09 Nov Packing For Products: How to Choose the Right Product Packaging
One of the best ways for businesses to make their product stand out on the shelf is to make use of high-quality product packaging. Here, flexible packaging for products is widely used thanks to its versatility and many benefits. These types of packaging options for products are not only cost-effective, but are also environmentally friendly which makes them a superior choice compared to conventional packaging for products. For this read, let’s check out the factors to consider when choosing a product packaging and the different types of packaging available.
A] What is Product Packaging?
Product packaging refers to the exterior cover/wrapper that is used to store, safeguard and display the product. It also protects the product from external factors such as light, heat, rain, humidity, etc. Simply put, it is a durable material that helps keep the product intact during the process of transportation from the manufacturer to the end-user.
From the marketing perspective, the packing of products helps convey the brand message to the consumer in an engagingly, visual way. Flexible product packaging makes it easier for businesses to print eye-catching designs in a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. This helps catch the attention of their target audience; setting the products apart on the overcrowded supermarket and retail shelves.
B] Importance of Flexible Packaging for Products
In today’s modern world, unboxing a product is a distinctive and awaited moment for most customers. An attractive packaging design provides a sensory experience that makes the customer feel respected by the brand. Flexible packaging uses materials that are not only economical but also alluring, making them a great option for brands looking to invest in more sustainable business practices. They are highly portable, impactful and innovative. They also have fewer limitations, which enables product manufacturers to bring out the best of the brand, thereby offering an enhanced customer experience.
C] How to Choose Packaging For Products – Factors to Consider
1. Product Requirement:
Each product is unique, so is their packaging needs. Hence, it is important to pick a product packaging that ensures your product remains unchanged for consumer use. For example, if your products are almonds or cashew nuts, you’d likely choose packaging that offers an airtight seal. Likewise, packaging for food products would depend on the type of food (liquid or solid) that you need to store. Thus, understanding the requirements of your product is the first factor to consider when choosing to package for your product.
2. Packaging Material:
There are three layers used for product packaging i.e, outer layer, inner layer, and product packaging design.
- Outer packaging: Walking into a shop, the first thing that draws the attention of a consumer is the attractive packaging design. The outer layer of the packaging is the first element that the consumer is exposed to, including the size, shape, color and material used.
- Inner packaging: The inner layer is important as it helps safeguard the product from external damage.
- Product packaging design: This includes the graphics and label that offers the basic information about the product.
3. Know your target audience:
Before making any packaging decisions, it is pivotal to know your target audience. After all, they are the ones investing in your creation. Market research can help you to learn what is most appealing to your consumers. Use demographic segmentation to understand and cater to what your audience needs the most.
4. Branding and designs:
Innovative branding increases brand visibility and consumer interest. In other words, it increases the shelf presence of a product. Outstanding packaging is appealing and provides you with an edge over your competitors. A product with low-quality packaging is considered inferior. Thus, make sure your product is well-packaged and designed to improve your brand’s credibility.
5. Product transportation:
With conventional packaging, products can get damaged if not handled with care. However, with flexible packaging, you can be assured that goods will be transported easily as most of them offer excellent barrier resistance properties and are leak and water-proof. They are also lightweight and portable, which helps save transportation costs.
6. Durability:
The durability of the packaging is vital to ensure that the product isn’t damaged during transportation or display. Your product may also need protection from UV light, moisture and oxygen. So, consider this and chose high-quality packaging with barrier properties, seal strength and flex crack resistance.
7. Packaging shape and size:
If your product comes in different sizes, get creative and use two or three packaging sizes for consistency and aesthetics. This will provide a better consumer experience and elevate your brand’s reputation in the market.
8. Types of seals:
This is another important consideration that you need to factor in. For liquid products, a spout seal packaging is ideal for easy storing and re-use. For food products like dry fruits, airtight packaging is a perfect choice.
D] Different Types of Product Packaging
1. Paper Stand Up Pouches
The flexible paper stand up pouches are PVDC coated offering high moisture & oxygen barriers keeping the outer finish stronger and durable. Crafted from high-quality white or brown paper, they are easy to open and come with a resealable press or closed zipper. Apart from being lightweight, they are eco-friendly and cost-effective.
2. Shape Pouches
For custom product packaging, shape pouches are an excellent choice. These pouches are well-suited for cold/hot beverages and other liquid items. They are available in shaped pouches with/without the zipper, shaped spout pouches, among others.
3. Custom Stand Up Pouches
Made from supreme quality material, custom stand up pouches are highly flexible, long-lasting and resistant to wear & tear. Some of its features include high barrier properties, customised printing, eco-friendly, PVDC lamination, etc. These can be tailor-made to suit your unique business needs.
4. Spout Pouches
The durability of spout pouches is appropriate for oil & lubricant packaging, juices, energy drinks, home & personal care, pharmaceutical packaging, beverages, etc. It is leak-proof, resistant to wear & tear and rupture. Its high barrier properties also ensure improved shelf life.
5. Transparent Stand Up Pouches
Transparent stand-up pouches provide clear visibility and can be used for both solid and liquid products. They are widely used for pickles, candies, spices, and dry fruits. Crafted from high-quality food-grade material, they are lightweight, waterproof, and have high strength and temperature resistance.
6. Metallized Stand Up Pouches
Some food products need protection from UV light, moisture, and oxygen and this is where metallized stand up pouches make an ideal choice. They are manufactured using a high aluminium layer along with the standard PET that offers unique barrier properties. Other features include an easy-to-tear notch, airtight seal and resealable zip closure.
7. Coloured Stand Up Pouches
Coloured stand up pouches stand out on the retail shelf with their unique style and design. The thick lamination feature adds strength and creates a superior barrier that protects the product and retains its freshness.
To sum up
Excellent packaging is vital for the success of the business, especially a new brand. With options aplenty to choose from, brands can bring their ideas to life with the right product packaging. Compared to rigid, traditional packaging, flexible stand up pouches offer optimal protection, are available in a variety of shapes & sizes, offers abundant printing options and are sustainable. Thus, make an informed decision and opt for a suitable packaging option that is well-suited for your products.
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