When it comes to selecting the correct materials, pay attention and you can't go wrong. After all that package is one of most important aspects in success for any product!
The correct package will not only entice customers, but it will also keep your goods secure and fresh during shipment. When buyers know they can bank on a fresh item from the moment it touches the shelf until it reaches their hands, it affirms the brand's and item's quality.
The wrong packaging and material choices could make or break your supply chain. You need to choose the right one in order to reach success.
It's important to have an excellent branding and design on all of your products, from the container they come in as well as what is written on them. If you want a successful product that stands out among its competition then it needs some special packaging treatment!
When you're ready to start your package design project, the first thing that needs deciding is what kind of budget will work for this? You might be able use some materials and others not so much. It all depends on how much money can afford.
The cost of manufacturing and shipping materials like glass may be high, but it's worth the visual aesthetic sometimes. Consumers want items that look good with their style; this can only happen if they're made from durable substances like natural fibers or genuine crystal-clear plastics.
Food grade cardboard is a cheap and easy alternative to pottery. It can be decorated with paint or drawn on for an interesting shape that will keep your plant safe from damage caused by crushing, plus you have more design
options than just basic and white.
We all know that plastic isn't the most environmentally-friendly option, but it can often be recyclable or contain recycled materials. Talking up this benefit on your product's package might help convince consumers to feel good about buying what you have for sale.
The balance between what you want to spend on creative and in production versus the materials needed will largely affect your project’s success.
We all want to keep our costs down as much possible. The best way is managing per unit, which means looking at how many boxes you make and then figuring out what tooling or set-up time needs there are for each design so that everything runs smoothly without any hiccups along the line.
The more units you can order to spread those expenses out, the longer the manufacturer can run which streamlines costs.
If you order 2000 Units at once: You would need to pay all up front tooling costs, wait for the project to be prepped, and purchase all the materials up front. Then consider the entire supply chain, including storage, of your 2000 boxes.
If you order 5 runs of 400 Units over 3 Months: You would need to pay all up front tooling costs, wait for the project to be prepped, but only purchase the initial materials up front. Then you can actually redesign the graphics of the following 4 orders of 400 boxes.
It's important to think about function when choosing a design. The more beautiful the package is, if it doesn't work as intended then all of your hard work will go down the drain with no benefit from using such an attractive exterior.
A quality product has always been integral parts in making any brand or business successful - especially online where customer satisfaction can mean everything. functionality should be forefront on every designer’s mind whether they're designing for retail space (like furniture) or digital platforms including e-commerce websites.
A great design that convinces customers it was designed for them but can't get from your facilities to the stores without being destroyed is a useless product.
If your product is bulky, delicate, or any kind of unusual shape, it’s important to consider materials that are designed for strength.
Long-lasting products that need to stand out even after a long time on the shelf require special attention. A better print finish, such as a UV-treated high-gloss, liquid-based coating, might be the answer - more on coating later.
The cost of product damage is an unfortunate reality for any company that produces goods. Do you want to spend more money on repairs or replacement? The results will be similar, but in the long run paying up front can save your business from unnecessary expenses down the line.
Our best recommendation is somewhere in the middle. Then both your production budget and customer expectations should be met without sacrificing anything important such as quality control standards.
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After you've finalized your Packaging design and are ready to begin manufacturing, you'll need to develop a Supply Chain strategy.
You should think about the complete process, including manufacture, storage, and retailer distribution, among other things.
Pro Tip: If you need to order on a consistent basis, speak to a packaging expert to map out your inventory expectations and schedule. This will make it easier to maintain a healthy inventory flow and allow the manufacturer to know exactly when you need it.
Your packing materials will be heavily influenced by how your product will be stored, distributed, and transported.
Finally, packing serves to safeguard and support your product so that it arrives in good condition in the hands of your customers. As a result, it's critical to think about how your packaging will function in each of these scenarios.
This is also very dependent on your product; if your product is exceptionally fragile or heavy, you should prioritize sturdy, long-lasting packaging.
Corrugated fiberboard, for example, is ideal for e-commerce enterprises because of its thick, sturdy texture, which provides perfect support and protection to any goods.
It's a good rule of thumb to treat your items as you would treat yourself when it comes to the materials you use to package them. The correct room for the right package has a major impact on the ultimate outcome, just like you wouldn't want to live in a house that is too big or too little.
Shrink films, like many other flexible films, are lightweight and produce great printing results in the majority of cases. When compared to heavier, bulkier choices, the freight and delivery costs are also quite attractive for enterprises. There are other video choices available to assist your business in promoting sustainability.
Flexible films are great for protecting, extending shelf life, and providing an appealing package on and off the shelf for food, dairy, cosmetics, medicines, hardware, and retail products.
Carded alternatives are versatile and suitable for produce, fragile products, or items that need to be seen to be sold. In the retail setting, they're also a great choice for hang-tab displays.
They include the following types:
The term "blister pack" refers to a variety of pre-formed plastic containers that are frequently used to package items such as consumer goods, perishables, and medications.
Clamshells are the most straightforward to use. They resemble their namesake in that they are made up of two similar "shells" that are joined on one side and have little hinges on the other that allow it to close.
Skin packs are containers that contain a piece of skin board on which the product is placed. Before applying the backer, a thin film of surlyn or skin poly will be used to cover the object.
From a consumer's perspective, it's all about simplicity of use. Today's flexible bagging alternatives can safeguard your product in transit while still being simple to open and dispose of.
There may be needs for tamper evident protection depending on your industry. Not to mention, it might assist your buyer feel more confident about making a purchase.
You will not be sorry for spending the time to familiarize yourself with the many materials accessible to you. Discover which materials function best and select the ones that are most suitable for your goods.
Check out more information on 8 Packaging Options For Your Products.
A coating may be used to finish the aesthetic of your container while also providing extra protection and even augmentation.
The overall appearance of matte laminated surfaces is modest and beautiful, yet it gives your package a noticeable high-end and professional vibe.
This results in a stunning sheen, brightness, improved visual contrast, and more brilliant color depth. Even things like moisture and dust are better protected with gloss lamination.
AQ Coating is a transparent, water-based coating with a quick drying time. It's eco-friendly, making it an excellent choice for food, household, and fast-food items. In comparison to UV coating and lamination, it has a relatively low gloss finish.
This can provide a similar effect to lamination, with the exception that UV is delivered directly to the material. UV coating is applied to packages in a flood or spot application. Spot coating refers to a coating that is applied to a single part of the package, whereas flood (or overall) refers to a coating that is applied to the whole package.
For optimum visual "pop" and rub-resistance, spot UV is often screen coated in copious volumes. Flood, on the other hand, is normally roller coated in lesser volumes.
Varnish improves the product's perceived quality. In compared to aqueous coating and UV coating, it provides a lesser level of protection. They're also prone to yellowing with time.
Varnishes are also not very environmentally friendly. This is the option with the least amount of support.
There are other options, but these are the most popular.
If your product comes in four sizes, you might be able to save money by making two different sized packaging instead of four unique sizes by getting creative with the measurements and design.
Being innovative and integrating cost-cutting techniques like these might help to assure the quality of the goods you ship. You'll save time and money as well as assure uniformity across all of your items as a bonus.
Depending on your goods, you'll require different types of packaging. This will be determined by the size, form, and weight of the individual.
If you have a delicate product, you'll want to think about a solution that's both structurally sound and cushioned.
Begin by measuring the height, breadth, and length of your goods, as well as the contents inside the box. After that, think about the type and size of any protective packaging inserts you'll be using.
This will determine the size of the box you need.
Pro Tip: Minimize your box as much as possible. This will allow the product to fit safely, and avoid any shipping damages. Most importantly you will reduce your costs and carbon footprint.
A reliable partner can assess your present packaging solution or assess the efficacy of a new one. You should be collaborating with someone who can supply you with not just any solution, but the best one possible.
There are two types of costs associated with new packaging.
Your budget should include the cost of Packaging Supplies and Shipping Boxes. If any kind of packaging fillers are required, you need to account for them.
You can also include a Contract Packager to help with fulfillment or assembly. Read about the Benefits of A Contract Packager.
A budget that analyzes the economics of the entire process is required for a successful packaging effort. You should think about your product's pricing, profit margin, expected sales, and the length of time your packaging will be in place.
Setting a budget for your packing, or at the very least a range, ensures that the procedure does not become inefficient or aimless.
Due to the economies of scale, like with most printed items, you only get a fair deal when you buy in bulk.
If you don't buy in bulk, each package will add an unnecessarily high cost to each shipment.
If you buy in bulk, you'll pay more up front for not only manufacture, but also storage, shipping between warehouses, and handling.
Corrugated packaging is easily adaptable, which helps to reduce waste. This material not only minimizes waste before it is used, but it also decreases waste after it has been used since it is 100% recyclable. The entire container may be readily dismantled , repurposed or reused.
It is totally reusable while reducing the quantity of material utilized. This material is made to be easily foldable and reused for a variety of applications. Reduce the cost of packing and the environmental effect of this packaging material.
As people have become more ecologically sensitive in recent years, sustainable packaging has become increasingly prominent.
As a result of the rising demand for eco-friendly packaging materials, significant progress has been made in the creation of recyclable packaging materials that are both attractive and useful.
The corrugated industry has the best recycling rate of any packaging material used today. In fact, the fibers from corrugated fiberboard can be recycled up to 25 times. This means that most corrugated boxes are composed of 70% to 100% recycled materials.
Corrugated is an ecologically friendly alternative because it is a highly recyclable material.
While corrugated is highly recyclable, it relies on people to be recycled, which could be tricky. Luckily 94% of Americans have access to recycling programs that accept corrugated material. It's also a
biodegradable option that will break down organically in the environment, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
Choose items that are both ecologically friendly and lawful in terms of logistics and shipping rules. Also, check to see whether the things you're purchasing infringe on any existing copyrights or patents.
While it's critical to think about money, transportation, materials, and package design, and to include each of these components into your overall package design, it's also critical to keep your target audience in mind.
Keeping your target audience at the center of your design throughout the process can help you achieve overall package design success.
Because the sort of material you employ in your package design is an extension of your brand, any misalignment between your materials or design and your brand's message may confuse customers and cause them to lose faith.
Before making these crucial marketing and branding decisions, you must thoroughly study and understand your clients.
Market research is a wonderful approach to figure out what your target audience values and how to match those values to your budget, transportation, and sustainability goals. Always pay attention to your target audience and respond to their individual demands.
Keeping your target market in mind when designing your package is also crucial when deciding on the best material.
At the end of the day, client happiness and retention are the most important factors in ensuring the success of your product.
Make sure to clearly define your brand narrative; this will aid you in selecting materials that will better support your artwork and structural design requirements.
When it comes to branding possibilities and materials, be sure you're addressing customer wants.
In order to create a successful and sustainable packaging design, it is important to consider all of the different aspects that go into making a package. You must think about the material you are using, how the material can be recycled or repurposed, your target audience, branding, and more. Finding a packaging supplier is an important part of the process.
It is also important to make sure that your design aligns with your brand's message. At Bennett, we understand the importance of sustainability and offer a wide variety of eco-friendly materials for you to choose from. Let us help you create a beautiful and sustainable package that will stand out on store shelves.
Contact us today for a custom quote on packaging materials.
The global sustainability movement is reshaping the business landscape. Consumers worldwide, including those in the United States, Germany, Italy, Brazil, India, and Indonesia, express significant concern about the environmental impact of product packaging.
Businesses seeking to meet customer expectations and contribute to a greener future should prioritize sustainable packaging practices. It includes partnering with a reputable sustainable packaging company that can provide eco-friendly solutions.
Choosing sustainable materials for packaging minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, and can attract loyal customers. Strategies include compostable and recyclable materials while reducing reliance on fossil fuel-derived resources and processes.
This comprehensive guide helps businesses understand why sustainable packaging is important and choose suitable options that align with their values and industry requirements.
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Sustainable packaging involves choosing eco-friendly materials and production practices throughout the packaging lifecycle. It entails selecting renewable, recyclable, and compostable materials while minimizing environmental impact through optimized production processes.
For instance, biodegradable materials such as bioplastics, derived from renewable resources, offer a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics. These materials can naturally break down over time, reducing their environmental impact and minimizing waste accumulation.
Using recycled and recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastic also diminishes the demand for virgin resources and decreases waste generation.
Meanwhile, the demand for sustainable packaging is increasing, with over 60% of global customers considering the environmental impact when purchasing.
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According to a recent report, sustainability-marketed products in the consumer packaged goods industry grew rapidly, outpacing conventional products and accounting for 17.3% of purchases in 2022.
To guide businesses in achieving sustainable packaging, the Sustainable Packaging Coalition (SPC) has put forward eight critical criteria:
Sustainable packaging should prioritize the safety of individuals and communities throughout its lifecycle. It should promote economic development and social well-being by easing the distribution and delivery of products.
After its useful life, the subsequent waste should be manageable at the community level. Intelligent packaging design plays a crucial role in mitigating potential adverse environmental impacts.
Sustainable packaging minimizes costs through efficient and safe lifecycle design and sourcing. This process involves improved design practices, resource optimization, learned material selection, design for recovery, and source reduction.
Companies should utilize sourcing, manufacturing, transporting, and recycling packaging materials using renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, tidal, and geothermal power.
Transportation should prioritize hybrid vehicles or alternative fuel options such as biodiesel, electricity, and ethanol. Optimal energy efficiency fosters sustainability while generating positive economic and environmental outcomes.
Materials should be recoverable through biological or industrial processes to achieve sustainable packaging and compatibility with new production systems. Using recycled, bio-based, or renewable materials from well-managed sources promotes sustainable material flow and resource conservation.
The creation of packaging materials should support clean technology and eco-efficient practices. Conserving resources, eliminating toxic materials, and reducing emissions and waste during production are vital strategies to minimize environmental impact.
Adhering to best practice standards enhances manufacturing performance while reducing costs and improving long-term profitability.
Packaging materials should not contain chemicals that release harmful substances throughout their lifecycle. Even slight amounts of these compounds can have significant consequences due to the scale and volume of packaging and associated wastes.
Ensure all chemical ingredients, including additives, inks, adhesives, and coatings, are safe for humans and the environment, minimizing or eliminating associated hazards.
Effective, sustainable packaging begins with informed material selection and a thorough understanding of performance requirements. It includes considering energy use during the package’s lifecycle, assessing the impact of materials in various end-of-life scenarios, and designing for effective material recovery.
Companies should optimize packaging materials to minimize waste and maximize materials and energy usage throughout the product’s lifecycle, starting from the early design phase.
Closed-loop systems are essential for producing new items from material waste. Businesses should manufacture packaging materials in organic and closed-loop cycles, promoting a circular economy and sustainable resource utilization.
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The adoption of sustainable packaging brings numerous environmental and social benefits to businesses. By embracing sustainable packaging practices, various organizations can contribute to a greener future while reaping various business advantages.
Sustainable packaging aids in minimizing carbon emissions by utilizing eco-friendly materials and implementing energy-efficient production processes. This proactive approach significantly reduces environmental impact and helps combat climate change.
For instance, selecting lightweight, biodegradable materials lower transportation emissions, while adopting renewable energy in manufacturing reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
Embracing sustainable packaging demonstrates environmental responsibility, fostering a positive brand image and attracting environmentally conscious customers for increased loyalty and market share.
Sustainable packaging strategies contribute to waste reduction and efficient resource utilization. Businesses can minimize waste generation and promote a circular economy by employing recyclable, compostable, or recycled-content materials.
Optimal packaging designs that use fewer materials and innovative approaches, such as refillable or reusable packaging, further support resource conservation.
Sustainable packaging initiatives extend beyond the environment and have broader social implications. They foster social responsibility by promoting fair trade practices, supporting local economies, and ensuring responsible production methods.
For instance, businesses that source packaging materials from local suppliers contribute to community development and upliftment. Sustainable packaging also prioritizes the well-being of workers throughout the supply chain by advocating for safe and fair working conditions.
Adopting sustainable packaging practices ensures compliance with evolving environmental regulations and positions businesses for future regulatory requirements. Governments worldwide are implementing stricter rules to reduce packaging waste and promote sustainability.
Proactively choosing sustainable packaging helps businesses stay ahead of regulatory changes, mitigating potential penalties or market restrictions.
Sustainable packaging strategies can lead to cost savings and operational efficiencies. Lightweight packaging materials reduce transportation costs, while optimized designs maximize storage and shelf space utilization.
Incorporating eco-efficient manufacturing processes and energy-saving technologies can lower operational expenses. Businesses can redirect these cost savings towards innovation, enhancing customer experiences, or further sustainability initiatives.
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To reduce environmental impact and meet consumer demand for eco-friendly products, businesses must prioritize using sustainable packaging materials. Here are some key sustainable packaging materials, their characteristics, benefits, and real-life examples.
Bioplastics are packaging materials from renewable sources such as plant starches or biomass. They offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics, as they can biodegrade under certain conditions.
Examples include polylactic acid (PLA) from cornstarch and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) derived from plant oils.
Manufacturers derive these materials from renewable resources, such as plants or agricultural waste. They offer reduced environmental impact compared to materials derived from fossil fuels.
Examples are packaging made from sugarcane bagasse, wheat straw, or bamboo fibers.
Packaging products made from recycled paper fibers help conserve forests, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste generation. Companies use them for various applications, such as boxes, bags, and labels.
Composed of recycled paper fibers, cardboard is a versatile and recyclable packaging material for various consumer products, including shipping boxes, displays, and cartons.
Glass packaging is highly recyclable and reusable. By choosing glass containers, businesses contribute to resource conservation, as they can recycle glass indefinitely without losing quality. Examples include glass bottles and jars for beverages, cosmetics, and food products.
Metals such as aluminum and steel are easily recyclable and highly durable, making them suitable for packaging applications. Using recycled metal reduces the demand for new raw materials and helps conserve resources.
Metal cans, aerosol containers, and aluminum foil are common examples.
Certain types of plastic, particularly those marked with recycling codes, can be recycled and transformed into new products. Using recycled plastic helps divert waste from landfills and reduces the need for virgin plastic production.
Some recyclable plastic items include plastic bottles, containers, and films.
Derived from renewable resources such as corn or sugarcane, plant-based plastics offer a compostable alternative to traditional plastics. These materials have a reduced carbon footprint and can break down into natural elements under proper composting conditions.
Made from organic materials such as cellulose, bagasse, or biodegradable polymers, compostable packaging provides a sustainable end-of-life solution. These materials can fully biodegrade in composting facilities, minimizing environmental impact.
Inventions made by some companies are compostable food containers, coffee cups, and cutlery.
Bamboo-based packaging offers a renewable and biodegradable option. Sturdy and versatile, bamboo finds use in various packaging applications, such as boxes, trays, and utensils.
Using mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, this innovative material can be molded into various shapes and provides a fully compostable packaging solution. Mushroom-based packaging offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional foam or plastic cushioning materials.
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Brands can incorporate eco-friendliness into packaging operations and production through various approaches. Some strategies are:
One can educate consumers about recycling best practices by incorporating a general label on the product, featuring a recycling icon alongside the terms “reusable” or “recyclable.”
Encouraging the buyers to recycle the product and emphasizing the environmental significance of recycling is beneficial. Social media campaigns can also raise awareness about proper recycling practices.
When selecting packaging materials such as boxes, containers, or mailers, selecting recycled packaging materials is advisable. These materials contribute to sustainability by extending the lifespan of previously used items.
Commonly recycled packaging materials include unbleached paperboard and kraft paper derived from wood fibers or recycled waste paper.
Brands can incorporate recycled plastic materials, such as bottles and single-use bags, into mailers and containers, reintroducing them into the supply chain.
Plant-based packaging materials from seaweed, corn, mushrooms, and food waste offer sustainable alternatives. The suitability of specific packaging options depends on the product requirements.
For instance, bioplastics derived from cornstarch and mushrooms offer durable plant-based packaging solutions that protect food products during shipping without affecting their flavor.
Wash-off labels comprise multiple layers, including a wash-off adhesive, polypropylene film, and polyethylene terephthalate liner. When organizations remove these prime labels, the glue and ink remain, preventing water pollution during washing.
Brands must carefully choose the adhesives used in labels, selecting compostable materials to align with sustainability goals. Non-compostable adhesives can contaminate compost, while non-recyclable ones may cause damage during recycling.
The product manager must carefully select adhesives based on the packaging materials and specific product requirements, particularly for food and beverage items exposed to varying temperatures and moisture.
Incorporating packaging alternatives that facilitate composting and biodegradability strengthens sustainability efforts.
Compostable packaging from materials consumers can compost at home and commercially, often derived from plant-based polymers, provides a sustainable packaging solution. Such materials break down in compost, contributing to the reduction of waste and environmental impact.
Collaborating with sustainable packaging manufacturers that prioritize sustainability reinforces eco-friendly strategies and techniques.
Before finalizing supplier agreements, one must inquire about the product packaging manufacturer’s processes and practices. Partnering with companies that value sustainability helps align sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.
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In today’s dynamic market, integrating sustainability into your business strategy is not just a trend—it’s a crucial factor in building brand value and driving long-term profitability.
At Meyers, we are committed to sustainable packaging and minimizing environmental impact. As industry experts, we partner with businesses such as yours to provide innovative packaging solutions that align with your sustainability initiatives and reduce your ecological footprint.
Our packaging solutions surpass regulations and enable you to actively reduce waste, conserve resources, and enhance your brand’s eco-conscious reputation.
Contact us today to learn more and explore how our expertise can help shape your brand’s brighter, more sustainable future, one package at a time.