Pen case makers launch trendier, compartmented designs

A mix of style and function update the line. Nontoxicity is also given attention.

TOP TRENDS

• Fashionable styles: Polyester pen cases’ colors, patterns and motifs follow the latest trends in fashion. Suppliers look to the designs of luxury shoulder, tote and handbags for inspiration. Pieces in light hues are expected to increase in popularity in coming months.
  
• Expanded storage space: Recent versions have several compartments for holding more stationery products and other small items, including USB flash drives. In addition, having several divisions keeps contents organized, secured and easier to find. Some releases are foldable, taking up less space in users’ bags.
  
• Safe materials: With the increasing safety and ecological awareness worldwide, manufacturers are boosting the use of nonhazardous inputs. The pigment applied on tin cases, for instance, is lead-free. Suppliers also utilize polyester without azo and formaldehyde.
  
• Price forecast: Suppliers continue to face inflation in China, and rising labor and raw material costs. Due to these persisting challenges, they anticipate markups of 10 to 15 percent in 1H12.
  

PRODUCT GALLERY

Donguan Zhaoxin Packaging Material Co. Ltd
Model: Pep-4
Description: PVC, EVA; oval; clear body, handle; zipper closure; silk-screening

J&H International Trading HK
Model: H60002
Description: 600d polyester; square cylinder; extended zipper closure; silk-screening, heat-transfer printing

Marshallom (Holdings) Ltd
Model: ML-005
Description: Tin; flat rectangular; snap closure; silk-screening, embossing, debossing

Odesun Co. Ltd
Model: ODS-PenB-005
Description: Cotton canvas; white; rectangular; silk-screening, heat-transfer printing

Quanzhou Blue Shell Bags Mfy Co. Ltd
Model: BD001
Description: 1680d polyester; zipper closures; silk-screening

Victory Inflight & Travel Accessory Co. Ltd
Model: BD-009
Description: Nylon; zipper closure; piping; silk-screening; 20x5.5x6cm