In the evolving pet product industry, packaging is no longer just about protection or transportation. As retail competition grows, brands are paying closer attention to how products are displayed, especially in categories like pet clothes, harnesses, and accessories. One often-overlooked packaging tool that plays a key role in visual merchandising is the retail hanger.
Retail display hangers, whether made of cardboard or plastic, serve as practical and visual solutions for showcasing pet products in-store. From lightweight pet shirts to heavier harnesses and leashes, the right hanger contributes not only to shelf appeal but also to brand perception.
The Role of Hangers in Pet Product Packaging
In physical retail environments, how a product is presented can strongly influence consumer behavior. A well-structured hanger allows pet clothes or accessories to hang neatly on a pegboard or retail rack, enhancing visibility, aiding shelf organization, and making the restocking process more efficient. With the expansion of specialty pet shops and the growing focus on pet fashion, custom hangers now play a key role in packaging strategy.
Cardboard Hangers: Lightweight, Customizable, and Eco-Conscious
Cardboard hangers have become increasingly popular in the pet product space due to their sustainable appeal and customizability. They are typically made from kraft paperboard, offering enough strength to support light to mid-weight items like pet shirts, costumes, or soft accessories.
Custom cardboard hangers can be printed with brand logos, care instructions, or visual accents. They provide a tactile and eco-friendly packaging option that aligns with many brands' sustainability goals.
At SN HANGER, several cardboard hanger solutions have been designed specifically for pet apparel:
Kraft Cardboard Hangers with Custom Design and Black Printing
Custom Printing Kraft Paper Cardboard Hangers for Pet Clothes
Custom Die-Cut Cardboard Hangers for Kids and Pets Clothes
These options are commonly used for seasonal items or private-label packaging, where short production runs and quick branding updates are needed.
Plastic Hangers: Durable and Reusable for Heavier Pet Products
When packaging items such as dog collars, harnesses, or small leashes, durability becomes a priority. Plastic hangers offer a stronger, longer-lasting option compared to paper-based alternatives. Many plastic hangers used in pet product packaging are injection-molded for strength and designed with notches or clips for better product security.
Though traditionally seen as less sustainable, plastic hangers can now be manufactured using recycled or lightweight materials to reduce environmental impact. Some are even reusable, adding value for the end consumer.
For example, the Black Gray 5.2g Custom Plastic Hanger for Pet Harnesses and Dog Collars is compact yet strong enough to support a variety of products. Its matte finish and custom shape offer a polished look suitable for both mass retail and boutique displays.
Balancing Sustainability and Functionality
Retail buyers and brand managers are increasingly balancing visual merchandising with environmental responsibility. As a result, many opt for hybrid approaches—using cardboard hangers for lightweight items and plastic for products that need added support.
Additionally, some brands now explore eco-alternative plastics or biodegradable cardboard designs that help reduce single-use packaging. The Custom Eco-Friendly Cardboard Hanger for Pet & Cat Accessories is a great example of how functional design can go hand-in-hand with sustainability.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Hanger
There is no one-size-fits-all solution in pet packaging. Here are a few factors brands and retailers often consider:
- Weight of the product: heavier items need stronger hangers, like molded plastic or reinforced cardboard.
- Retail display setup: pegboard systems may require euro slots, while hanging racks may prefer hook-type designs.
- Brand identity: printed logos, die-cut shapes, or color themes can reinforce brand recognition.
- Sustainability goals: brands with ESG commitments may prioritize recycled materials or reusable designs.
- Production scalability: availability of standard vs. custom hangers depending on order volume.
Industry Trend: Pet Packaging as a Branding Tool
As the pet care market continues to expand globally, packaging has become a key differentiator. While much attention is paid to the primary packaging—like pouches, boxes, or labels—supporting accessories such as hangers can also play a strategic role. They influence the shopper’s first impression, enable practical retail logistics, and serve as an extension of a brand's visual language.
With consumers treating pets more like family, the demand for premium and sustainable packaging will likely continue to grow. Display hangers, both cardboard and plastic, are integral components of this shift.
From customizable eco-friendly cardboard hangers to durable plastic hangers for heavier pet gear, SN HANGER provides a full range of solutions tailored to the pet industry. By offering flexible design and manufacturing capabilities, we aim to support pet brands and retailers in creating smart, sustainable packaging that works on the shelf and beyond.
Explore more at SN HANGER.