When people want to have a profitable business, there are so many different things to think about. They’ll want to create a successful product that people will want to buy and to advertise in all the right places.
Product packaging is often overlooked by business owners, but it’s actually one of the most important aspects of marketing. In fact, it can be the difference between making a sale and losing a customer. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of product packaging and how to make sure yours stands out from the competition.
What Is Product Packaging?
Basically, it is the product’s wrapping, and it’s used to protect and preserve the product, as well as to market it. There are many different types of packaging, but all have one common goal: to protect and sell the product.
Some common types of product packaging include boxes, bags, bottles, cans, and jars- and each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. For example, bottles are great for liquids because they don’t allow air or light in, but they can be easily damaged. Cans are more durable than bottles, but less environmentally friendly because they can’t be recycled as easily.
It’s A Great Marketing Tool
The design and overall look of the package can attract or repel potential customers. In addition, good packaging can be designed to target a specific audience. For example, if it’s kids you’re trying to appeal to, you’ll use photos and pictures with bright colors, and large wording.
It’s rare for businesses to have all the necessary marketing tools they need in-house. That’s why they often go online in search of consultants and agencies that can help them. If you’re looking for a beautiful packaging design, you can discover thousands of professionally screened and reviewed designers who can produce something unique in 7 days or less. It’s also possible to receive help with label design and to obtain free contracts that protect your intellectual property.
It Shows Your Brand And Attracts Customers
A brand can be thought of as a name, term, design, symbol, or other feature that distinguishes one product or service from another. Product packaging is an important part of this process, and it can make your brand instantly recognizable. Good packaging can help increase brand awareness and encourage people to trust in and buy your product.
Imagine a store shelf full of similar products stacked side by side, and each one made by a different company. A well-designed package can make your product stand out among its rivals and get ahead of the competition. It can also create a good first impression (you never get a second chance to do that!) that may lead to a sale.
It Provides Important Information
Product packaging is a great tool that companies can use to communicate valuable information to their consumers. This could include things like:
- details of ingredients
- nutritional information
- calories, fat, and sugar content
- allergens (wheat, dairy, gluten, nuts, etc.)
- contact information
It’s essential that these details remain accurate and up-to-date, so customers can make informed decisions about what they’re buying. Organic products often have special packaging requirements to ensure that consumers can easily identify them. For example, products certified by the USDA must bear the agency’s seal. ‘Batteries not included’ is another type of packaging requirement – items sold in stores must be packaged in such a way that the customer knows this before they buy.
It Provides Instructions And Warnings
Product packaging includes advice on how to use the product, as well as warnings about potential allergies or dangers. The packaging for children’s toys will often include age recommendations. This is to ensure that parents are able to make informed decisions about what they buy. Phrases such as ‘choking hazard’ are also relevant in this scenario.
Other examples include:
- Advising customers to keep something out of direct sunlight or in a cool, dry place
- ‘Once opened, refrigerate and consume within three days
By providing this information directly on the packaging, it reduces the chances of any misunderstandings or accidents, and it protects the companies from litigation.
It Adds Value To The Product
Packaging can also be used to heighten the perceived value of a product. Luxury brands are masters of this technique, and often use packaging that is more elaborate than the product itself. This serves as a signal to consumers that they are buying something special.
Some companies put less expensive products in more luxurious packaging in order to make them appear more valuable. For example, a shiny gold pen in luxury packaging may look highly appealing, while the pen may actually be made from coated plastic.
It Protects The Product
Product packaging can keep products safe and clean during storage and transport. Many items, such as food or cosmetics, need to be kept in a specific environment in order to remain fresh or effective. By using airtight and watertight packaging, it’s possible to create an ideal environment for the product and keep it from coming into contact with other contaminants.
Quality packaging will also protect products once they arrive at a store. They will be preserved whilst in the backroom or warehouse, and also during the shelf-stacking process. Packaging can also protect goods from tampering. It’s difficult to open a product that is securely wrapped, so thieves are often deterred from trying to take them.
It Shows Your Values
Product packaging can tell you a lot about what the company values and how they operate. For example, family-friendly companies will often have bright, colorful designs with images of families or children on them. Similarly, environmentally friendly companies will often use recycled materials or biodegradable plastics, and minimal cardboard. Finally, Fairtrade certified products always have special labeling to indicate that they meet the organization’s high standards.
As you can see, the packaging is more than just a mere container for a product. It can preserve its contents, communicate valuable messages and entice potential customers. Whilst packaging costs money, it should be seen as a business investment that can pay off in terms of revenue.
