking for simple ways to personalise their homes with their own pictures and/or choice of art and, of course, the new immerging AI art opportunity.

      If you want to know more, or want to order bulk and wholesale quantities from Adventa, contact us today or call us at +44 (0) 1686 625 100.

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    • Photo Bauble Manufacturer in the UK, Global Christmas Photo Ornament Manufacturer!

      The History of the Christmas Bauble

      The holiday season is a time when we all look forward to adorning our Christmas trees with the most beautiful and unique ornaments. With a fascinating history and an important and established present, Christmas photo ornaments and decorative baubles are worth getting to know.

      What better way to understand their significance than by delving into the history and manufacturing process of the Christmas bauble? From the origins of baubles as simple fruit decorations, to their innovative modern-day variations, this blog will explore the evolution of this cherished holiday tradition.

      What is the History of the Christmas Bauble?

      The history of decorative baubles or ornaments dates back to 16th-century Germany, where it was a tradition to decorate fir trees with apples, nuts, and other fruits during the holiday season. These decorations served as a reminder that spring and warmer weather would come again. 

      These traditions soon began to spread across the globe. In the US, it’s believed that the adoption of this tradition can be traced back to a picture of Queen Victoria and her family sitting around a decorated tree that was taken in 1842. However, they took Christmas decorations a step further by adding strings of popcorn and foil to their trees. 

      When Were Christmas Baubles Invented?

      Christmas baubles can also be traced back to Germany. In the 1600s, a man named Hans Greiner began creating decorative glass beads that could be hung up on trees. This soon became popular, and designers began experimenting, creating glass decorations shaped like fruit and nuts. Eventually, people began adding silver nitrate to these decorations as well, which were then painted and topped with a hook. 

      In the US, entrepreneur F.W. Woolworth saw the potential in these decorations. In 1870, the first glass Christmas ornament (as it’s called in the US) was brought to market, and by the early 1900s, these decorations were being sold across the country. 

      At first, these decorations were made by blowing into a mould and then painting or decorating them by hand. However, with the rise of mass production in the 1910s and 1920s, they soon became widely accessible, and manufacturers were able to produce glass baubles in a wide range of colours and designs. 

      During World War II, the production of glass ornaments was halted due to shortages of materials and labour. However, after the war, the tradition of decorating Christmas trees with ornaments thankfully continued, and new types of baubles were introduced, including plastic and metal.

      The Christmas Baubles of Today

      Today, decorative baubles are an essential part of Christmas tree decorations, and they come in a wide variety of styles and designs, ranging from traditional to modern and from handmade to mass-produced. They also now come in a wide range of materials, colours, sizes and designs - you can even get customisable photo baubles

      What is a Photo Bauble?

      A photo bauble is a type of decorative Christmas ornament that features a photograph or image, usually of a loved one, a happy memory, or a furry friend - they also make for a particularly special baby's first Christmas bauble. These photo ornaments offer a unique opportunity for you to add a special touch to your holiday decor or gift-giving.

      Personalised Christmas baubles are typically made of lightweight, shatterproof materials like acrylic, with a clear section where the photo is inserted. The photo can be easily swapped out, allowing for different images to be displayed year after year.

      Our personalised photo baubles come in a range of sizes and shapes, from traditional spherical ornaments to star-shaped designs. We also offer a wide range of materials, from glass ornaments to wooden ornaments. They can be hung on a Christmas tree, displayed on a wreath, or used as decoration on a gift package.

      Photo baubles are a wonderful way to cherish and celebrate memories, and they make for a thoughtful and heartfelt gift for friends and family.

      How are Christmas Photo Ornaments Manufactured?

      Adventa is unique in the way we manufacture Christmas Ornaments.  The main process is fairly common – injection moulding. The mould tools have to be carefully maintained to retain a high gloss polish, which enables the excellent clarity of the clear components. 

      Also, the high level of unique automation we have perfected over decades ensures that the product comes off the production line without blemishes. Due to the unique design we have developed, we protect it by registering the design. Additionally, we have very high quality control standards that ensure the parts of made well and fit together perfectly. 

      TL;DR - Photo Baubles and Christmas Photo Ornaments

      Photo baubles are festive and beautiful and allow you to celebrate your life and your loved ones as well as the festive season. Perfect for trees, wreaths and gifts, our Christmas ornaments offer a wide range of uses. And because we value your time, we even offer retail-packed baubles so that you can have these lovely ornaments on your shelves without hassle.

      To find out more about our product range, or to ask any questions you might have, get in touch with us at +44 (0) 1686 625 100.

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    • Valentine’s Day Marketing Ideas | Adventa

      Should Your Business Do Valentine’s Day Marketing?

      Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, which means that one of the biggest marketing events is too. There can be no doubt about it, the day of love has become a great opportunity to market, sell, and attract new customers.

      That being said, is it still as big an opportunity as it was five to ten years ago? And should your business give in to this marketing opportunity, or should you rather continue your successful marketing strategy?

      In this blog, Adventa looks at how much Britons spend on Valentine’s and whether it's worth changing your marketing strategy during this period or not. We will also look at Valentine customer activations to try and determine whether you should buy Valentine-specific products to sell to customers.

      How Much Do Consumers Spend on Valentine’s?

      Valentine’s Day is a big spending holiday all over the world, as the focus is on gifts and tactile expressions of love and affection. Flowers, chocolates, soft toys, photo frames, heart-shaped trinkets (check out the Adventa heart-shaped wholesale keyrings) and jewellery have put back UK spenders by approximately £1.3 billion in 2022. This number has not been confirmed, but we can look at more specific statistics for previous years.

      According to Finder, 2021 saw over 40 million Brits (76% of the population) celebrate Valentine’s Day. This was actually a significant drop from the previous year. In lockdown, love soared, with over 41.4 million people celebrating Valentine’s Day in 2020.

      In 2021, the total spent on Valentine’s Day gifts and goodies was £926 million (£23 per person). 2020 saw an impressive £1.45 billion (£35 per person) spent. So, going off this information, you may consider that 2023 may be a lower spending year, and you may be right. With the cost of living crisis causing people to tighten their belts all over the country, love might not be on everyone’s minds. However, this may simply mean that some won’t take their partners on extravagant dates. Small gifts and meaningful presents are likely to maintain their importance.

      Valentine Customer Activations to Try

      Customer activations, in marketing, is the implementation of campaigns, events, and experiences that resonate with the audience, engages them, and generates awareness of your brand. The activation process focuses on guiding customers on the path to purchase, often through an interactive experience.

      Making use of customer activations during the Valentine’s period will encourage customers to choose your products above other options. It will also give you a chance to interact with your customers, which will set you up for the year ahead too.

      Here are a few online and onsite customer activations your business can try for Valentine’s Day:

      • Create an interactive social media campaign
      • Create a social media contest to improve engagement
      • Encourage loyal customers to spread the love with referrals
      • Celebrate different kinds of love on social media
      • Celebrate love within your business on social media
      • Create engaging, heart-warming video and photo content
      • Offer customers exclusive savings or a loyalty program
      • Interact with customers to show them how to use your products
      • Create a beautiful, love-celebrating aesthetic in your physical store

      Why You Should Consider Buying Valentines Day Specific Products

      What does your store sell? If you’re in the business of selling flowers and candy, you’re set for a successful Valentine’s period. But if you don’t sell anything Valentine-related, you may want to consider investing in lovely gifts.

      The statistics indicate that, in 2021, approximately 40% of UK women were expecting to be given flowers for Valentine’s. Many UK women were also expecting jewellery or candy.

      Then there are the cards. Over 25 million cards are sent for Valentine’s Day every year, which is truly impressive. So if you print cards, you might just be in business. Better yet, however, would be image-holding products like the Heart Blox or the Glitter Blox. These let lovers display pictures with their loved ones, making an excellent gift for card lovers and gift enthusiasts alike.  Many successful print-on-demand card companies prove the value of adding value to the online sale by offering the card design in a simple product like the key chain or HeartBlox.

      Final Thoughts on Valentine’s Day Marketing Ideas

      Valentine’s Day presents a fantastic opportunity to market and interact with customers. Show your customers some love this year with well-thought-out campaigns, interesting customer activations, and some seasonal gift options. We definitely find this holiday worth investing in.

      If you want to know more about our wholesale product range, get in touch with us today or call +44 (0) 1686 625 100.

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    • How to Market to Millennials & Gen Z | Photo Business

      How to Market to Millennials & Gen Z | Photo Business

      Millennials and Gen Z are two of the most lucrative and influenceable customer demographics. These customers are spending more than any other generation, and if you haven’t started marketing to these demographics yet, it is time to start.

      Millennials and Gen Z are very photo focussed. The rise of platforms like Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok has made images more important than ever. However, Millennials and Gen Z fall into the category of having hard-copy pictures of their childhood, with very few printed photos of their adult lives.

      Now, people are turning more to printed images, which display precious moments. In this post, Adventa looks at how to market to these demographic groups in order to capitalise on the photo-focused generations.

      Why Market to Millennials and Gen Z?

      Millennials and Gen Z hold greater spending power than any generation before or after it, making these groups an ideal, albeit broad, target market. With these groups responding to different marketing strategies than others, it is important to create strategies that specifically target these groups. Here is why your business should invest in specific marketing strategies for millennials and Gen Z:

      • Millennials and Gen Z change brands, making it easier to attract them to yours and harder to keep them as loyal customers
      • These demographics use devices to buy and consume content
      • These are two of the most lucrative target markets, with a high buying power
      • They are tech-savvy with high digital literacy, so organisations need to use technology to sell
      • Fast growing clientele groups

      Tips to Appeal to Gen Z and Millennials

      There are a number of ways to target the younger generations to get them to your photo business, in-store or online. Here are our top tips for appealing to millennials and Gen Z in your marketing strategies:

       

      1. Make use of visually appealing content: You have, after all, a photo business, so display your products and services in a way that expresses your brand identity and what your business can create.  Look for ways to promote upsells, to encourage this group to put their photos to use, eg Air Frame
      2. Create a website: While brick-and-mortar stores have their place, and most photo businesses require customers to come in-store, having a website is always a good idea. Your website can showcase your client's work, products, services, and brand identity. It is a fantastic opportunity to market to millennials and Gen Z and also informs potential customers that your business can support customers in what they are looking for.
      3. Use platforms like Instagram and Pinterest: Since you deal in imagery, use image-focused platforms for marketing. Creating a brand-expressive Instagram account and Pinterest board shows potential customers who you are. It also allows customers to share their images and tag you, providing your business with free marketing. Lastly, Gen Z and millennials are on these platforms regularly, so they are good ones to target.
      4. Pay attention to customer reviews and feedback: Technology has made it easy to find out the quality of a business. Potential customers can find out a lot about your business from the reviews past customers have left and tend to rely on these heavily. So it is important to ensure that your reviews are positive and that negative feedback is addressed and dealt with.
      5. Showcase your brand identity and sense of humour: Brand identity is becoming increasingly important in marketing strategies. People want to make use of organisations that they relate to, with values that they support. Showcasing your brand humour also allows customers to connect with your business. Humour is automatically interactive and engaging, which is an ideal way to market to millennials and Gen Z.
      6. Respond to customers quickly: Last but certainly not least, it is important to respond to customer queries and requests quickly. We live in a fast-paced society, and people expect speedy results. Quick responses are always appreciated and will keep your customers from looking for another photo business, as you will already have helped them.

      Conclusion on Marketing Your Photo Business to Millennials & Gen Z

      Millennials and Gen Z like companies that are creative, interesting, and offer something new to their customers. So, in order to successfully market your photo business to millennials and Gen Z target markets, you need to showcase who you are as a business. Follow the tips provided above, be clear about your brand, and make use of photo printing innovations, and success will follow.

      If you would like to know more about our products and services, browse our ranges online or get in touch with us today.

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    • What is Lithography & How Does it Work?

      What is Lithography & How Does it Work?

      Lithography is one of the most well-known, time-honoured methods of printing. Used for a broad range of printing needs, this medium produces clean, interesting prints and is very popular for these reasons, amongst others.

      In this post, Adventa defines lithography and how it works. We will also explore the history of lithography and look at alternative printing methods and how they compare to lithographic prints. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about lithography.

      What is Lithography?

      Lithography is a method of printing that is ideal for long printing runs. Often used to print packaging, books, posters, magazines and more, this medium is well suited to a wide range of applications.

      The word ‘lithography’ is derived from the Greek words lithos, which means ‘stone’ and graphein, meaning ‘to write’. As the lithographic process originally involved scoring a flat stone with a pencil, this name is perfectly expressive of the method.

      Lithography History

      Lithography has a fascinating history. This method of printing was invented in 1796 by a German author and actor, Alois Senefelder. Senefelder accidentally discovered this printing method. He found that he could reproduce his play scripts by writing them on slabs of limestone with a greasy pencil and then printing them onto another medium with rolled-on ink.

      With that, the lithograph technique was born. It was mainly used for musical scores and maps at that point before more uses were discovered and developed.

      How Does Lithography Work?

      Lithography is a planographic printing method based on the fact that oil and water cannot mix, which is called immiscibility. A special type of pencil is used to write or draw on a stone or metal plate with a smooth surface. The surface is treated to repel the ink where it has not been scored by the pencil. Ink is then rolled onto the surface and either transferred onto a rubber plate first or directly printed onto paper or alternative material. The rubber plate (or blanket) is generally used for printing on material that is not completely flat and smooth.

      What Are The Alternatives To Lithography?

      There are a number of different printing methods available, and each method suits different applications best. The common alternatives to lithography are:

      • Digital Printing
      • Flexography
      • Screen Printing
      • LED UV Printing

      How Does Lithography Compare To Other Printing Approaches?

      As mentioned above, different types of printing methods suit different applications. Below we explore how lithography compares to other common printing methods.

      Digital Printing vs Litho Printing

      Simply, lithographic printing uses wet ink and printing plates, and digital printing uses inks and a press similar to a large office printer. Lithography requires more money and time to set up but is very affordable to run from then on, so it is generally used for longer runs. Digital printing, on the other hand, is most convenient for shorter runs, as it is cheaper to set up. However, the unit price becomes more expensive when compared to lithography’s long runs.

      Flexo Printing vs Lithography

      Flexographic printing is a printing technique that uses flexible relief plates. The plates act like a large stamp, transferring images onto boards. Flexo printing differs from litho printing primarily in the quality of the print. Litho printing is better for full-colour printing and can accommodate more detailed patterns and finish options.

      Screen Printing vs Lithographic Printing

      Screen printing, also called silk screening, involves transferring ink through a fine mesh screen onto the substrate. The ink, or dye, is applied in specific locations on the garment or alternative material, as some areas are made impermeable to the ink with a blocking stencil. In the past, silk screens were used.

      Screen printing is a slower and more expensive process than lithography. In addition to this, litho printing results in more defined, detailed prints than silk screening.

      LED UV Printing Vs Litho Printing

      LED UV printing is similar to other methods, but with this option, ED-UV inks are dried (cured) instantly using UV light. With LED UV printing, ink set-off is eliminated, making this an extremely clean printing method. This printing method is more expensive than lithography and requires more materials, but it works excellently for large runs, and the immediacy can be very beneficial.

      We are experts in printing and manufacturing. If you’d like to get more of a handle on what we do and how we do it, get in touch.

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    • Types of Photo Printing - the Complete Guide from Adventa

      Advancements in technology have increased the range of photo printing possibilities available to us. When it comes to printing anything, be it special memories, work projects or artwork, it’s crucial to understand the different types of photo printing methods so you can choose the right solution for your needs. In this post, Adventa explores the various types of photo printing, and the options best suited to different applications. 

      What Does Photo Printing Mean?

      Photo printing involves the process of transferring an image onto different materials, such as paper, canvas and clothing, using specialised printers. This allows an individual to create copies of images and display, preserve and share them with others. 

      Types of Photo Prints

      There are four main types of photo printing options. These are digital printing, lenticular printing, sublimation printing, and giclee printing. Each has different advantages and applications, which we will look at in more detail below.

      1) Digital Printing

      Digital printing uses a high-volume laser or inkjet printer to print detailed images. This high-quality option is popular for both its ease of use and its impressive output. Digital printing is well suited to a wide variety of uses ranging from small to large scale, simple to extremely detailed. There are three main types of digital printing methods: laser, offset and inkjet printing. 

      1.1)  Laser Printing

      Laser printing involves an electrostatic digital printing process. The process involves repeatedly passing a laser beam back and forth over a negatively-charged cylinder called a "drum", to define a differentially-charged image. The laser printer uses an electrical charge to attract toner particles onto a roller, which is then transferred onto paper and fused using heat. 

      Laser printing is quick and consistent, producing precise images and text. This makes it well-suited to various applications, especially office documents, reports, and graphics. However, it does not work well for photograph replication.

      1.2) Offset Printing

      Offset printing, also known as offset lithography, is a widely used commercial printing process or method. It involves transferring images from metal plates onto rubber rollers or blankets and then onto the printing surface - usually paper. The print media doesn’t come into direct contact with the metal plates.

      This indirect printing method is known for creating consistent, high-quality results, which makes it ideal for large-scale printing, such as newspapers, magazines, brochures, and packaging. 

      1.3) Inkjet Printing 

      Inkjet printing is a very popular digital printing method. During the process, tiny ink droplets are propelled onto a printing surface (usually paper or fabric) to create the image. Inkjet prints are known for reproducing vibrant colours and intricate details, which makes this type of print ideal for a variety of applications ranging from high-resolution photos to office documents. 

      2) Lenticular Printing

      Lenticular printing is a specialised technique that's used for images where the photographer wants to create an illusion of depth or movement. The process involves the use of lenticular lenses, which function like magnifying glasses, to enlarge certain elements of the image. This results in the image changing shape depending on the angle you’re looking from. 

      Lenticular printing's primary advantage is the optical illusion it creates. This makes it very popular for marketing and promotional items, such as posters, business cards, and product packaging, where the aim is to captivate and engage viewers. However, this type of printing is fairly expensive due to the specialised equipment and materials needed. 

      3) Sublimation Printing

      Sublimation printing is generally used to print designs onto garments but can be used for a broad range of applications. Sublimation printing requires specialised equipment, including a sublimation printer, certain inks and heat. 

      The process starts by printing the design onto specialised paper. Heat is then applied to the design, which opens up the pores of the fabric. This is where the magic happens: the ink, when exposed to heat, turns to gas - this is often done using a heat press. Then, with applied pressure from the heat press, the ink cools and returns to a solid form. This process combines the ink with the fabric permanently, making it less prone to fading.

      Sublimation printing is a versatile printing style but is most commonly used for sportswear, promotional items, and personalised gifts. While it’s known for creating vibrant prints on clothing, it’s important to note that sublimation printing works best on polyester or polymer-coated substrates, not natural fibres. 

      4) Giclee Prints

      Giclee printing is most often used to reproduce fine art into prints. Through the use of enhanced technology, as well as specialised pigments, ink and paper, inkjet printers use small spraying devices that can match the colour of the original and apply ink precisely. 

      This accuracy gives artists an opportunity to reproduce their art precisely in a high-quality print. Giclee prints are also known for their longevity, as they do not easily fade. This method is most often used when making lower quantities of a high-end print.

      TL;DR - Types of Photo Printing

      There are many different options for printing photographs and graphics, namely digital, lenticular, sublimation and giclee printing. Each of these methods uses certain materials and offers its own pros and cons. Now that you understand the different types of photo printing, you can choose the one that is best suited to your printing needs.

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    • 10 Benefits of Using UK Manufacturing Companies

      10 Benefits of Using UK Manufacturing Companies

      With quality and commitment becoming increasingly important for businesses and consumers, there is a push to use more UK manufacturers. The “Made in the UK” sticker is becoming a major symbol of quality across the country, which is a trend that has our full support.

      In this post, Adventa looks at the benefits of using British manufacturers for your products, parts and more. After reading this blog, you should be able to weigh up these benefits against the rationale of why you are using your current supplier.

      10 Benefits of Manufacturers in the UK

      There are many advantages of using a manufacturer in the country of your operation, and even more so when working with companies that are held to high UK standards. Below are the ten main advantages of using manufacturing companies in the UK:

      1. Improved communication

      Working with a supplier in another country can quickly become frustrating. With differences in time zones, languages, and domestic markets, it can be very challenging to be on the same page as to your needs.

      Being able to meet in person, have a conversation over the phone, or remain in regular contact is extremely beneficial. In addition to this, a local manufacturer will have a complete understanding of your market.

      2. Smaller minimum order quantities

      When using an international manufacturer, you are often required to order large quantities that can fill containers or trucks. Using manufacturers in the UK allows you to place small, regular orders instead, so you don’t have to sit with dead stock if you make an error in your order quantity. This gives organisations increased flexibility and cash flow control.

      3. Product development and innovation

      Often overlooked but a huge strength at Adventa!  Working with a UK manufacturer gives you access with expertise in both product design and lean manufacturing.  Any leading UK manufacturer will consider how they can improve on an existing product both in terms of their own production efficiency but also in terms of the users efficiency and consumer appeal.  It is well known fact that many of the world’s biggest producers are good at copying put poor at product design. This is even more important if you are wanting a custom product!

      4. Shorter lead times

      Along with reduced transport costs, lead times are also reduced. UK suppliers can produce products faster because the goods simply spend less time being transported to you. Instead of being loaded onto a ship to be transported across the Atlantic, products are simply sent by trucks or trains. The research and development phase is also more streamlined, as you can communicate better with suppliers.

      5. Reduced carbon footprint

      As less movement is needed to transport your products to your doorstep, making use of UK manufacturers will also reduce your organisation's carbon footprint. UK manufacturers are also held to the country's carbon emissions standards, so less pollution is produced. Lastly, many UK suppliers, like Adventa, are focusing on their own sustainability. Making use of sustainable suppliers will make your products more environmentally friendly too.

      6. Greater quality control

      As with carbon emissions, UK manufacturers are held to UK standards in their production processes too. The UK has strict laws in place that ensure that products are being made consistently with quality control measures to the approved industry standards. Other countries do not have the same level of attention to quality.

      In addition to this, with UK manufacturers, you can visit the factory and inspect the supply chain yourself. This gives you greater control over the quality of your products.

      7. Support the UK economy

      Working with British manufacturers helps create employment opportunities, injecting more money into the country, and allowing people to afford to buy more products and services. Leading UK manufacturers are forced to invest in automation to remove as much manual labour as possible.  As these factors create a cycle of income and expense, they are very beneficial for the UK economy.

      8. Less risk in the supply chain

      Global events including Covid-19, the Suez Canal drama, conflict in Ukraine and more have put serious strain on supply chains. Many businesses have had to deal with parts and products being delayed or never arriving at all. Coupled with increasing awareness of worrying concerns of unethical practices makes working with a UK manufacturer a dramatically lower risk, so the flow of your construction, production or creation does not have to be interrupted.

      9. The origin of the product is clear

      More and more consumers are starting to really care about where their products come from. With bad labour practices being highlighted across the globe, buying products from genuine UK manufacturers helps give consumers peace of mind that the products have been ethically produced.

      10. Consumers want “Made in the UK” products

      This is true for not only UK citizens, but throughout the world. UK manufacturing is known for its quality as well as the country's fair labour practices. Therefore, both domestic and international consumers are willing to pay more for a British-made product. Products are, therefore, more competitive against their foreign produced counterparts.

      As an established manufacturer themselves, Adventa are a great exponent of British production and manufacturing. If you’d like to understand more about the benefits of working with a localised manufacturer, get in touch. Even better arrange a visit to our highly automated factory, you will be amazed at how we even run our factory totally unattended – genuine ‘lights out production’! 

       

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    • Pros & Cons Of Sourcing Products From China

      Pros & Cons Of Sourcing Products From China

      Over the past few decades, China has grown as an economic powerhouse, with many international companies sourcing products from there. However, between the pandemic and rising political tensions, many UK companies are cutting ties with China, according to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).

       

      Whether you’re an established company or a new entrant to the market, it’s worth considering whether it’s better business to import from China, or whether the outsourcing of products has become too much of a hassle. To help you with this, we’ve listed the pros and cons of sourcing products from China.

      Cons Of Sourcing From China

      While many businesses successfully source their products from China, it doesn’t come without its challenges. These should be carefully weighed against the positives to determine whether this would be the best strategic move for your business.

      Finding A Manufacturer Is Tough

      Finding and cultivating a relationship with a factory owner requires time and money. Once you’ve found several potential suppliers, you then still need to negotiate to see if they’re willing to produce your products to a standard you find acceptable. Many Chinese manufacturers only focus on million-unit orders, which can make things difficult if you're looking to have smaller volumes produced.

      Logistical Challenges

      When you choose to source products from China, you also need to account for international lead times, as your inventory has to be packed, shipped and brought through customs before being transported to your warehouses or retail stores. This shipping can also involve significant costs, depending on your distribution network.

       

      This can often make local suppliers much more attractive as it’s easier to get new stock delivered to you in a shorter period of time. Additionally, you won’t be incurring the costs of international shipping fees.

       

      At Adventa, we produce a range of products locally in the UK. Our central location, coupled with our fast assembly lines and world-class packaging, make us a supplier of choice for UK-based businesses. However, we’re also able to ship products to every other continent across the globe.

      Negative associations of “Made in China”

      It’s a known fact that “Made in China” often brings negative connotations to mind, such as poor quality and low prices. This can sometimes impact your markup and the customer’s general idea of your products.

       

      When producing your products locally, you can take advantage of the fact that your products are ‘made in the UK’. This can be used as a unique selling point that indicates high quality and can also potentially allow you to charge a higher price, increasing your profit margin.

      Language barriers

      The issue with working in a foreign country such as China is the language barrier. Not all Chinese factory owners are proficient in English. And even if you have a translator assisting you, there’s still the possibility of their being misunderstandings.

      Pros of Importing from China

      While there are some significant drawbacks to importing from China, there are advantages that make this a lucrative business option.

      Low production costs

      One of the biggest reasons why companies choose to source their products from China is that the production cost versus output is highly favourable. Lower production costs result in lower prices for your business and customers, which could convince them to purchase your products. Lower prices also contribute to higher profit margins, which is an attractive deal for businesses. However, these lower production costs should always be considered alongside quality.

      Opportunities for market expansion

      Sourcing products from China opens up the door to international expansion, as you can market your goods to the local market. Once you’re in the country and manufacturing your products there, introducing and supplying your products becomes far easier.

      A Summary: Sourcing Products From China

      For decades, businesses have sought lower costs and higher profits by sourcing their products from China. However, in the wake of the pandemic and rising political tensions, many businesses have started to backpedal, choosing to manufacture locally instead.

       

      Each business is unique and should carefully weigh the pros and cons. While importing from China can result in expansion and increased profit, it can be challenging in terms of costs, finding a supplier and more.

       

      Here at Adventa, we are a UK-based manufacturer that specialises in supplying customisable office and decor products. Our location and extensive experience make us an ideal choice as your supplier. If you’d like to know more, please get in touch with our team.

       

       

       

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    • 5 Innovations That Will Keep Photo Printing Alive

      5 Innovations That Will Keep Photo Printing Alive

      Today, people are taking more pictures than ever, but fewer of them end up as printed photographs. Still, technical innovation is changing aspects of the print industry and injecting it with new energy and possibilities, keeping photo printing alive.

      In this post, Adventa shares the five most innovative photo printing technologies and products that are keeping the print industry interesting.

      5 Photo Printing Innovations

      These key innovations will prove important for the photo print industry as it goes forward.

      1. Mobile Ordering Platforms: The growth of mobile ordering platforms makes it possible for smartphone users to easily purchase photo and canvas prints and albums, suggesting mobile will be a big part of the photo industry's future.
      2. Album Design Software: New software helps streamline album design, giving customers more creative capabilities in photo layout and graphic design. The ability to crop, edit and add graphics and captions to photos gives users artistic options.
      3. Artificial Intelligence Software: AI photo editors can detect a subject in an image, enhance it, remove, and replace the background around it, apply effects, colour correct, and more. This makes it fun and easy to alter and adjust photos as the user desires.
      4. Web-to-Print Commerce: Customers can now order an endless list of personalised merchandise online, including everything from photo reproductions, décor items, apparel, mugs, and gifts.
      5. New Photo Products: While individual print sales have declined, wall art, stretched canvas, adhesive fabric decals, and large prints are growing in popularity. People are no longer printing every photograph they take, but they are printing their favourites out on larger and more interesting products.

      Innovative Photo Printing Products

      We have an excellent range of products that will allow your customers to use their creativity to make photo-printed objects that they love. Perfect as gifts for friends and family or even company-branded merchandise, our bulk and trade quantity products are made with high-quality materials to bring joy to your customers for years to come. 

      Below are some great products to take advantage of these innovative photo printing trends:

      1. Keyrings and Magnets: Our range of shaped, rectangular, metal and reclaimed plastic keyrings and magnets give your customers many options to keep their loved ones close to them at all times.
      2. Desk Décor: With most people spending around eight hours at their desks, our personalisable desk décor is the perfect way to spruce up that space with a favourite photo.
      3. Wall Art: With canvas prints, glass mounts, vision walls and more available, our easily personalised wall art will brighten up any home or office space.
      4. Seasonal Decorations: Our baubles, snowglobes and other assorted festive decorations offer the perfect opportunity to get creative with your photographs.
      5. Educational and Craft Products: Want to get the little ones involved in some photo printing creativity? Our range of educational and craft-focused products is a great way to get children creative, and the functional end products will decorate their desks for the school year.
      6. Desk and Stationery: Children aren’t the only ones who can get creative with their stationery - we have a desk and stationery range for adults too. So you can get artistic with your desk supplies and showcase your talents or your personality to your colleagues.

      Conclusion on Photo Printing Innovations

      While people may not be printing every photograph they take anymore, they are getting creative with the way that they use their photos. People want to feel connected to the ones they love and want to make their space beautiful and unique.

      That’s why our personalisable product range is so popular. It allows people to create whatever they want, on small or large products, from keyrings to large wall canvases. The options are endless, and interesting options will keep the print business alive.

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    • Experiential Retail - What Is It? | Adventa

      As online shopping becomes increasingly popular, the death knell of the physical retail industry might be expected. However, the industry is tenacious and innovative, and alternative models are being considered and implemented across the globe.

      Experiential retail is one of the new forms of retail that has popped up in recent years. But what is it, and what does it offer businesses and consumers? In this post, Adventa explores the concept of experiential retail, how it works, what it costs, and which retailers are doing it well. Keep reading to understand what experiential retail is.

      What is Experiential Retail?

      Experiential retail, also known as “retailtainment”, is a marketing strategy in which a physical retail store offers its customers experiences that go beyond browsing and buying. Through exclusive in-store events and services, as well as engaging staff and technologies, the customer is given a memorable experience that elevates retail shopping. 

      Experiential retail is a reconstructed take on retail that focuses on the customer's experience. As the ease of online shopping becomes an increasingly important feature of retail, brick-and-mortar stores have been required to adjust how they do things. Creating engaging, tactile experiences that customers cannot experience online is the cornerstone of experiential retail.

      How Does Experiential Retail Work?

      Retail experience works by offering the customer something out of the ordinary. The way that this is done can differ from store to store or shopping centre to shopping centre. However, there are a few things to focus on when creating a retail shopping experience.

      Experiential retailing prioritises customer engagement over sales. Businesses achieve this by stimulating the senses and defying expectations, creating an in-store experience that is immersive and interactive. 

      Another important element of experiential retail is that it should be shareable. So much of our lives are spent and shared on social media, and creating opportunities where customers can share their experiences on these platforms will make your experiential retail strategy that much more successful. An easy way to do this would be to set up an amazing photo opportunity. 

      An omnichannel approach is another important element of experiential retail. It allows for the integration of various marketing channels and touchpoints that aim to create a consistent and immersive customer experience. 

      Offering omnichannel options for purchasing allows the customer to buy from wherever they are, for a simple and seamless shopping experience. Statistics show that 73% of consumers use multiple channels to shop, making an omnichannel approach an important strategy for any business.

      Some examples of an omnichannel approach in experiential retail include using mobile apps, creating in-store digital and interactive displays, offering click-and-collect options, using virtual or augmented reality, and leveraging social media to engage customers. 

      Lastly, experience retail focuses on the consumer's needs and nurtures communities. While technology may make our lives easier, they also make us more isolated. If a retail store can focus on building a community within its target audience, they are more likely to create return customers and a valuable community.

      Advantages & Disadvantages of Experiential Retailing

      Experiential retail can serve as a powerful strategy for attracting and retaining customers; however, it also comes with financial, logistical, and strategic challenges. Successful experiential retailing requires a well-thought-out plan that aligns with the brand's identity and customer expectations. You should carefully consider the pros and cons before implementing such a strategy. 

      Advantages of Experiential Retail 

      When experiential retailing is executed successfully, it can lead to numerous benefits, such as greater customer engagement, differentiation from competitors, improved brand loyalty and much more.  

      Customer Engagement

      By creating a unique and memorable shopping experience within retail stores, you can develop emotional connections with your customers. This will result in more time spent in-store (more engagement), which creates opportunities for upselling and cross-selling.

      Differentiation 

      In today's crowded market, standing out from your competitors is essential. Experiential retailing offers an effective way for you to demonstrate your brand's uniqueness and attract more attention, differentiating yourself from your competitors. 

      Increased Foot Traffic

      Experiential retailing will draw people to your store, resulting in new customers, increased foot traffic and higher sales. 

      Brand Loyalty

      When you create positive experiences with your customers, you foster an emotional connection with them. This should result in the development of stronger brand loyalty. Loyal customers are a priority for most businesses, as they tend to spend more (67%) than new customers and act as brand advocates, sharing positive reviews about your business. 

      Social Media Buzz

      Shareable experiences encourage customers to promote brands on their social media. This is known as user-generated content. This organic marketing technique will help you reach a wider audience and boost your brand’s visibility. 

      Data Collection

      Experiential retailing often incorporates technology, which can be used to collect customer data, such as their preferences and behaviours. This information can then be used to facilitate targeted marketing campaigns and drive product development.  

      Disadvantages of Experiential Retail 

      While experiential retailing offers endless opportunities, it doesn’t come without its challenges. 

      High Costs

      The cost of experiential retail can differ hugely. Large companies with big budgets can typically do more, but small retailers have plenty to offer, too. Focus on offering a personalised experience that resonates with your brand and customers. 

      Resource-Intensive

      Besides financial resources, experiential retail often calls for resources in the form of staff and time. It’s important to balance the needs of the campaign with the operational needs of the business. 

      Inconsistent Experiences 

      It’s all good and well trying to execute an experiential retail marketing strategy; however, as with all things in business, consistency is key. So, if you’re considering running a campaign at multiple stores or more than one campaign in the future, be sure to maintain a consistent brand experience for your customers. 

      Risk of Fads

      Sometimes, experiential retail trends or concepts may be short-lived. This is why it’s essential to conduct thorough research before executing a strategy.

      Examples of Successful Experiential Retail Campaigns 

      If you’re looking for a little inspiration, here are the five retailers that are making waves with their retail experiences. 

      1. Apple

      Apple stores do not only sell products and services; they also offer interactive learning experiences by hosting workshops, classes, and live events. In doing this, they turn their stores into a space where people can learn and connect, fostering a sense of community and establishing Apple as a leader in innovation.   

      2. IKEA

      This brand is well-known for its retail experiences. One of their best-known campaigns is their “in-store sleepover.” In 2011, IKEA allowed 100 customers to sleep over at their store in Essex, where customers were allowed to personalise their sleepover experience by selecting the bedding, pillows and even the beds they wanted (all from the IKEA catalogue, of course!). 

      3. Farfetch

      The luxury fashion brand brought experiential retailing to life by introducing advanced technology to their store in London, where they installed connected clothing racks, touch-screen-enhanced mirrors and sign-in stations. 

      This allowed Farfetch to pull data collected from customers' online store experiences and personalise their in-store shopping journey. Additionally, the smart mirror allowed customers to search for alternative products or sizes and even pay for their goods, all from the comfort of their changing rooms. 

      4. Huda Beauty

      This beauty brand successfully implemented an experiential retail campaign to launch one of its new products, an eye shadow palette called Mercury Retrograde. Huda Beauty set up a pop-up store in the middle of Covent Garden, creating an immersive sci-fi-themed experience for customers. 

      5. House of Vans

      The House of Vans brand is another top experiential retailer, combining retail with live music, skateboarding and art events. At their 30,000 square feet London retail store, you can find everything from vans’ shoes to a cinema, an art gallery and, perhaps most importantly, a full-on skateboarding course. In doing this, they encourage customers to spend extended periods of time in their store, connecting and interacting with people who have shared interests.

      Ready to Dip a Toe into the World of Experiential Retail?

      While online shopping continues to grow in popularity, experiential retailing offers brands a chance to engage consumers and entice them to visit their brick-and-mortar stores. 

      By creating immersive experiences, brands can engage customers in a completely new way. It can also lead to stronger brand loyalty, increased sales, higher engagement and a host of other benefits. However, it also comes with challenges, such as high costs and the need for consistency. 

      So, while experiential retail marketing holds significant promise, it’s important that brands weigh up the pros and cons, and also draw inspiration from successful campaigns, such as those led by Apple, IKEA, Farfetch, Huda Beauty, and House of Vans. If you can do this, you will be able to create memorable shopping experiences that captivate your customers and set you apart from the competition.

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