Taking the “Lug” out of Luggage

The Canadian Press: A combination of consumer demand, design modifications and innovative materials has allowed manufacturers to switch gears to produce smaller, lighter and ergonomically friendly products, says Alan Krantzler, vice-president of Tumi luggage brand’s product management.
“The No. 1 trend in the industry right now is about lightweight,” he says. “It’s always been a consumer demand, but it has become increasingly important.”
The driving factors, he says: an aging population who finds it difficult to pull around burdensome, easily tipped bags; airline fees, including some carriers that not only charge for heavy bags but any checked bag at all; and the desire for business-leisure crossover items.
Fashionable bags: New materials taking the ‘lug’ out of luggage [The Canadian Press]