Get Them Going With Luggage and Leather Goods
By Emily Tipping
What They Want
Demographics can have an impact on the types of luggage and travel goods you include in your incentive program. For example, if your audience is younger, you should consider how they are using the products.
"In terms of daybags, it's all about multifunctionality," Landry said. "Generationally, older people don't usually cross-purpose. But younger people will get a bag and cross-purpose it. That drives a dynamic where the pieces are slouchier, with more pockets on the outside, more handles, etc."
One good example of this is the Alpha Bravo line from Tumi, but there are many manufacturers focusing on multiple functions in a single piece.
The SOLO Rolling Notebook case, available through Incentive Concepts, is part of the Classic Collection, and to ease security headaches, it features a removable, padded CheckFast sleeve. Additional features include cushioned carry handles, a front organizer compartment and section large enough for file folders, and an ingenious back compartment that holds a hidden telescoping handle system, as well as pockets to fit an umbrella and electronic accessories. The case was voted one of the top seven rolling bags on About.com.
For ladies on the move, Vera Bradley's 17-inch Roll Along Tote, available through Top Brands, is perfectly petite. The front panel unzips and swings down to reveal a checkpoint-friendly padded compartment for a laptop, a zip pocket, file organizer and additional slip pockets. The back compartment unzips to reveal two zip pockets as well as a main packing compartment with compression straps that holds contents in place. It's perfect for overnight trips, or as a companion to a larger luggage piece.
Another, potentially growing demographic trend, is a decided liking for green products. While it's not taken off in a huge way, there are consumers who prefer to reduce their environmental impact in any way possible.
Cassius of Earth Gear has been offering solar power cases, which can power up anything from an iPhone or iPod to a laptop, using the power of sunlight. The cases are not huge yet, he said, "but I think it's going to be here to stay."
Mitchell of Samsonite said his company has developed a collection called eVolve, made from recycled polyester. "It has an earthy look to it, and it's creating a story for the client who's willing to pay to make less of a carbon footprint," he said. "It's not entirely recycled, as certain parts, like the wheels, don't lend themselves to recycling. But the actual fabric is recycled."
The 22-inch Carry-on pictured here includes a 15.6 neoprene removable TSA laptop sleeve, rugged smooth rolling wheels, an ergonomically designed pull handle, large exterior front pocket, outer compressor straps and a wetpak/mesh pocket in the interior opening.
Reaching across many demographics, you'll find plenty of gear that aims to meet modern needs, from smartphone cases to iPad sleeves.
Piel Leather's iPad envelope features a magnetic closure and opens to reveal multiple open pockets for business cards, documents and a leather pen holder. It transforms into a horizontal or vertical stand for hands-free viewing, and four elastic/leather straps at each corner securely hold the iPad in place. With a camera hole cutout on the back, it provides the perfect protection for an iPad, and is available in saddle, black and chocolate leather.
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