The Perils of Counterfeit Products: Safeguard Your Balloon Business

Let's face it, when you are looking for balloons to add to your displays and see a set of six foil balloons being sold on the internet for a fraction of the price that your local supplier sells them for, it is very tempting to buy them... why not?

Are you currently selling counterfeit balloons without even realising it? Is this a serious matter that could land you in hot water? 

As the owner of a balloon business, you strive to provide the best products and services to your customers. However, in an attempt to save costs or find cheaper alternatives, some entrepreneurs may be tempted to use counterfeit products. In this blog post, we will explore the dangers of counterfeit goods and shed light on the problems they can cause for your balloon business. Embracing the value of authenticity and quality will ensure the success and reputation of your company.

Compromised Quality and Safety: Counterfeit balloons and related supplies  are typically manufactured using substandard materials and methods. Inferior quality balloons are prone to leaks, tears, or bursting, leading to disappointment for customers and potential safety hazards during events. When working with counterfeit products, you risk damaging your reputation and compromising the safety of those who interact with your balloons.

Negative Impact on Customer Satisfaction: Your customers expect reliable and visually appealing balloons that elevate their celebrations. By using counterfeit products, you run the risk of failing to meet these expectations. Inferior balloons may not hold their shape, sometimes inflating to an unusual shape and when filled with helium, they may float up-side-down or worse still, not float at all, leaving customers dissatisfied and potentially ruining their events. Negative word-of-mouth can spread quickly, damaging your business's reputation and reducing future opportunities.

Legal Consequences and Reputational Damage: Using counterfeit products infringes on intellectual property rights, and it is illegal in most jurisdictions. If you're caught selling or using counterfeit balloons, you may face legal consequences, including hefty fines or even imprisonment. Moreover, associating your business with counterfeit goods tarnishes your reputation and undermines trust among customers and industry peers.

Adverse Environmental Impact: Counterfeit products are often produced with little regard for environmental sustainability. The use of substandard materials and unethical manufacturing practices can lead to increased waste generation and pollution. By supporting counterfeit products, you indirectly contribute to the negative impact on our environment, undermining your business's commitment to sustainability.

How do you know if you are buying a counterfeit balloon or related product?

Identifying counterfeit balloon-related products can be challenging, but there are several signs and precautions you can take to minimise the risk. Here are some ways to determine whether a product may be counterfeit:

• Purchase from reputable suppliers: Stick to well-known and trusted suppliers who have a solid reputation in the industry. Research their background, read customer reviews, and ensure they have appropriate certifications and licenses. If you are new to the industry, and are looking for reputable balloon suppliers, visit the manufacturers websites where you will find a world-wide distributor list.
• Price: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Counterfeit products are often priced significantly lower than authentic ones. Be cautious of unusually low prices as they may indicate poor quality or counterfeit goods.
• Packaging and labelling: Authentic products generally come with proper packaging and labelling, including clear branding, logos, product information, and safety instructions. Counterfeit items may have misspelled words, blurry images, or incorrect logos.
• Quality and appearance: Carefully inspect the product for any signs of inferior quality. Counterfeit balloons may have uneven seams, colour discrepancies, or unusual textures. Check for inconsistencies in size, shape, and printing quality, as well as any visible defects or damages.
• Authenticity holograms and marks: Some brands incorporate holograms, security seals, or other unique marks to distinguish their authentic products. Research the brand's authentication methods and compare them with the product you're considering purchasing.
• Seller reputation and location: Be cautious when purchasing from unfamiliar sellers, especially those based in regions known for producing counterfeit goods. Check if the seller has a physical address and reliable customer support. Avoid sellers with a history of selling counterfeit items.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off or suspicious about the product or the seller, it's better to err on the side of caution and refrain from purchasing.

Remember, thorough research, reliance on trusted suppliers, and careful inspection are essential when making purchasing decisions. By staying vigilant, you can minimise the risk of buying counterfeit balloon-related products and ensure the success and safety of your balloon business.

Happy Ballooning! 

Sue

www.suebowler.com

Follow me @suebowler

How can I make my Balloon Business Successful and Fail-Proof? - Part 2

In Part 1. of  'How can I make my Balloon Business Successful and Fail-Proof' post we look at why someone might start their own balloon company and why not all balloon businesses succeed. To read this post click HERE.

In part 2. we look at the steps that you need to take that will definitely help you to get off to a good start. 

1. How to run a business?

It is important to do your research before starting your business. You need to be excited and passionate about your new impending journey.

Write a Business Plan. A business plan is a written document that describes your business. It covers objectives, strategies, sales, marketing and financial forecasts.

A business plan helps you to:

• clarify your business idea
• spot potential problems
• set out your goals
• measure your progress

Register your business name, but make sure that you choose the name of your business wisely. This is one of the most important things that you will do. There are so many things that you will need to do when setting up a new business, but without a business name it will be impossible! You need a business name to:

• Open a business bank account 
• Invoice customers
• Write terms & conditions 
• Set up a website and social media business accounts
• Order business cards
• Open trade accounts

In the world of social media and SEO (search engine optimisation), choosing a name that people are likely to search for is important, as this will give you a much greater chance of appearing in search results. So start by thinking about what your customers are likely to be searching for.
Obviously, having the word balloon somewhere in your business name is important and if you can include your location too, that would be a huge bonus! 

Legal stuff
Start by registering your business - in the UK visit https://www.gov.uk/set-up-business

You will need:

• Insurance Cover - You may not consider that having insurance cover is important but all businesses should have it, including home based businesses. There are a number of different insurances that a business should have: 
• Public & Products liability – which insures your business against third party claims for personal injury or property damage. 
• Professional Indemnity – covers your professional advice. 
• Employer's liability – provides cover for your employees (this is legally required) and If you are operating your business from a shop or store you will also require 
• Building and Contents insurance. 

Inform HMRC or your government revenues and customs department - In the UK you need to register with the UK government (HMRC) to tell them that you’re self-employed. Check to see what your legal requirements are in your country.

Find an Accountant or Bookkeeper - It might be advisable to find an accountant who will tell you what you will need to do to ensure that you fulfil your tax obligations. 

Comply with data laws - It’s not just big companies that need to know about General Data Protection Regulation - GDPR. Small businesses also have a legal responsibility to keep personal data safe and provide a clear policy on how that data will be used and why.
www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-general-data-protection-regulation

Employing Staff - If you are employing staff there are so many other legal requirements by which you will need to abide. We strongly recommend that you look into all of those too!  
www.gov.uk/browse/employing-people

2. Funding and Finance

How much money do you need to start a business? You might not need much of an initial investment if you’re starting small.
Things that you will need to consider:

• Courses and training - learning the fundamental skills is definitely a great way to kick-start your business. Future courses will help you to develop new skills, techniques and learn industry tips and hints.
• Specialist equipment – make sure you budget for any equipment or tools, balloon professionals use helium, electric balloon inflators and many other specialist tools.
• Products – if you’re setting up a shop or selling your own creations, you will need to get your stock together... and this will be an on-going investment.

Once you have identified the costs involved, you should know how you’re going to fund your project. Will you use savings? Or will you ask for help with your new business start-up costs (for example, loans from friends, family, or a bank)?

Keep in mind you might be able to find grants for new businesses to help lighten the financial burden. The benefit of a small business grant rather than a loan is that you don’t usually have to pay the money back.

Be aware that it can take your business two to three years to reach profitability! 

3. Marketing and Publicity

• Create a Google My Business page to help get you noticed
• Do competitor research – competitor analysis helps you understand the market, set your prices, and find a way to stand out.
• Build a social media presence – social media is a great way to showcase your brand’s personality and tone of voice, connect with customers, and even sell your products with tools like Facebook Shops and Instagram.
• Create a website with SEO – optimise your website for search engines so people can find your business and understand the products or service you offer
• Send emails and newsletters – a simple and cost-effective way to keep in touch with your customers and boost sales.
• Use flyers and print marketing – a tangible way to reach potential customers
• Network at industry events – get to know your industry and make connections at virtual or in-person events

4. Research and Market knowledge

Market research is the process of gathering and analysing information about customer groups, competitors, the balloon industry and the general business environment. Whether a company is small or large, market research plays a vital role in decisions about what products or services to offer and how to sell them. As a small business owner, gathering market information is an ongoing process and a high priority. This will give greater confidence in the decisions you makes knowing the information is based on solid data rather than guesswork or hunches.

• Assess the feasibility of a venture - does the market place need what you are offering?
• Determine what customers really want - don't assume that your customers want what you think they want, do some research.
• Monitor your competitors - study their advertisements, visit their websites, ask business associates about them or even visit their businesses. You should also  be aware of new competitors planning to enter the market.
• Identifying Opportunities - strive for continual growth and always be on the lookout for emerging opportunities, such as new products or services you could offer.
• Spotting Potential Trouble Ahead - Small businesses are affected by the performance and direction of the local and national economy. 

To conclude, no business is fail-proof, but learning the basics in how to start a business will definitely help you to get off to a good start. Understand who your target market is: you may want to specialise in a particular style of balloon artistry -decor versus deliveries for example, and this will have an impact on your marketing and publicity. Be aware that breaking into the corporate market takes time, great marketing and to be honest a pinch of good luck! 

Here is a little more advice that I pick up from a couple of balloon professionals

Consider 'employing' a mentor in your early days, you will have so many questions and as much as you can ask these on various Facebook groups, you will probably get many different responses and still won't be any the wiser And if you don't pay them, they really aren't on the hook to help. They won't really care. 

Build a strong local network quicker. I AM only 3 years in and was always friendly to a couple of local artistS, but in the last 12 - 18 months a group of 9/10 of us have formed an online chat and it’s been a GODSEND. Comparing techniques, borrowing materials, passing on customers, moans about clients; we don’t see each other as competition but as a support system. I wished I’d been part of something like this earlier on, as it’s really helpful.

If you are new to your ballooning journey, I wish you every success, and hopefully you can take some of the advice from this post to help you on your way! 

Happy Ballooning!

Sue

www.suebowler.com

Follow me @suebowler

 

What is an On-the-Job Risk Assessment and How Do You Prepare One?

In the UK, it is becoming standard practice for a venue to ask event vendors to provide risk assessments along with their Business Liability Insurance documentation prior to working in a venue. Without either of these, some will not permit you to work!

 

What is an On-the-Job Risk Assessment?

A risk assessment is simply a thorough examination of factors in your work that could potentially cause harm to people, so that you can weigh up whether you have taken enough precautions or should do more to prevent harm. Workers and others have a right to be protected from harm caused by a failure to take reasonable control measures.

In today's world of stricter health and safety laws, there are often requirements for us as event decorators to produce these documents. Preparing a Risk Assessment can sound daunting, especially if this is something that you have never done before, but once you have prepared one you will find subsequent risk assessments much easier.

Accidents will sometimes happen, but by being aware of the obvious dangers and acting to reduce risks, you are creating a safer working environment for yourself and everyone around you.

Clients and insurance companies like to know you are creating as safe an environment as possible for everyone involved. 

The Risk Assessment

A risk assessment highlights: 

• Potential hazards - who might be harmed and how
• Risk controls that are in place 
• Risk rating - low, moderate, high, or extreme
• Actions – what further actions can be taken to control the risk further

Generally, the Balloon and Party Industry is a low to medium risk industry. However, we do handle gas cylinders under pressure, and therefore we need to ensure that we follow the correct procedures.

For those who work with special effects, these offer different and potentially greater liabilities, so ensure that your insurance policy covers everything that you offer.

Here is an example of a Risk Assessment that I completed for a balloon installation some years ago. You would need to complete all the details such as your company name, the name of the event, the date and the location.

There are many potential risks on any balloon job; here are a few more that you may want to think about and include in your risk assessment if they apply to you. When preparing a risk assessment, think about all the decor, and props that you are installing and all the different processes and equipment that you will be using.

Another item that could be listed under falls would be ladders if you are using them.

These would be listed as the potential hazard, then you would specify who is potentially at risk. A risk control might be the type of ladders. Further action would be to ensure that the ladders are:   

• Set up correctly  
• Checked before and after a job
• Used with care and common sense 

Something that you may not consider being a risk is balloon shining products! The potential hazards are: Slippery floors which can cause potential falls leading to strains and broken bones. Those at risk are event staff and the public when used in public spaces. 

Further action to control risks are:

• Ensure that when balloon shining solutions are used that all surfaces are protected and covered.
• Restrict access to areas during spraying process
• Should floors or surfaces become slippery, floors should be cleaned immediately with a soapy solution and allowed to dry before anyone can walk on them.

Also be aware that balloon shining products can damage soft furnishings and wall finishes, should you damage either of these when working on a job you could be liable for cleaning or replacing! 

Not only should we identify all the risks that could occur on a job, we should also make sure that any staff working with you should be aware of the risks, and how to prevent them from happening.

Methods Statement

This works in conjunction with the Risk Assessment and it is a document that details the work that is to be carried out :

• A brief description of work to be undertaken
• Your company details, logo, name, and address, etc 
• Start Date & Completion date, if applicable 
• Site address 
• Site contact number
• A summary of the main potential hazards and the control measures that must be implemented. 
• A list of electrical equipment, gases, and regulators you will be using. If using helium, you can state that helium is an inert gas! 

The information for this can be extracted from your risk assessment document. You can also detail any Environmental or Quality procedures that must be taken during the task.

Environmental: you can state what materials you are using and if they are biodegradable or non-biodegradable. You can state that balloons should not be released into the environment and how they should be disposed of after an event.

Quality: this defines very simply what tasks you are required to perform to complete the job. This could include how materials and equipment will arrive at the venue, and where the construction will take place.

There are a number of free Risk Assessment templates available on the internet, you can use one of these or use one as a sample to help you create your own. The example above was created using CANVA. Once you have made your own template, keep it safe and amend it each time you require it for a job.

As I said at the beginning of this post, if you have never had to provide a risk assessment before it can feel like a daunting task, but to be honest it is extremely logical and it really does help you to think through everything before you start a site-base job! 

Happy Ballooning! 

Sue

www.suebowler.com

Follow me @suebowler

Do we consider the risk factors of running a balloon business?

Running a balloon company or being a balloon artist may not seem risky at first. However, in case things don't go as planned, remember that it's your livelihood or business that will be affected. Rest assured, much of it boils down to common sense. Taking care of health and safety is just one aspect of effectively managing a business.

In the UK, the law applies to all businesses, large or small. If you’re self-employed or an employer then you are responsible for the health and safety of your business. The law is in place to make sure you have a safe working environment and cut down the risk of you, your staff (if you have any) or your customers getting ill or injured. 

You must consider and manage any risks both where you work or that may come in connection with what you do. 

This is a straightforward process known as ‘risk assessment.' It involves thinking about what you do in your business that could harm people – you, your staff (if you have them) or your customers – and what you’re going to do to try to prevent it from happening. 

Let's look at a few examples of potential hazards in the work place or when working onsite;

• Slips, trips and falls - ensuring that we keep floor areas clear. Remember any balloon shining products can make the floor slippery.
• Tools - keep tools tidy and clear tool boxes away so that they don’t become a trip hazard when working onsite.
• Ladders - ensure that ladders are in good condition and that they are fit for purpose. ALWAYS ensure that ladders are positioned in the safest way to complete the task.
• Electricity and cables - ensure that all equipment works properly and that electrical equipment is serviced and tested by someone with the correct skills and qualifications. Ensure that any electrical cables are not a trip hazard.
• Lifting and carrying - ensure that loads are not too big and use a trolly when possible to move loads around more easily.
• Balloons - Child and Pet Precautions: Balloons are not a toy. Uninflated or burst balloons can present a choking hazard and should never be left with children under the age of eight without supervision. Store balloons away from pets to ensure that they cannot get themselves tangled with balloon ribbons or accidentally ingest popped balloons or their decorative contents such as confetti, feathers, or other materials. If a balloon pops, clear away any broken balloons and any decorative contents (if applicable) immediately.
• Balloons and Allergies - most balloons are made of natural rubber latex and may cause allergies. Keep a sharp eye out for symptoms in case of allergies and seek immediate help.
• Helium- Inhaling helium can be dangerous and it is NEVER recommended. It can deprive your body of oxygen and can result in a fatality.

How do you relay important and relevant information to your customers?

Care Cards & Balloon Care Guide

Giving your customers information on preventative and risk reduction measures, along with how to care for their balloons can truly help, especially if something goes wrong! 

I often see posts on Facebook where someone asks for advice on how to deal with a customer who has complained about a bad balloon experience. These situations can often be avoided if we the clients are supplied with a "Care Card" or a "Balloon Fact Sheet" at the time of purchase or when we are installing balloons for a client.

There are many things that we can include on our "Care Cards" or a "Enjoy your Balloons" fact sheet. I would recommend that you choose those that are most relevant to the types of balloons, and or decor that you are supplying.

Here are some more great tips that you can share with your customers and on your website.

1. Balloons and Temperature: Don't leave balloons in a hot car - helium expands in the heat and this could cause your balloons to pop! We recommend that you use air conditioning in your vehicle when transporting balloons on a hot day. If balloons get rained on and start to droop, don't worry – they'll float again when dry. When helium-filled balloons are taken into the cold, they will temporarily deflate and will re-inflate again when warm. 

2. RISK Balloons - Child and Pet Precautions: Balloons are not a toy. Uninflated or burst balloons can present a choking hazard and should never be left with children under the age of eight without supervision. Store balloons away from pets to ensure that they cannot get themselves tangled with balloon ribbons or accidentally ingest popped balloons or their decorative contents such as confetti, feathers, or other materials. If a balloon pops, clear away any broken balloons and decorative contents (if applicable) immediately.

3. Balloons and the Environment: At the end of a balloon's life, cut the end of the balloon with scissors to remove any air or balloon gas, then dispose of it in the bin. NEVER release balloons into the environment. ALL released balloons become litter. They can get caught up in trees or power lines. Remember - Don't Let Go, & Pin It and Bin It 😊

4. RISK Balloons and Allergies: Most balloons are made of natural rubber latex and may cause allergies. Please look out for symptoms in case of allergies and seek immediate help.

5. RISK Inhalation of helium: Inhaling helium can be dangerous and it is not recommended. It can deprive your body of oxygen and can result in a fatality.

6. Balloons and Ceilings: Lights, paint textures, irregular surfaces and even static can all pop balloons. If you are planning on placing your balloons on a ceiling, ensure that you test it first.

7. Latex balloons and Oxidization: Clear balloons become cloudy quickly when exposed to heat and sunshine. Coloured balloons will take on a velvety, matte appearance.

8. Balloons can Pop: While we use the highest quality balloons and take every precaution necessary with your balloons to ensure they last through your event, once the balloons leave our door or we have left the venue, they are out of our control.

You can certainly go into more detail if you plan to publish this information on your website. You could cover more information regarding balloons, different weather conditions, the environment and how to dispose of balloon weights - especially if they are filled with water or sand!

It is becoming standard practice for a venue to ask event vendors to provide risk assessments along with proof of their business liability insurance prior to working in a venue. Without either of these they will not permit you to work.

Writing a risk assessment involves identifying potential hazards, what the risk is and measures that you take to prevent or reduce any potential risk.

Here is an example of a simple Risk Assessment Chart with an example.

This is a Risk Matrix which gives you a guide to RISK Values.

To learn how to write a risk assessment check out my post Risk Assessments & Method Statements - https://theverybestballoonblog.blogspot.com/search?q=risk+assessment

It is very important that we don't bury our heads in the sand when it comes to potential risks and that we learn to manage and control those risks in a professional manner. Many balloon businesses also offer prop hire and accessories that bring their own risks! It is essential that a balloon business carries a comprehensive Public Liability insurance and if a company employs staff they are required to carry Employee Liability insurance too! In the UK, I recommend www.BAPIAonline.com, who are an Independent Trade Organisation for the Balloon & Party industry! 

Happy Ballooning! 

Sue

www.suebowler.com

Follow me @suebowler

Helium (Balloon Gas) and Helium Safety.

Balloon Gas

We often talk about using helium to inflate balloons that we want to float. However, in the UK. (I am unsure about other countries) we mostly use a product known as Balloon Gas. Balloon Gas is a re-cycled product that derives from helium that has been re-captured after being used for other purposes and is no longer suitable to be used in medical or science applications. This re-cycled helium would be wasted if not re-used in balloons.

It is often speculated that helium is wasted when used for balloons.

​The simple answer is no – it is not a waste. As cylinders of pure helium are filled, the escaped gas mixes with air and is captured and compressed into cylinders as balloon gas. Some manufacturers capture this helium when filling MRI scanners.

​Manufacturers have stated that this wasted helium is considered a ‘recycled product’ as it would have been lost to the environment had it not been captured and re-purposed. If the balloon market demand declined, manufacturers would have to re-evaluate other markets and consider the possibilities of re-liquefying it. Re-liquefying is currently considered uneconomical from the locations of where the filling application take place.

Let’s not forget that the balloon market is only one application and makes up less than 10% of the worldwide helium market, there are several other applications that also use helium.

Helium Facts

Helium is an inert gas, and is the second lightest element next to hydrogen. It is colourless, odourless and tasteless. INERT means it will not react to any other elements, therefore it is impossible to cause a fire or to burn. However, it is very important to know that helium is an asphyxiant, and therefore inhaling helium can cause serious harm that could result in fatality, so it is definitely not safe to inhale helium!

Is there a safer alternative to helium? This is a definite no! 

Helium Safety Tips

• To avoid muscle strain and injury, use correct lifting techniques. Larger cylinders should not be lifted manually due to their weight. Cylinder trolleys should always be used.
• NEVER drag a cylinder along the ground. 
• When transporting a cylinder by car or van, make sure that the vehicle is well ventilated and that the cylinder is very well secured.
• Ensure that cylinders are stored in well-ventilated areas, away from direct heat.
• When inflating a balloon, always point the balloon and inflator away from you, and close the cylinder valve after use. Some professional balloon artists will wear protective eyewear when inflating balloons. Always offer staff protective eyewear when inflating balloons.
• Always secure a cylinder to a secure support in an upright position when in use, as cylinders can cause serious injury if they fall over or roll on to you.
• Do not attempt to catch a falling cylinder; move out of the way.
• Keep cylinders away from children at all times.
• The valve on high-pressure balloon gas cylinders should never be opened unless the appropriate filling kit is attached.
• Always use the correct inflation equipment designed especially for inflating balloon and the cylinder type that you are working with and NEVER repair, alter or change equipment as this can result in serious accidents, remember you are working with gas under very high pressure.
• Slowly open the cylinder valve by turning it in an anti-clockwise direction.  Listen for any obvious leaks. If there is a leak, turn off the valve, release any excess gas in the filling kit and check you have fitted the filling kit correctly.
• Remove the filling kit if moving the cylinder any distance or ceasing use.  Before removing the filling kit, turn off the cylinder valve and release the pressure in the kit.

How long does helium last inside a latex balloon?

Balloons look fantastic when they are filled with helium, majestically floating in the air,  but it does require some thought when using them for events. Since latex is porous, helium begins to seep out from the surface of the balloon the moment the balloon is filled. How long the helium lasts inside the balloon depends on the size of the balloon. An 11" latex balloon will typically float for up to 18 hours, but will only look good for around 12 hours. It is recommended to inflate latex balloons with helium as close to the time of the event as possible to ensure that they look their best throughout the event.

To make latex balloons float for longer they can be treated with HI-FLOAT. ULTRA HI-FLOAT is a patented liquid solution that dries inside latex helium-filled balloons to form a coating that helps hold in the helium. A single squirt inside the balloon keeps it floating longer – up to 25 times longer! The chart below will give you the average floating time for different size latex balloons. Please be aware that not all latex balloons are of the same quality, and therefore I always recommend that you use Qualatex balloons.

Will latex balloons still float if you mix helium and air together?

Yes! It is possible to mix air with helium to save on your helium costs. However, you need to be aware that adding air into the helium will make the balloons heavier and reduce the floating time and liftability of the balloons (this means that a balloon cannot lift the same weight as a balloon that is filled with helium only.) Personally, I would only recommend using this technique if you are working with balloons 16" and larger, and also if you only require them for a shorter length of time. You cannot use a 60/40 mix of helium and air with foil balloons.

Conwin makes a range of 60/40 inflators. For more information visit https://www.conwinonline.com/shop/60-40-helium-air-inflator/

I hope that this information has helped you. It is always good to know a little bit more so that you are always informed and have responses available to give to customers who may have their concerns regarding the use of helium in balloons.

Happy Ballooning! 

Sue

www.suebowler.com

Follow me @Suebowler

Top Tips when working with Helium-Filled Latex Balloons

Whether they are featured in an arrangement or tied to a single strand of ribbon, few things inspire more joy than a helium-filled latex balloon! To give your customers the most value, here are four essential tips on keeping your balloons—and profits—afloat.

1. Storage

The first step to ensure long float times for latex balloons is proper storage. Qualatex® latex balloons are 100% biodegradable, and so temperature and light have a major effect on the quality of latex balloons. Because of this it’s important to protect them from the elements until they need to be inflated. 

Many balloon stores use storage jars to contain and display latex balloons. 

 If using clear jars ensure that they are kept out of direct sunlight.

Avoid exposing your balloons to extreme heat and cold. Storing your uninflated balloons at moderate temperatures will maximise their lifespan. If stored properly, an uninflated latex balloon has a shelf life of approximately one year. Light also contributes to the degradation of latex balloons. Store your uninflated balloons in airtight, opaque containers for optimal protection. Not only does this protect your balloons against light, it allows you to clearly label and organise your product.

Sunlight will also cause your balloons to quickly lose their shine, so be sure to work away from windows when inflating latex balloons. Both heat and light contribute to the process of oxidation, which creates a cloudy appearance on the outside of latex balloons. While this is a natural step in the process of a balloon’s biodegradation, the effects of oxidation can be minimised by covering balloons with a plastic bag, especially if they will be exposed for a long period of time or if decor is done in advance. 

Latex balloons can also be protected with Balloon Shine™or Hi-Shine when they are applied to the exterior of an inflated balloon. Both of these products help prevent oxidation and add long-lasting sparkle to your decor. Balloon Shine is applied with a glove and wiped over the surface of the balloon, whereas Hi-Shine is applied using a spray. 

2. Inflate and Regulate

By inflating latex balloons correctly, you will maximise float times and provide customers with a more aesthetically pleasing product. When inflating a round latex balloon. It is important to fill it until a teardrop shape is achieved.

•Overinflating balloons adds stress and opens the pores of the latex so helium escapes faster. •Underinflating balloons reduces their float time because there is less helium to lift the balloon’s weight.

•The use of a sizing template, such as the Qualatex ProSizer Templates, is helpful for inflating balloons fully and uniformly. 

3. Be Wary of Weather

Proper storage and inflation are only half the battle. A standard 11" Qualatex latex balloo inflated with helium floats between 18 to 24 hours. However, even properly inflated balloons can have different flying times depending on weather and altitude. Heat causes helium to expand, and cold causes it to contract. Expect balloons to expand when moved from an air-conditioned room into a warmer environment. Likewise, helium-filled balloons may appear half-full and not float when moved into much cooler temperatures. When moving balloons from a cool environment to a warmer one, a general rule is to slightly underinflate the balloons. After moving them to warmer conditions, balloons will typically expand back to their ideal size. Air becomes lighter as elevation increases, so the amount of lift you can expect from helium-filled balloons will be reduced. Because of this, larger balloons are recommended when inflating for higher elevations. Conduct your own tests in different circumstances and altitudes to determine typical float times. 

4. Maximise Floating Time

So what is HI-FLOAT?

HI-FLOAT® balloon treatment is a solution of a plastic material dissolved in water. It forms a coating inside latex balloons that greatly reduces the helium or air loss. 

With ULTRA HI-FLOAT, latex balloons can be prepared a day ahead of time, and balloon bouquets will float for several days.

Helium-filled latex balloons float 25 times longer on average with ULTRA HI-FLOAT, and air-filled latex balloons maintain full size for over one month with ULTRA HI-FLOAT.

HI-FLOAT is very safe. It is non-toxic, non-irritating, noncorrosive, nonflammable and biodegradable. It is similar to the glue on the back of postage stamps.

Average Floating times with and without HI-FLOAT

Float Times                      Helium Only                 Helium and Hi-FLOAT

11” / 28 cm latex                    1 Day                                 1- 4 weeks

16” / 41 cm latex                    1 ½ Days                         3 - 7 weeks

36” / 90 cm latex                    3 - 5 Days                         6 - 20 weeks

It's easy to see why a professional decorator would use HI-Float in all their helium-filled latex balloons!

Follow these balloon care tips, and you will greatly increase the performance of your Qualatex balloons as well as your customers satisfaction!

Happy Ballooning! 

Sue

www.suebowler.com

Follow me @suebowler

Customer Complaints - One of the Hardest Jobs to Deal with.

Receiving complaints or any kind of negative feedback never feels great. However, this kind of feedback can be a good opportunity to differentiate your business from others who may not be as efficient as you are when dealing with complaints.

When a customer complains, it is normal to want to react in a defensive manner as it is very easy for us to take any complaints to heart!

I suppose what we need to remember is that 1) we cannot please everyone all of the time, and 2) that balloons are destructible: they can pop, go down or be affected by the elements very easily.

Complaints happen and you will get them!

The perfect outcome for a complaint is that it goes away quickly and quietly, and without turning into a bad review online. You occasionally might have your suspicions that the customer has done something to damage the balloons, or maybe they expected the balloons to last longer. It is important to put that all aside and make it your goal to resolve the problem quickly, and definitely not to prove that you are right and that they are wrong.

Take time to listen and show empathy.

By listening to your customer, you can more easily empathise with their situation. This is also a good opportunity to ask questions and to gather any additional information you need to be able to offer a suitable solution. 

Decide on your complaints policy now.

It is so much easier to make a decision on how you are going to deal with complaints when you are not in the middle of all the drama that tends to follow a complaint. 

Some businesses offer a no-questions asked, time-limited replacement guarantee.

"If you have any problems with your order in the first 24 hours, we will replace it free."

Many companies have a Complaints Policy Statement that they display on their website:

If you have a complaint about our products or service please contact us as soon as possible so we can put into action a fair, confidential and effective complaint procedure. 

We endeavour to respond to all complaints within 1 working day and resolve complaints within 3-4 working days.

Refunds, partial refunds or an exchange will be given if the product is proved to be faulty or damaged and will be issued at the discretion of management 

         
This is your opportunity to decide on what your policy is and how you want to apply it. Take a look at what other businesses have done to see what their policies are and decide what would work best for you and your business.

Offer a Solution

Once you have identified the reason for the complaint, it is important to offer a solution as quickly as possible. You have listened to the customer and as much as you may not feel that the problem was your fault,  it is essential to avoid challenging them or allowing your personal emotions getting in the way, as this won't help you in your efforts to resolve the problem. 

Apply a solution: this could mean a full refund, a replacement or a credit for a future order, all depending on your complaints/refund policy. Make sure that your customer is happy with the solution and that the problem has been resolved otherwise you will still end up with an unhappy customer. 

Offer an Apology

Let them know you're sorry they were inconvenienced, disappointed or upset, then also thank them for giving you the chance to work it out with them. For many customers, this sincere effort goes a long way. 

Care Cards and Balloon Fact Sheets

I recommend supplying a Care Card or How to Care for your Balloons Fact Sheets, with every order. By giving customers information on how to look after balloons, this can often resolve and definitely defuse many complaint situations. There are many reasons why a customer might complain, here are just a few examples.

Complaint 1: It's a very hot day and a customer puts the balloons into a very hot car,  by the time they got home, the balloons have all popped - "My balloons were all faulty, they all popped!" 

Complaint 2: The customer places all the helium-filled latex balloons on the ceiling in their home and some of them pop! "My balloons were faulty, they popped when I got home!"

Complaint 3: The customer places her balloons outside "All my balloons went dull and cloudy, they are not what I asked for!"

These are very simple and basic complaints, however, if you inform the customer in advance that these things might occur, then you can prevent that complaint ever occurring.

Here are some different things that you can list on your fact sheet and also alert customers to certain situations when they purchase balloons from you... if you feel it's relevant at that time (like the weather) it is worth actually mentioning it to the customer before they leave your shop or store.

1. Balloons and Temperature: Please don't leave balloons in a hot car - helium expands in the heat and this could cause your balloons to pop! We recommend that you use air conditioning in your vehicle when transporting balloons on a hot day. If your balloons get rained on and start to droop, don't worry – they'll float again when dry. When helium-filled balloons are taken into the cold, they will temporarily deflate and will re-inflate again when warm. 

2. Balloons - Child and Pet Precautions: Balloons are not a toy. Uninflated or burst balloons can present a choking hazard and should never be left with children under the age of eight without supervision. Store balloons away from pets to ensure that they cannot get themselves tangled with balloon ribbons or accidentally ingest popped balloons or their decorative contents such as confetti, feathers, or other materials. If a balloon pops, clear away any broken balloons and any decorative contents immediately.

3. Balloons and the Environment: At the end of a balloon's life, cut the end of the balloon with scissors to remove any air or balloon gas, then dispose of it in the bin. NEVER release balloons into the environment. ALL released balloons become litter. They can get caught up in trees or power lines. Remember - Don't Let Go & Pin It and Bin It 😊

4. Balloons and Allergies: Most balloons are made of natural rubber latex and may cause allergies. Please look out for symptoms in case of allergies and seek immediate help.

5. Inhalation of helium: Inhaling helium can be dangerous and it is not recommended. It can deprive your body of oxygen and can result in a fatality.

6. Balloons and Ceilings: Lights, paint textures, irregular surfaces and even static can all pop balloons. If you are planning on placing your balloons on a ceiling, ensure that you test it first.

7. Latex balloons and Oxidization: Clear balloons become cloudy quickly when exposed to heat and sunshine. Coloured balloons will take on a velvety, matte appearance.

8. Balloons can Pop: While we use the highest quality balloons and take every precaution necessary with your balloons to ensure they last through your event, once the balloons leave our door or we have left the venue, they are out of our control.

As a business owner we need to be a master of all trades: designer, sales person, the writer of quotes and proposals, accounts manager and the one who responds to emails and messages, as well as social media expert! One of the hardest jobs is to deal with complaints! 

I hope this helps any of you who are not really sure how to deal with complaints.

Happy Ballooning! 

Sue

www.suebowler.com

Follow me @suebowler