Category: wmckissock

Ian Nairn / February 26, 2026

If your business ships goods to customers or retailers, choosing the right packaging and shipping supplies is an utmost priority. Faulty packaging and shipping supplies can damage your product, reputation, and therefore, profitability. Part of this is choosing the right tape for the job.  

How complicated can tape be, really? Well, as it turns out, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a tape for your packaging and shipping needs. In this article, we take a look.  

The risk of choosing the wrong tape. 

Did you know, 7-11% of packages shipped in the United States arrive damaged or broken? Not only does this result in costly refunds or replacements for businesses, but damaged customer relationships as well. Especially in the B2C world, shoppers are less likely to return to a brand that has sent them a damaged package in the past. 

Tape can make all the difference in preventing this. While other packaging supplies are certainly crucial, without the proper adhesive to seal it all together, even the best packaging efforts are useless.  

How do you pick the right tape? 

The right tape is all going to depend on what kind of packages you’re shipping. The perfect solution for one may not work for another. Some package considerations to keep in mind are: 

• The weight of your boxes/packages – heavier weights may need stronger adhesives and more durable material.  
• Box/package material – not all materials will take to the same tape as well; recycled cartons, for example, may require specific tape. 
• Your packages’ storage conditions – temperature, moisture, and movement and handling frequency might make an impact on the tape used.  
• The shipping distance and process – any packages travelling further and that  may pass through more checkpoints, and therefore more hands, need more damage-resistant tape.  

With your packaging requirements laid out, you can look into finding the right kind of tape to support it. Some variants to consider are: 

• Adhesive – several types of adhesives are used in packaging tape, some of which are more suitable for some materials than others.  
• Backing material – is it vinyl, cloth, or something else? 
• Core size – the diameter of the roll.  
• Elongation – or how long the tape can stretch without breaking. 
• Tensile strength – which is a measurement of how much force is required to break the tape. 
• Thickness and width of tape on each roll.  

Take cost optimization into consideration. 

With any sort of ongoing supplies purchase, it’s critical that your spend is optimized. Otherwise, this could reflect in a build up of significant wasted money over months and years. The funds may seem small when comparing individual rolls of tape, but over time, it can take a big bite from your budget.  

Some thinks to keep in mind are: 

• The length of the tape on each roll – a cheaper roll may not be cheaper when it’s less tape overall.  
• Don’t cheap out on low quality tape – this often leads to the need for double layering to match the strength of higher quality tape, costing you more in the long run.  
• Look for bulk purchasing deals where possible – this usually reduces the price per roll.  

In conclusion… 

There are a lot of different types of packaging tapes out there; from acrylic, to hot melt, to water activated, and more. However, none of these are a ‘one size fits all’ solution when it comes to your shipped goods. Knowing your specific needs will lead to choosing the best product, and likely save you money and improve customer relationships in the long run.  

Ian Nairn / February 26, 2026

There’s a fine line when it comes to packaging. You don’t want so little packaging that items get damaged, but you also don’t want to frustrate customers by overdoing it with tape and other difficult materials to break open.

One way to toe this line is frustration-free packaging; a method of packaging your shipped goods that helps you increase customers satisfaction sustainably. If your company isn’t ahead of this trend, you may want to consider switching processes. In this article, we take a look.

What is frustration-free packaging?

Simply put, the objective of frustration-free packaging is to make your products easy to ship, open, and reuse or recycle. The idea is to minimize packaging materials without compromising product safety, making it more accessible for the customer, and less costly and wasteful for you.

The term was coined by Amazon, which has a frustration-free packaging program; a set of guidelines for Amazon merchants to reduce packaging waste, lower shipping and packaging costs, and improve the customer experience.

There are benefits for you.

Ultimately, frustration-free packaging allows you to reduce packaging and shipping supplies costs, as well as the waste generated by this expense. If your brand aligns itself with sustainability or eco-friendliness as a value, this is one initiative that can show consistency with your values, all while saving money.

Other advantages it offers are reduced chances of returns chargebacks,  saving you significant money in the long run.

There are benefits for your customers.

Lowered shipping costs for you also mean lower shipping costs for your customer. Likewise, the benefit is in the name. Simple, scaled down packaging that still protects shipped goods reduce frustration for the customer during the order fulfillment process. This will improve their experience with your business and potentially increase the likelihood of return business.

Even if you’re not selling on Amazon, you can use frustration-free packaging.

Although this strategy started with Amazon, it doesn’t mean you can’t implement it on your own.

Of course, there are challenges to consider. These include:

• Finding the balance between product protection, simplicity for customers, and minimal waste.
• Implementing the change to your packaging system without disrupting operations.

Some tips to make this easier include:

• Analyzing the current packaging type you are using to assess its biggest advantages and disadvantages regarding protection, design, and other factors – what must be changed and what can stay the same?
• Investigating packaging vendors with frustration-free options – shop around, don’t go with the first option you see right out of the gate.
• Prioritizing product protection – if there’s anywhere to scale back, it’s not here.
• Considering a consultant with expertise – if you’re concerned about what packaging supplies solutions you’re paying for, a third-party, independent consultant may be able to give you peace of mind.

In conclusion…

Frustration-free packaging can save you money, reduce waste, improve your customers’ experience, and show your commitment to sustainable solutions. If your only hesitation is implementing a large scale change, there are plenty of experts and vendors who can help.

Ian Nairn / February 26, 2026

Packing peanuts are a staple for businesses that need to send potentially fragile or breakable products to customers. They’re inexpensive, efficient, and lightweight. In today’s economic climate, those are some considerable pros. But what if the cost is customer satisfaction? In this article, we take a look.

People don’t like packing peanuts.

Whether it be the traditional kind or the newer, more eco-friendly versions, customers aren’t fans of packing peanuts. Below are a few reasons why:

They make a mess: They easily scatter and are difficult to clean up.

Hard to dispose of: Due to static cling, they stick to every surface, and their lack of recyclability makes disposal complicated.

Environmental impact: While some versions are biodegradable, the environmental cost is still significant. Non-biodegradable versions remain in the environment for a long time, generating a substantial amount of waste.

Health impact: Traditional foam peanuts production methods can release carcinogenic fumes that could be harmful to workers handling the material.

Increase in shipping costs: For businesses, the biodegradable option can also increase shipping costs since they have a higher weight than traditional packing peanuts.

The impact on customer experience

When a customer receives a package filled with packing peanuts, the unboxing experience, which for many is a highly satisfying moment, quickly turns into frustration. They may even need to spend more time than expected cleaning up the mess and getting rid of the peanuts. This doesn’t only affect the perception of the product but also the company’s image.
More than that, many businesses today are concerned about the environmental impact of their products and processes. If a customer encounters packaging that is harmful to the environment, it could affect their brand loyalty and even damage the company’s reputation.

Alternatives to packing peanuts.

The good news is, there are more modern, eco-friendly packaging alternatives available. Some options include:

• Recycled paper fill (Kraft Paper): Recycled paper fibers are a popular choice as they are easily recyclable and biodegradable. Plus, customers may feel more satisfied knowing the material doesn’t pose a threat to the planet and is easy to dispose of.
• Shredded paper: Another eco-friendly alternative, shredded paper is a good filler option that can be recycled and composted. It’s also easy to handle and dispose of.
• Cornstarch foam: A biodegradable alternative that dissolves easily in water. While more expensive than traditional packing peanuts, this option has grown in popularity due to its lower environmental impact.
• Air pillows: Some companies are opting for recyclable air bubbles or inflatable air bags. While lightweight and effective, they are also less likely to scatter or cause a mess.
• Cardboard inserts: Custom-cut cardboard inserts are another sustainable option, as they securely hold products in place without the need for filler material. They can be recycled easily and offer a more structured and neat solution for packaging.
• Custom fit solutions: Packaging made to measure for products ensures that the item doesn’t shift and doesn’t require extra filler material. Although they require a higher initial investment, custom solutions can be more efficient and provide a better unboxing experience.

The shift in consumer mindset.

As consumers become more aware of their purchasing choices, the demand for sustainable (and easy-to-handle) packaging is growing. They want to know their purchases aren’t contributing to a larger environmental problem. Companies that adopt eco-friendly practices not only gain in terms of brand image but can also stand out as leaders in innovation.
Furthermore, customer experience is becoming increasingly valued. Customers who have a positive unboxing experience are more likely to share their impressions on social media, influencing other potential buyers. A well-thought-out package can be an excellent competitive differentiator.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, while packing peanuts may be cheap and functional, the hidden costs to customer satisfaction and the environment are significant. Businesses that prioritize eco-friendly and user-friendly packaging not only reduce waste but also create a better experience, strengthen their brand, and show they care about the planet. Choosing smarter alternatives is an investment that pays off in happier customers and a stronger reputation.

/ February 23, 2026

In the past decade, fiber optic connections have become the norm, growing increasingly popular and replacing copper wire cable internet connectivity across the continent. This has resulted in improved connection speeds and reliability for many; allowing for better access to remote work, education, fewer outages or throttling, and other conveniences that accompany the technology.

With fiber optic being the superior option for internet connectivity, it’s no wonder that most providers have made the switch wherever possible. But not everyone across the United States and Canada have access to this better connection. In this blog, we take a look at how many people really have fiber optic internet connections.

How connected are we?

The advocacy group Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) found that in 2025 fiber deployment hit around 60% of the United States and 75% of Canada. That is a record high for accessibility to this technology. However, accessibility does not mean adoption.

According to FBA, “take rates are in the mid-40% range… and they continue to trend upward despite aggressive new construction. Markets with two fiber providers reach combined take rates of roughly 60% or more.”

Their prediction is that fiber will be “the leading fixed-internet delivery method as early as 2028.”

Why does this matter to businesses and organizations?

While studies of connectivity are looking at households across the continent, this is no less important for businesses and other consumer or public-facing entities. The internet your customers, clients, patients, or public you serve utilizes makes a difference when interacting with your services.

Services like home security, telehealth, and more are reliant on the speeds provided by fiber internet to work properly, especially with the rise of AI, as AI features are incorporated into virtual services, these connectivity speeds are critical. Likewise, any business that employs remote workers stands to benefit from the conferencing and multi-device benefits of fiber connections.

Overall, the more consumers and members of the workforce have access to fiber connections, the more your business or organization can utilize technology to serve or work with them.

Cal Wilson / February 17, 2026

To be successful in the world of business, it is critical to be aware of the current trends that are at the forefront. Even if your operation is thriving, being in the know could be prevalent for any future market demands. In this week’s issue of The Pulse, we will be talking specifically about four trends to keep an eye on.

1. E-Commerce

Even though E-commerce has been around for several years, this digital channel has expanded to become crucial within in the current business climate.  According to industry leader Novatize, “globally, online sales already account for just over 20% of total retail sales, and that share is expected to reach approximately 21.5% in 2026”. This digital channel is no longer in the experimentation stage but has quickly become critical for business operations and growth.

2. Sustainable practices

ESG (Economic, Social, and Governance), is the structure in which companies use to measure sustainability, ethical impact, and risk management in addition to conventional financial benchmarks. This practice is no longer considered a voluntary obligation, but a necessary responsibility in terms of a sustainable future. Companies looking for investors in 2026 may find themselves scrutinized on this topic.

3. Brand Partnerships

This marketing technique has exploded in the last few years as a result of the increase of digital marketing.  It entails strategic partnerships with select brands that enable companies to expand their reach and elevate their brand image. By teaming up with well considered, like-minded partners, companies can develop new products and services while gaining access to new audiences through cross-promotion.

4. Marketing targeting Generation Z

Generation Z, or Gen Z, has become a huge presence in the current workforce, and therefore businesses have pivoted their marketing techniques to reach Gen Z consumers successfully. If your business is hoping to reach more of this demographic in 2026, consider the following criteria for your marketing strategy:

• Digital fluency
• Preference for short-form content
• Preference for authenticity and transparency behind brands
• Passion for cause-based marketing and social impact
• Tendency to shop, search the internet, and seek entertainment on mobile devices

 In conclusion…

These four trends are only a small portion of the ever-evolving direction of the current business world.  Keeping these top-of-mind as well as researching the multitude of other emerging business trends will keep your organization current and allow for room to achieve your future targets.

Ian Nairn / February 9, 2026

In this episode, William and Luke Cardillo have a conversation about his company, Atlas Professional Services. They handle clients IT support solutions and technology needs so they can focus on the things that make them successful. They provide scalable and innovative IT services in Tampa and surrounding cities to a variety of industries.

Ian Nairn / February 9, 2026

In this episode, William and Mark Stein have a conversation about his company, OutMarket Pro. They assist companies with multiple projects covering services such as marketing, lead generation, social media posting, email marketing, advertising, websites, artificial intelligence and bookkeeping. They take lean startup principles and extend them to the marketing world, develop a plausible theory and test it on a small scale.

Ian Nairn / February 9, 2026

In this episode, William and Fernanda Read have a conversation about her company, B.Hive Travel. They help companies, families and individuals create moments that build stronger teams, deeper friendships, and unforgettable memories. Whether it’s building a home in Mexico, supporting a school in Africa, or empowering a community in Brazil, our experiences connect people through purpose and leave an imprint that lasts long after the trip ends. At B.Hive, every trip blends luxury and adventure with purpose and impact, reminding us that the most unforgettable journeys are the ones that touch both hearts and communities.

/ February 9, 2026

Many businesses rely on gas for their operations. It’s a critical expense, but often unpredictable and costly. The good news for businesses who may dread seeing this particular invoice is that some experts are predicting lower gas prices in the coming year.

U.S. gas prices set to drop.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts a retail gasoline price decrease of 6% in 2026. They also predict that prices will climb 1% again in 2027, but likely remain lower than what was seen in 2025, with some regional exceptions. For example, refinery capacity limitations on the West Coast are likely to cause higher comparative prices to the rest of the country. On the other hand, businesses along the Gulf Coast can expect lower than average prices.

Why are gas prices dropping?

In the United States, the drop in gas prices is largely due to a decline in the cost of crude oil, “which has historically accounted for about 50% of the retail price. Now, that percentage is expected to fall below 45% in the coming years.” There has been a global increase in crude oil supply, but not as significant of an increase in demand, which explains this difference.

Will Canadians also see a decrease in gas prices?

It’s not as clear whether Canadians will enjoy the same lowered prices. While the global market indicates lower prices overall, a more competitive market may impact prices from Canadian producers, meaning Canadian businesses could see a drop, but less of a drop than their U.S. counterparts.

In conclusion…

Changes in the global oil market in 2026 may lead to lower gasoline prices. How much of a drop consumers and businesses alike are set to see is largely regionally dependent. Ensuring your business has a strategy to stay on top of fuel prices is still imperative.

/ February 3, 2026

While we’re used to suspicious emails being filtered into spam in our personal lives, it can be more confusing when you receive a fraudulent or phishing email on your secured work account. However, in 2026, this sort of scam is going to be happening at an increasing rate.

In this issue of The Pulse, we’re looking at Business Email Compromise (BEC); what it is, how cybercriminals practice it, and what your organization can do to mitigate the risk.

What is Business Email Compromise (BEC)?

Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a tactic spammers use to target your organization’s money or data. It happens when a scammer, under the guise of fake or stolen credentials, tricks employees into giving financial or other sensitive information. It sounds easy to avoid, like any other phishing email scam, but they’re becoming more and more sophisticated.

How does it work?

According to SentinelOne, BEC scam usually “begins with a compromised or spoofed email account. Under the guise of a trusted vendor, or a company executive, scammers typically use stolen or false credentials to trick employees into giving up financial authorization or confidential information permissions.”

What sort of financial scams do these entail? Sometimes, it’s instructions for a wire transfer that may look legitimate. Sometimes, it’s requests for a gift card to be sent to an email address. Essentially, any action that leads an employee to “unknowingly commit fraud by sending funds directly to the attacker.” Once those funds are sent, they’re unrecoverable.

This can be an expensive problem.

A 2023 report by the FBI found that “a single successful BEC attack costs a business an average of $137,132.” As scam attempts have only increased since then, the cost has likely only grown as well. For most businesses, this sort of loss is devastating.

BEC is a form of social engineering.

Any time a cybercriminal has to use manipulation to exploit human error, it’s a form of social engineering. According to cybersecurity company KasperSky, “these ‘human hacking’ scams tend to lure unsuspecting users into exposing data, spreading malware infections, or giving access to restricted systems. Attacks can happen online, in-person, and via other interactions.”

Because the whole point of these scams is to take advantage of an employee’s lack of knoweldge, the best way your business can fight BEC attacks is by arming your staff with information. You can do this by:

• Educating them about BEC scams
• Implementing a policy to follow in the case of receiving fraudulent emails
• Educating them about the actual process for financial authorization, so they’re aware it would never happen over email
• Educating them about how to flag an email as suspicious

In conclusion…

Business Email Compromise (BEC) is a social engineering scam targetting business employees’ emails. It can be extremely costly, with little recourse for the victim. Educating yourself and your organization will go a long way in defending against this method of fraud.