IHA speaks with Joe Rogers, the Super Genius at Love Reusable Bags, based in Costa Mesa, California. LOVE Bags, makers of fashionable reusable bags for all seasons and needs, will present its latest innovative products in Discover Design N8202 at the 2017 International Home + Housewares Show in Discover Design.
Joe Rogers, Super Genius
Love Reusable Bags, Inc. was created by two good friends, Joe Rogers and Gary Crane. Joe had an extensive background in bag design and manufacturing bags for clients in the action sports industry. Gary, also an entrepreneur, was a partner in a company that was a world leader in the electric power boat industry. They combined their talents to address the growing need for reusable shopping bags and also to help eliminate the ubiquitous plastic bags that litter our cities and oceans. LOVE BAGS offer an innovative alternative to the plastic bag and other disposable items, combining function and long-lasting quality with a fashion sense that resonates with today’s eco-minded consumers. They design their products to insure they are eco-friendly, washable, durable, affordable and great looking, with stylish prints, fabrics selected for comfort and attention to details of construction. Their “GIVE BACK SACK” campaign, which donates to needy children when specific LOVE products are purchased, has donated thousands of bags around the world.
Joe, where do you find inspiration when designing new products?
Everywhere! Many of my friends are designers and also I love art and music. I actively research new designs and innovative people, artists and designers on the internet or via social media and I work with some great design resource companies.
Are there any specific designers, places or eras that influence you?
Although we’re a “household” product, I think of LOVE BAGS as a fashion statement. Of course, functionality is of utmost importance and a primary concern when designing new product, but “fashion” is what really sets us apart from the masses, so I tend to follow creative designers. I love the 60’s and music-related artwork. I’m a hippie at heart and I often have to fight that desire and create more modern looks for our customer, but that’s where it starts. The California surf culture has obviously been a huge influence as well.
How do you choose which idea to take to the next step to development?
I have a small team of very smart women who aren’t afraid to share their opinions, which I value greatly. They love the brand and have strong feelings on what it stands for and what our customers want.
How do you identify the key user audience for your products?
I try to build something my wife and all her friends would love. She’s got a great eye and is very picky, so the bar is set high!
Is there an approach or look that joins the functionality, form or emotional appeal of your product line?
Yes, our products must first serve a function and outperform the marketplace. Second, it must make sense for the environment… Is it needed? Will it last? Last, it must be a great looking print and bring a sense of pride to the customer. LOVE BAGS are known best for our fantastic prints and consumers really connect with our artwork. That is what really sets us apart.
How do new technologies influence your product design? Do you use 3-D printing, Kickstarter or other platforms to develop or launch products? How do you use social media?
We use digital fabric printing for prototypes, which is incredibly useful. Also, we’re working with fabric mills and other great companies that are learning how improve the process of recycling waste into beautiful, durable fabrics and saving the environment from more and more pollution.
Where are your products manufactured?
We used carefully screened and audited factories in China with fair wages and safe working conditions.
How do you see design’s importance in our industry as it moves forward?
Design is always going to lead the industry into new market directions and exciting new products and trends. It will always be the most import aspect of any market.
Can you give us a preview of what you will be showing in your booth in Discover Design?
Sure. We’ll be showing an incredibly functional line of useful products made from recycled plastic bottles that will last a lifetime. We make “BAGS WITH A CONSCIENCE” and we believe there is a rapidly growing market of eco-conscious consumers who are willing to pay a little more knowing the company they buy from cares about its impact on the environment and actually stands for something more than just profits. We want to change the way you think about reusable bags and how they can make a positive impact in the world.
Thank you for spreading the LOVE!!
Thank you, Joe, for your spirited description of what drives your business. We look forward to seeing the latest additions to your stylish and functional everyday products in Discover Design N8710.
See more about LOVE BAGS at www.lovebags.com.
Discover Design is the premier destination at the International Home + Housewares Show for trend spotters who make design their priority. Retailers looking for the unique will find early 200 design leaders at Discover Design located at the front of the North Building.
Anchored by renowned brands such as Alessi, Blomus and Charles Viancin, Discover Design welcomes new exhibitors, such as notNeutral, Luckies of London, and S’well Bottle, and introduces 10 emerging companies at the Design Debut incubator. Additional fresh offerings from veteran design-focused exhibitors such as Kikkerland, Zoku and Magisso will also inspire your choices for the coming year. Find more information on Discover Design exhibitors online.
