Air-filled Balloons
Left: This Spider-Man air-filled sitter balloon from Amscan is part of a range which includes other Disney, Marvel and Star Wars characters.
The recent global helium shortage has seen balloon artists reaching for air-filled solutions with increasing regularity. PPE finds out more.
Get Some Air
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etailers and balloon artists who sell helium balloons will be all too keenly aware of the effect the current helium shortage is having on the industry. For those of you not in the know: it has meant steep price rises (up to 80% in some cases), severely limited supply and losing customer orders. As chair of alloon and party association BAPIA, the issue is something John Bowler is all too aware of. “The current helium issue is very unfortunate, but difficult times bring new opportunities and I think that we will see industry professionals getting very creative with their work,” he begins. “There are numerous products out there to help us offer alternatives to helium designs – it may mean that some designs have to be changed, but with the skills and creativity that are abundant Below: A whole host of air-filled solutions is available from Qualatex.
Above: The Rainbow air-fill balloon banner from Creative Party is simple and effective to use.
within the industry we may well see air-filled décor becoming the norm.” He advises retailers and artists to use their limited supply of helium for bouquet deliveries but maybe sell an air-filled base such as a smiley face character to create the wow factor, pointing out that hugely-popular organic décor is generally air-filled and advises of the need to ‘get creative’ when looking for alternatives to helium centrepieces. According to Dan Flynn, coo of Pioneer Worldwide: “most estimates are the supply will be restricted throughout this year, though availability should increase in 2020.” Pioneer Europe is advising customers to look at air-filled solutions and to talk with different gas suppliers, as supplies may vary locally by region. Pioneer Europe offers a wide number of products which require no helium, while the Northstar scripts and 16” letters/numbers are all specifically designed as air-fill solutions and are proving popular for every occasion. “While some may see the lack of helium as a major concern, we know it can also be a great opportunity,” states head of marketing Julie Dommet. “Back in 2012 when helium was previously low in supply, many customers learned that incorporating more air-filled designs reduced costs and increased perceived value. Many never reincorporated it into
their designs to the same level as they were able to achieve higher profits without it!” In fact, as Creative Party’s product and marketing manager Shayna Bowles points out, clever air-fill designs can help retailers looking to target consumers who are trying to add a little ‘je ne sais quoi’ to their party – all while helping them save money! “Air-filled organic balloon displays are undoubtedly trending right now,” Shayna points out. “Bolstered by the likes of the Kardashians, the eye-catching displays are popping up everywhere, especially on social media.” “We have also noticed a real increase in demand for air-fill balloon decorations,” Shayna continues. “These can provide multiple benefits when compared to their helium-filled counterparts.” Amscan also has a wide variety of air-fill balloons – the Anagram range of 16” foil numbers and letters are available in five different colour options, while the new jumbo 53” foil numbers can either be filled with air or helium. “We have also recently launched new mid-size 26” helium saver number balloons in both silver and gold options,” explains marketing executive Charlotte Terry. “The popularity of these has meant we are now expanding the range to include a rose gold colour option. The balloons make a great impact while using 40% less helium than traditional 34” numbers.” So while the helium supply is expected to level out again by early next year, there’s no need for balloon artists or reailers to despair in the meantime. You just need to get some air!
Air Inspiration
Inset: An example of clever air-filled décor, created by Delights Direct’s designers.
“The helium issue is having the biggest effect on those who are starting out as they are finding it difficult to secure gas at all. We are working more on airfilled product now than ever before, as it is one of the best antidotes. Our balloon designers have created some stunning air-filled inspirations recently to show what can be done” Stuart Wheeler, account manager, Delights Direct
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