Understanding Kodak Film Packaging: What Retailers Need to Know
Navigating Kodak Alaris, Eastman Kodak, and the New Generation of Film Releases
The Kodak film category is experiencing renewed momentum, with growing demand from both new and experienced photographers. At the same time, recent changes in how Kodak film is packaged and distributed globally have created some confusion in the marketplace.
For photo retailers and labs across Canada, understanding these changes is important when selecting the right product mix for your customers.
Kodak Film Today: One Manufacturer, Two Market Paths
All Kodak film is still manufactured by Eastman Kodak in Rochester, New York, the original company that has produced film for over a century.
For many years, global sales and distribution of Kodak film were handled by a separate company, Kodak Alaris, which licensed the Kodak brand and managed packaging, branding, and worldwide supply.
Today, that structure is evolving.
As certain licensing arrangements change, Eastman Kodak has begun packaging and distributing select film lines directly, alongside the existing Kodak Alaris products.
What This Means for Retailers
In practical terms, retailers may now see:
- The same Kodak film emulsions
- Sold under different packaging styles and branding
- Available through multiple distribution channels
This has led to a marketplace where:
- Some customers prefer traditional Kodak Alaris packaging
- Others are drawn to new or retro-style Eastman Kodak packaging
- Many retailers choose to carry both options
New Film Releases: EktaColor and EktaPan
Adding to this evolution, Eastman Kodak recently announced two new film releases, EktaColor and EktaPan — generating strong interest across the photography community.
These releases are part of Kodak’s continued investment in film and reflect the ongoing resurgence of analog photography.
As with other Kodak film products, availability, packaging, and distribution may vary depending on the product line and market.
Packaging vs Product: What’s Important to Know
While packaging and branding may differ, it’s important to understand that:
- Kodak film continues to be manufactured to the same high standards
- Product quality and performance remain consistent across the lineup
- Differences are often related to branding, packaging, and distribution channels
For retailers, the key consideration is:
What your customers want to see on your shelves
Some will respond to:
- classic branding
- familiarity
- professional product lines
Others may be drawn to:
- newer packaging
- collector appeal
- perceived “newness” in the category
The Retail Opportunity
The current Kodak film landscape presents an opportunity for retailers to:
- Expand their film assortment
- Serve a broader range of customer preferences
- Capitalize on renewed interest in analog photography
Having access to the full range of Kodak film options allows retailers to be flexible and responsive in a changing market.
How Treck Hall Supports Canadian Retailers
As a long-standing Canadian supplier to the photographic industry, Treck Hall works closely with retailers and labs across the country to provide access to the full range of Kodak film products.
This includes:
- Existing Kodak film lines
- Newly released products such as EktaColor and EktaPan
- Multiple packaging formats where available
Our goal is simple:
To give Canadian photo retailers the flexibility, supply, and support they need to serve their customers with confidence.
Looking Ahead
The resurgence of film photography continues to bring energy and growth to the category.
As Kodak evolves its product lineup and distribution approach, retailers who stay informed and adaptable will be best positioned to benefit.
Building on a long history, Treck Hall remains committed to supporting the Canadian photo industry with reliable supply, industry knowledge, and long-standing relationships.
Sourcing Kodak Film in Canada
For Canadian photo retailers and labs, having a reliable supply of Kodak film is more important than ever as demand continues to grow.
Treck Hall works with partners across the country to provide access to the full range of Kodak film products, including both established lines and newly released options such as EktaColor and EktaPan.
If you are looking to review product availability, pricing, or discuss your Kodak film requirements, our team would be happy to assist.
Contact Treck Hall to learn more about Kodak film supply in Canada.