Packaging and wrapping of foodstuff determines how a product actually reaches a buyer — grouped into outers of a specific size for sugar, pulses, coffee and more. Outer size is not a minor detail; it shapes storage, cash flow and how fast stock turns over.
Quick Answer
Outer size determines how much stock you commit to per order, how much storage space you need, and how quickly you can turn that stock over. A smaller outer costs more per unit but ties up less cash and shelf space. Compare pack formats in the catalogue alongside price, not instead of it.
Small Outer vs. Large Outer, in Practice
A small grocery testing a new product benefits from a smaller outer, even at a slightly higher per-unit cost, because it reduces the risk of unsold stock. A high-volume buyer benefits from a larger outer because the lower per-unit cost outweighs the extra storage commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does outer size matter beyond the headline price?
It affects storage space needed, cash tied up per order, and how quickly stock turns over — not just the cost per unit.
Should a small grocery buy the smallest available outer?
Often yes, especially for a new product, to reduce the risk of unsold stock, even at a slightly higher per-unit cost.
Does a larger outer always mean a better deal?
Only if you can actually sell through it at a reasonable pace. Otherwise the storage and cash-flow cost can outweigh the per-unit savings.