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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
Creating custom printed coffee bags 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.
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.
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.
Flexographic Printing: Utilizes flexible plates to transfer ink onto the material.(learn more).
Rotogravure Printing: Engraves the design onto cylinders for precise and high-quality printing.
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 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:
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 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:
High-gloss finishes can make colors pop and create a striking visual impact on store shelves.
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:
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
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.
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.
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.
Below is the table outlining common add-ons for coffee bags:
| Add-ons | Description |
|---|---|
| Zippers | Resealable closures that allow easy access and help maintain freshness. Types include press-to-close and slider zippers. |
| Clear or frosted windows | Transparent or translucent panels that allow customers to see the coffee inside the bag. |
| Hanging holes | Punched-out holes that enable the bag to be hung on display racks or hooks. |
| Tear notch | A small cut or perforation that helps customers open the bag easily and neatly. |
| Round corner | Softened bag corners that improve aesthetics and reduce the risk of tearing. |
| Tin tie | A flexible metal strip that allows the bag to be folded and securely closed after opening. |
| Pull tab | A small tab attached to the bag's opening for easy tearing and access to the contents. |
| De-gassing valve | A one-way valve that allows carbon dioxide to escape from freshly roasted coffee without letting oxygen in. |
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.
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:
| Size Category | Weight (grams) | Weight (oz) | Approx. Cups of Coffee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Serve or Trial Set | 28 | 1 | 1 |
| Small Size | 250 | 8 | 12-15 |
| Medium Size | 500 | 16 | 25-30 |
| Large Size | 1000 | 35 | 50-60 |
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.
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.
In 2025, 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.
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:
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:
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.
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:
Expert Insight: Use QR codes strategically to tell your brand story or provide added value, like brewing tips or farm-to-cup journeys.
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!
The cost of custom coffee bags varies depending on several factors, including the size, material, design complexity, and order quantity.
For example, a 12 oz side gusset bag might cost $0.50-$1.25 for smaller orders, while larger orders of 5,000+ bags could reduce the price to $0.30-$0.50 per bag. Specialized features like degassing valves or eco-friendly materials may increase costs.
Whole bean coffee in an unopened, sealed bag is typically good for 6-9 months after the roast date. Ground coffee has a shorter shelf life, usually 3-5 months. Once opened, coffee should be consumed within 1-2 weeks for best flavor. Proper storage in an airtight container away from heat, light, and moisture can help extend freshness.
There are several ways to seal coffee bags:
Heat sealing: Using a heat sealer machine to melt and fuse the bag's opening.
Zip-lock closure: Many coffee bags come with built-in resealable zippers.
Tin tie: A flexible metal strip that can be folded to close the bag.
Tape or stickers: For temporary sealing of opened bags.
Vacuum sealing: Removing air before sealing to preserve freshness longer.
