Don’t judge a book by its cover, unless it’s the product’s packaging
No matter how great your business or product is, you’ll need the right packaging to make it visually and logistically appealing. When we say “logistically attractive,” we mean everything from how long it takes you to make your packaging to how it looks (and fits) on a store shelf.
Proper packaging can make all the difference, especially when it comes to efficiency.
form and function
Whatever product you are selling must be protected from damage, from the moment it is packaged to the moment the consumer purchases it. That is the most basic function of packaging. When selecting the material, whether it’s cardboard, plastic, or even metal, make sure it will do the job.
After making sure your product is protected, your design must also accommodate business logistics such as shipping and warehousing. Sure, packing your product in a cardboard sphere with Styrofoam inside will protect it, but it’ll just roll around in the box, on the truck, or even on the shelf. That, and Styrofoam is not good for the environment.
What am I, Swiss cheese?
Packaging is basically advertising and marketing for your business. If a customer can walk past your product on a shelf and not notice it, your package design needs an overhaul. For it to work as an advertisement, it must be memorable.
Differentiation is key. You need to differentiate your brand of one product from all others. Our recommendation? Do some research before creating a new packaging design. Everything from the material (recycled cardboard is pretty “in” right now) to the color scheme can affect how attractive your product will be to a consumer. The images you choose to be on your packaging are important. Most companies choose to have their logo appear as the main image of their product. Sometimes it even matches the name (eg Target).
Ready for Awesome
Depending on the size and scope of your business, investing in a rotary die cutting machine can be a boon to your business (and ultimately pays for itself). Once you have the machine, you can order custom broken dies for all your design needs. When you have your package design, you can also determine what else will go in it. You can have quotes, water saving tips, fun facts, just about anything that makes your product stand out to the consumer. This may also include ease of transportation for the consumer. It’s easier to deal with a box of soda than a bunch of plastic hoops.
